By Vivian Emoni
A socio-political organisation, Plateau Vanguard for Democracy (PVD), has urged residents of Plateau State to rise above ethnic and partisan sentiments following the defection of Gov. Caleb Mutfwang to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Chairman of the group, Mr Christopher Ishaku, made the call in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja.
Ishaku said the governor’s political decision should not be allowed to divide the state or reopen old fault lines, but should rather be seen as an opportunity to unite Plateau people around a shared vision of progress and development.
He noted that Plateau’s history of political and communal tensions had often hampered development, stressing that the current situation calls for maturity, restraint and collective responsibility from all stakeholders.
“We call on Plateau people to rise above primordial sentiments and narrow political considerations,” he said.
Ishaku said the controversy surrounding Mutfwang’s defection should not distract citizens from the broader task of building a peaceful and economically viable state.
According to him, excessive focus on party affiliation must not overshadow pressing issues such as security, infrastructure development, investment attraction and job creation for youths.
“Plateau’s progress is bigger than any single party.
“This is the time to build a new Plateau, driven by consensus, inclusiveness and a common commitment to development,” he said.
The PVD chairman said sustained peace and political stability remained the bedrock of economic growth, adding that only a united Plateau could fully harness its agricultural, tourism and mineral resources.
“If we get it right politically and socially, development will follow. Peace will deepen, and when peace is consolidated, the economy will naturally expand.”
Ishaku also urged political leaders, traditional rulers, religious institutions and civil society organisations to promote tolerance and dialogue, warning that inflammatory rhetoric could undermine the fragile cohesion the state is striving to rebuild.
He added that the group would continue to advocate issue-based engagement and active citizen participation, adding that the future of Plateau State lies in consensus-building rather than confrontation.
He urged residents to embrace a “new Plateau” anchored on peace, unity and sustainable development. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Emmanuel Afonne
