Lalong to successor: Tackle insecurity, complete ongoing projects in Plateau

Simon Lalong, governor of Plateau, has asked Caleb Mutfwang, the state’s governor-elect, to continue the projects of his administration. 

According to NAN, Lalong spoke on Saturday at the government house, Jos, during a state banquet organised for the incoming administration.

He said the new administration should work with the citizens to tackle the security challenges.

He said his administration did its best to tackle insecurity, adding that criminals have continued to exhibit “desperation for violence”.

“On the issue of peace and security, we did our best in dealing with criminality and also establishing structures and laws to avert ethno-religious conflicts that riddled the state in the past,” Lalong said.

“Despite our efforts and substantial progress, the criminals have continued to exhibit desperation for violence as seen in the recent attacks in Mangu.”

He encouraged the governor-elect to engage all segments of society in governance, adding that ensuring security in Plateau entails embracing different groups because “no tribe is more superior”.

He asked Muftwang to complete abandoned projects and encourage the establishment of small scale enterprises to attract investors to the state.

Mutfwtang, who wished Lalong well in his future endeavours, said he will not witch-hunt anyone when he takes over as governor.

He said he would handle issues of disagreement as a “family affair”, promising to not be negligent on issues that affect the welfare of the people.

He said he would present good leadership which is critical to facilitating a sense of belonging to the people of Plateau.

While calling for cooperation of the people, he said: “Those opportune to serve will be judged based on history.”