Please Forgive Us -Plateau Governor Mutfwang Apologies To Igbos Over State’s Role During Civil War

According to a report by Daily Post on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has apologised to the Igbo community for the role played by people from the state during the Nigerian Civil War, describing it as a painful chapter in the nation’s history and calling for renewed unity and reconciliation.

The governor made the remarks during an interactive meeting with leaders of the Igbo community drawn from the 17 local government areas of Plateau State at the Government House in Jos. The gathering formed part of ongoing efforts by his administration to strengthen relations with ethnic communities living in the state and promote peaceful coexistence.

Addressing the delegation, Mutfwang said many Plateau people were drawn into the civil war under circumstances they did not fully understand, adding that it was time to move beyond the painful memories of the 1967–1970 conflict.

“I apologise to the Igbos so that we can put the past behind us and continue to foster unity,” the governor said.

“We have become one family because our people were deceived into going to war, and we regret it. We must close that chapter and move forward.”

The governor’s comments referred to the period when former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon, who hails from present-day Plateau State, led the Federal Military Government during the Nigerian Civil War.

Mutfwang stressed that his administration is committed to strengthening harmony among the various ethnic groups residing in Plateau, describing the Igbo community as an indispensable partner in the state’s economic development.

He praised the entrepreneurial contributions of Ndigbo to commerce, industry and investment across Plateau, noting that they have remained an important part of the state’s growth for decades.

According to him, Plateau has continued to be one of Nigeria’s most accommodating states for the Igbo people since the end of the civil war, adding that previous governments had taken steps to compensate some individuals for losses suffered during the conflict. He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to addressing outstanding property-related grievances through lawful and transparent processes.

“We must unite,” the governor said.

“We want the Igbos to regard us as their brothers and sisters, and together we must create an enabling environment where everyone can prosper.”

Mutfwang also encouraged greater economic collaboration between the Igbo business community and indigenous entrepreneurs in Plateau State.

Describing the Igbo as one of Nigeria’s most enterprising ethnic groups, he urged business owners to invest more in Plateau, mentor young entrepreneurs and create employment opportunities for local residents.

“Nigeria is a great country, and no ethnic group has demonstrated the entrepreneurial spirit more than the Igbo,” he said.

“I encourage you to replicate that same spirit in Plateau. I also appeal to Igbo business owners to employ and train young Plateau indigenes.”