Group wants Gov Mutfwang to rescind suspension of traditional ruler

Following the suspension of the Rekna of Bashar, Alhaji Abdullah Idris Isa, in the Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State, the Bashar Communities Development Association (BACODA) has appealed to the State Governor, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, to rescind the suspension in the interest of the well-being of the entire people of Bashar Chiefdom.

The state government had directed the traditional ruler to step aside on Wednesday, pending an investigation and review of his selection, which took place in 2022.

Addressing newsmen on Friday regarding the development, BACODA Chairman, Dr. Zakari Mohammed, emphasized that the selection process of Alhaji Abdullahi Isa adhered to due process, in line with the traditions of the people in 2022, following the demise of the late Rekna Bashar, Alhaji Adamu Idris.

He explained that a detailed report on the selection process indicated that all stakeholders involved in selecting the Rekna of Bashar participated in the process, which was conducted in 2022. The process was also captured on video and submitted to the government.

According to him, the report clearly documented the names of the nominees, the attendance list of the kingmakers, the ballots cast for the candidates, and the recommendation of the Plateau State Council of Chiefs, among other details. He added that, for the record, no participant had challenged the selection in any court of law since 2022.

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Dr. Mohammed further explained that the review process began to gain momentum on July 8, 2024, when a group called the “Concerned Stakeholders of Bashar Chiefdom” held a press conference urging the government to review the selection.

“As laughable as it seemed at first, a counter press conference was held on July 10, 2024, to correct the inaccuracies, misrepresentations, and falsehoods spread during the previous press conference, setting the record straight for both present and future purposes,” he said.

“In the same vein, an interview was granted on Monday, September 30, 2024, following the submission of a memo to the committee recently constituted by the state government to investigate complaints related to the selection of the Rekna of Bashar at the Ministry for Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs.”

He stated that the government’s current decision has not only heightened tension, disunity, and distrust but has also created a significant leadership vacuum within the chiefdom, at a time when strong leadership is desperately needed.

On behalf of the community, Dr. Mohammed urged the government to remain neutral in the face of the alleged contentions advanced by selected individuals claiming government backing for the Rekna of Bashar’s stool.

“We are concerned that Bashar Chiefdom has been singled out for this treatment, even though there are numerous serious chieftaincy complaints across the state that have not been addressed. We are not aware of any similar directive for a chief to step aside during an investigation, as is the case with Bashar Chiefdom.”

“This perceived disparity in treatment raises concerns about impartiality, fairness, and justice. We recommend that the state government exercise prudence and ensure consistent application of procedures to avoid any perception of partiality or impropriety.”

Dr. Mohammed concluded by urging Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang to ensure justice in the matter and uphold his oath to protect his people without fear, favor, or ill will, and to refrain from allowing any sentiments or considerations to influence his official decisions.