On Tuesday, October 10, 2024, Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State officially swore in the newly elected chairmen from 16 local government areas (LGAs).

The ceremony, held at Langfield in Jos, followed the announcement of election results by the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC).

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) dominated the October 9 elections, winning chairmanship positions in 16 LGAs, including Jos North, Jos South, Jos East, Bassa, Kanam, Barkin Ladi, Quan-Pan, Wase, Langtang South, Pankshin, Shendam, Riyom, Mikang, Kanke, Mangu, and Bokkos. The result for Langtang North is still pending.

After PLASIEC Chairman Hon. Plangji Daniel Cishak declared the results, the newly elected chairmen received their certificates of return at the PLASIEC headquarters, marking the start of their tenures in local governance.

During the swearing-in, Governor Mutfwang praised the peaceful and credible election process, crediting PLASIEC for conducting a free and fair election. Reflecting on his own experience as a former LGA chairman, he emphasized the significance of respecting the people’s voice.

“Congratulations to Plateau State. This has been a collective journey and a collective success,” said Mutfwang, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to strengthening local government autonomy. He pledged to ensure that funds flow directly to LGAs to improve service delivery.

The governor urged the newly elected officials to embrace transparency in governance and assured them of the administration’s support, including the implementation of a peer review mechanism to promote accountability. He also encouraged those dissatisfied with the election results to seek legal redress rather than resort to unlawful actions.

Governor Mutfwang expressed gratitude to security forces, elders, and stakeholders who contributed to the peaceful conduct of the election. He concluded with a call for collective efforts to drive Plateau State’s development, stating, “Together, we can make progress and develop our beloved state.”

With their oaths taken, the new chairmen are now tasked with fulfilling their campaign promises and ushering in a new era of effective local governance across Plateau State.