Plateau community faults govt’s suspension of monarch

In a surprising move, the Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has suspended Alhaji Abdullahi Idris, the traditional ruler of the Bashar Chiefdom, located in the Wase Local Government Area. This decision comes less than two years after Idris was officially installed as the chief, highlighting ongoing tensions within the region’s leadership structures.

The suspension was publicly announced via the state-owned Radio and Television Corporation, which indicated that Idris, known as the Rekna of Bashar, would be stepping aside while an investigation is conducted into the circumstances surrounding his selection, which took place in 2022. This unexpected action has raised eyebrows and sparked significant concern among local community members and stakeholders who feel that the decision may not have been warranted.

At a press conference held in Jos on Friday, Dr. Zakari Dallatun, the Chairman of the Bashar Communities Development Association, voiced strong objections to the governor’s decision, labeling it as strange and potentially illegal. Dallatun passionately defended the legitimacy of Idris’s appointment, explaining that it adhered to all statutory requirements and received the endorsement of the Chairman of the Plateau State Council of Chiefs and Emirs.

“Following the passing of the former Rekna, Alhaji Adamu Idris, on September 24, 2022, the kingmakers promptly selected Alhaji Abdullahi Idris as the new Rekna,” Dallatun stated. He underscored that the selection process was transparent and participatory, involving all relevant stakeholders who contributed to the decision-making. “We possess a comprehensive report detailing the selection process, which confirms that every participant was engaged and that the process was conducted lawfully,” he added.

The report, which Dallatun claims was submitted to the government, includes video evidence of the selection, a list of nominees, attendance records of the kingmakers, and the ballots cast for each candidate. He emphasized that no legal challenges to the selection have arisen since its completion, indicating a strong consensus around Idris’s appointment.

Dallatun further elaborated on the involvement of former Governor Simon Lalong in the appointment process. He explained that the state government had constituted a five-man committee to oversee the selection, which culminated in Lalong appointing Idris following the committee’s recommendations. “Idris received his appointment letter on January 5, 2023, and he was officially installed with the second-class staff of office on February 23, 2023,” Dallatun noted, emphasizing the thoroughness of the process.

The chairman also pointed out that the appointment was based on the recommendation from the Plateau State Council of Chiefs and Emirs, which confirmed that the selection complied with Plateau State Legal Notice No. 11 of 1991. He reiterated the importance of the established procedures and the legitimacy of Idris’s ascension, stating, “We have a detailed report justifying the selection process, the recommendations made, and the subsequent installation of the Rekna.”

Dallatun expressed bewilderment at the recent developments, particularly considering that discussions surrounding the review of Idris’s selection reportedly began only after a faceless group, calling itself the Concerned Stakeholders of Bashar Chiefdom, held a press conference on July 8, 2024. This group had called for a reassessment of the selection process that had been completed nearly two years prior.

He further stated that efforts had been made to clarify any misinformation regarding Idris’s selection, including a counter press conference held on July 10 to address inaccuracies propagated by the aforementioned group. Dallatun added that additional interviews and submissions had been provided to the committee established by the government to investigate complaints related to Idris’s selection.

The decision to suspend Idris has reportedly created a sense of uncertainty and tension within the community. Dallatun indicated that this action has led to a leadership vacuum at a time when strong leadership is crucial for the Bashar Chiefdom. “We believe this decision has not only heightened disunity and distrust but has also deprived our community of the resolute leadership we desperately need,” he stated.

In light of the growing discontent, Dallatun made a heartfelt appeal to Governor Mutfwang. “We strongly urge His Excellency to reconsider this decision in the interest of our people,” he implored. He emphasized the need for the governor to uphold his oath to protect and serve the community without bias or undue influence. Dallatun concluded by stressing the importance of respecting the traditions of the Bashar people and ensuring that any official decisions taken reflect the dignity of their long-standing cultural practices.

As the situation unfolds, the implications of this suspension could resonate throughout the community, affecting not only the leadership dynamics but also the cultural integrity of the Bashar Chiefdom. The residents are left observing closely how local governance will navigate this controversy and whether peace and stability can be restored in the wake of such a significant decision