Governorship candidates of several political parties in Plateau have pledged to work with traditional rulers in the state to entrench lasting peace if elected.

The guber candidates stated this in their goodwill messages at the coronation of the Mishkaham Mwaghavul, paramount ruler of the Mwaghavul people.

In his goodwill message, the All Progressives Congress governorship candidate, Nentawe Yilwatda, stated that, “It is with immeasurable love and loyal commitment that I congratulate Da John Hirse, the Chairman, Mangu Traditional Council.

“I congratulate you and the entire Mwaghavul Nation on this very historic day of the traditional coronation of the 4th Mishkaham Mwaghavul and presentation of first class staff of office by Gov. Simon Lalong.

“May your majesty’s reign graciously strengthen the immense contributions of your forebears, whose efforts and sacrifices marshalled the Mwaghavul nation from cradle to greatness and to the envy of many,” he said.

According to him, development will not thrive if the people are not secure and safe to go about their legitimate businesses.

“We will defend Plateau with all strength, as a matter of fact, will put our lives on the line in defending Plateau if need be.

“Apart from infrastructure, we build our people’s capacities and empower them to engage in various forms of business without let,” he added.

The Peoples Democratic Party governorship candidate, Caleb Mutfwang, in his goodwill message, commended the kingmakers for choosing the new monarch and in record time.

Mr Mutfwang, who is an Mwaghavul indigene, said that the worthy choice was a testimony to the leadership capacity of the Mwaghavul nation, which they hoped would be put at the disposal of Plateau people. 

He said that without any iota of doubt, he was highly confident that Hirse would bring his wealth of experience to bear in providing qualitative leadership for the traditional council.

“I am sure he will further unite the different chiefdoms, ethnic nationalities and religions within the local government.

“It is also important to stress that he will be very resourceful to the state traditional council and in efforts geared towards peace in the state and the nation,” he said.

The Labour Party candidate Patrick Dakum prayed to God to grant the new monarch wisdom, knowledge, understanding and strength to lead the people with the fear of God, unity and progress.

Mr Dakum commended governor Lalong for giving traditional institutions in Plateau an enabling environment to thrive.

(NAN)