By Fatai Ibrahim
“Peace begins with a smile” – Mother Teresa
It is Theodore Roosevelt who says “The government is us; we are the government, you and I”. So, Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau State during a state wide broadcast marking his 100 days in office apparently aware of maintaining and sustaining good relationship with the people said, “The enormity of the challenges that we are confronted with have left us with only the immediate opinion for making quick fixes that will address human basic needs of the citizenry and guarantee the sustenance of the peaceful environment for good governance. In this regard, we remain focused and resolute on addressing the lingering labour unrest through the confidence building dialogue with labour unions on all issues in contention. These include the payment of salaries, pension arrears and immediate response in addressing injustices meted on certain categories of public office holders through the deliberate abuse of rule of law.
“Our attention was focused on the issues of finding a long lasting solution to the violent conflicts in Riyom, Barkin Ladi and parts of Jos South Local Government Area, which have continued unabated and have left the state with painful memories of horror and a large number of internally displaced persons. Our approach to resolving this challenge is hinged on rekindling first, confidence in government’s sincerity to solving the problems and then the willingness of the communities for an end to the crisis. Our efforts in facilitating dialogue through the many consultations are yielding result beyond imagination. Thus whilst through the efforts of the special task force, the issues of outright criminality and terrorism are checked, the communities themselves, through Peace and Reconciliation Committee set up by the government actively participated in evolving practical solutions to resolving the conflicts.
“May I further assure you that in spite of several odds against us, I will ensure that bridges of reconciliation and peace are built so that we forge a new social and economic order anchored on the principle of social justice, rule of law and equal opportunity. We shall strive for good governance and shall be just and fair to all”.
Lalong, while addressing 89th General Church Council of Church of Christ in Nation (COCIN), held November 16-20, 2015 in Jos, in the immortal words of late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, opined, ‘Where there is love, there is bound to be peace, stability, and concord”.
Thus, Governor Lalong who understands the implication of a peaceful society in this regard stated: “This highest policy decision making council of the church brings together men and women working in the vineyard of God in this church around the world and provide a wonderful opportunity for taking decision on the council of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ bringing the gospel to all nations. May I therefore continue to call on you spiritual leaders and all other members of the church to continue to be on our knees as we sustain our prayers for God’s intervention in our security challenges, economic down-turn, and the many threats to our peaceful co-existence”.
Lalong must have had the late wordsmith, Williams Shakespeare, in mind who says, “Conflict is the pathway to intimacy”. Thus in his address at the Humanitarian Dialogue (HD) Southern Plateau Forum 28th July, 2016, the governor said, “Our commitment to consolidating on our peace building efforts in all parts of our state is what has brought us to the Southern Zone…. Today is therefore remarkable because it marks the commencement of the inter-communal dialogue process between the different communities in Southern Plateau.
This is expected to last over a period of six months; across the six flash points….By addressing these through a dialogue process, HD hopes to involve the affected communities in developing collective solutions to their problems.
“I wish to at this point thank the German Government for the support accorded to this process. We in turn as the state government will continue to work with not just HD, but with all other stakeholders, who have the interest of Plateau people’s peaceful coexistence at heart.
The governor further stressed the need for peace and tranquility in Plateau state: “Today, I am formally addressing you as key stakeholders in the Plateau project, so that together, we can take stock of the governance process on the Plateau, and with your inputs, we can drive positively the impact of the change mantra upon which we came into office.
“Mother Teresa once posited, “Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one overcome to you without living happier”. In consonance with Mother Teresa’s view the governor at the First Joint Community Peace and Reconciliation Committee stated, “I assured you that our government is amiable to all valued contributions, which will guarantee the sustenance of peace and security, and provide the much needed insight, that will enhance the social well-being of our people and the development of our dear state”.
His Excellency addressing traditional rulers in Plateau State elucidates further, “In appreciation of the responsibilities and authorities that the occupants of traditional stools carry, our government sees the urgent need to review their remuneration and welfare packages to reflect in pragmatic terms the appreciation of their services. We are on the march to destiny in uniting our people and creating the value of our shared heritage. As our ethnic clusters our diversity as strength and as we recognize and respect our common ancestry; situated by God Himself, for us to live together in harmony: no narrow ethnic interest that seeks to deny the existence of others can break through the bond of our unity. With God on our side and determination on our part, our destination is certain”.
Your Excellency, as you match towards greatness and all your efforts in bringing Plateau citizens together under one umbrella, you must understand that your detractors and critics will still find fault in what you have achieved so far. But please take solace in the illuminating words of Winston Churchill: “You will never reach your destination, if you stop and throw stones at every dog that barks”.
Ibrahim wrote from Abuja