End Bad Governance: Plateau Protesters Submit Demands to Governor

A coalition of youths in Plateau State has formally presented a charter of demands to the state governor, Caleb Mutfwang, for onward transmission to President Bola Tinubu. The presentation took place in Jos on Saturday, following a march through major streets as part of ongoing nationwide protests.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria, the protests, which were initially peaceful, turned violent after being hijacked by hoodlums who began looting and destroying public and private property. In response, the state government imposed a 24-hour curfew on the Jos-Bukuru metropolis to.

The youths’ demands were presented by their representative, Mr. Sam Ode, who emphasized the need for both state and federal government action.

“For the state government, we demand an immediate reduction in the cost of governance and a transparent explanation of how various palliatives and federal funding are being utilized,” Ode stated. He also called for the implementation of the recently signed minimum wage law and a reduction in tuition fees for tertiary institutions.

Regarding the federal government, Ode urged President Tinubu to address corruption, reduce the pump price of fuel to ₦300, and reverse the recent hike in electricity tariffs. He further called for a reduction in the cost of governance, the reopening of all national borders, and the initiation of judicial reforms.

Ode stressed that these demands were not acts of rebellion but rather a reflection of the people’s will for sustainable development.

In his response, Governor Mutfwang expressed gratitude to the protesters for their peaceful conduct and assured them that their demands would be conveyed to the president. He also pledged to involve youths more actively in his administration and to remain open to legitimate criticism.

“We are committed to transparency and accountability in the distribution of federal palliatives to the people of Plateau State,” Mutfwang said. He highlighted ongoing efforts to boost agriculture, healthcare, tourism, education, public transportation, sports, and the ease of doing business to improve the local economy.

The governor also emphasized the need for private sector support to combat poverty and hunger and to realize the full potential of Plateau State.

“I will transmit your demands to the president next week. All I ask is for your patience and support as we work towards success,” Mutfwang added, thanking the protesters for their peaceful conduct.