Chief Joseph Gwankat, President General of the Mwaghavul Nation, has delved into the intricate matters surrounding land rights and Indigenous status in Plateau State.
In discussing the ongoing crisis in Plateau State, Gwankat, speaking at a town hall meeting organised by News Central TV, highlighted that the indigenous people of Plateau State have historically coexisted peacefully with the Fulani community. He remarked that discussions on indigenous status had been resolved long ago.
He said, “I cannot give you land and you wake up and claim you are an indigene. We gave the land and you suddenly claim to be an indigene too.
“We are not contesting citizenship, it is very clear in the constitution.
“Let me also state something very clear; ventilation is also a normal thing in reconciliation. You cannot say we should proffer a solution when there is no ventilation. It is part of the peace process.”
The continuing violence in Plateau State has resulted in hundreds of deaths and injuries. The conflict primarily involves herders and farmers in the state. While some endorse this view, others argue that the violence constitutes acts of terrorism associated with Fulani herders, who are engaged in disputes over land with the indigenous population of the state.
