Plateau State governor, Simon Bako Lalong has performed the coronation and presentation of Staffs of Office to three upgraded Chiefs in Langtang North Local Government Area, their Royal Highnesses Ponzhi Bwarat, Compt. Ponfa R. Bahal Rtd (3rd Class); Ponzhi Timmwat, Hon. Nicholas S. Musa (3rd Class); and Ponzhi Gani, Col. Dauda N. Nimyel. Rtd. (3rd Class).
Performing the ceremony in Langtang, the governor said the presentation of Staffs of Office to the traditional rulers, which began many years ago, is in fulfillment of his campaign promise and goes to show that the APC keeps its words.
He said “You will agree with me that the focus we have given the traditional institution and the honour we have accorded our Royal Fathers have steered them to work hard for maintaining peace and security in their domains. Such attention has also promoted harmony within our diverse ethnic groups who now feel a sense of justice, equity, and fairness unlike in the past where they felt neglected, marginalised and oppressed.”
He said that on Wednesday, he signed into law the Plateau State Traditional Rulers Remuneration Bill 2020, which provides for the appointment, salaries, allowances and other related matters. Among other things, the Bill outlines the categorization of traditional rulers in the State and their selection process which must be in line with the native law and custom of the people.
“It also stipulates the payment of basic salaries of traditional rulers; sources of salaries and allowances; payment for traditional rulers on acting capacity; effect of court proceedings on remuneration; exclusion from remuneration; as well as payment of death benefits among others.
“On the whole, the Bill ensures that running the traditional institution must be within law and without unnecessary challenges particularly related to funding. I am optimistic that with the coming of this law into effect, challenges experienced in the past will no longer surface, especially concerning court proceedings and selection of new traditional rulers. We hope that vacant stools will no longer remain empty as such situation does not augur well for efficiency and effectiveness” he said.
Commissoner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Sylvanus Tapgun said Governor Lalong’s passion for the peace, stability and progress of the State is clearly seen in the respect and dignity he has accorded the traditional institution in Plateau State.
The vice chairman of the Plateau State Council of Traditional Rulers and Emirs and Long Gamai of Gamailand HRH Miskoom Martin Shaldas III, also appreciated the governor for being consistent in his efforts to elevate the traditional institution based on the yearnings of the people.
The acting president, Langtang Joint Traditional Council and Ponzhi Zinni, HRH Nimnan Langnim said the council remains indebted to the governor for approving the upgrade of the new Chiefdoms as well as creating new districts.
Meanwhile, the governor had on Wednesday 15th March 2023, signed into law the Bill for the Renumeration of traditional rulers which is aimed at enhancing their salaries and allowances.
He said the Bill passed by the State House of Assembly was intended to make the traditional rulers more effective in the discharge of their duties for the good of the people.
The governor also inspected some ongoing projects and had also stopped by in Pankshin to attend the funeral of the father of CAN chairman Plateau State, Rev. Fr. Polycarp Lubo.
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