Industrialist Knocks Dalung, Backs Gov Mutfwang On Civil War Apology

A prominent Igbo leader and chief executive officer (CEO)  of Nelmaco Industries, Chief Ubachidebere Nelson Mkparu, has praised Plateau State governor, Caleb Mutfwang, following his recent peace and reconciliation efforts directed at the Igbo resident community.

The endorsement came amid growing political discourse following former minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung, publicly criticising Governor Mutfwang for apologising to Ndigbo regarding the events surrounding the Nigerian Civil War.

Dalung had previously characterised the governor’s gestures as “reckless and irresponsible historical revision.”

Addressing the controversy in Jos, Mkparu expressed disappointment with Dalung’s stance, urging him and other Plateau political stakeholders to abandon divisive rhetoric and support the ongoing peace agenda.

He emphasised that the governor’s call to put past grievances behind and foster lasting unity demonstrates the visionary leadership necessary for the state’s progress.

Reflecting on the nation’s shared past, Mkparu acknowledged historical tragedies, including the January 1966 events that claimed the life of Plateau native Lt. Col. James Pam, warning against placing collective ethnic blame for actions taken by individuals over six decades ago.

He stressed that national healing requires focusing on the future rather than lingering on historical fractures.

Reaffirming the peaceful nature of the Igbo diaspora, the industrialist noted that Ndigbo across Nigeria and abroad remain dedicated to building, investing, and coexisting harmoniously with host communities.

He stated that while the Igbo nation retains pride in its heritage, residents in Plateau seek only to contribute constructively to local economic development without contention.

Mkparu highlighted insecurity as a collective national challenge that demands unified action across all demographic lines rather than political infighting.

He expressed support for Governor Mutfwang and offered prayers for President Bola Tinubu, national lawmakers, security chiefs, and the peaceful resolution of conflicts across Plateau and Nigeria at large.