There was more to it than just the usual change of baton we witness every four years of administrative shift on May 29 at the Rwang Pam Stadium, the venue where most inaugural ceremonies take place. This time around, it was reminiscent of the old People’s Democratic Party’s days where billboards and posters bore symbols of umbrellas along major streets.
It is the beginning of a new era for most PDP faithful considering the fact that the party has been off the rail for good eight years and the much-awaited moment was here. The euphoric mood at the venue of the governor’s inaugural ceremony depicted the return of the old good days for supporters and people who have remained in the party patiently.
In fact, for Plateau State to witness yet another transition to power back from the All Progressive Congress (APC) to PDP after eight years, it was really a prove to the fact that history has been made. It was heartwarming seeing people who have lost contact for some years reunited and hugging each other in celebration.
Although, the celebration came after the people of Plateau State were still mourning the death of their innocent people who were killed by suspected Fulani militia in some parts of the state, but that notwithstanding, the occasion was worthwhile.
It is also on record that there were agitations in some quarters that the celebration may likely not hold because of security challenges the state was facing. But to God be the glory, it all went on smoothly without report of any attack or hitches.
However, major roads leading to the venue of the inauguration ceremony, were jamb packed, causing heavy traffic around JD Gomwalk road. Motorists who found it difficult to move had to look for alternative route to witness the occasion. Some parked their cars at safe distances and trekked down to the venue. The music ” PDP gida gida, Caleb Mutfwang gida gida” filled the air as well wishers trooped in.
Interestingly, the peaceful display by those who graced the occasion was worth commending. The entire stadium was filled to the brim with both PDP supporters and other parties’ supporters which demonstrated how eager they were to usher in the change in administrative style and system.
As early as 7am to 8am, these supporters were already ahead of the Inauguration Committee and were colourfully seen in green and white at the venue to welcome their Governor-Elect. Although, the occasion did not start at the scheduled time of 10am, but people still waited patiently for the arrival of all dignitaries to see their Governor being sworn in.
The colourful parade displayed by the police for the outgoing Governor, Barr. Simon Bako Lalong, who was represented by his Deputy, Prof. Sonni Gwanle Tyoden, bidding him farewell was another site attraction to the occasion. He was taken round in a ceremonial vehicle waving the mammoth crowd.
However, the brand-new Governor, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, was also welcomed in the same fashion with the colourful parade by the Police Band shortly after being sworn-in by the Plateau State Chief Judge, Justice David Mann, where he later addressed the people of Plateau State.
The Governor said, “We will trust God for wisdom and enablement not to fail you. Today, it is not just my inauguration; it is our inauguration as it marks the beginning of our collective quest for a new Plateau. Today, I prophesy that the new Plateau by this inauguration is born!
“The glory of Plateau shall manifest in the coming years to God’s glory and to our collective pride. We shall work round the clock to provide the quality of leadership and governance that our dear citizens deserve and yearn for. We emphasize the Plateau brotherhood irrespective of tribe or faith.
“While it is true that I have a tribe and faith, I want to assure you that I will use these identities as positive values to enhance our common good. I therefore welcome you all to the new Plateau where tribe and faith will no longer be tools for division but rich multi coloured threads to be weaved into strong ropes that will pull us together for unity and progress”, he assured.
According to the incoming Governor, “by the grace of God, we shall remain committed to our vision for the state. Conscious of the fact that I have been elected Governor by the divine will of God and the great determination of the people, I promise by word and deed to be an advocate and practitioner of justice, fairness and equity”.
“This is the government you voted for, own it. Plateau State has to be better than this. I am confident that together, we can make it better. Yes, we can. Welcome to a new dispensation. Welcome to a new beginning. Welcome to a new Plateau. Indeed, the Time is NOW! God bless Plateau State”, Mutfwang prayed.
Finally, the outgoing Governor, represented by his Deputy, congratulated the incoming Governor and called on the people of Plateau State to give the new government the needed support so that Plateau State would be great again. He thanked the people of Plateau State for giving his administration support while in government for the past eight (8) years.
It was another filled day for security to control the way out as the occasion came to a climax. Most people were seen trekking back to where they parked their cars with others trekking back to their destinations. The road from Old Zaria Road to Polo Round About and up through JD Gomwalk road was flagged with musical groups stationed at one point or the other dancing and celebrating the coming of the new government.
