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Stakeholders from government, civil society organisations, the media, and the general public converged at Crispan Event Center in Jos for the 2026 Democracy Day Town Hall Meeting organised by Verified Conversations in collaboration with Inside Plateau.
The event, themed “Plateau State – Beyond Elections,” provided a platform for robust discussions on accountability, citizen participation, and inclusive governance, while fostering direct engagement between leaders and the people.
In his opening remarks, Convener of Verified Conversations, Mr. Samson Omale, said the initiative was established to encourage responsible leadership and deepen citizen participation in governance. He explained that the platform, which began in 2021, has evolved into a movement focused on accountability and constructive public engagement.
“Today’s conversation is not about politics, political parties, or campaigns. It is about governance and leadership. We are here to ask questions, demand answers, and create a platform where citizens can directly engage those entrusted with public responsibility,” Omale stated.
He added that the overarching goal of the #2027Conversations initiative is to inform, connect, and empower citizens through structured dialogue while strengthening accountability and civic participation.
Also speaking, Plateau State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap, congratulated Nigerians on the occasion of Democracy Day and described the town hall as a practical demonstration of democratic values. She noted that the state’s democratic journey has endured numerous challenges but continues to advance through the resilience and commitment of citizens.
Ramnap said the ministry supported the initiative because it offers an independent platform for citizens to engage government, assess its performance, and contribute to the state’s development agenda. She further noted that extensive media partnerships had ensured that discussions reached audiences across Plateau State and beyond.
“What we are witnessing here today is democracy in action. This platform gives citizens the opportunity to participate in governance, engage leaders, demand accountability, and contribute to the development of our state. That is the true essence of democracy,” she said.
Delivering the keynote address on the theme “Strengthening Democracy Through Inclusive Governance and Citizens’ Participation,” Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang stressed that democracy must extend beyond periodic elections and translate into accountable leadership, inclusive governance, and measurable development outcomes that improve the lives of citizens.
The governor highlighted achievements recorded by his administration over the past three years in security, economic reforms, agriculture, infrastructure, healthcare, and education, describing them as deliberate efforts aimed at laying a solid foundation for sustainable growth and prosperity across Plateau State.
“Over the past three years, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to building a government anchored on transparency, accountability, compassion, integrity, and responsible leadership. Through prudent management of resources and purposeful governance, we have worked diligently to restore confidence in public institutions and lay a solid foundation for sustainable development,” Mutfwang stated.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building a peaceful, economically vibrant, and investment-friendly Plateau, while urging citizens to remain actively engaged in governance and support efforts geared toward strengthening peace, unity, and development.
The event also featured a panel discussion on “Unpacking the Governor’s Democracy Day Keynote on Strengthening Democracy Through Inclusive Governance and Citizens’ Participation.” Panelists, including Mallam Haroun Audu, Comrade Steve Aluko, Leah Hassan, Dr. Gad Shamaki, Ukandi Odey, and Chief Koppe Sylvanus Joseph, examined key issues raised in the governor’s address and explored pathways for enhancing accountability and citizen engagement.
Moderated by Mr. Ezenwa Nwagbu, the panel offered diverse perspectives on democracy, transparency, civic participation, and inclusive development, while emphasizing the importance of sustained dialogue between government and citizens to strengthen democratic institutions and improve service delivery.
In his closing remarks, the Secretary to the Plateau State Government, Arc. Samuel Nanchang Jatau, urged citizens to complement government efforts by taking greater responsibility for their communities and actively contributing to the state’s development.
He emphasized that governance is a shared responsibility and called on residents to seek accurate information, avoid misinformation, and support ongoing development initiatives. According to him, government can only succeed when citizens and leaders work together to build a cleaner, safer, and more prosperous Plateau State.
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