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A civil society group, One Plateau, One Voice, has cautioned against what it described as an unauthorized conferment of the traditional title of Sarkin Yakin Jos, warning that such actions could undermine peace and create unnecessary tension in Plateau State.
The group said its attention had been drawn to a letter circulating on social media announcing the conferment of the title on a former public office holder by a group identified as the Forum for Concerned Jos Community Elders and Stakeholders.
In a statement signed by its Convener, Dogo Nanzing, on Sunday, the group urged residents to remain calm, vigilant and respect the authority of recognised traditional institutions.
It stressed that while citizens have the constitutional right to associate freely and honour deserving individuals, matters relating to traditional titles remain the exclusive responsibility of duly constituted traditional institutions.
“The title ‘Sarkin Yakin Jos’ is one with profound historical, cultural and traditional implications. It is therefore imperative that any claim relating to such a title must emanate from, or be expressly endorsed by, the appropriate and recognised traditional institution vested with the customary authority to do so,” the statement said.
The group advised members of the public to treat the purported conferment with caution unless clarification is provided by the appropriate traditional authority.
It expressed concern that recent attempts by some individuals and groups to redefine historical realities and advance divisive narratives could threaten the peaceful coexistence being rebuilt across the state.
“Any action that creates unnecessary controversy around the identity, history or traditional heritage of Jos has the potential to become a source of avoidable tension,” the group stated.
One Plateau, One Voice called on Plateau indigenes and other residents to disregard any unauthorised claims or activities capable of distorting the authority of recognised traditional institutions.
“Plateau’s history, cultural heritage and traditional structures must never become instruments for political manipulation or sectional interests,” it added.
The group also warned that no individual or organisation should engage in actions capable of providing enemies of peace with opportunities to exploit existing sensitivities or provoke conflict.
It urged citizens to remain law-abiding, report suspicious activities or gatherings capable of threatening public peace to security agencies, and continue supporting efforts aimed at sustaining harmony across the state.
“We call upon the Plateau State Government, relevant traditional councils and security agencies to closely monitor developments surrounding this matter, provide appropriate clarification where necessary, and ensure that no individual or group acts in a manner capable of undermining public confidence in our revered traditional institutions or threatening the peace of our dear state,” the statement added.
The group reaffirmed that Plateau belongs to all law-abiding residents and urged citizens to remain united, vigilant and committed to justice, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.
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