By Lateef Ibrahim, Abuja
A group, Plateau Initiative for Growth and Development, has faulted what it described as falsehoods and misleading claims made by a governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Commander Yilchini Jan Bida, retired, against the administration of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang.
The group said it watched with disbelief Bida’s recent media engagement in Jos, where he spoke on his ambition to unseat Mutfwang in the 2027 governorship election.
In a statement signed by its State Coordinator, Comrade Nengak David, the group accused Bida of attempting to misrepresent the achievements of the Mutfwang administration and those of previous governments, while presenting himself as the only person with answers to Plateau’s challenges.
According to the group, Bida’s comments, particularly on security and infrastructure, exposed what it called a troubling lack of understanding of the complex realities, history and aspirations of the Plateau people.
“Ordinarily, such claims would not deserve a response, but it has become necessary to set the record straight for the benefit of the peace-loving and patriotic people of Plateau State,” the statement said.
The group argued that a closer look at Bida’s public record raises serious questions about his capacity, sincerity and connection with the people he now seeks to govern.
It noted that despite his military background, Bida is not known to have played any visible role in peace-building or humanitarian intervention in Plateau State, either during his service years or after retirement.
The group said it was more disturbing that he had rarely identified with victims of attacks across the state, adding that he had not been visibly present in affected communities to sympathise with grieving families or offer support during moments of tragedy.
It also criticised what it described as Bida’s posture at a time when many citizens had repeatedly alleged complicity by some security personnel in attacks on communities.
According to the group, some of those allegations had been accompanied by claims of identity cards, uniforms and video evidence, yet Bida, rather than empathising with victims, appeared more interested in defending the conduct of the military and blaming attacked communities for the failure of security response.
The group said statements allegedly credited to him, including questioning how communities without mobile network coverage were able to contact security operatives, had only deepened public concern over his sensitivity to the plight of vulnerable citizens.
It said leadership requires compassion, sacrifice, courage, understanding of the people’s pain, and a consistent commitment to justice and peace.
“Plateau State cannot afford to entrust its future to individuals who appear disconnected from the realities and sufferings of its people,” the group said.
The statement added that the people of Plateau remain resolute in supporting leaders who have demonstrated empathy, inclusiveness and genuine commitment to rebuilding the state and restoring hope to citizens.
The group also faulted Bida’s claim that he would not disengage youths from employment, but would rather create jobs and empower young people across the state.
It said Plateau people had yet to see any meaningful evidence of Bida facilitating employment opportunities for youths, either within the military or in other sectors of public service.
“There is no known record of him using his influence, experience or connections to secure opportunities for Plateau youths. Neither has he initiated any visible programme or empowerment scheme aimed at improving their welfare, economic growth or social development,” the group said.
It added that beyond political promises and media statements, Bida had failed to present any practical and workable initiative capable of addressing the pressing challenges confronting young people in the state.
The group maintained that true leadership is not defined by campaign promises, but by proven impact, service to humanity and demonstrated commitment to uplifting the people.
“For these reasons, we strongly maintain that Commander Yilchini Jan Bida cannot be trusted with the leadership of Plateau State,” the statement added.
The group said Plateau deserves visionary, compassionate and people-oriented leadership committed to the collective growth, peace and prosperity of the state and its citizens.
END
