Plateau: Mutfwang commits to resettling IDPs in five communities

The Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang has inaugurated a committee as part of his commitment to resettle Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in five communities of the state.

According to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in a statement on Tuesday, the agency which forms part of the committee will play a pivotal role in bringing its expertise to the success of the committee.

During the inauguration on Monday at the State Government House in Jos, the agency was represented by the Coordinator of the North Central Zonal Office, Eugene Nyelong.

The five communities to be resettled following their displacement in recent attacks by gunmen include Barkin Ladi, Bokkos, Riyom, Mangu and Bassa.

According to the statement, Governor Mutfwang said the committee will operate by the terms of reference given by the state government, adding that "the committee is not solely limited by it as advice is welcomed to ensure there's great input and success from all committees geared towards moving the State forward."

The statement added that the committee has eight weeks to submit its assignment. 

Inauguration was attended by stakeholders, including the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), the Chief Judge of Plateau State, the Chief of Staff, members of the Executive Council, Chiefs and Emirs, The Bon Gwom Jos ably represented by the Emir of Wase who also serves as the JNI representative, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), representatives of the various Local Governments, Chairmen, Secretaries and members of the committee.

Meanwhile the terms of reference for the committee include identitying the communities displaced within the affected LGAs, to relocate the IDPs and obtain their statistics.

Others include "To ascertain if the displaced committees have been occupied forcefully; with a view to making them secure the returnees.

"To establish the necessary requirement that will help in resettling the returnees.

"To ensure security measures are put in place.

"To make any other recommendation that may assist or help the Government in managing the land related issues."