Lalong Pledges To Complete Abandoned Projects In Community 

Governor of Plateau State, Simon Bako Lalong has promised the Tarok people in the state, that his administration will do its best to complete all abandoned projects in the community.

Lalong made this known during the annual cultural festival of the Tarok nation known as "Ilum O'Tarok" which took place at the Langtang Mini Stadium. 

According to Lalong, so much has been achieved in completing many abandoned projects inherited from the past administrations and as well as the initiated ones.

He cited the General Hospital in Mabudi, Langtang South which was abandoned at the foundation level but is now completed and awaiting commissioning.

The Langtang Water Treatment Plant built by Chief Solomon Lar which was moribund for many years was also reactivated and is now providing potable water to the citizens. 

Lalong said the Legacy Project in Shishi will also be completed soon while the Gazum Road, Langtang-Garkawa Road and Kadarko Road will also be attended to.

He commended the Tarok nation for sustaining the cultural fiesta saying:
" I am happy that the Ilum O’Tarok has taken the lead in this new vista of cultural renaissance in Plateau State.

"This is not surprising considering the patriotism and sense of pride with which all sons and daughters of Tarokland hold and display their culture and tradition wherever they find themselves. 

"This is a good virtue that must be sustained. At an event like this, I must re-emphasise the need for continuous propagation and sustenance of our rich cultural heritage that is under threat by globalization.

"Many of our cultural practices are gradually being abandoned while our languages are fast disappearing by the day, especially among our younger generation. This is a concern that I want the Tarok nation to take very seriously considering the fact that other tribes also face similar threats".

On peace and security, he commended the Tarok nation for doing their best to maintain peace within their domain and by extension, the State in general. These efforts he said should be sustained as the State continues to confront criminals and crises merchants who are always looking for an opportunity to strike and cause havoc. 

He also assured them that Government will support them towards having a substantive leader, Ponzhi Tarok. 

"As I once again condole the Tarok nation over the demise of the late Ponzhi Tarok, I wish to assure you that Government will not hesitate to ensure that a new Ponzhi is installed when the kingmakers and the traditional council conclude the process for the selection of a successor. 

"My appeal as always is to ask that everything should be done according to laid down rules and the culture and tradition of the Tarok people. My administration has maintained its neutrality over the appointment of Traditional Rulers and will not impose anyone on the people" he said.
 
Chairman of the Ngwang Ishi O’Tarok,  Amb. Nanpon Sheni said the cultural festival provides an avenue for the sons and daughters of Tarokland to get in touch with their roots, culture and heritage as well as find ways of addressing critical challenges in education, infrastructure, water, and health, economic prosperity among others.

Royal Father of the day and Emir of Dass HRH Alh. Usman Bilyaminu Othman emphasised the need for peace, unity and harmony among the Tarok people as well as with its neighbours. He said the Tarok nation is known for hospitality, friendship and honesty which are attributes that have endeared them to many people around the world.