Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has faced substantial criticism following a recent speech in which he highlighted his administration’s achievements.
Critics argue that the governor’s claims are disconnected from the actual conditions in the state, emphasizing several key areas of concern.
Agricultural Training Initiative
A major point of contention is the governor’s claim that training 20 young people per Local Government Area (LGA) in modern agriculture signifies a significant advancement in food security.
Critics argue that this initiative, which translates to training just one person per state ward, is too limited to have a meaningful impact on the broader agricultural sector.
They question how such a small-scale program can effectively address the extensive food security challenges faced by the state.
Commitment to the Rule of Law
Governor Mutfwang’s stated commitment to the rule of law has been met with skepticism. Critics highlight several actions that allegedly contradict his claims:
– Removal of Elected Officials: The governor’s unilateral removal of democratically elected officials at Local Government Councils (LGCs) has raised concerns about his adherence to democratic principles.
– Dismissal of PLASIEC Officials: The termination of officials from the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) is seen as undermining the integrity of the electoral process.
– Termination of Young Employees: Critics argue that the dismissal of young people employed by the previous administration reflects a disregard for continuity and stability in governance.
– Removal of University Vice-Chancellor: The abrupt removal of the Vice-Chancellor of Plateau State University (PLASU) without the consent of the Governing Council is cited as another example of bypassing legal processes.
– Refusal to Swear in House Members: Defiance of a Court of Appeal judgment by refusing to swear in members of the House of Assembly is viewed as a significant violation of the rule of law.
– Removal of Tertiary Institution Officials: The removal of Provosts, Rectors, Registrars, and Bursars from five state-owned tertiary institutions has been criticized for undermining the rules governing these institutions and contributing to an atmosphere of arbitrary governance.
Criticisms of Governance
These actions collectively paint a picture of governance that critics argue is characterized by arbitrary decision-making and a lack of respect for established legal and institutional frameworks.
They contend that these moves not only undermine public trust in the administration but also hinder the development and stability of the state.
Infrastructure Investment Claims
Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s claims of significant investments in the transportation sector have been met with skepticism from critics.
They question the tangible impact of these investments, particularly in terms of reducing transportation costs or addressing the actual needs of the populace.
Despite assertions of progress, the lack of major infrastructure projects in the state’s 15 Local Government Areas (LGAs) has been highlighted.
The administration’s efforts appear limited to road patching in Jos North and South, which critics argue falls short of the comprehensive improvements needed.
Financial Management and Governance
The administration has faced harsh criticism for what has been described as unprecedented poor governance. Observers note that despite substantial financial inflows, the state continues to struggle with widespread poverty, inadequate infrastructure, and a general decline in living standards.
Critics argue that no previous government in Plateau State has had access to such significant resources, yet the current administration has failed to make meaningful progress.
Governor Mutfwang’s administration faces significant scrutiny for its perceived disconnect from the realities on the ground and its approach to governance. Critics call for a more comprehensive and legally sound strategy to address the state’s challenges effectively.