By Comfort Pius Akudiang Jos
The stakeholders in Bashar district of Wase Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State have expressed concerns over the selection of the new Rekna of Bashar in Wase LGA.
At a press conference in Jos on Monday at the NUJ Press Center, Shehu Mujahid Abubakar read a statement on behalf of the stakeholders. He alleged that the selection process was marred by irregularities and injustice.
According to Abubakar, the stakeholders had earlier petitioned the state government’s Committee on the Creation/Upgrade of Chiefdoms, Districts, and Village Areas in Plateau State regarding the development in Bashar district.
He claimed that the proper procedure was not followed in September 2022 when the position of the Rekna of Bashar became vacant. Instead, the former Governor, Simon Bako Lalong, established a committee to oversee the selection process. However, the former Chairman of Wase Local Government Council, Dr. Ado Abubakar Buba, allegedly introduced irregularities into the process.
Abubakar further alleged that the chairman bypassed protocol by inviting kingmakers to his office and holding meetings with some of them under pressure. He also claimed that the selection date was manipulated, and four out of five kingmakers were abducted on December 16, 2022, by the former chairman and his associates.
The stakeholders alleged that the selection process was done under duress, and the kingmakers were not present. Additionally, the former chairman unlawfully participated in the process, exerting undue political influence.
They also claimed that the incumbent Rekna, Alh. Abdullahi Idris, is still employed by the federal government while holding the position of Rekna, which violates the rules.
The stakeholders called on the new Plateau State Governor, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, and the review committee to investigate the complaints arising from the irregularities during the selection process.
They urged the authorities to ensure equity, justice, and fairness to the people of Bashar chiefdom, Wase Local Government Area, and Plateau State in general.
“We have reason to believe that the incumbent Rekna, Alh. Abdullahi Idris, is still employed by the federal government while holding the position of Rekna. This violates the rules, as an individual cannot hold two government positions at the same time,” Abubakar said.
The stakeholders demanded a thorough investigation into the matter and the reversal of the selection process to ensure a fair and just outcome.
“We appeal to the new governor, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, to intervene in this matter and ensure that justice is served. We also call on the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and the review committee to investigate this matter and restore the dignity of the Bashar chiefdom,” Abubakar added.
