Thursday, June 4, 2026

The Sun Nigeria

Shettima visits Gbong Gwom Jos, urges tolerance and peace

Shettima visits Gbong Gwom Jos, urges tolerance and peace

• Monarch calls for enhanced security

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From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

Vice President Kashim Shettima has called on Nigerians to embrace tolerance and peaceful coexistence, stressing that the country could become one of the world’s greatest if citizens prioritise unity over division.

Speaking during a homage to the Gbong Gwom Jos and Chairman of the Plateau State Council of Chiefs and Emirs, HRH Jacob Gyang Buba, at his palace in Jos, Shettima said all Nigerians are bound by a shared heritage. “We are all connected one way or the other. We must, therefore, continue to live together. What binds us together supersedes what separates us,” he stated.

Shettima’s visit coincided with the grand reception of Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang and other politicians into the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He praised traditional rulers as custodians of culture who promote peace. “They are not just the custodians of our cultural heritage. They help in upholding the society by preaching peace among their subjects,” he noted.

The Vice President highlighted the budding rapport between APC National Chairman, Prof Nentawe Yilwatda, a Plateau indigene, and Governor Mutfwang. “The APC National Chairman, who is an indigene of the state, made a very generous statement at the reception venue by pledging his full support to the Governor, and with their coming together, the state will enjoy more dividends of democracy. That is good for the people of the state,” Shettima said.

He expressed optimism about the political realignment boosting Plateau’s image, peace and development. “The National Chairman was the opponent of the Governor at the last election but today they have agreed to work together. There can be no development without peace. Therefore, with their coming together, the state will enjoy more peace,” he added.

Mutfwang commended the synergy between President Bola Tinubu and Shettima, predicting sustained benefits for Nigeria.

The Gbong Gwom Jos appealed for enhanced security and reconciliation amid ongoing challenges. “On behalf of the traditional council here, I appreciate what our security agencies are doing to ensure we enjoy peace but I want to appeal for more security and true reconciliation in all parts of the country. Nigerians must respect one another and live in peace. Islam and Christianity are not in support of acts of insurgency or trouble making. We all believe in God Almighty who is the supreme being. Why should we foment trouble or kill one another,” he queried.

In a statement by the Vice President’s media aide, Stanley Nkwocha, the monarch welcomed the APC realignment as positive for Plateau and the nation. Shettima thanked Plateau residents for their hospitality.

His entourage included APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda; Nasarawa Governor Abdullahi Sule; former Deputy House Speaker Idris Wase; and Plateau traditional leaders.