Plateau Governor's Birthday Gesture: 17 SUVs for Chiefs as Schools Suffer
Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang celebrated his 61st birthday by presenting 17 brand-new Exeed VX SUVs to first-class traditional rulers, an act estimated to cost over N870 million. This lavish gift has sparked controversy as it coincides with reports of children in local communities attending classes in dilapidated mud huts, raising questions about the government's spending priorities.
Vehicle Handover and Official Justifications
The ceremony took place at the Old Government House in Rayfield, Jos, where Governor Mutfwang emphasized the importance of traditional rulers in modern governance. He stated that the SUVs were intended to enhance the mobility of the chiefs and recognize their role in local leadership structures. The governor described this as an initial step in improving their welfare, with plans to revive a mechanical workshop for vehicle maintenance.
Ephraim Usman, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the government's commitment to strengthening traditional institutions. Jacob Gyang, chair of the Plateau State Council of Chiefs and Emirs, expressed gratitude but also urged attention to the welfare of all chiefs and faster resolution of vacancies.
Community Backlash and Educational Struggles
Residents in areas like Tanbol Sabongida Ward have voiced strong criticism, noting the stark contrast between the expensive gifts and the dire state of educational facilities. One anonymous resident pointed out that the cost of a single SUV could fund the construction of a proper school. Children in these communities are forced to learn in mud huts that are vulnerable to rain, with inadequate desks and overcrowded conditions.
Reports indicate that residents have resorted to building temporary mud classrooms themselves, with men shaping structures and women fetching water, while children watch nearby. This makeshift approach underscores the lack of government investment in basic educational infrastructure.
Budget Allocation and UNESCO Standards
Plateau State's 2026 budget totals N917.91 billion, with education receiving N91.3 billion, making it the third-largest allocation after Water, Sanitation, and Energy, and Works and Transport. However, this represents only about 10% of the budget, falling short of UNESCO's recommendation of 15–20% for public spending on education. Health and agriculture allocations are also significant but do not address the immediate needs in schooling.
Broader Context and Similar Incidents
This incident is not isolated; Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori recently gifted 65 SUVs to traditional rulers, citing their role in governance and peace-building. Such gestures highlight a trend of prioritizing traditional institutions over essential public services like education, sparking debates on resource allocation in Nigerian states.
The situation in Plateau State serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges facing rural education and the need for balanced governance that addresses both cultural heritage and fundamental societal needs.
