In a bold move that has stirred controversy, Shehu Usman Bala, the Executive Chairman of Jos North Local Government Council, resumed his position on Friday, challenging the authority of Governor Caleb Mutfwang.
The embattled council boss has defiantly remained at the council’s Secretariat accompanied by various ward counselors, causing a stir among a cross-section of workers.
Bala who earlier on Friday addressed the press, asserted his right to remain as the council boss until the court rules otherwise. He emphasized the importance of following due process and reiterated his position as the duly elected chairman. “I was given the mandate by the good people of Jos North local government, and I am here to carry out my duties as the executive chairman of the council,” he declared confidently. Bala also called for calm among the people of Jos North, assuring them that their mandate is still intact.
Furthermore, Bala urged Governor Caleb Mutfwang not to be swayed by the influence of certain individuals he referred to as “enemies of the state.” He appealed to the governor to uphold the principles of justice and allow the proper legal procedures to take their course.
The recent suspension of the 17 Local Government Areas structures by Governor Caleb Mutfwang has sparked a debate over the powers of the State House of Assembly. The governor took this step to facilitate an ongoing investigation being conducted by the State House of Assembly. However, Hon Baba Hassan, the Member representing Jos North North in the state house of assembly, expressed his dissatisfaction with the suspension, stating that there is no law that grants the House of Assembly members the authority to suspend elected local government chairmen.
The standoff between Shehu Bala and Governor Caleb Mutfwang has created a tense situation in Jos North LGA. As the legal battle looms, the people of Jos North anxiously await the resolution of this dispute and hope for a swift and peaceful resolution that respects the rule of law.
