As violent conflicts continue to afflict various parts of Plateau State, the Deputy Chairperson of Langtang North Local Government Area, Hon. Deborah Daniel, has highlighted tolerance, mutual respect, and adherence to local laws as key factors sustaining peace in the area.
She made this known on Saturday, July 26, 2025, when the Plateau State High-Powered Fact-Finding Committee visited the council as part of its statewide assessment aimed at addressing recurring killings and insecurity.
Welcoming the delegation on behalf of the Executive Chairman, Hon. Pirfa Jingfa Tyem, who was unavoidably absent, Hon. Deborah noted that while Langtang North has not been immune to disputes—particularly over land—it has largely avoided the large-scale violence seen in other parts of the state due to its people’s deep-rooted culture of peaceful coexistence.
“We are a welcoming people, but we also believe strongly in law and order,” she said. “When you come to Langtang North and you respect our customs and abide by the rules, you’ll have no problem. But when someone refuses to follow the laid-down regulations, that’s when there’s tension.”
Hon. Deborah stressed the community’s reputation for hospitality and added that most internal issues are resolved through tolerance and dialogue rather than confrontation. “We tolerate a lot. We believe in telling people the truth in peace. That’s how we have been able to live with others. We are peacemakers,” she emphasized.
She commended Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang for establishing the committee, describing him as “a true father of the state” for seeking to understand the root causes of violence rather than ignoring the suffering of citizens.
The committee, led by Maj. Gen. Nicholas Ragas (Rtd), had earlier stated that its visit was aimed at collecting firsthand accounts to formulate realistic and sustainable recommendations to restore peace in Plateau. He expressed satisfaction with the peaceful atmosphere in Langtang North, contrasting it with the devastation witnessed in other LGAs.
In addition to a meeting with local officials, the committee held separate engagements with security agencies and the traditional council led by His Royal Highness Nimnan Langnim, the Ponzhi Zinni. The monarch affirmed that peace in the area is the result of collective vigilance and sacrifice. “We watch each other’s backs. The interest of the community comes first,” he said.
In her final remarks, Hon. Deborah appealed for greater inclusion of women in peace building and governance. “There are only two women among ten committee members. We need to be carried along more because women are natural peace advocates,” she added.
Concluding the visit, Maj. Gen. Ragas praised the people of Langtang North for prioritizing unity and dialogue, noting that while land disputes exist, the absence of major attacks or reprisals was commendable. “We’ve seen the difference here,” he said. “This kind of community-based peace approach is what we hope to replicate elsewhere across the state.”
