June 12, 2025
On a day commemorating Nigeria’s democratic journey, disengaged staff of the Plateau State College of Education, Gindiri, and Plateau State Polytechnic, Barkin-Ladi, have decried what they call a fresh wave of injustice following the issuance of new termination letters—despite a court ruling ordering their reinstatement.
Addressing the press on Democracy Day, the group, under the leadership of Mr. Henry Hoomen, described the Plateau State Government’s action as a deliberate violation of the National Industrial Court’s judgment and a disregard for the rule of law.
“Following our wrongful dismissal, we sought legal redress and secured a judgment in our favour. The court ordered our immediate reinstatement,” Hoomen stated. “Yet, upon resumption, we were handed fresh disengagement letters—this time signed off by governing councils appointed by the Governor himself.”
The workers, formerly employed in the state-owned tertiary institutions, emphasized that their recruitment was lawful. They said the continued refusal to reinstate them despite the court’s decision was not only contemptuous but dangerous for democracy and due process.
The group also took exception to remarks allegedly made by Governor Caleb Mutfwang, who they claimed referred to some graduates as “dumb” and used the derogatory term “Dolaye.” They described the language as deeply offensive, especially coming from a leader of the state.
“Many of us are graduates of respected institutions, including the University of Jos, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, and Ahmadu Bello University—the Governor’s own alma mater,” the statement read. “Such comments are not only demeaning but demoralizing to professionals who have served Plateau State with dedication.”
The workers warned that the actions of the state government are creating an atmosphere of alienation and division among citizens. They said their experience reflects a troubling pattern of exclusion.
“Our treatment suggests we are being relegated to second-class status in our own land. We are being denied the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the development of Plateau State.”
They called on civil society organizations, religious leaders, traditional rulers, and well-meaning Nigerians to intervene and demand accountability from the state government. They urged the Governor to honour the court’s ruling and allow them return to their duties.
“We are not asking for favours. We are only demanding what is legally and morally ours—a chance to serve, to work, and to be treated with dignity.”
In closing, the group reiterated their commitment to lawful resolution and justice, saying their fight was not only for themselves but for the integrity of democratic governance in Plateau State.
“To disregard a court order is to disregard the very foundation of democracy. We call on Governor Mutfwang to uphold justice, obey the rule of law, and reinstate us without delay.”
