Former Governor of Plateau State, Senator Jonah David Jang, has criticised a recent court decision that recognizes Hausa/Fulani residents as indigenes of the state based on birth and long-term residence.
The elder statesman warned that the ruling, which opens the door for non-indigenes who have lived in the state for extended periods to obtain indigene certificates, could have far-reaching consequences for Plateau’s identity, cultural heritage, and the rights of indigenous communities.
He argued that indigene certificates are traditionally tied to communities regarded as the original inhabitants of the state, and should not be issued solely on the basis of residency duration.
While acknowledging that every Nigerian has the constitutional right to live and engage in lawful activities anywhere in the country, Jang maintained that such rights should not automatically confer indigene status.
He further stressed that maintaining a clear distinction between indigenes and residents is essential to safeguarding the political representation, interests, and cultural heritage of indigenous groups in Plateau State.
Experienced broadcast journalist with over 5 years of experience in reporting, multimedia editing, and storytelling across both traditional and digital media. I currently work with Vision FM 92.1 and Daily Frontier, where I report on security, conflict, and humanitarian issues, while also translating news into Hausa and Pidgin to reach wider audiences.
I also serve as a correspondent for Daily Frontier in Plateau and Benue States, Nigeria, covering security, conflict, and humanitarian developments in the region.
I hold a Diploma in Mass Communication from Adamawa State Polytechnic and a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication from the National Open University of Nigeria.
