Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has taken a bold step to restore order and accountability in the state’s property sector by inaugurating a Task Force on the Recovery of Government Properties.
The initiative, which underscores the administration’s commitment to transparency and efficient resource management, aims to reclaim properties that have been misappropriated, illegally occupied, or misused.
Represented by his deputy, Hon. Mrs. Josephine Piyo, during the inauguration ceremony, Governor Mutfwang emphasized that the move is critical to ensuring the state’s resources are directed toward the benefit of its citizens. The governor described the recovery effort as a pivotal measure for rebuilding trust between the government and the people while promoting a culture of accountability in governance.
The Task Force has been given a clear mandate to identify, trace, and recover all government properties that have been unlawfully acquired or misused. This includes government-landed properties, residences, and other assets that may have been illegally encroached upon or occupied. The effort is not intended as a punitive exercise but rather as a means to ensure that public resources are used for the common good.
Governor Mutfwang outlined the key responsibilities of the Task Force, including identifying all government properties and their current occupants, determining the duration of their occupation, and assessing any renovations or alterations made during that period. The Task Force is also tasked with recovering illegally occupied government lands, addressing encroachment issues, and working with relevant agencies, law enforcement, and stakeholders to prosecute offenders where necessary. Additionally, the group will explore funding sources and allocate budgets to ensure the financial sustainability of the recovery process, as well as assess housing demands within the state.
The governor urged Task Force members to carry out their duties with diligence, fairness, and integrity, stressing that their work would safeguard the interests of Plateau State citizens and set a precedent for responsible governance. He called on residents and those in possession of government properties to cooperate with the Task Force in the spirit of collective benefit.
“This initiative is not about seeking retribution but about ensuring that public resources are returned to serve the people. We urge everyone to support this effort as it is a shared responsibility to uphold accountability and transparency in governance,” he said.
The Secretary to the State Government, Arc. Samuel Nancham Jatau, reinforced the administration’s commitment to following due process throughout the recovery exercise. He assured the public that the government is determined to retrieve all inappropriately acquired assets, whether by individuals, groups, or corporations, and to ensure that justice is served.
The Task Force is chaired by retired Major General Nansak Yakubu, who stated that the recovery initiative comes at a crucial time as Plateau State strives to achieve greater heights in development. He assured the public that the Task Force would carry out its mandate diligently, ensuring a seamless recovery process without resorting to intimidation or coercion.
Other members of the Task Force include Alh. Jibrin Husseini, Arc. Dahoro Dachomo, DCP Adamu Usman, and a Permanent Secretary. Together, they bring diverse expertise and experience to the initiative, ensuring that the recovery process is both thorough and impartial.
As Plateau State embarks on this ambitious journey to reclaim its resources, the administration is sending a clear message that accountability and responsible governance are non-negotiable. This effort not only aims to restore public confidence in the government but also to create a foundation for sustainable development that benefits all citizens.
