Igbo leader Mkparu, Praises Gov Mutfwang, criticizes Dalung over apology controversy

By Kingsley Chukwuka

A ​prominent Igbo leader, political figure, and CEO of Nelmaco Industries, Amb. Chief Dr. Ubachidebere Nelson Mkparu, has offered strong praise for the Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang following his recent peace and reconciliation efforts directed at the Igbo resident community.

​The endorsement comes amid growing political discourse after former Minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung, publicly criticized Governor Mutfwang over an apology extended to Ndigbo regarding the events surrounding the Nigerian Civil War.

Dalung had previously characterized the Governor’s gestures as “reckless and irresponsible historical revision.”

​Addressing the controversy in Jos, Mkparu expressed deep disappointment with Dalung’s stance, urging him and other Plateau political stakeholders to abandon divisive rhetoric and support the ongoing peace agenda.

He emphasized that the Governor’s call to put past grievances behind and foster lasting unity demonstrates visionary leadership necessary for the state’s progress.

​Reflecting on the nation’s shared past, Mkparu acknowledged historical tragedies, including the January 1966 events that claimed the life of Plateau native Lt. Col. James Yakubu Gyang Pam, warning against placing collective ethnic blame for actions taken by individuals over six decades ago and stressing that national healing requires focusing on the future rather than lingering on historical fractures.

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​Reaffirming the peaceful nature of the Igbo diaspora, the industrialist noted that Ndigbo across Nigeria and abroad remain dedicated to building, investing, and coexisting harmoniously with host communities.

He stated that while the Igbo nation retains pride in its heritage, residents in Plateau seek only to contribute constructively to local economic development without contention.

​Mkparu highlighted insecurity as a collective national challenge that demands unified action across all demographic lines rather than political infighting, extending formal support to Governor Mutfwang and offered prayers for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, national lawmakers, security chiefs, and the peaceful resolution of conflict across Plateau and Nigeria at large.