Civil War Apology: Igbo Leader Mkparu, Rebukes Dalung, Commends Gov Mutfwang’s Peace Initiative
Jos Afrik24 – An Igbo leader, political figure, and CEO of Nelmaco Industries, Amb. Chief Dr. Ubachidebere Nelson Mkparu, has praised Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang for his recent peace and reconciliation efforts directed at the resident Igbo community.
Mkparu’s endorsement comes amid political discourse following sharp criticism from the former Minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung, where he previously condemned Governor Mutfwang’s public apology to Ndigbo regarding events connected to the Nigerian Civil War, describing the gesture as reckless and irresponsible historical revisionism.
Speaking in Jos, Mkparu expressed deep disappointment with Dalung’s position, urging Dalung and other political stakeholders in the State to abandon divisive rhetoric and rally behind the administration’s peace agenda, emphasizing that Mutfwang’s call to move past historical grievances reflects the visionary leadership needed to drive progress.
Reflecting on the nation’s history, the industrialist acknowledged past tragedies—including the January 1966 events that claimed the life of Plateau native Lt. Col. James Yakubu Gyang Pam—while cautioning against assigning collective ethnic blame for actions carried out by individuals over six decades ago.
True national healing, he stressed, requires prioritizing a shared future over old fractures.
Mkparu further highlighted the peaceful presence of the Igbo diaspora, noting that Ndigbo throughout Nigeria and abroad remain committed to investing, building, and living harmoniously with their host communities, affirming that while the Igbo people take pride in their heritage, residents in the State wish to focus on contributing constructively to the local economy without conflict.
Mkparu identified insecurity as an overarching national challenge that demands broad cooperation rather than political infighting.
He extended support to Mutfwang and offered prayers for President Bola Tinubu, national lawmakers, security leaders, and the lasting restoration of peace across the State and the entire country.
