A group under the aegis of Concerned Unity Forum of Pyem Chiefdom has expressed strong dissatisfaction over the conduct of some Pyem elders and stakeholders regarding the choice of a candidate to represent Mangu North East Constituency at the Plateau State House of Assembly.
In a statement signed by the spokesman of the group, Sunday Yohanna, the forum alleged that the decision reportedly reached by the Baba Shikben-led APC Elders and Stakeholders Forum lacked fairness, neutrality and transparency, insisting that such a resolution should be “disregarded and discarded.”
The group described the actions of some elders as a betrayal of the collective interest of Pyem Chiefdom, accusing them of pursuing personal gains instead of protecting the future and development of the community.
According to the statement, true elders and stakeholders are expected to demonstrate neutrality, impartiality, integrity and commitment to justice, adding that some individuals within the forum had allegedly failed in those responsibilities.
The forum further alleged that certain elders openly campaigned and consulted for their preferred candidates ahead of the decision-making process, thereby compromising their neutrality and credibility. It argued that such individuals could not serve as impartial judges in matters where they already had vested interests.
The Concerned Unity Forum also raised allegations of corruption and inducement within the decision-making process. The group claimed that some members of the forum were influenced financially by aspirants seeking support, alleging that decisions were based more on financial strength than competence and capacity.
The statement further alleged that some candidates allegedly used money to influence elders, creating confusion and affecting their sense of judgment during deliberations. It also claimed that there were speculations linking the chairman of the forum to the alleged acts of compromise.
The group warned that such conduct could undermine the growth and development of Pyem land, stressing that elders should uphold honour, dignity and fairness rather than allowing personal interests to overshadow communal progress.
While calling for reflection among stakeholders, the forum maintained that the future of Pyem Chiefdom rests in the hands of its elders and leaders, urging them to act in ways that would promote unity, justice and sustainable development in the area.
