Plateau Traditionalists Call For Government Support AND Recognition

Traditional worshippers in Plateau State have expressed concerns that the government does not provide them with the same recognition and support given to Christians and Muslims. Ma-Ajin Pankshin, the kingmaker of the Ngo-Long Pankshin traditional stool, and Nde Monday Tokzakka, the Ngo-Long Vel of Plateau, called for equal rights and requested that the state government provide palliatives to help ease the economic difficulties faced by the community.

Nde Tokzakka made these remarks during the 2025 Morgi Masquerade Festival celebration in Pankshin. The festival, held annually in the first or second week of March to mark the arrival of the rainy and farming season, is considered the traditional worshippers’ day.

He stated that traditional worshippers, who represent the country’s first religion, have not been considered for any government palliative, unlike Christians and Muslims who receive support during Christmas and Sallah celebrations.

“We are not given the attention or consideration we deserve, and as a result, we have been sidelined,” he said. He further urged the state government to support the promotion of the Morgi festival, which he believes can attract tourists and generate revenue for the state.

“The Morgi festival, if sustained, can help boost tourism due to the variety of masquerades on display,” he added, emphasizing the importance of preserving the event.

Nde Tokzakka also shared that plans are underway to register the traditional worshippers’ community with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), aiming to gain official recognition from all levels of government, similar to that afforded to Christians and Muslims in the state.

He also highlighted that Pankshin is home to diverse Nigerian tribes, all of whom are carefully protected during the festival, ensuring that masquerades do not enter government establishments, schools, mosques, churches, or business centers.

Additionally, Galadima Pankshin, Nde Gobak Yilchir, and Ngo-Long Chwil, Nde Garba Yiltok, stressed the importance of preserving cultural heritage, as it fosters community cohesion, social bonding, and provides individuals with a sense of identity. They urged Pankshin’s residents to remember their roots and bring future generations to experience the festival, ensuring its cultural legacy for posterity.