Plateau gov inaugurates task force to recover govt properties

Plateau State governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has inaugurated a Task Force on the Recovery of Government Property in the state.

Mutfwang said that the inauguration of the Task Force aligns with his administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the restoration of order in the state’s property sector.

The governor, represented by his deputy, Mrs. Josephine Piyo, while inaugurating the Task Force, said the government is committed to ensuring that the state’s resources are utilised for the benefit of all citizens.

He said that the recovery of government properties is a crucial step towards upholding transparency and accountability in governance.

He added that the Task Force has been constituted with a clear mandate to identify, locate, and recover all government properties that may have been misappropriated or unlawfully acquired.

“This initiative is not about pointing fingers or seeking retribution, but rather about restoring the trust of the people in their government and ensuring that public resources are used for the common good.

“The Task Force shall identify all government properties, their locations, and occupants, identify, trace, and recover all government properties that have been illegally occupied, encroached upon, or misused. Also, they shall ascertain how long these occupants have been occupying these properties and whether any renovations have been done during their stay.

READ ALSO:Mutfwang’s wife hosts 1,500 children for a Christmas party

“They shall recover government-landed properties that have been illegally occupied, encroached upon, or misused, identify instances of illegal occupation, encroachment, and misuse, and collaborate with relevant government agencies, law enforcement, and other involved stakeholders to recover government landed properties and prosecute individuals.

“You are to explore funding sources, allocate a budget to ensure financial sustainability, and identify housing demands,” he said.

He urged members of the Task Force to carry out their duties with diligence, integrity, and impartiality, adding that their work would be instrumental in safeguarding the interests of the people of Plateau State and promoting a culture of accountability and responsibility in government.

“I call upon all residents and anyone in possession of government property to support the efforts of the Task Force and to cooperate with them for the benefit of all,” he said.

Earlier, the Secretary to the Government of the State, Samuel Jatau, in a remark, said that the government is committed to ensuring that due process is adhered to in the exercise and that the recovery of all government assets that were inappropriately acquired by individuals, groups, or corporate entities is carried out.

Chairman of the Task Force, Major Gen. Nansak Yakubu (retd), said the setting up of the Task Force is coming at a very crucial time when the state is being moved to greater heights.

He said the Task Force would carry out its duties with diligence and ensure that all government properties are recovered in a seamless manner and without intimidation.

Other members of the Task Force are Alh. Jibrin Husseini, Arc. Dahoro Dachomo, DCP Adamu Usman, Permanent Secretary, Housing & Asset Management (OHCS), Mr. Husseini Gunok, and Zachariah Diwong as Secretary.