Traditional worshippers in Plateau state have lamented that the govermment does not give them the same considerations given to Christians and Muslims.
The kingmaker to the Ngo-Long Pankshin traditional stool, Ma-Ajin Pankshin and the Ngo-Long Vel in Plateau state, Nde Monday Tokzakka demanded equal rights for traditionalists and called on the state government to provide them with palliatives to cushion the economic hardship being faced in the country.
Nde Tokzakka made the call while speaking on the sideline of the celebration of the 2025 Morgi masquerade festival in Pankshin.
The festival, celebrated annually starting from Saturday and Sunday in the first or second week of March to usher in raining and farming season, is considered the traditional worshippers’ day.
Nde Tokzakka announced that very soon they will conclude arrangement for their registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) so that the three tier of Governments can accord them the necessary recognition like their Christian and Muslim counterpart in the state.
He said: “We understand that the state government give them palliative during Christmas and Sallah celebration. Traditional worshippers which is the first religion is not being carried along or consider for anything.”
He added, “We have not been given any attention or consideration, consequently we are being relegated to the background”.
He also pleaded with the Plateau state Government to support them to promote the annual Morgi cultural festival because the state is known as the ‘Home of Peace and Tourism”.
He said: “The Morgi festival if sustained will also attract tourists and generate revenue to the state because of the array of different masquerade that will be on parade”.
According to him, all the tribes in Nigeria can be found in Pankshin and as such they have always ensure that they are well protected during the festival.
“The Masquerades during procession are not allowed to enter Government’s establishment, school Mosque, Church and business centers by their handlers.”
Also speaking the Galadima Pankshin Nde Gobak Yilchir and the Ngo-Long Chwil Nde Garba Yiltok underscored the need to preserve cultural heritage as it provides a sense of belonging and identity to individuals and foster community cohesion and social bonding.
According to them, by showcasing their culture, it will helps to safeguard historical events, traditions, and customs for future generations so that they can gain valuable insights into the past and its impact on the present.
The duo urged Pankshin sons and daughters not to forget their root and to always endeavor to bring their children home to watch this festival for the sake of posterity.
Source: Linda Ikeji Blog