Traditional Worshippers Call for Recognition from Plateau Government

Traditional worshippers in Plateau State have expressed dissatisfaction over the lack of equal treatment compared to Christians and Muslims by the government.

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. They called on the state government to provide them with palliatives to alleviate the economic hardships faced in the country.

Nde Tokzakka made this appeal while speaking on the sidelines of the 2025 Morgi masquerade festival celebration in Pankshin.

The festival, celebrated annually on the first or second Saturday and Sunday in March to usher in the rainy and farming season, is considered the traditional worshippers’ day.

Nde Tokzakka announced that plans are underway to complete their registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). This step aims to ensure that the three tiers of government recognize them officially, similar to their Christian and Muslim counterparts 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 appealed to the Plateau State Government to support the promotion of the annual Morgi cultural festival, emphasizing that the state is renowned 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 ensured that everyone is 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, emphasized the importance of preserving cultural heritage. They highlighted that it provides a sense of belonging and identity to individuals while fostering community cohesion and social bonding.

According to them, showcasing their culture helps safeguard historical events, traditions, and customs for future generations, allowing them to gain valuable insights into the past and its impact on the present.

The duo urged the sons and daughters of Pankshin not to forget their roots and to always make an effort to bring their children home to witness the festival for the sake of posterity.