A broad coalition of elders, stakeholders, women and youths from the Ron Chiefdom in Plateau State has appealed to Governor Caleb Mutfwang to urgently halt the use of a 1974 Gazette in the ongoing process to select a new Saf Ron, warning that the move could undermine cultural integrity and distort the traditional selection process.
The Ron Integrity Advocacy Group issued the statement after a government representative announced during a memorial Mass in Bokkos on 29 August 2026 that the state intends to rely on the 1974 instrument to guide the emergence of the next Saf Ron. The group described the decision as “inconsistent with present realities” and potentially harmful to the stability of the Chiefdom.
According to the group, the 1974 Gazette is outdated and no longer reflects the administrative structure of Ron Chiefdom. They argue that the rotation clause contained in the document was created at a time when Ron and Kulere existed under one Chiefdom. With the creation of separate Kulere and Mushere Chiefdoms in 2003, they say the foundation for such rotation has been overtaken by events.
They also note that the electoral college listed in the Gazette includes only eight districts, some of which now fall under the excised Kulere and Mushere Chiefdoms. Ron Chiefdom currently comprises 11 districts, and the group insists that any legitimate selection process must reflect this reality.
The group maintains that government cannot selectively apply the 1974 structure while ignoring subsequent administrative changes. They argue that if the Gazette is to be used “in full,” then the state must first dissolve the Kulere and Mushere Chiefdoms for legal consistency.
They are calling for an urgent stakeholders’ meeting to review the Baba S. G. Mafuyai Committee Report and other historical records, an update of the electoral college to reflect the current 11 districts, and a selection process rooted in authentic Ron customs rather than administrative convenience or political sentiment. They also want the ongoing process suspended until all historical and traditional issues are resolved.
The group emphasised that their position is driven by a desire for fairness, peace and the protection of Ron cultural heritage. However, they warned that if government proceeds without addressing their concerns, they will pursue all lawful avenues to defend the integrity of the Saf Ron stool.
The statement was signed by Chief Sunday J. Akuns, Chairman of the Ron Integrity Advocacy Group, and Hon. Chief Sylvanus M. Ayuba, Secretary.
