Plateau’s cultural revival must not be hijacked by politics

By Paul Jatau

Since the beginning of the year, there has been a commendable resurgence in the staging of cultural activities by various ethnic groups across Plateau State. This welcome development should be encouraged by all well-meaning Plateau citizens. At the end of last year (December 31, 2024 to be precise), the Gamai people of Shendam and Qua’an Pan hosted the Bit Gamai Cultural Festival, which was closely followed by Bit Pol and other cultural showcases in the locality.

Since the start of 2025, a growing number of communities in the state have come together, drawing people from both within and outside the country, to display their rich cultural heritage. From Bokkos to Mupunland, and the Mwaghavul, Ngas, Berom and Taroh nations, among others, these ethnic groups have set aside time to host these important cultural festivals.

These events are not only a celebration of tradition but also serve to educate the younger generation about their roots and heritage. They shape worldviews, instil pride and reinforce the value of perceiving issues through indigenous perspectives, for as the saying goes, “our culture defines us”.

Culture or political campaign grounds?

However, despite the importance of these cultural displays, the increasing politicisation of such festivals is a great cause for concern. Politicians are now using these gatherings as campaign grounds, often overshadowing the very cultural performances that justify the events in the first place.

By making substantial donations to the organisers, they gain undue prominence and often limit the cultural essence of the events. This distortion undermines the very objective of the festivals and turns them into mere political jamborees.

Therefore, cultural organisations must take deliberate steps to curtail this unfortunate trend. They need to devise creative ways to reduce political influence and protect these events from being hijacked by those whose primary interest is personal ambition. Political offices are temporary, and once elections are won or lost, communities should be allowed to unite and celebrate without being reminded of political differences. The voices and presence of those who lost elections are also valuable and must be respected.

The need for balance

If this undue and negative interference continues, there is a real danger that the values our cultural organisations seek to preserve will erode over time. Many families spend their hard-earned money travelling back home each year to reconnect their children with their cultural heritage. If these visitors are repeatedly subjected to political drama rather than cultural richness, their interest will wane. They deserve the opportunity to enjoy these long-lost traditions without distractions.

This situation calls for political leadership that is disciplined, selfless and people-focused. Rather than promoting division, politicians should build institutions that endure beyond electoral cycles and promote unity. The electorate, the very people who entrusted them with power, must never be relegated to the background. Power is fleeting, and today’s leaders will one day return to the same communities they now dominate.

The showmanship that often takes over these festivals must be discouraged. Citizens must be free to immerse themselves in their cultural expressions (many of which are on the brink of extinction) without being sidelined by political fanfare. Rather than using these festivals for grandstanding, politicians should seize the opportunity to give account of their stewardship: what projects have they brought to their constituencies? What value have they added to their people?

Ultimately, cultural festivals on the Plateau should remain what they were always meant to be – platforms for celebrating and showcasing heritage, unity and communal pride – not battlegrounds for cheap political egos.(www.krestnews.com).

Paul Jatau is a seasoned journalist, public affairs commentator and Editor, The Nigeria Standard, Jos, Nigeria 🇳🇬.