Re: The Jos indigeneship issue and the constitution

The issue of indigeneship in Jos has sparked a heated debate, with numerous responses flooding in to the reporter's article. The topic has been generating considerable public interest, leading the reporter to extend the hearing of the case to October for further deliberation. This decision has helped to ease the tension that had previously gripped Plateau state.

Several individuals have shared their personal experiences and perspectives on the matter. Some argue that the concept of indigenous rights is not applicable in Plateau, as people arrived in the region at different times and established settlements. Others maintain that the indigenous rights should be upheld, as people have lived in the area for over a century.

One respondent, a Yoruba man from Ogbomosho, argues that his family has resided in Plateau for over a century and holds executive and political positions in the state. He emphasizes that the family's establishment in the region predates the arrival of the British colonialists.

Another respondent, who is a Muslim, recalls that the Hausa community has been in Jos for centuries and has contributed significantly to the development of the region. Despite their long presence, the Hausa community has been denied their fundamental rights under the guise of indigenous status.

The reporter acknowledges that the issue is not unique to Plateau and cites examples of prominent individuals from other ethnic backgrounds who have been accepted as indigenes in their respective states. The commentator concludes by asserting that the judgment in the Jos indigeneship case is likely to be overturned and that the issue should be addressed through root and branch conflict resolution.