HUMANITARIAN MINISTER NENTAWE'S DELIBERATE ABSENCE TO WELCOME TINUBU'S WIFE: A DISPLAY OF BRAZEN DISRESPECT NOT ONLY TO THE FIRST LADY, BUT THE PRESIDENT

 

The absence of the Hon. Minister of Humanitarian Affairs Nentawe Yilwada during the visit of the First Lady, Her Exerllency Senator Oluremi Tinubu to Plateau State has sparked widespread criticism.

Given the Minister's portfolio of Humanitarian Affairs and the state's history of attacks, it was expected that he would be at the forefront of the visit, especially considering his roots as the Son of the soul in Plateau.

The Minister's deliberate decision to absent himself from welcoming the First Lady, without any concrete reason or apology, is a stark display of arrogance that not only embarrasses himself but also tarnishes the office he occupies.

This unprecedented snub makes him a trailblazer of sorts, albeit for all the wrong reasons, as the first minister in recent times to exhibit such blatant disrespect for the office of the first lady of the federal Republic of Nigeria.

The Minister's absence raises questions about his commitment to the people and his role in providing humanitarian aid. As a native of Plateau, it was anticipated that he would be instrumental in welcoming the First Lady and supporting her efforts to bring relief to the victims of violence attacks in his own state.

The Minister's actions have been perceived as a snub to the office of the First Lady and a disregard for the suffering people of Plateau State. In a time when the state needs strong leadership and support, the Minister's absence is seen as a missed opportunity to demonstrate solidarity and commitment to the welfare of the people, which has generated reactions from across the state with many suggesting that Hon. Nentawe Yilwada is against the people of Plateau because they rejected him.

Surprisingly, even the leader of the opposition APC in Plateau state and former Governor, Simon Lalong, the state Party chairman, Rufus Bature, along with his executives and other top APC stalwarts both at the state and national level set aside their activities to welcome the First Lady and attend the important event.

Hon. Nentawe's actions epitomize arrogance and a blatant disregard for protocol, as seen in his past behavior at the Ngas Cultural Day celebration, where he brazenly breached decorum by walking in with thugs while the Governor was seated.

It's as if providence often eludes those who disrespect the offices they aspire to, underscoring the importance of reverence for the positions we seek, so we are not surprised that God denied him the Governorship seat because he does not respect the office he wants to occupy.

Undoubtedly, the First Lady's visit to Plateau State stemmed from her affection for the state and profound respect for Governor Caleb Mutfwang's genuine leadership. This visit, marking the second engagement since the current administration took office, was a testament to her solidarity and support. However, the Minister's glaring absence could have potentially embarrassed her if not for the Governor's prompt mobilization of key stakeholders. 

Ordinarily, such a brazen snub would warrant immediate resignation if the Minister had any semblance of decorum. However, in a display of his usual arrogance and pomposity, he will likely deflect criticism with feeble excuses, claiming he was 'out on an official assignment.

The question still remains, what official assignment could possibly supersede showing respect to the President by Joining other notable sons and slaughters of your own State to welcome his wife to your own home? This has again raised grave concerns about his commitment to his duties and the welfare of the people he serves.

Governor Mutfwang's efforts to rally critical stakeholders, transcending faith, ethnicity, or political affiliation, including cabinet members, traditional rulers, and others, effectively salvaged the situation, ensuring a resounding show of support for the First Lady's visit, which was highlighted by her generous donation of One Billion Naira.

In light of this incident, the Minister's priorities and dedication to public service have been called into question. His actions have sparked a heated debate about accountability, protocol, and the responsibilities that come with public office.

No wonder rumors are still circulating that the Minister might have been behind the scenes, sponsoring elements to disrupt the gathering and embarrass the First Lady, in a bid to deny credit to the state government which failed. While these reports are alleged, they add to the speculation surrounding the Minister's motives and actions in the affairs of the State.

The Minister's actions and behavior suggest that he is still harboring deep-seated resentment and bitterness over his failed gubernatorial bid. Despite the people of Plateau decisively rejecting his aspirations, he appears to be struggling to accept the outcome. 

This unresolved resentment seems to be influencing his actions, leading to controversy and tension. His inability to move on from the past and graciously accept the will of the people is now manifesting in his behavior, including his recent snubbing of key events. It's as if his past disappointment continues to shape his present actions, hindering his ability to work collaboratively with others.

While we commend the First Lady Her Exerllency Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her display of love and empathy towards the people of Plateau, we urge those close to the Minister Nentawe, to remind him that true leaders prioritize the interests of the people they serve by avoiding an exaggerated sense of their dignity and importance over personal grandeur, as demonstrated by the People's Governor Barr. Caleb Mutfwang.

The Hon. Minister's silence is deafening. To date, he has neither apologized nor provided any explanation for snubbing the First Lady's visit to Plateau State, leaving his actions to speak for themselves.

Signed 

Coalition Of Plateau Elders For Responsible Governance

July 4th 2025.