Gov Simon Lalong of Plateau has approved the creation of 268 districts and village areas, two chiefdoms and the restoration of three chiefdoms in the state.

The governor who also approved the grading of five other chiefdoms, made the announcement in a statement by his spokesperson, Dr Makut Macham, on Thursday in Jos.

“The breakdown of the 268 Districts per local government areas are: Barkin Ladi 17, Bassa 19; Bokkos 17, Jos East 10, Jos North 15, Jos South 14 Kanam 20 and Kanke 11.

“Others are Langtang North 16, Langtang South 7, Mangu 22, Mikang 10, Pankshin 23, Qua’an Pan 16, Riyom 12, Shendam 22 and Wase 17”.

According to the statement, the restored chiefdoms are Da-Gwom Rwei, Barkin Ladi, Da-Gwom Rwei (Gyel) Jos South Local Government and Da-Gwom Rwei (Riyom) Riyom Local Government.

“Those that have been graded are Gwom Rwei Kabong – Jos North Local Government, Gwom Rwei Zawan – Jos South Local Government, Ponzhi Bwarat – Langtang North Local Government, Ponzhi Gani (Sa) and Ponzhi Tumwat – Langtang North Local Government.

Lalong also approved the grading of old existing district heads to senior Ddstrict heads.

The governor gave the approval following the review of the report on the creation of chiefdoms, districts and village areas in the state, constituted on Oct. 20, 2020.

Macham said that details of the names of the new districts and village areas would be released by the Office of the Secretary to the State Government.

“The governor urges the citizens to see this development as part of the efforts by his “rescue administration” to increase inclusivity, unity, peace, harmony and development.

“He advises against politicisation of the action and warns against any attempt by some persons to use it for creating acrimony division and disaffection. (NAN)