The Plateau State Government has come under criticism after the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Prince Miaphen, publicly rallied support for Plateau-born Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) housemate Sheba Faith Gamde amid renewed concerns over insecurity across the state.
Key Highlights
Plateau Government backs BBNaija housemate Sheba Faith Gamde.
Youth Commissioner Prince Miaphen urges residents to vote for Sheba.
Critics question the timing of the government’s public mobilisation.
Recent attacks have raised fresh concerns over security in Plateau communities.
Residents are demanding stronger protection for lives, farms and livelihoods.
Government supporters say backing a young Plateau talent does not undermine its security responsibilities.
Miaphen received members of Team Sheba on Thursday and urged residents of Plateau State, as well as supporters across Nigeria, to vote for the contestant in the ongoing reality television competition.
The commissioner described Sheba as a “proud daughter of Plateau” and called on residents to support her bid to emerge as the winner.
“As a proud daughter of Plateau, I believe it is our collective responsibility to stand behind her and support her journey,” Miaphen said.
He added, “Together, we can help our own bring the ultimate prize home.”
Critics Question Plateau Govt’s Priorities
The government’s show of support has, however, generated criticism from some residents and commentators who argue that greater attention should be directed towards the security challenges confronting several communities across the state.
The criticism comes against the backdrop of recent attacks that have reportedly resulted in deaths, displacement and destruction of property in parts of Plateau State.
On August 18, at least 24 people were reportedly killed in an attack on Bin Mper community in Mangu Local Government Area, while homes and farmlands were also reportedly destroyed.
Following the incident, Governor Caleb Mutfwang directed security agencies to increase surveillance and patrols in vulnerable communities.
Other parts of the state, including Bokkos, Barkin Ladi, Riyom and Bassa, have also experienced security incidents, with affected residents facing losses of lives, property and livelihoods.
Mangu Killings, Riyom Incident Raise Fresh Security Concerns
On September 2, Governor Mutfwang convened the State Security Council to review renewed security concerns, including the Mangu killings and the reported death of a security personnel in Riyom.
The meeting considered measures relating to intelligence gathering, preventive operations, cooperation among security agencies and the protection of residents, property and economic activities.
Against this background, critics have questioned the decision to publicly mobilise support for a reality television contestant while some communities are still dealing with the effects of violence.
They argue that similar government attention should be directed towards strengthening security, protecting vulnerable communities, rebuilding damaged infrastructure and supporting people displaced by attacks.
Residents Demand Better Security, Protection for Farmers
There have also been calls for stronger intelligence networks, permanent security deployments in vulnerable areas and rapid-response systems capable of responding more quickly to emerging threats.
The protection of farmers has emerged as another major concern, with residents calling for improved security that would enable affected farmers to return to their farms and resume agricultural activities.
Critics have also called for faster reconstruction of damaged homes, schools, healthcare facilities and other public infrastructure, alongside sustained assistance for widows, orphans and families displaced by violence.
They have further demanded the prosecution of suspects linked to attacks and urged authorities to strengthen the protection of security personnel and community-based early-warning systems.
Following the March 2026 attack in Angwan Rukuba, residents reportedly expressed concerns over the level of security surrounding the governor during a visit to the area, with some questioning the perceived contrast between the protection available to political leaders and the vulnerability of ordinary residents.
Mutfwang Administration Defends Security Efforts
The Mutfwang administration has consistently maintained that it is committed to tackling insecurity in Plateau State.
In July, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s partnership with the Nigerian Army and stressed the importance of strengthening security as a foundation for economic development.
The government has also responded to subsequent security incidents by directing security agencies to intensify surveillance and patrols and convening security meetings to assess emerging threats.
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Supporters Defend BBNaija Campaign
Supporters of the government’s intervention in Sheba’s BBNaija campaign, meanwhile, view the move as a legitimate show of support for a Plateau indigene competing on a national entertainment platform.
They argue that backing a young talent from the state does not necessarily detract from the administration’s responsibilities on security and other governance issues.
The controversy nevertheless highlights the competing expectations facing the Plateau State Government.
While Sheba’s participation in BBNaija offers Plateau an opportunity for national visibility and entertainment recognition, residents affected by violence continue to demand improved security, protection of livelihoods and assistance with rebuilding their communities.
For affected communities, the more pressing priorities remain the restoration of safety, homes, livelihoods and confidence in the ability of government and security agencies to protect them.
