NIPSS Director-General Apologizes to Gbong Gwom Jos Over Remarks on Berom Militia
The Director-General of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Prof. Ayo Omotayo, has apologized to the traditional ruler of the Berom people for comments linking them to a militia group.
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The Director-General of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Prof. Ayo Omotayo, has formally apologized to the Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Gyang Buba, over recent remarks perceived as linking the Berom people to a militia group. Omotayo made the apology during a visit to the traditional ruler on Tuesday, according to reports.
Mr Omotayo’s visit and subsequent apology were confirmed by Peoples Gazette, which reported that he “tendered an apology for his recent comments on the Berom people.” The remarks, which sparked local concern, were interpreted as associating the ethnic group with militia activities, though the exact nature and context of the original statement were not detailed in available sources.
Vanguard News corroborated the meeting, stating that Omotayo visited Da Gyang Buba in his capacity as Gbong Gwom Jos. The meeting underscores the sensitivity surrounding public commentary on ethnic communities in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, a region with a history of communal tensions. By personally engaging the monarch, Omotayo’s gesture reflects an effort to mend relations and clarify any misperception arising from his earlier statements.
No further statement has been issued by NIPSS or the Gbong Gwom’s palace regarding the content of the discussion or potential next steps. The incident highlights the political and cultural weight carried by public figures’ remarks in multiethnic Nigeria, particularly when they touch on identity and security.