By Itality da Supertality
In Plateau State, our lives usually move to the rhythm of our many traditions. From the vibrant energy of the Nzem Berom here in Jos, to the communal spirit of the Pusdung festival in the Pankshin axis, the cultural richness of Izere Day, and the upcoming Otu Rigwe (Irigwe Day) usually celebrated right here in Jos, these gatherings are the heartbeat of our heritage. They aren't just events; they are the moments where we truly feel at home. Yet, in 2026, a heavy silence has fallen over our festival grounds.
With these major cultural landmarks officially postponed due to the security challenges facing our state, many of us are asking the hard questions: Are our traditions fading? Is our culture under threat?
As a son of this soil, I have spent time reflecting on this silence. I believe the answer is a clear no.
It is important to remember that the Plateau is rich with culture, and while Nzem Berom, Pusdung, Izere Day, and Otu Rigwe are prominent celebrations, they represent a much larger tapestry of life across our state. Postponing them isn't a sign of weakness. It is a sign of our collective resilience. Traditional leaders—from the Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Jacob Buba, to the Agbwe Irigwe, Rt. Rev. Ronku Aka, the Ada Izere, and the Ngolong Ngas, Nde Jika Golit—made the agonizing choice to put the safety and lives of our people first.
In our culture, the sanctity of life is paramount. By choosing to mourn those we have lost and standing with families in affected communities like Bokkos, Mangu, and Barkin Ladi, we are not losing our heritage—we are living it out. We are protecting our people today so that we can celebrate again in safer times.
Our culture is more than just a dance or a ceremony; it is a tool for peace. When we gather, we remind ourselves of our shared history and our unbreakable bond, whether we are in the heart of Jos, the hills of Pankshin, or elsewhere in the state. Even with these current hurdles, the Plateau remains vibrant and focused on a better future.
To anyone who thinks this silence means we are defeated, you don't know the people of the Plateau. This is a time for reflection and quiet strength. This break is only temporary. We are gathering our resolve. We are guarding our identity. When peace returns, our festivals will come back stronger than ever not because we have to, but because our culture is the soul of this land. We aren't being denied our rights; we are protecting our future.
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