Former Plateau United midfielder, Jerome Dung, has called out the Plateau State Government over unfulfilled promises made to him and his teammates after their historic Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) title win in 2017.
Dung, who was part of the squad that led Plateau United to their first-ever NPFL title during the 2016/2017 season, revealed that despite public promises made by then-Governor Simon Bako Lalong, the players and coaching crew have yet to receive the ₦1.5 million each and plots of land that were pledged as a reward.
Taking to social media, the former midfielder expressed deep frustration that eight years after the victory, not a single part of the promise has been redeemed.
“Eight years have passed since we defied all odds to win the league for our beloved Plateau United FC, aka Lalong Boys. Governor Simon Lalong was thrilled by our performance and promised us ₦1.5 million each and a plot of land. Till date, we’ve received nothing,” Dung stated.
He also noted that the then-technical adviser, Kennedy Boboye, was promised ₦2.5 million, while other staff members were to receive ₦2 million each — all of which have not been fulfilled.
Dung, who played for the club from 2014 to 2020 and now resides in Switzerland, lamented the hardship faced by many of his former teammates, some of whom have retired and are now struggling financially.
He particularly recalled the story of late Coach Audu Pele, who reportedly passed away due to the inability to afford proper medical treatment.
“This is the sad reality some of my teammates and coaches are facing today. That title brought pride to Plateau State, but we are left with nothing but broken promises. It’s painful and heartbreaking.”
Dung stressed that most of the players who made the historic achievement were not originally from Plateau State, yet gave their all for the club and the state.
“Of the 45 players in our team, 23 were not even from Plateau, but they put everything on the line to achieve that historic feat. We simply want what we worked hard for and deserve.”
Dung is now appealing to the current governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, to step in and ensure that the promises made by his predecessor are fulfilled.
He said that the gesture would not only bring justice to those affected but also serve as a message of encouragement to athletes currently striving to bring glory to the state.
“We are not asking for favors. We are simply asking for what we were promised in broad daylight after achieving something truly special for Plateau State.”
The 2017 NPFL title win was a major milestone for Plateau United Football Club. It was the first league trophy in the club’s history and was celebrated widely across the state and the Nigerian football community. The victory brought pride to Jos and was seen as a new chapter for the club and its supporters.
However, eight years later, the players and technical crew feel forgotten, with their sacrifices seemingly overlooked.
Dung’s open statement has sparked renewed conversation among fans and sports stakeholders, with many urging the Plateau State Government to revisit the matter and fulfill the long-standing pledges.
While there has been no official response yet from Governor Mutfwang’s office, observers say that resolving the issue would demonstrate a commitment to fairness and accountability, particularly in how the state treats those who bring it honour.
