All roads lead to Foron District in Plateau State as sons and daughters of the land, dignitaries, traditional rulers and well-wishers prepare for the historic coronation of the 20th Gwom Rwey Foron, His Royal Highness, Da David Bunah Dashong, slated for February 27, 2026 to be performed by His Royal Majesty Da Jacob Gyang Buba CFR, Gbong Gwom Jos, Chairman Plateau State Council of chiefs and Emirs, as well as the President of Jos Joint Traditional Council.
The epoch-making ceremony, billed to hold in Foron District of Barkin Ladi, marks the formal ascension of one of the youngest monarchs in recent times to occupy the revered stool of Gwom Rwey Foron.
Da David Bunah Dashong was selected for the throne on September 27, 2025, following due traditional processes, consultations and affirmation by kingmakers in line with the customs and traditions of the Foron people.
His emergence has since been described by stakeholders as a generational shift that blends royal heritage with modern exposure and professional discipline.
A Royal Heritage Rooted in Service
Born on March 14, 1980, into the royal family of Dara, to Ngo Na’omi Shut Bunah Dashong of Rahwol-Bunah in Zabot village, Foron District, the monarch’s lineage traces directly to the ancestral custodians of the Foron throne.
From an early age, he was nurtured in values of humility, loyalty, discipline and commitment to communal living virtues many community leaders say have shaped his leadership philosophy.
His educational journey began at Ekan Primary School, Karon, Foron, and Primary School Fan-Loh, before proceeding to Government Secondary School (GSS) Bakin Kogi between 1991 and 1992. He later attended Government College, Foron, graduating in 1996.
Driven by a quest for knowledge and self-improvement, he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminology and Security Studies from the National Open University of Nigeria in 2015.
He also attended several professional and career development courses, including Counter Terrorism and Intelligence Training at the Police Mobile Training School, Ila-Orangun, Osun State, in 2011.
Distinguished Career in the Nigeria Police
Before ascending the throne, the new Gwom Rwey Foron had a distinguished career in the Nigeria Police Force, which he joined in 2003.
During his years of service, he served in various commands and divisions across the country, earning commendations for discipline, professionalism and dedication to duty. His background in security, intelligence and community policing is widely regarded as a strategic asset at a time when many rural communities seek stronger collaboration between traditional institutions and formal security structures.
In 2024, he voluntarily resigned from the Force to heed the call of tradition and ascend the throne of his forefathers — a decision many observers describe as a sacrifice in service to his people.
Faith, Family and Community Leadership
His Royal Highness is married to Her Highness, Ngo Kachollom David Bunah, and their union is blessed with three children:
Prince Veirat David Bunah
Prince Nerat David Bunah
Princess Mafeng Elizabeth Bunah
A devout Christian, the monarch is a communicant member of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN), where he has served in various capacities, including Secretary of the Security Committee and Chairman of the Building Committee.
His strong faith, associates say, has been central to his personal discipline and commitment to ethical leadership.
As preparations reach their peak, the atmosphere across Foron District is charged with excitement and hope.
Cultural troupes are rehearsing, community leaders are mobilising, and indigenes at home and in the diaspora are expected to converge for what is widely described as a defining moment in the district’s history.
The coronation is not merely a ceremonial event but a symbolic renewal of the social contract between the throne and the people a reaffirmation of unity, peace and development aspirations in Foron and the wider Barkin Ladi area.
Community elders have expressed optimism that the youthful monarch’s exposure, security background and spiritual grounding will usher in a new era of stability, youth engagement, cultural preservation and inclusive development.
As the drums roll and traditional rites signal the dawn of a new reign, the people of Foron stand united in anticipation.
Long live His Royal Highness, Da David Bunah Dashong, the 20th Gwom Rwey Foron.
Long live Foron District.
Long live Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.
Long live Plateau State.
Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
