Dr. Patrick one of the plateau state Governorship aspirants Dr.Sunday Dakum under the All Progressive Congress(APC),has described the Vwang cultural day celebration as epitome of culture on the plateau.
As he said team of war fare ,the Mupun people have a long history of warrior in fact they have come really far consider the attendees that graced the occasion.
Dakum who was speaking to group journalists in an interview during the Vwang Mupun day celebration decently,said seen the Claire of people that attended the event,from all worlds of live is a pointer that the Mupun land is peaceful and accommodating.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Institute of Human Virology Abuja, who is the Leader of the Consolidation for Greater Plateau 2023 Team described the Mupun Cultural day celebration as an epitome of culture on the Plateau.
The highly delighted DA kum said with culture demonstrated by Mupum nation demonstrate that Mupun is an tourism haven.
Dr. Dakum further stated that the Mupun Nation has shown to the world through this festival that the Mupun can become number one on entertainment, food production,Security and above all,leadership.
The Gubernatorial aspirant also stated that the Mupun Nation has come of age and what happen at the Vwang 2022 is the showcase of it
He also revealed that other things that the celebration of the Mupun day is the array of other tribes that have come and attend, including the Long Gomai, that’s to show that the Mupun nation is a friend to everyone that lives peaceful on the Plateau.
Dr. Dakum also disclosed that the Mupun man is a friend to everybody irrespective of tribe or religion, and therefore this culture has shown their togetherness, its shown that Mupun people are people of unity, they are people of identity, but an identity that is a culture that is growing and that is now totally acceptable of other people that stay around them.
Furthermore, Dr. Dakum also revealed that they are very happy and very grateful, and they also demonstrated in terms of tourism that the Mupun man have showcase it through the Mrs Vwang that took place a day before the proper Vwang day celebration.
The former military president of Nigeria and advocate of Nigeria praise,General Gowon has called on the people of plateau state to support Governor Lalong led administration in the state to deliver the dividend of democracy to the people of the state.
This is very imperative considering the massive developmental projects some completed and others on going within the state and its environs.
General Yakubu Gowon made this passionate appeal during the flag off of the British America interchange flyover and dualization of 1.7 kilometers to Lamingo Round about in Jos East local government area.
The retired General who performed the official flag off of the construction of the British America flyover said with what I saw and witness in the state,I most confess that the Governor,lalong has done excellently well without menacing words not just In plateau state ,by extension Nigeria as a whole considering the fact that the fly over project construction we are flagging off today is federal road and suppose to be federal government project.
He further stressed that the Governor decided to embarked on the project because of it economic and social importance to the people of the state in particular,and Nigerian in general because this road is the only one leading to the whole of North East Nigeria.
Gowon who earlier appreciated Governor Bako Lalong for chosen him amongst the numerous eminents Nigerians to flag off the project,advised him to ensure that the uncompleted projects by his predecessors are completed because is for the interest and development of plateau state.
The Nigeria praise advocate further add that he is delighted that the Governor has promised to complete all the projects before leaving office,appealed to the people of the state to continue supporting him to deliver the dividend of democracy in the period of time he is having in the office ,for the interest of the people in the state in particular and Nigeria in general.
Speaking earlier,the plateau state commissioner of works,Pam Botmang cleared the conflicting amount the government is spending on the project.
Botmang said this is very important because there have been many misinformation especially in the social media insinuating different amount involved in the project.y
“I want to use this opportunity to inform you that the amount for this project is 9.9 billion naira.This explanation is very important because many of the media,especially the social media are speculating different amount for the project”.
He further revealed that the project is finance by Access Bank Pls with the understanding of the bank and plateau state government.
On his part, the chairman of “Craneburg Nigeria Limited”the company handling the construction of the flyover,Nasiru Danu ,allay the fears been expressed by the people in most cases slow pace of work,assured the government of plateau state that the company had been in Nigeria for almost 15 years and had handled several sensitive construction such as this one, has rules governoring it modus operandi.
“Every 30 days before the work finishes,the government should come to the site for an inspection.”
The Governor of Kwara,kebbi and Edo state represented by his deputy Philip Shuaibu where on hand to give Lalong their moral support.
In his speech the Governor of plateau state Simon Bako lalong lamented the plethora of abandoned projects in the state that by the last administration which has cost the present administration whooping some of over 12 billion naira to complete ,the money the Governor complained would have been channel to order new projects
The Governor however promised that his administration will try as much as possible to ensure that all project under started under his watch are completed before his tenure terminated.
The governors who come to witness the flag off ceremony includes that of Kwara ,Kebbi and Edo state represented by the deputy Governor, Philip Shuaibu.
The APC in Plateau State is calling on the Peoples Democratic Party to behave itself as we have had enough of its insults and misbehaviour.
Rather than serve as an opposition party, it has rather elected to be an agent of provocateur in its conduct on the political turf and on social media.
We refer particularly to a press release by the PDP which has failed to come out of its litany of self inflicted woes tagged, “WE ARE NOT A PARTY OF THUGGERY AND VIOLENCE”
This is contained in a press statement signed by the party State Publicity Secretary ,Hon. Sylvanus Nama ng and made available to this medium in Jos,plateau state.
The statement read in part:
The party claimed to be referring to an isolated incident during the 74th edition of the annual Resettlement Day in Langtang South where it shamelessly took its lost battle in the Langtang North local goverment Chairmanship tussle to the venue.
What actually transpired on that day was that Laven Ubandoma, a former Chairman of the Local Government caused confusion at the venue when he went take the seat reserved for the serving Chairman of Langtang North which was resisted as he was seen, and rightly so, as an impostor by the elected chairman of Langtang South Local Government Area, Prince Vincent Bulus Venmak, who by law is the Chief Security Officer of the Local Government.
Ubandoma desecrated the sanctity of the annual event when he went and seized the microphone and turned the event into a political rally by shouting PDP slogans which brought in the horde of the well positioned PDP hoodlums which led to the manhandling of unsuspecting guests, including the Chairman of Langtang South who was the Chief host of the event.
Rather than take full responsibility for its dasrardly act, the party has embarked on a self righteous indignation and image laundering.
The APC in Plateau state takes serious exception to the deceitful benefits the PDP in Plateau state wants to reap from this orchestrated development especially the insults it has heaped on our members, including the Governor of the state.
It stated in its very insultive press release, usually signed by its spokesman, John Akans who is totally ignorant of the law of libel that, ” The PDP is worried by the mental and cognitive state of all members of the APC in the state, particularly the leadership and appointees of this administration”.
Continuing with its provocation, it said the party ” Called on Governor Lalong and all his political appointees to consciously and without hesitation go for mental health test to make sure they are truly fit to be trusted for leadership of the state”
In fact, there cannot be a greater height of insanity than this unprovoked statement by the PDP in Plateau state.
Indeed, it is only a mad man that sees every other person in the society as a mad person because he no longer has control over his senses.
Many self inflicted events in the last seven and half years are enough to heighten the PDP’s insanity.
First it exited power in 2015 at a time it least expected followed by tussle for control of the party and a second decisive defeat at the gubernatorial election in 2019.
The shutting itself out of the Local goverment election in 2021 through series of litigations with itself is what the party has not been able to come to terms with till date.
It variously referred in its press release to the elected Chairman of Langtang South, Hon. Prince Vincent Bulus Venmak, a former godson of the PDP maximum ruler and kingmaker, who saw the light and left for the APC as an imposed Chairman, a supposed Chairman and an appointed Chairman.
It,however, acceded that the PDP made Prince Venmak who he is politically. Now that he is no longer with them, he is seen as an outcast.
He was due to his polical sagacity while in the PDP and who could enter any part of Government House including the Governor’s exclusive rooms as ” money in the boot”, “bulldozer” and so on.
Now he is seen as a mentally insaned person by the PDP.
Inasmuch as the APC in the state understands the frustration of the PDP, with many more yet to come, moreso as what kept it out of the Local Government election is still dangling its head as a sword of damocles.
The PDP as we have always said should know that no matter the amount of its wishful thinking, nothing can change the fact that there exists a legitimate and democratically elected government in Plateau State at all levels which are fully working and providing the dividends of democracy to the people.
It should accept, as we all know that its fate which is still hanging in the balance with respect to future elections is what it should concentrate on instead of its amateurish media hype against the APC.
The APC remains ever focused and no amount of irritation or distraction will push it off the track.
It is needless to recount the series of structured and organised violence instigated in the state by by some disgruntled PDP elected and appointed functionaries since the party’s disgraceful exit from the portals of power in 2015 and 2019.
How else can we convey such senseless political extremism and rascalism exhibited by the PDP.
Judges has been exenorated from delayed in the dispensation of justice in Nigeria courts ,as they are ever ready to dispensed off cases as soon as possible which informed their promptness to court,and in most cases they closed late hour.
With the efforts of the judges and counsels,the accused or the defendant most time come up with some flimsy excuse that will make the parties in the matter to seek for an adjournment ,and the judge in that instance can’t do otherwise but grant their prayers for the interest of justice.
The judge of the Court of Appeal plateau State Division ,Justice Mudashiru Nasiru Oniyangi stated this 10th March,2022 in an interview with journalist during the send off party organized in his honour to mark his exit(retirement) from the service as “Judge of Appeal Court” held at the court premises along Abrahim Taiwo Road,Jos,plateau state.
Justice Mudashiru further said the insinuation from general public of judges compromised whenever he does something for the interest of justice, is not fair, and far from the truth , and unverifiable lies which in most cases didn’t hold water,but an attempt to malign the judges.
He stressed that judges, be it at the High Court ,Appeal or any categories of courts,the efforts of judges to see to the quick dispensation of justice of any matter brought before them is not in doubt.
He anchor his explanation on the fact that during his sojourned as sitting judge of Appeal ,he ensured that he did favor to all manner of people without fear or favor.
“As a judge during my time,I did my very best to put God first in what I do,including delieving of judgment”.
“If you did that ,you can go to sleep snoring without minding any rumour been peddled in any quarters,because God seens your heart and that they are clean.”
He advice the staff to do themselves a favor for those who is not having the required qualification and go back to the classroom and acquire more knowledge as it’s neither too old to acquire more or additional knowledge.
Nasiru thank the staff of the Appeal Court ,plateau state Division for organizing the function for him ,he said he will live to remember the cooperation given to him by the members of Appeal court in the state Division.
In their separate testimony the staff,described the retired judge of Appeal court as a man with honour, quit and gentle to a fault and prayed for him and his extended families.
Those who graced the occasion ,include the justice from Federal ,State High Courts and other dignitries from all world of life.
As the woman folks world wide celebrates the woman day, an aspirant for the Jos North North under the umbrella of APC, Alhaji Muhammad Safiu want them to wake up to face their men counterparts politically in 2023.
Speaking on the í urgent need for the woman in the country to increase their participation in politics so that they can compete with the men counterparts at their various consttuencies.
” Those women who are currently occupying officers should redirect their thinking of the generality of women”.
He use the occasion to congratulate women wouldwide and the woman in his consttuency in Jos North North in particular.
Alhaji Muhammad Safiu however remanded the woman in Jos North-North to ensure that they are all equipped with their voters card.
The plateau State House of Assembly hopeful further explained that is time for them to go ahead and fight gender bias in the society, adding that the recent happening in the floor of the Senate should make them more stronger and United.
He however promised to facilitate the initiation of women friendly laws at the floor of the plateau State House of Assembly if elected by the people .
The Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) has described the judgement delivered by justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court Abuja Division ,which sacked the Ebonyi state Governor ,his Deputy and 17 Lawmakers for defecting to the All Progressive Congress (APC) as victory for Nigeria hard earned democracy.
PDP said the judgement is coming at a time the people of Nigeria is gradually loosing hope from the judiciary,but this landslide judgment has rekindle the hope of Nigeria that there is still hope from our judicial system in Nigeria.
This statement is contained in a Press statement dated 8the March,2022,signed by the chairman of the party Senator Iyorchia Ayu held in Abuja,following the Federal High Court Judgment which Sacked the Ebonyi state Governor,his Deputy and 17 lawmakers for stealing PDP’s mandate and ran to the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC)
The statement read in part ,first we want to appreciate the Nigerian Judiciary for this landmark judgement. The ruling will bring order in the political space and check the issue of political rascality and stolen mandates. The judiciary is indeed the backbone of this democracy.
We also want to single out Justice Inyang Ekwo for special recognition, particularly for being courageous and forthright in going for the substance of the law rather than the technicalities.
And in line with the court order, PDP is immediately submitting to INEC the names of our candidates for Governor and Deputy Governor of Ebonyi state respectively.
We are also calling on INEC to immediately issue the Certificates of Return to the PDP nominees as replacement for Messrs Umahi and Igwe pursuant to the Order of the Honourable Court.
Furthermore, we call on the Chief Judge of Ebonyi state to immediately swear them in as soon as INEC issues the requisites Certificates of Return.
And lastly, we call on INEC to immediately withdraw the Certificates of Return from the 17 lawmakers and commence the process of conducting bye-elections to replace them.
Plateau state House of Assembly hopeful ,who is vying for the seat of Jos North-North, under the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Muhammad Safiu Yau has assured to work assiduously for the restoration of permanent peace in the constituency if elected in 2023 election.
The aspirant said this is very imperactive because no meanful development can be achieve under the atmosphere of crisis and constant acrimony.
Alhaji Mobammed Safiu made the promise in an exclusive interview with journalist in Jos,plateau state,as the aspirant said he has mapped out plans for the restoration of peace in the fragile state.
” The problem of insecurity including lack of mutual respect among diverse ethnic groups needs to be redefined by candidates who are interested in knowing more about the issue”
On the issue of integrating of the neighborhood watch and other security personnel for the restoration of peace in the constituency, the aspirant explained that he will coordinate their responsibility for peace.
He said there is an urgent need for progressive minded individuals in the constituency to wake up and give dividends of democracy to the people,
He further stressed. that Jos North Local Government Area had the problems of youths restiveness and empowerment issues that require serious lawmaker to confront the situation by providing purposeful leadership.
Alhaji Muhammad Safiu said, ” I very much enjoy the support of the people from the constituency who want change from the current situation”.
He however urged the electorate of the area to ensure that they all acquire voters card as the only thing that would make them excercise their responsibility or franchise in the elections
Commenting on the national executive officers of the APC, the politician said the former acting Chairman had done wonderfully well in the amicable resolution of disputes in the party.
The call for Governor Bako Lalong to without any further delay to sack his SSG,continued to gained momentum as direct opened letter has been addressed to the Governor on the urgent need to sack the Professor.
The letter captioned “Open Letter To Governor Lalong (Part1)”further drew the attention of the Governor to undisputable fact that keeping Professor Atu as the SSG, he will seek the political bout of the already sinking of APC government in plateau state.
This Open letter to the Governor which is signed by one Comrade Prince Miaphen the coordinator next level ambassador ,further asked the Governor to sum up the courage and relief the SSG of his office before it’s too late to aviod collateral damage, the letter reads in parts:
Ever since the appointment of Prof. Dalandi Atu as the SSG of Plateau State, any discerning mind will agree with me that the Government has barely gotten it politically right. Mr. Governor, you can also attest to this from the diverse negative feedbacks you’ve gotten.
Your SSG has misled your government in taking unpopular political decisions that have been very disastrous for your administration and to our dear Party the APC.
Prof has engaged in so many Political blunders, misjudgements and undue Political interference in matters that he should not have and it is causing us serious embarrassment as a Party.
Typical examples of these very abarrasing episodes are the major roles he played in the removal of Speaker Abok, the Suspension and sideling of Chief Latep, Jos North Chairmanship seat, and the recent imposition of an unpopular candidate for the Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency bye elections among so many other too numerous deliberate miscalculations done by him. We lost Jos North/Bassa and had to Rob the PDP off Pankshin South Assembly seat.
Keeping the SSG more in office as we approach 2023 will be detrimental to us as a ruling Party because so many concerned Party men are not comfortable with the kind of roles he is playing for the System.
Your Excellency, perhaps you love him so much that you wouldn’t want to relieve him his portfolio as SSG, I humbly implore that you remove all the Political Powers given to him to concentrate on only administrative functions.
Your Excellency, you may also wish to appoint a reliable Political Adviser and a Think Thank that can give you honest advises and strategies that can make our Party win future elections.
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has welcomed professional and amateur golfers to Jos, the Plateau State capital for a tournament to unviel the redesigned oldest golf course in Nigeria, Rayfield 1913.
While performing the tee off at the Rayfield golf course in Jos, Governor Simon Bako Lalong said the game of golf is associated with the historical role that mining played in the development and growth of Plateau State and Nigeria at large.
He said as a Governor with passion for sports including golf, he has decided to take the game to the next level as well harness its potentials for tourism, business and relaxation.
Lalong said the redesigned Rayfield golf course is fully green and will be a legacy which his administration will leave for the sport in the State, adding to its potentials as a destination for leisure, business and hospitality.
The Governor said peace which has been substantially restored in the State is very important because it has given citizens and visitors confidence to come into Plateau State for business and leisure.
He also explained that making the Rayfield golf course green puts it in a good position to be recognised nationally and internationally as the first golf club in Nigeria.
Captain of the Rayfield Golf Club Air Commodore Lazarus Mshelia rtd. said over 200 professional and amateur players from across the country are participating in the tournament which is a huge gain from the successive Governor’s cup organised in the State under Governor Lalong.
He appreciated Governor Lalong for his passion in developing golf in Plateau State which has brought in more players thereby creating an opportunity for repositioning the image of the State.
Tournament Director, Professional Golfers Association of Nigeria JohnBull Dangofa said the event has shown early signs rising to the standard of a spectacular sporting fiesta:
Dangofa said players from international golf clubs and the PGA will perform at the event and commended Governor Simon Lalong for supporting the tournament.
He stressed that several youths are being taken off the streets to play golf and that such has greatly held in reducing crime.
The sect 80 of Kuru old students has come together after 42 years of graduation from the school to give back to the school and the teachers for the quality of education and discipline they imbibed on us as students for over 40 years ago.
This is very imperactive because the school made me what I am today and reshaped my focus and exposed me to the reality of life which later became what i rode on in my life journey, the same applied to all KOSA .
The former plateau state commissioner of information Yiljap Abraham stated this in an interview with Journalists during a Reunion meeting of the sect held at the school in Kuru,Jos.
Pastor Yiljap Abraham who was also the former General Manager Plateau Radio Television Corporation (PRTVC), described the Reunion meeting of the old students sect 80 as great excitement mixed with sorrow, said the sect has lost not fewer than 30 among them.
He thank the Plateau state Government ,the teachers of the college for their disciplarian disposition which help to reshape them and refocus most of us in achieving what we are today.
In their separate interviews, the chairman sect 80 Daniel Manesa said the Reunion of the old students is an anniversary to celebrate our 42 years from graduation from the school to different places in the country and beyond.
He further add that as the years roll by ,we deemed it necessary that there is need for us under the umbrella of sect 80 to met again and appreciate God’s goodness in our life,and to thank our teachers for their various impart they inculcated in most of us that has influenced us positively in life.
“We where able as a sect 80 to do the little we can by renovating the school dilapidated basketball court”.
And however promised that the sect will plan towards making the meeting frequent ritual to get in touch with ourselves and then the happening in the school.
Hon.Benshak Dalop one time member of the plateau state house of assembly,and presently chairman judicial service commission and sect 80 of KOSA is one of the brain behind the formation of KOSA sect 80 ,thank those who agreed with his proposal when the idea was put forward .
He said the sect was able in it small way embarked on developmental projects in the school ,and renovation of some structures that where in bad shape.
He added that they have gone round the school to see things for themselves,some we appreciate and some we did not ,but take cognisance of them ,we will go back fulfilled.
But lamented the passing away of some of the classmates,
“Out of 145 of us in that sect 80,not fewer than 35 have been called to the Lord and we have use this Reunion meeting to pray for the reposed of their soul”.
David Mancham though not sect 80 class said the idea behind the Reunion is to bring back the memory of Kuru as students 42 years ago.
David who is the national exco of KOSA,said the Reunion meeting afford them the opportunity to ones again carry out interventions in the school.
He decried challenges facing the school to include shortage of manpower as most of the teaching and non teaching staff are under the stipend of Parent Teachers Association (PTA).
The association however honourned some of their teachers who impart positively in their life.
One post humus award to one of the teacher that has pass on.
The Judiciary Staff Union Of Nigeria plateau chapter has embarked on indefinite industrial strike to press home their demand on the union’s peculiar allowances.
This is because the committee earlier set up by judiciary management to look at the fact finding of the union headed by Justice C.L Dabup and others stopped abruptly following the information from the government that they can’t afford to implement the union’s demand because they borrowed to pay salaries.
The chairman of the union Comrade Philip Longji made the clarification today 7th March,2022, in an interview with journalists at the state High Court promises in jos,plateau state capital following the paralyzed courts activities occasioned by the union’s strike.
The chairman who lamented the actions of the committee who didn’t deemed it necessary to approach the union for us to go back to the government because our agreement with him is that personnel cost is hundred percent.
They union decried Governor Lalong insensitivity to the demand of the union because they suppose to have approach us the union when you are going out of your way as he claimed borrowing to pay salaries.
“We are the one looking for financial autonomy,and you went out of your way in borrowing money to pay salaries”.
The union accused the management of playing game because will known that the government is given that what he suppose to take care of the staff ,he maintained.
The chairman further said for purpose of clarity ,the demand of the union is of three fold,peculiar allowance,security and the other one,out of which the government only manage to pay overhead.
It would be recalled that the union where to embarked on industrial action early this year,2022,but was suspended following the intervention of the inner bar ,and the strike would have disrupt the validitry session of the retirement of the former chief judge,justice Yakubu Dakwak.
How soon the Union will called of the strike depends on the seriousness of the government to negotiate and come out with concrete decision.
A Former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Attahiru Jega, has said that Nigeria is at the verge of total collapse.
The former INEC boss stated this on Wednesday in Abuja at the 2022 Workers’ Political Conference organised by the Nigeria Labour Congress.
He described the 2023 general elections as critical for Nigeria’s unity.
Jega said, “The sorry state of the socio-economic conditions under which the Nigerian working people, indeed the overwhelming majority of all citizens live and work, the reckless misrule and misgovernance by a tiny, rabid and reckless band of the elite, and the manner by which these myopic ‘elected’ so-called ‘leaders’ and their collaborators, have devastated the Nigerian economy, heightened insecurity, and virtually destroyed the basis for national cohesion and integration, Nigeria, as a potentially great nation, is crying for a rescue mission before it is too late.
“Such a rescue mission cannot be serious, positive and successful, without the active engagement and involvement of the Nigerian workers through their genuine representatives in working-class organizations and movements, in alliance with other progressive and patriotic Nigerians.
“While Nigeria may not have totally collapsed, it is in the process of collapsing, as reckless elite in control of the governance process are blindly running the country aground. And the 2023 general elections may be the ‘make or break’ epochal moment.
“Given this, all hands of progressive forces must be on deck to prevent our country from imminent collapse, and to turn it around on to a trajectory of good democratic governance for beneficial democratic, socio-economic development, and human security for Nigerian citizens.
“A broad alliance of progressive forces for national rescue and emancipation is absolutely required to get Nigeria out of the current unwholesome predicament in which it finds itself.
“The deliberations at this conference, guided by the lead paper presentation and panel discussion, should help us chart a course for a reinforced commitment to national emancipation and more active engagement participation of Nigerian workers in our current and future political processes.”
Governor Simon Bako Lalong has felicitated with the immediate past Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Education, Architect Sunny Echono on his appointment as the Executive Secretary, Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETfund) by President Muhammadu Buhari.
Governor Lalong in a his felicitation message described the appointment of Architect Echono as well deserved considering his performance as the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, where he provided the administrative expertise to actualise the mandate of President Muhammadu Buhari in reviving education in the country.
The Govetnor’s felicitation messaged dated 4th March ,2022 ,signed by the Director of Press Public Affair to the governor Makut Macham and made available to this medium in Jos ,plateau state.
Lalong said during his tenure as Permanent Secretary, a lot was achieved by the Ministry under the leadership of the Hon. Minister Mallam Adamu Adamu because of his ability to mobilise, motivate and give the right direction to the agencies and staff on implementing policies and programmes of the administration in education.
The Governor also recalled that more tertiary institutions were created throughout the country both in public and private sectors while early and secondary education also recieved a boost because of the efforts of the Architect Echono who as Permanent Secretary ensured that all policies and directives of Government were carried out without delay.
He said Plateau State was a beneficiary of the progress in the education sector with the approval of Federal Polytechnic Ny’ak, Shendam; Karl Kumm University Vom; ANAN University Kwall; Nigerian Law School Jos Campus; and Federal University of Education whose Bill was recently signed by the President.
Governor Lalong expressed optimism that Architect Sunny Echono will build upon the achievements of the outgoing Executive Secretary Prof. Bogoro to take TETfund to higher levels.
Meanwhile, Governor Lalong has expressed deep appreciation to the outgoing TETfund Executive Secretary Prof. Elias Bogoro, describing him as an achiever who was honest, fair, and committed to developing higher education in Nigeria.
Lalong while congratulating him for a successful tenure said Bogoro proved his worth by coming up with novel initiatives that challenged the academia in Nigeria and stimulated innovation, creativity and resourcefulness.
He acknowledged the passion with which Prof. Bogoro assisted all tertiary institutions in Plateau State by ensuring that the infrastructure was upgraded, including the Plateau State University Bokkos where a new Senate Building and Faculty of Health Sciences were commissioned recently.
The Plateau State High court jos Division has adjourned the case of culpable homicide involving Mr Moses Oko vs plateau state commissioner of police the alleged murder of one Jenifer Anthony now late ,a 300L student of the University of Jos, now deceased.
Moses is standing trials for gruesome murder of one miss Jenifer Anthony who was until her untimely death a 300L student of the university of jos, Nigeria
The matter which come up today 4th of March, 2022 for continuation of hearing and taken of witnesses from the prosecuting counsel the police.
When the case file was mentioned ,the defence counsel barrister FI Nenrot said my Lord ,though the matter is adjourned till today the 4th March,2022 for the continuation of hearing,my Lord ,he continued,I regret to announce that we are not ready to continue the matter today .
The defense counsel harps his reasons to include preparation for the oral application notice to be serve to the defendant latest Monday 8th March,2022,pending PO before the court and motion filed which hearing is coming up on the 24th March,2022.
He appeal to the court for the interest of fair hearing in line with the section of the constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria, to adjourned the matter for further hearing.
In a quick reaction, the prosecuting counsel NT Tali vehemently rejected the propose adjournment application by defense counsel ,that the application lack merit because the defense counsel fail to tell the court the reason he is asking for an adjournment.
Barrister Tali further add that one of the witnesses to testify came from Abuja and it has already been mobilise and maintained that granting an adjournment in favor of the defendant will amount to lack of fairness.
He stressed that the defense counsel has fail to give the court a cogent reason why he is seeking for an adjournment when the case is adjourned to today 3rd & 4th in the last adjournment for continuation of hearing and taken of witnesses.
He however appealed to the court not to grant the prayer of the defense counsel,for an adjournment for lack of congent reason.
After careful listening to the arguement from both counsels,Justice SP Gang ruled that adjourning the matter in line with the plea of the defense counsel will amount to wast of resources on the side of the prosecuting counsel who has already mobilized his witnesses all the way from Abuja, as such adjourning the case will not be feasible and will amount to wast of time and resources,he however ruled for the continuation of the matter and presentation of witnesses.
Rev.Polycarp Daan is (PW4) and manager with the hotel where the late miss Jennifer Anthony was murdered .
Rev.Polycarp explained to the court how he received a phone call from on of the workers of the hotel Mr Lazarus ,I rushed to the hotel only to be briefed about the incident.
At that point I called my lawyer barrister Adama to report to the police.
Because of the severity of the crime involved ,I was detained for 3 days before the police picked me to the scene of the crime in room 302 where they discovered the lifeless body of the late Jennifer Anthony whose body was used to block the door, but the police forced the door open after using the spare key giving to them by Rev.Polycarp Daan and enter the room .
On weather he saw the dead body of the victim,Daan said yes as the lifeless body of the lady was naked and the face covered with bedsheet.
He revealed that on further searched of the room, the police find a small piece of paper on the floor which later give the police the clue of the matter and led them to Abuja.
Alikali Alanana who is witness (PW5),resident in Masaka Nasarawa state ,and work as security personnel at Yanyan Park Abuja ,narrated how tricycle brought Moses Oko to Yanyan park around 2am in the morning looking for motor to Lagos.
Alikali further said I told him ,Oko to go back home and come in the morning as it was late and no motor in the park going to Lagos.
He said Oko left with the tricycle that brought him ,only to come back some minutes later that he was robbed ,his car and other of his belongings were carted away except his hand set two of them he brandished it to show me.
At that point Alikali said Moses was hungry and needed something to eat, i accompied him to a shop where they prepared indomie is soled he bought it and eat and we stayed behind and started chating with people around.
In his further testimony, moses said he would like to sleep with me at the park till the next morning because he is having no where to pass the night .
“the demand I rejected on the ground that people are not allowed to pass the night at the park”.
“At that point he went back to the earlier indomie shop trying to force the door open, at this point i started dragging with him, the action which attracted the passer b
y who at this point stop by to help and eventually he was dragged to Yanyan police station and locked up.”
On weather Mr Moses was behaving abnormal when he earlier came to the park, he said no that he was normal and talk like normal human being,making some statement like”I did not kill her”,which I didn’t understand at first.
At that point the prosecuting counsel moved for short adjournment to enable him bring the next witnesses ,the medical doctor that satisfied the accused person ,Mr Moses Oko medically sound and ASP Ibrahim Agaji.
The matter been adjourned to Wenesday 9th March,2022 for continuation of hearing and presentation of more witnesses.
The Federal Government on Thursday warned Distribution Companies (DisCos) to stop selling electricity meters to customers.
Minister of Power, Engr. Abubakar Aliyu, on Thursday, stated that procurement is free of charge.
Aliyu spoke at the weekly State House ministerial briefing organised by the Presidential Media Team.
“These meters are free, we said it a number of times. These are tools that will generate liquidity. How can we be selling something that will bring in money?
“It is the responsibility of the DisCos and the government is seeing that they are not doing so. The government is giving the DisCos the meters to distribute for free.
“But there’ll always be “touts” and “kabu-kabu”. I think it’s the touts that are doing this kind of shoddy deal”, NAN quoted him saying.
Aliyu said the procurement of four million meters for the second phase of the mass metering programme is on-going.
Confirming that close to one million meters have been rolled out under, the minister confirmed the focus on local manufacturers.
He said this would provide jobs like the 10,000 generated under the first phase’s installation and assembly.
Aliyu announced that the second phase contract will be awarded by the end of the second quarter of 2022.
The third phase will provide additional two million meters, funded through the World Bank, the official added.
Aliyu further advised underperforming DisCos to ensure the fulfillment contractual agreements with the Federal Government or face sanctions.
The citizens of Plateau state has raised alarm over the total abandon of the state owned “Wild Life Park” aka jos wild life park which has completely overtaken by the activities of illegal miners and firewoods vendors revaging the ecosystem of the park through their unscrupulous activities.
The cry of the people is coming at the heels when the states in the federation are looking inward to increase their “Internal Generated Revenue” from tourism with dwindling federal allocation that is no longer realistic.
The Acting General Manager of Jos Wild Life Park Selomi Audu revealed this in an interview with journalists during the occasion of this year 2022 celebration of World Wild Life day held at the park premises in Jos South local government of the State.
The Acting General Manager Selomi Audu said today the 2nd March,2022 is one of the two days emarked for the celebration ,but the management of the park decided to tour with the stakeholders around the park and show them the essences of the level of damage that the activities of illegal miners and other unapproved activities of some unidentified persons has devastated the wild life park.
She said the tour round the park with the stakeholders who are all member of the host communities where the Jos Wild Life Park is located is to see what can be done to the deplorable condition of the park occasioned by illegal miners and firewood sellers,and possibly seek fatherly advice from the stakeholders and all spirited individuals.
The Acting Manager said today activities for the celebration of this Year 2022, Word Wild Life Day,with the theme of the program which is carefully chosen”Recovering Key Species For Ecosystem Restoration” further stressed that it’s the desire of the management and the government of the state governor Bako lalong to revamp and restorsitate the destroyed Wild Life Park.
“Jos wild life park is a well cherished amongst the green bed we have in the city of jos,is not for the benefit of individual alone but for all.”
Mrs Audu reiterated the need for the protection of jos park which shouldn’t be not exclusively left in the hands of single individual or group,but collective efforts of all for the preservation of ecosystem, and appealed to the host communities to help in preserving the ecosystem of the jos wild life park.
Some of those who spoke with this medium in an interview Dr.longtong Turshak ,who is the chairman Central planning committee at the event,called on the government and the management of the park to revamp the park ,and give it a face lift that can help to attract tourist whenever they are in the state looking for place for relaxation.
He adviced the government to engaged the services of their host communities if possible pay them royalty to appreciate them for forming part of those securing the park from encroachment and further advice the government to equipt the security rangers of the wild life park so that they can engage the intruders of the park when the need raises.
The tour of the park along side with the stakeholders ,management and journalists, took them to many places that had been devastated by the activities of illegal mining ponds which has posed an eyes soar.
In some places in the park has practically been deforested occasion by unholy attitude of some people who have engaged themselves into the selling of firewood for a living,popularly know as firewood vendor.
A group under the auspacies of “E-Supporter Group” plateau state chapter under the umbrella of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has appealed the leaders of the party Senator Jonah David jang and General Useni I(rtd)to sheath political sword ahead 2023 General Elections.
As the group called on all leaders at the Local, State and National levels of the party, to wade into the dispute still lingering between, Sen. Jonah David Jang and Sen. Jeremiah Useni, as it might spread among their supporters if not controlled before the coming 2023 general elections.
The group in a press statement, dated 28th February, 2022, made available to this medium in jos ,Plateau state, specifically, called on the National Chairman of the party, Dr. Iyorchia Ayu, to prevail on Sen. Jang and Sen. Useni, to set aside their differences.
The press statement signed by, Isa Musa Kwarshak, as Chairman and Nafor Mafulul Sylvanus, as Secretary of “Group”, in part reads:
“We are therefore on this note and base on the situation in the chapter, making a passionate appeal to the National Chairman, Dr. Iyorchia Ayu, the Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees, to immediately call for a meeting with the two leaders of our great Party in Plateau State, Sen. J. T. Usieni and Sen. Jonah Jang and also prevail on them to set aside their differences”.
“We urge the National Chairman, to call on them to make concessions and sacrifices where necessary for inclusiveness of all members in the affairs of the chapter in the overall interest of the chapter.”
“This action if taken, we believe, would complement the personal efforts already put in by, Governor Nyesom Wike, during his recent visit to Plateau State and the party leadership”.
The group took time to congratulate the candidate of the PDP, Hon. Musa Agah, for winning the Jos-North/Bassa Federal Constituency of Plateau State seat, but swiftly advised members of the chapter not to be carried away by the victory.
READ E-SUPPORT GROUP’S FULL TEXT BELOW:-
E-SUPPORT GROUP OF THE PEOPLES DEMOCRATIC PARTY (PDP), PLATEAU STATE
28th February, 2022.
PRESS RELEASE
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Press
We wish to start this press statement by appreciating God Almighty, for making it possible for our great party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Plateau State chapter’s recovering of our mandate for the Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency, which was openly stolen in 2019 by the APC.
We Congratulate, Hon. Musa Agah on his victory!
We want to use this opportunity, to also appreciate the National Chairman of our great party (PDP), Dr. Iyorchia Ayu and members of the National Working Committee, the Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, the Co- Chairmen of the Campaign Council for the bye-election, His Excellency, Governor, Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed (Kauran Bauchi) and His Excellency, Governor Samuel Ortom, the Leaders of our great party in Plateau State, particularly Sen. Jeremiah Useni, Sen. Jonah Jang, His Excellency, Sir Fidelis Tapgun, Hon. Damishi T. Sango, among others too numerous to mention here, for closing ranks and working together before the bye-election, which resulted to the massive victory on Saturday the 26th of February, 2022.
Gentlemen of the press,
We must also appreciate the State Leadership of our great party under the able leadership of, Hon. Chris Hassan, members of the National and State Assembly, other members of the Campaign Council, critical stakeholders, party agents, vibrant youths, as well as, party members and citizens that came out to vote for the PDP in Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency of Plateau State and Pankshin South State House of Assembly Constituency.
As a conscious group that is fully committed to the overall success of our great party the PDP, we want to urge the State Leadership of the party not to be carried away by this victory and be complacent, but to draw inspiration and motivation from it and to also immediately started planning and strategizing for the 2023 general election that is fast approaching.
Our party’s victory in the Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency of Plateau State and the great performance in the Pankshin South State House of Assembly Constituency election, are clear indications that, majority of Plateau people trust and believed in the PDP more than any other party in the state and therefore, we must do everything possible not to betray their trust, but create buffer and security for it.
We are therefore on this note and base on the situation in the chapter, making a passionate appeal to the National Chairman, Dr. Iyorchia Ayu, the Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees, to immediately call for a meeting with the two leaders of our great Party in Plateau State, Sen. J. T. Usieni and Sen. Jonah Jang and also prevail on them to set aside their differences.
We urge the National Chairman, to call on them to make concessions and sacrifices where necessary for inclusiveness of all members in the affairs of the chapter in the overall interest of the chapter.
This action if taken, we believe, would complement the personal efforts already put in by, Governor Nyesom Wike, during his recent visit to Plateau State and the party leadership.
We must put on record that, Governor Nyesom Wike, during his visit, met with the two leaders in an effort towards having a virile and stable PDP in the state that will be capable of winning any election in Plateau State.
With respect to the Pankshin South Bye-election and its observed outcome, we want to appeal to the party, to immediately assemble a solid team of Legal Experts to help file a petition against the illegality and rape of democracy.
Gentlemen of the Press, it will surprise you to know that up till now, there’s no formal declaration of the results of the election conducted by INEC, anywhere in Pankshin South and yet, victory is already and fraudulently, allocated to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
We strongly are of the hope that the mandate given to the PDP and its candidate will not be allowed to be stolen again!
Finally, we are appealing to Plateau people to continue trusting and believing in the PDP, as the only party that is genuinely committed and concerned of their safety, security, welfare and development and reject the APC that has nothing to offer other than despair, hunger, poverty, insecurity and illiteracy because, they are less concerned with education and have perpetually kept our students at home and thereby, increasing the rate of crime and all sorts of social ills bedeviling our communities today.
Governor Simon Bako of plateau state has send strong warning to all Civil Servants in the state,and the judges to stay away from partisan politics and don’t allow themselves to be use by politicians more especially now that
electioneering period is around the corner.
As the government will not spare anyone of them that allowed himself to used as stooges to disrupt the smooth running of government business as government will not spare anybody no matter his or her position in the service and run contrary to the civil service rules.
Governor Lalong handed down the warning during the swearing in of Permanent Secretarie and President of Customary Court of Appeal Hon. Justice Lyop Dalyop on the 1st March,2022 held at the Victoria Gowon Conference Hall ,New Government House Little Rayfield in jos the Plateau state capital.
The governor further said as a mark of commitment on the side of Government, we will continue to fulfil our obligations to the welfare and well-being of civil servants which we have consistently done since 2015.
He however directed that work of the White Paper standing Committee on Staff Audit and Verification be completed to enable Civil Servants start enjoying their normal promotions as we also work on creating employment .
lalong further charged the President of the Customary Court of Appeal Lyop Dalyop and the newly sworn-in Permanent Secretaries on their well-deserved appointment and urged them to live up to the dictates of their new status,and ensure they do their best to validate the merit of your appointment and contribute towards building a Plateau that all of us will be proud of,as he also appeal to the citizens to pray for them and avoid putting them under unnecessary pressure with frivolous demands.
The governor commended the Head of Civil Service who in collaboration with the Plateau State Information Communication Technology Development Agency ensured the successful conduct of the ICT-based professional aptitude examination for the newly appointed Permanent Secretaries.
“I have further directed the Head of Service to work towards ensuring that all civil servants are fully trained in the use of ICT tools for all Government business.”
“Since Plateau State joined the Open Government Initiative (OGP), we have continued to receive local and international accolades for our prudence, transparency and all-inclusive approach to governance. We must sustain this development using technology, motivated and well trained manpower. That is why recently, I approved Capacity Building retreats, workshops and trainings for Permanent Secretaries, Directors, Stenographers and Drivers anchored by the Office of the Head of Civil Service cutting across all Ministries, Departments and Agencies.
The governor reiterated the need for civil servants to be loyal to Government and avoid all acts that are inimical to the smooth running of the affairs of the State,civil service rules are very clear on responsibilities, privileges and expectations from all civil servants he maintained.
“We expect the new Permanent Secretaries to show leadership that is driven by excellence, capacity, discipline, fairness and honesty. Coming into these sensitive positions at these challenging times, you will be required to demonstrate innovation, creativity and resource management in the governance architecture of the State. The time for laxity, bureaucratic bottlenecks and sabotage are over.
” He reminded the appointees that the positions the hold are very important to the success of this administration and a lot is expected of you as the Rescue Administration is gradually winding down, there is a lot to be done between now and next year.”
This he said is the time for action and performance as we are determined to complete on-going projects and programmes in line with our promise to leave Plateau better than we met it.
The candidate of the People’s Redemption Party, PRP, Adam Alkali, has vowed to reclaim his “subverted” victory at the just concluded bye-election of Bassa/Jos-North Federal Constituency of Plateau State.
Jos North/Bassa Fed.Constituency’s Election Results
The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Returning Officer, Yinka Oyerinde, had declared Musa Agah of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, winner of the bye-election.
But Mr Alkali, while speaking with DAILY Nigeria on Monday in jos,plateau state capital, said he won the election with a majority of lawful votes cast, against the declared winner.
The PRP candidate said all plans had been concluded to challenge the INEC declaration at the election tribunal.
He said: “We have enough evidence to prove that in some electoral wards and many polling units over-voting took place.
“It is evidently clear that manual accreditation was made in some places, in others ,even the manual accreditation was not made, rather ballot stuffing was made in favour of the PDP candidate,” he alleged.
Mr Alkali aka Dan London restated that INEC election guideline which state that where there is no Bimodal Voter Accreditation Device, BVAD, “No election will hold”.
“In this light, we have widely consulted and the majority of the constituents have suggested that we seek redress in the most lawful manner and we have concluded plans to challenge the return of the PDP candidate Musa Agah in the election tribunal.
“…I am strongly appealing to our supporters to remain calm, be peaceful and continue to be prayerful as we get prepared to reclaim our mandate,” he stressed.
The Nation wide plan protest by National Students Union Body has stalled the continuation of hearing on case between the Commissioner of Police against Shehu Jatau and three others accused persons standing trial before justice S.P.Gang .
The prosecution counsel told the court that the matter was adjourned for the continuation of hearing and he is ready to proceeds with his three witness .
However, the defense counsel ,Prof. S S.Shikyil didn’t opposed to the motion ,so the motion was moved , the judge granted it.
The prosecution counsel further alerted the court of the absence of the accused persons but Justice S .P.Gang explained that the information reaching him from pecaible source revealed that the national students Union body are planning nation wide protest which bringing inmates today they might likely hijack the system the way the endsar brought problem .
According to the prosecution counsel ,the motion which dated 25th February, 2022 and filed the same date is supported by 6 paragraphs and a written address with affidavit that was moved and the defense counsel didn’t opposed it.
Justice S P. Gang after carefully listening to the application brought by the prosecution counsel for adjournment the matter was adjourn to the 30th March, 2022 for taken of three witnesses for the prosecution to close their case.
However, both Federal and the state High Court in Plateau state was scanty with heavy present of security personnel to monitor the development and forestall the break down of law and order.
This medium who went around the correctional centre in the state observed that the gate where under lock and keyed and surveillance by the soldiers ,police and other security agencies to prevent break down of order and avoid jailbreak .
“You would recalled that the Plateau state prison has been under attacks for almost three time in one year leading to the escaped of over 260 inmates in Jos prison and one officer reported killed “.
People Democratic Party (PDP), in Plateau state has berated the All Progressive Congress (APC) ,over intimidation ,harrassments and other undemocratic means to rob the party of it long awaiting mandates.
He lauded the electorates for standing firm with r the undemocratic tendencies of the APC,the people of jos North/Bassa constituency stood their ground to vote the People Democratic party (PDP),at the federal constituency bye election held 26the February 2022.
The Chairman Peoples Democratic Party(PDP),in the state Hon.Chris Hassan stated this during press briefing following the declaration of the party’s candidate Hon.Musa Agah as the winner of Jos North/Bassa constituency bye election .
He said the victory of PDP,in the bye look is a watershed in the history of the party ahead of 2023 ,General elections for the party to recover its stolen mandate for governorship in 2019,by APC ruling government,to put an end to tyrannical and misrule of the government in the state,and by extension Nigeria as a whole.
He further said Hon. Musa Agah has received the blessing of the people of jos North/Bassa constituency mandate to proceed to Abuja and represent the quality presentation at the National Assembly PDP is know for and the people of the state have been yearning for.
He said Musa Agah demonstrated an excellent Representation as Member representing Bassa/Irigwe constituency at the Plateau state House of Assembly the postion he held sway until his election as Member Representing jos North/Bass Federal Constituency at the House of Representative,as the party is not in doubt of his competent of sound represention at the lower chamber.
Chairman PDP, Musa Agah,Simi Dusu and other party members
Hon.Christ Hassan appreciated the electorates in the state for coming out to exercise their franchise even in the face of harassment and intimidation of the ruling APC in the state.
He commended the leaderships of the party who despite all odd stood firm to vote PDP,and thank the various committees ,subcommittee,polling units agents and collection center for their personal sacrifices.
But frowned at the reportered case of carting away of ballot boxes by the All Progressive Congress (APC)supporters at Pankshin constituency bye election, mostly places that are strong holds of PDP, but vowed that that party will not rest on it oars to challenge the stolen mandate of the party in a competent Court.
Lambast governor lalong fragrant disobident for court judgement”Just look at the case of our candidate the chairman of Lantang North who had obtained judgment in the court but the APC government in the State just decided to honor the judgement to restore him back to his sit.”
He called on the PDP supporters in the state to be law abiding no matter the provocation by APC.
Operation Safe Haven has identified culture as panacea for peaceful coexistence in any society, as it has organised a cultural competition termed “Maj Gen Ibrahim Ali Peace and Unity Cultural Competition” to promote peace and unity amongst the diverse ethnic groups on the Plateau.
The maiden event which was held in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State featured dancing and eating competitions by 12 different cultural groups.
Speaking at the event, the Special Guest of Honour, Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, Major General Ibrahim Ali, charged the law abiding and peace loving people of Plateau state to utilise their rich cultural heritage to promote unity for peaceful co-existence among the diverse ethnic groups in the state. The Commander observed that the cultural diversity of the people is a great source of strength to the State and the nation. Therefore, it should be harnessed for peace and progress.
The Commander who spoke through the Chief of Staff Operation SAFE HAVEN, Brigadier General Amos Egbejule, noted that there is no alternative to peace and the beauty of peace is when people come together to celebrate their beautiful cultural diversity together. He urged the people to cooperate with the security agencies for the maintenance of security in their communities.
Speaking earlier, the Commander Sector 4 Barikin Ladi Colonel Murtala Abdulsalam thanked the various ethnic groups for turning out en mass to participate in the event. He stated that Operation SAFE HAVEN will not relent in its effort of sustaining peace in the area. He further charged the people to shun all forms of violence, mischief and live together as brothers and sisters. He informed the participants and guests that the cultural competition was organised as part of Operation SAFE HAVEN non-kinetic measures towards sustaining the peace process in its Joint Area of Operation.
In their separate remarks, the Chairman, Barikin Ladi LGA, Hon Jack Alamba, the Hon Member Representing Barikin Ladi/Riyom LGAs in the National Assembly, Hon Simon Mwadkwon, the Da Gwom Rwei Barikin Ladi HRH, Da Edward Gyang Bot as well as religious leaders agreed to work together to sustain the peace and security in the LGA. They charged the people to fight the enemies of peace and support the security agencies who are working tirelessly to ensure peace continue to reign on the Plateau.
Aside the cultural dance and eating competitions, the event also featured women race and Tug-of-War. Prizes were presented to winners of the competition as well as best Vigilante, hunter, neighbourhood watch, police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and most peaceful communities in the Local Government.
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The Chairman African Democratic Congress (ADC) plateau state chapter Sabiu Ibrahim has called on the electoral umpire , the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)to be fair and just in declaring the election result.
As he decried the high apathy that bedeviled jos north/bassa federal house of representatives bye election because of the way Governor lalong handed the conduct,and the electorate nonchalant attitude towards the election.
The chairman of ADC,in the state Sabiu Abrahim was speaking to Journalists in an interview during the conduct of the election held 26the February,2022 in jos the state capital.
Chairman ADC,Pl/S
The chairman lamented the attitude of the electorate who didn’t want to come out and vote probably because they didn’t know what is at stake ,and called on INEC to ensure the election result reflect the Wishes of the electorate.
The chairman who is very optimistic of his party ADC, winning the federal house of representatives bye elections in jos north/bassa constituency urged the party faithful to come out and cast their votes for the party ,which he said is embraced world wide.
In another similar development, the All Progressive Congress (APC)chairman in jos north Aminu Abdullahi decried the apathy that greets the conduct of jos north/bassa federal house of representative bye election in the state.
Chairman PDP, jos North
He however hailed the peaceful conduct of the election devoid of crisis and called on the independent national electoral commission(inec) to ensure that election result reflect the wishes of the electorate to avoid post elections crisis in the constituency.
The chairman who is confident of the electoral bill signed into law by president Mohammedu Buhari,said he is hopeful that when the implementation starts, the resuits of elections in the state in particular and Nigeria in general will reflects the wishes of the generality of the people of the country.
In an interview with Journalist in his polling unit at Angwan Rogo in jos North LG, the candidate of People Redemption party(PRP) aka Dan London ,said he is sure of winning the jos north/bassa federal constituency bye election because of his acceptability of his candidacy by the electorate.
Dan London was speaking in an interview with newsmen immediately immediately after casting his vote.
He further stressed that he hope the electoral umpire , INEC will be just and allowed the vote of the people of the constituency count.
Gov. Lalong Admonishes Parents To Inculcate Godly Virtues In Children.
By,giwa Alex,jos
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has asked Nigerian parents to inculcate godly virtues in their children as a way of halting the moral decay that is largely responsible for the breakdown of law and order in society today.
Governor Lalong spoke during the monthly fasting and prayer organised by the Chapel of Grace, Government House, Jos.
Lalong said because Nigerians are a religious people, they must work to entrench godliness through sustaining the teachings of the Bible and also inculcating same to younger generation who are the future of the nation.
He said “Let me also use this opportunity to urge all parents and guardians to teach their children the importance of fasting and prayer as well as putting their faith in God. Inculcating these values in them right from tender age which will go a long way in building their relationship with God and making them better citizens. Looking at the challenges we face today, we have to raise children that have the fear of God to be able to embrace good and shun evil”.
He commended the Chapel Leadership for sustaining the monthly session and said “Whenever we gather to fast and pray, we are not only standing before God to tender our lists of things we want him to do for us, but to also thank him for all that he has done for us overtime. The act of thanksgiving and appreciation enables him to listen to our petitions and further demonstrate his love towards us”. 9
He said because of the consitent prayer and fasting for the State, Plateau has continued to experience more peace despite the attempts by some criminals to cause chaos through.
“While we regret the losses recorded due to such unfortunate like the recent incidences involving attacks on miners in Yelwan Zangam and another along Jos-Jingir road, we are thankful to God that both attacks were quickly brought under control by security agencies and with no escalation. We should continue to pray that God will expose these criminals and give the security agencies the ability to apprehend all of them and bring them to justice. While they plan evil against the State, our prayer is that God will turn their evil plans into foolishness and make them not to succeed” he said.
Lalong admonished the citizens to continue to unite and love one another by also praying that the spirit of hatred, division and intolerance will be banished from amongst them. He reiterated his determination to strengthen the peace that has been built over the years and ensure that people go about their duties without any fear.
In a message, Chaplain of the Government House Jos, Rev. Fr. Godfrey Gopep urged the people to put their trust in God and not worry over any prevailing circumstance as the end will be victorious.
He read from the book of Matt 6:25 where he highlighted the assurances given by Jesus Christ to the effect that God will never abandon his people in any way. He said Gods promise of provision is not only guaranteed, but affirmed by the testimonies of past which many seem to forget whenever they are in difficulty.
Prayers were also offered for the smooth conduct of bye-elections for the Jos/Bassa House of Representatives seat as well as the Pankshin South State Constituency.
Gov. Lalong Admonishes Parents To Inculcate Godly Virtues In Children.
By,giwa Alex,jos
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has asked Nigerian parents to inculcate godly virtues in their children as a way of halting the moral decay that is largely responsible for the breakdown of law and order in society today.
Governor Lalong spoke during the monthly fasting and prayer organised by the Chapel of Grace, Government House, Jos.
Lalong said because Nigerians are a religious people, they must work to entrench godliness through sustaining the teachings of the Bible and also inculcating same to younger generation who are the future of the nation.
He said “Let me also use this opportunity to urge all parents and guardians to teach their children the importance of fasting and prayer as well as putting their faith in God. Inculcating these values in them right from tender age which will go a long way in building their relationship with God and making them better citizens. Looking at the challenges we face today, we have to raise children that have the fear of God to be able to embrace good and shun evil”.
He commended the Chapel Leadership for sustaining the monthly session and said “Whenever we gather to fast and pray, we are not only standing before God to tender our lists of things we want him to do for us, but to also thank him for all that he has done for us overtime. The act of thanksgiving and appreciation enables him to listen to our petitions and further demonstrate his love towards us”.
He said because of the consitent prayer and fasting for the State, Plateau has continued to experience more peace despite the attempts by some criminals to cause chaos through.
“While we regret the losses recorded due to such unfortunate like the recent incidences involving attacks on miners in Yelwan Zangam and another along Jos-Jingir road, we are thankful to God that both attacks were quickly brought under control by security agencies and with no escalation. We should continue to pray that God will expose these criminals and give the security agencies the ability to apprehend all of them and bring them to justice. While they plan evil against the State, our prayer is that God will turn their evil plans into foolishness and make them not to succeed” he said.
Lalong admonished the citizens to continue to unite and love one another by also praying that the spirit of hatred, division and intolerance will be banished from amongst them. He reiterated his determination to strengthen the peace that has been built over the years and ensure that people go about their duties without any fear.
In a message, Chaplain of the Government House Jos, Rev. Fr. Godfrey Gopep urged the people to put their trust in God and not worry over any prevailing circumstance as the end will be victorious.
He read from the book of Matt 6:25 where he highlighted the assurances given by Jesus Christ to the effect that God will never abandon his people in any way. He said Gods promise of provision is not only guaranteed, but affirmed by the testimonies of past which many seem to forget whenever they are in difficulty.
Prayers were also offered for the smooth conduct of bye-elections for the Jos/Bassa House of Representatives seat as well as the Pankshin South State Constituency.
In line with the plans by the Independent National Electoral Commission to conduct bye-election for the Jos/Bassa Federal Constituency and the Pankshin South State Constituency on 26th February 2022, the Executive Governor of Plateau State has approved the restriction of movement within the respective constituencies.
Therefore, all vehicular movements will not be allowed in the affected areas from 12:00 Midnight of Friday 25th February 2022 to 6pm of Saturday 26th February 2022.
The restriction of persons and vehicular movement is contained in a press statement dated 25th February 2022 ,signed by commissioner for information and communication Dan Manjang and made available to this medium in jos ,plateau state capital.
The statement said only persons on essential duties will be exempted from the restriction and advice Citizens to adhere to this directive as relevant security agencies have been directed to ensure compliance.
The Governor also calls on all eligible voters to come out and exercise their franchise without fear or intimidation as necessary security arrangements have been put in place to ensure that the exercise goes without hitches.
With less than 48 hours to the rerun election slated by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to fill the vacant seat at the National Assembly, caused by the sudden death of Late Haruna Maital, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is to hold its Mega Rally for its candidate, Hon. Musa Agah, for the Jos-North/Bassa Federal Constituency of Plateau State today, Thursday 24thFebruary, 2022.
From the announcement concerning the event from the PDP, the Maga Rally, is expected to hold at the Polo Club field in Jos, the capital of Plateau State.
Expected at the Mega Rally today at Polo Club, is the National Chairman of the party, Sen. Dr. Iyorchia Ayu, including, NWC/BOT Members, the former APC Plateau State Chairman, Hon. Letep Dabang, and other leaders of the party that is expected to commence today, Thursday 24th February, 2022 at 11:00 am prompt.
While the PDP is celebrate its own candidate, crisis has started enveloping the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) chapter in the state, as some aggrieved members have told the media that they do not have a candidate in the coming election.
A faction of the PRP in the state led by one Yusuf Umar has said the party has no candidate in the rerun election for Jos-North/ Bassa Federal Constituency of Plateau State and would not participate despite 48 hours to the crucial election.
Umar said, “As far as I am concerned, we are not participating in the election”.
Adding that, the party has already sent a petition to INEC concerning the leadership crisis rocking the chapter.
“Anybody parading himself as the leader of PRP in Plateau State or at the National level apart from me and Abdulmajeed Yakubu Daudu, that would be a misinformation.” He warned.
On his part, and standing on the position of Umar, the representative of the National Leader of the party, disclosed to news men in Jos that, at the moment, they are only planning to restructure the party.
“We heard that some miscreants have taken PRP to court and we are waiting on the court to decide. Not until April, we have noting on ground.” He further disclosed.
Gov.Lalong Extends Resignation Of Polical Office Holder To 31st March.
By,giwa alex,jos
Governor Bako Lalong has changed his earlier decision that all the political office holder under his government seeking to contest any political position to resign his/her position form the government on or before 31st January,2022.
Governor lalong grace of extension is contained in a release dated 23rd February,2023,signed by permanent secretary special duty government House Richard Toma and made available to this medium in jos,plateau state.
The statement which has it caption”Re Resignation of all political Office Holders wishing to contest the forthcoming Election”
He said to our further circular with reference No:s/SGS/A/117/Vol.1/42 of 31st January ,2022 on the above subject matter,l wish to inform you that the earlier issued to public officiers to resign and contest in the 2023 general elections has been extended to 31st March,2022 ,not January 31st 2022 ,as earlier issued by the government.
The Federal High Court Jos Division has today 22nd February,2022 , sentence the Former minister of Water Resources during Goodluck Jonathan led administration ,Sarah Rene Ochekpe and two others to Three months imprisonment and an option of one million naira .
Those sentenced a long with the Former minister Includes, the Former Deputy Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in plateau state ,Raymond Dabo and Evangelist Leo Sunday .
Delivery the less than one and half judgement Justice Musa Kurya exonerated the three accused persons for converting the 450 million naira for their personal use ,as he said the prosecuting counsel failed to prove beyond reasonable doubt that the money was converted to personal use by the accused persons.
The judge further add that though the defendants dispensed the said money the way they where instructed , but run contrary to the Economic and Financial Crime Commission law which stipulated that any money more than five million naira most follow due financial law by going through any of the nation commercial bank ,the law they failed to adhered to by the accused persons .
As against this background,it’s it interpreted that they connived to laundered the money which is contrary to the Commission law that set it up hence they where convicted for money laundering and criminal conspiracy.
Before justice musa Kurya’s final ruling,lawyer to the Former Minister Sarah who is the 1st accused barrister S.Oyawole plea with the court to temper justice with mercy for the 1st defendant considering that she is 1st offender,served Nigeria in an enviable capacity as Minister , a mother ,grandmother and she have been faithful through out the trial.
On his part, the lawyer to the 2nd and 3rd accused,barrister jang Zi plea on behalf of his clients considering that they are 1st offender of the crime ,and above all conducted themselves in responsible manners through out the trial .
In his final judgment, Justice Musa Murya sentenced the three accused persons to three months imprisonment with an option of one million naira each.
The imprisonment the judge said will run concurrently, meaning counting day and night.
It would be recall that the trial of the Former Minister for Water Resources started over three years ago over 450 million naira qypart of plateau state fund for Goodluck Ebele Jonathan 2015 campaign fund, which was alleged that it was not expended for the reason that was met for by the Economic and financial crimes commission (efcc)
Drama eschewed today 22st February,2022 at the High Court in jos ,the plateau state capital during the arraignment of the murder of 300 level student of the university of Jos North central Nigeria appeared before Justice SP Gang for arraignment.
The Counsel representing the defendant barrister NE Jesse told the court that his client mr Mose Oko can not take his plea because is having mental disorder and he cannot differentiate between guilty or not guilty even if the charge are read to him.
In her quick response,the prosecting counsel, barrister Muleng Alex said the claim that his client is mentally unstable is far from the truth as the defendant was seen discussing with his counsel before the court sitting,he even availed to his counsel the phone number of his mother.
The prosecting counsel further added that the test conducted by the police to assertain the mental status of the defendant revailed that nothing is wrong with him, stressed that if there is anything else the court would do,the defendant should first be allowed to take his plea,and supported her argument with the plateau state criminal procedures rules.
The court however rule that the defendant should be allowed to take his plea ,the clerk of the court read out the two count charge which include snashing the hand set of his victim miss Jesse Anthony now deceased with this intention to causes mischief and killing of his victim and removing the vital parts of his body.
Mr.Moses could not respond to his plea read out to him ,but PS Gang adjourned the case to 3rd and 4th of March,2022 for further hearing and presentation of witness by the prosecuting counsel.
It would be recalled that late last year 2021,the accused Moses Oko lured miss Jennifer Anthony who is alledg to be his girl friend and took her to exclusive place where she was killed, her body dismembered which is believed to be for ritual purposes.
In an interview with this medium ,the counsel to the defendant said the claimed that his client is mentally stable will be contested in in Court of law.
Bassa/Jos North bye- Election Hon. Gagdi drums support For Abbey Aku, Berates Absence Of Glubernatorial Candidates.
By,giwa alex
Adamu Yusuf Gadi ,Member representing Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal constituency in the National Assembly, has berated the Glubernatorial aspirants under the umbrella of the APC,and other office holders of the party for running away when they are invited to support the party.
He said the attitude will help to kill the party if not check ,as the electorates are keenly watching the kind of selfish they are exhibiting even when they have not entered Political office.
Hon. Yusuf Gagdi made the observation in his speech during the fund raising dinner towards the campaign for the APC candidate for Jos North/Bassa Constituency bye election ,Abbey Aku held at the Lamonde Hotel ,20th February,2022.
Gadi further added that if the party is not in existence, they will not have the platform to stand and contest election nor holding one Offices and the other as the case may be.
Gadi who is the chairman Committee for navy at the Federal House of Representatives challenged them to come all out and help the party Who has made them instead of running and hidding when it’s time to stand and defend the party.
Gadi remaineded them that February 26, 2022 scheduled for the bye election to filled the vacant seats of Jos North/Bassa Constituency and Pankshin South Constituency ,is a litmus test for the survival of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state beyond 2023 .
He said for the party to come out victorious at the polls, the ruling party must bring out its arsenals for the Political showdown, beyond the rhetorics of the mere availability of government machineries to work in its favour.
As he however said it’s was in the light of the foregoing that the APC in Plateau State organised a fund raising dinner to drum support for her candidates in the bye-elections.
The lawmaker further added that , he is fully on ground to lend his support with the donation of a whooping sum of #40 million, indicating #20 million each, to the two candidates.
He calls on the electorate of Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency and Pankshin South State Constituency to come out emmass next Saturday to vote Hon. Abbey Aku and Ezra Dakup, both of the All Progressives Congress (APC), for the respective positions.
He pledged to personally embark on campaign tour of all the electoral wards in Pankshin South Constituency on Thursday, 24th February, 2022; after which he will round off the tour with the presentation of six cars and 20 motorcycles to some party faithful from Pankshin and Kanke LGAs; just like he did in Kanam LGA sometime ago.
Gagdi charged his fellow party members who are holding various positions courtesy of the party, to cultivate the attitude of sharing the gains of their offices with the electorate, as only in doing so would they lure people to support the APC, especially now that times are hard.
He stressed that, “Governor Bako Lalong can’t be everywhere at the same time to assist every body, that is why he appointed people from every part of the state into different positions; and the least such appointees can do is to share part of their earnings with the people around them, especially those in need. That is another way of making people feel the impact of the government”.
Fulani’s Enthic Group in Nigeria under the auspacies of “Gan Allah Fulani Development Association of Nigeria” (GAFDAN) has officially open it’s State Secretariat in Jos, plateau State Capital with a passionate call on the Fulani enthic group parents to give priority to the education of their children and train them to acquire a vocational skills that can make them productive to themselves and their immediate community .
The New office of the association is located at block 237,No4A Beside University Of Jos Senior Staff Quarters,Bauchi Road.
In his address the Patron of the association who doubled as the Emir of Wase in the state,Dr Sambo Abdullahi said the call for Fulani’s to pay serious attention to the education of their children/ wards and encourage them on skills acquisition, is imperative in view of the mess the group has found themselves in the corner amongst Sub Sahara Africa.
He charged members to ensure deliberate liberation and desist from activities of unholy behaviour perpetrating Into the enthic group whose sources had their parents either killed or their cows stolen.
He paid tribute to the Former President of (GAFDAN) ,late Alh. Sale Bayeri the founder of the body and dedicate the New acquired Office which is named after him.
Represented by the Galama Wase,Alh Mustapha Umar harped on the Association to be more united especially as the general elections is around the corner .
” if they’re united you have over 12,000 eligible voters to determine who the next president of Nigeria will be.”
“we want all the Fulani to create awareness campaign for the youths to live in peace with one another for development to take place because without peace no government can embark on meaningful projects that will benefit the populace .”
The National President of (GAFDAN), Alh Yakubu Suleiman expressed confidence that the Association will soon meet to chart a way forward…
He further explained that the wellbeing of the Association members through stewardship in the country and Diaspora should form the main focused of the group.
He appealed to government and spirited individuals to support them towards revamping all the nomadic schools in the country to end hostilities and ignorance of its members .
Suleiman stated that the Fulani are not the only tribes in Nigeria that are committing the crime of kidnapping ,banditry ,there are all the ethnic nationality especially the Igbo ,Yoruba but today it has extended across all tribes so how can we get out of the predicament .
He called on the Fulani parents to train their children in a manner that would promote national unity ,and given them education that will help to solve all this evils tendency in the society .
The National Secretary of the body,Alh .Ibrahim Abdullahi stressed that they form themselves into association that would concentrate on the education of their children/wards .
“We are focusing on rebuilding the confidence in new dawn on how to mobilize all members through outreach to build schools ,hospitals and vocational skills acquisition training centers across the 36 States of the federation .
He noted the association built computers training center in Kogi ,grazing reserve and nursery ,primary and Senior secondary schools from SSS1-2 including Kwara state .
The house of representatives is seeking to raise the minimum qualification for journalists in the country to bachelor’s degree or higher national diploma (HND) in journalism or other related courses.
The proposal is contained in the Nigerian Press Council Amendment Bill 2019 sponsored by Francis Agbo, the lawmaker representing Ado/Ogbadigbo/Okpokwu federal constituency.
The bill which has passed first reading and is slated for second reading seeks to amend some sections of the Nigerian Press Council Act Cap N128 LFN 2004.
The bill provides that anyone seeking to practice journalism in Nigeria must “hold a first degree, Higher National Diploma certificate or its equivalence in Journalism, Media Art or Communication from any higher institution in Nigeria or elsewhere”.
According to the bill, if an individual has a first degree in any other course, “he shall within five years obtain a postgraduate certificate in Journalism, Media Art, Communication or related field from any higher institution in Nigeria or elsewhere”.
Andrew Agbese, media aide to Agbo, said the bill will redefine the journalism practice and curtail quackery in the profession.
“The Bill has aroused interest in the media, given the extent quacks and fakes have infiltrated the industry, bringing the image of journalists to an all-time low in Nigeria,” he said in a statement.
“The Bill, when passed into law will address these challenges by redefining and refining the media industry and by extension, strengthening democracy and hence the need to define who a journalist is, what qualification qualifies him to be a journalist, and stipulates punishment for defaulters and quakes.”
An aspirant for the Mangu/Bokkos federal constituency, Hon. Akims Mamot James is set to graduate the first set of his catering school scholarship.
He announced this in a press release he signed and made available to our correspondent in Jos, Plateau state.
This, he said was because of the passion he nurse for the less privileged and particularly the vulnerable girl-child in the society.
In what he calls ” Safe the girl child by A GANI A KASA MOVEMENT” he stressed it Mark’s another success recorded in his political career in which 15 girls from Mangu and Bokkos towns are trained under his scholarship scheme.
This, he added, will enable them have a coordinate future that is self sustainable and making them fit to live for themselves, even as he drew the attention of other philanthropists to give back to the society.
The girls where pick accross Mangu/Bokkos federal constituency and were fully sponsored with both accommodation, feeding, stipends to ease and make learning and living during the program a comfortable one.
The Beneficiaries will be inducted into becoming chefs and also them automatically suitable for employment or even become employers of labour as a result of their handworks.
Some parents of the beneficiaries were excited by the gesture as they say it was a thing of Joy that such a burden was taken off them by the young man.
Governor Simon Bako Lalong has praised the Federal Government for its support to the Plateau State University Bokkos (PLASU) which has made the Institution one of the fastest growing in the country.
Governor Lalong was speaking during the inauguration of the new Senate Building and Faculty of Health Science complex executed by the Tetfund.
Governor Lalong said the inauguration of the new facilities reinforces the existing strong partnership between TETFUND and Plateau State Government in the development of tertiary education in the State.
He said the projects which are within the 2019 High Impact Intervention initiative where PLASU was selected as a beneficiary for the North Central Zone, will go a long way in boosting teaching and learning at the University.
He said “although many tertiary institutions across the country lobbied very hard to be considered for the projects, PLASU was very fortunate to be given this privilege owing to our good relationship with the ES TETFund who is a son of Plateau;
the Hon. Minister of Education who is a friend of Plateau and my personal friend; as well as President Muhammadu Buhari who has proved beyond reasonable doubt that Plateau has a special place in his heart”.
He said what this gesture has shown that for education in Nigeria particularly at the tertiary level to be taken to a desirable level, the three tiers of Government must collaborate and work together.
As a Government, we shall continue to play our part by funding education to develop manpower and infrastructure that will ensure a good learning environment.
He also spoke about the ongoing strike assuring that his administration is doing everything possible to fulfill its obligations to the staff.
“We are aware of the ongoing strike by some Unions in the University for reasons bordering on earned allowances for which government has already approved the sum of N100 million as part payment. Let me assure the University Council, Management, Unions, and students that we are sparing no effort to ensure that the issues are resolved so that academic activities are restored without further delay” he said.
He also intimated the TETFund Executive Secretary that the Government has since commenced the construction of a Teaching Hospital for the University cited at one of our Legacy projects in Shendam. Very soon, work will be completed at the facility to provide a training ground for students that will be admitted to the new Faculty of Health Sciences.
While inaugurating the projects, Executive Secretary Tetfund, Prof. Elias Bogoro said the interventions were carried out in line with the determination of the Federal Government to improve tertiary education in the country particularly in State Universities.
He disclosed that although PLASU was considered for the projects on merit, the personal enthusiasm and intervention of Governor Simon Lalong at the highest level ensured that all necessary approvals and funding were given for the execution of the projects.
Bogoro also maintained that attention will also be given to manpower training and acquisition of modern scientific and research equipment for the new Faculty of Health Sciences which will go a long way in producing high quality manpower for the nation’s health system.
Vice Chancellor of the Plateau State University Prof. Yohanna Izam said the University has been taken to greater heights with the inauguration of the new infrastructure and the ongoing construction of others.
He thanked Governor Lalong for his commitment to making sure that PLASU takes a leading position in the country’s University system having revived it from a state of comatose on assuming office in 2015.
Izam also paid special tribute to Prof. Bogoro for his favourite disposition to the Plateau State University which he said has put his name in gold as far as the history of the Institution is concerned.
As the crisis bedeviling the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Pankshin local government of Plateau state following the shady conduct of the LG primary,the leading chairmanship aspirant of the under APC,Rotshak Gideon Yokden has disassociated himself from the Purported meet held with his supporters at the Old Government House .
As he said the meeting is not with his consent and without his knowledge hence didn’t have anything to do with him and his teeming supporters.
This is contained in press statement dated 9th February,2022 , signed by leading chairmanship aspirant of Pankshin LG Rotshak Gideon and made available to this medium in Jos, plateau state.
In the statement he said my attention has been surprisingly drawn to a purported “Stakeholders meeting” with APC aggrieved members, particularly those who were denied their mandates during the APC chairmanship primary elections.
The meeting which was said to have held at Old Government House, Jos, Plateau state is entirely without my consent and those of my teeming supporters.
I therefore, disassociate myself from the said meeting and wish to state in clear and unambiguous terms that my case has since been entertained in a competent court of jurisdiction and shall continue should my conditions to the defendants are not granted as requested by the defendant for “out of court settlement”.
By this, I urge all my teeming supporters to disregard any news carrying my name or any other, said to have been in the meeting on behalf of the aggrieved APC members of Pankshin LGA.
I hold your support to me before, during and after the election in high esteem and I shall not for any reason, take any sensitive decisions of attending such an important meeting without your knowledge.
Let say in clear terms that I remain a committed, loyal and dedicated APC member and I shall continue to explore every peaceful means in settling my grievances.
The Officer Commanding 3rd Armour Division Rukuba , plateau state has advised the warring tribes of Irigwe and Fulani’s of Bassa Local Government of plateau state have been dagger draw against one another for a while now to sheath their sword and embraced peace.
As he said peace is priceless which no meaningful development can’t be achieved under the atmosphere of Killings and destruction of properties.
Major General Ibrahim Ali who doubled as the Commander Operation Save Haven (OPSH), security outfit created to maintain peace in Plateau and it environ,stated this in his speech during the “First Irigwe and Fulani’s Youth peace Summit held at the Lamonde Hotel, Jos ,plateau state on the 17th February,2022.
General Ibrahim Ali lamented the constant want on killings that continued on abated between brothers the irigwe and Fulani’s who had coexisted together for a long time,but suddenly wake up to discover that they are dagger draw against one another for whatever reasons.
He pleaded with the two groups Fulani’s and the Irigwe to make sincere and honest promise that this Youth peace Summit organized by the Operation Save Haven (OPSH)to sensitize and educate the two communities on the need for peaceful co-existance, will help to put an end to the sporadic attack between the two natives in Bassa Local Government.
He further stressed that the Youth of Irigwe and Fulani’s in Bassa should not allowed attack of any kind either Political , Ethics or religion to destroy their corporate existence with one another who they have been living together for years like brothers.
He further said as Youth you are the most powerful vessels for progress ,they can also be use to destroy the country ,use to repaired it in whatever way they choose to.
One of the resources person who spoke at the summit ,Dr.Abdulsalem Salis identify one of the causes of crisis to include claim by groups that his religion is superior than the other.
Salis said that every man is equal before God , Allah irrespective of your religious affiliation Muslims or Christians.
He Said everybody has his pace, it’s when we didn’t respect each other’s space , there is bound to be problem and advised the Fulani’s and the Irigwe to learn to respect each other’s space for peace to reign.
The second speaker at the Irigwe and Fulani’s Youth peace Summit, Nuhu Zaka Bako decried plateau state which was hitherto the home of peace and tourism suddenly metamorphosis Into the home of pieces and terrorism as brothers turned against themselves.
There was question and answer section where the participants were given the opportunity to ask questions and the resource Persons given room to provide answer to the question or questions
Not fewer than Two Hundred Youths from both Fulani’s and Irigwe youth attended the peace summit .
Governors under the auspacies of Northern Governors’ Forum has felicitated with the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Hajiya Aisha Buhari as she celebrate her 51st birthday.
Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Plateau State Simon Bako Lalong in a congratulatory message said the Forum rejoices with the mother of the nation on the special day as it calls for special recognition of her efforts to impact the lives of Nigerians particularly women and children.
Lalong said the First Lady has over the years remained consistent and committed in initiating various programmes that have direct impact on the most vulnerable persons in society.
He said her pet project the Future Assured Programme has done a lot in empowering women and youths in all parts of the country as well as carried out humanitarian interventions to victims of crises and other natural disasters.
Governor Lalong also praised the the First Lady for giving support to the Northern Governors Forum in the efforts to address the Almajiri phenomenon, poverty, diseases and humanitarian needs of IDPs across the region and the nation at large.
He also acknowledged the leadership and mentoring capacity of the First Lady which has resonated with the First Ladies of various States through their various pet programmes that are equally making impact on the lives of the citizens.
The Northern Governors Forum wished the First Lady good health, God’s protection and wisdom to continue to stand up for the weak and vulnerable in society.
In another development, Governor Simon Bako Lalong has received nominees of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) Senior Executive Course 44 at the Government House Rayfield Jos with a charge for them to use their period of study to advance solutions in improving Local Government administration in Nigeria.
Governor Lalong told the nominees that they are coming to Plateau State at a time when the State is enjoying greater peace and stability as well as an increase in visitors and investors.
He said the theme of the Course which is “Strengthening Local Governance in Nigeria: Challenges, Options and Opportunities” is very apt because the Local Government system in Nigeria has been dwindling due to many issues.
The Governor explained that this was why he was among the few Governors to grant full autonomy to the Local Governments in Nigeria after series of engagements with stakeholders.
He emphasized the importance of taking back governance to the people at the grassroots through strengthening the tier of Government that has the closest proximity to them.
Lalong assured the nominees that the Government of Plateau State will continue to do everything possible to make their stay at the institute very comfortable, urging them to use the opportunity to discover the true Plateau State that is reputed for Peace, Tourism and Hospitality.
Acting Director General of the Institute, retired Brig. Gen. Chukwuemeka Udaya thanked the Governor for his constant support to the Institute and his participation in its engagements.
He said Governor Lalong has worked hard to restore peace to Plateau State which has made NIPSS course participants very comfortable and eager to come to the State unlike in years past.
Udaya also disclosed that so far, 41 nominees have indicated interest in taking part in golf as an extra curricular activity because of the support and passion that Governor Lalong has demonstrated in developing the sport in the State and Nigeria as a whole.
Governors under the auspacies of Northern Governors’ Forum has felicitated with the Governor of Kaduna State Mallam Nasir El-rufai as he marks his 62nd birthday 16th Feb 2022.
In a message to felicitate with the Governor, Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Plateau State Simon Bako Lalong described Mallam El-rufai as a patriotic Nigerian whose zeal for peace, progress and development has been evident in all his activities including the governance of Kaduna State since coming to office in 2015.
Lalong said Mallam El-rufai has made significant contributions to the development of the Northern Region and Nigeria at large by playing key roles in various assignments that have shaped policies in the country.
He acknowledged the doggedness of Governor El-rufai in confronting the security challenges in Kaduna State by remaining firm in dealing with criminals who have been terrorising innocent citizens in recent times.
Governor Lalong also appreciated Mallam El-rufai for not only providing suitable environment for the meetings of the Forum in Kaduna, but also making valuable contributions on various issues as well as heading critical committees set up by the Forum.
While wishing him more years of good health, God’s protection and wisdom, Lalong charged Governor El-rufai to sustain his efforts in bringing development to Kaduna State and Nigeria at large.
Skemishes that would have snowball to killing and destructions of properties was today 16th February,2022 averted with quick intervention of the men of OPSH who deployed their security might instantly.
According to press release dated 16th February 2022,signed by the military information of OPSH Major lshaku Takwu and made available to this medium read in part:
Operation SAVE HAVEN received a distress call on civil unrest that ensued between Fulani herders and miners at Yelwa Zangam general area of Jos North LGA in the early hours of Tuesday 15 February 22. Also, in the late hours of same day, a vehicle conveying passengers was attacked along road Jos-Jingir.
He further add that on getting the information, mobilize it Troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN swiftly responded to both incidents and brought the situation under control. Unfortunately, one person was killed and another injured at the mining site. On the unfortunate attack on commuters, three persons lost their lives, 2 other passengers sustained varying degree of injuries and 6 others were rescued.
While condemning the violence, the Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, Maj Gen Ibrahim Ali commiserated with the families of the victims of the unfortunate incidents. While assuring that everything would be done to bring perpetrators of the violence to book, General Ibrahim Ali urges law abiding citizens to remain calm as troops are already on the trail of the perpetrators of the attacks.
He said the public will keep posted on the development.
National Association of Mwaghavul Students (NAMS) has crowned Hon.Akims Mamot James “Ngu Bam Gurum Mu” Mwaghavul In recognition of his selfless to Mwaghavul nation.
The award which is translated to mean “Helper of Humanity” is the first of it’s kind in the History of the Mwaghavul speaking people of Plateau state, was conferred on the young politician by the students.
The President of NAMS, comrade Zughum Fabulous said ” I have never seen a youth who never relent in service to humanity like Prince Hon.Akims Mamot James. He has touch lifes positively while I was growing, I have prayed to meet him and it came to pass today.
“That I am privileged to identified with this iconic leader and also an ambassador of humanitarian services, I hereby on behalf of NAMS, present him for this deserving award”
The distinguished personality has continue to recieved award of good deeds and more of such laurels beckons , he added.
While congratulating him on the well deserved award, he pledged the body’s unflinching support to the “Captain of A Gani a Kasa Movement “
The People of Plateau North in Plateau state has commended the timely aspiration of “Kizito Dankat Gukas for Governorship in 2023”; under the aegies of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Plateau state.
This is as the receipt of the Governorship aspirant for 2023 General Election Kizito Gukas received a boost following the successful meeting of the Plateau northern zonal meeting of major stakeholders of his campaign train.
The meeting which drew wards, local governments and the zonal leader of the six local government areas in the zone, saw each of the leaders pledging their total commitments for the actualisation of the aspirant’s ambition in the party’s primaries and eventual election.
The meeting which was fortunate to have Mr. Kizito Gukas in attendance, also saw a handful of leaders from the central and southern zones; who came to lent their support to the gathering.
In his welcome remarks, Mr
Kizito Gukas was emphatic when he expressed that his decision was bound out of his love for the once peaceful state and his desire to build on the relative peace which was being witnessed.
According to him, it was one thing for a person to indicate interest for the state’s plum job and again its another thing to consider if such a person is capable.
He added that he has plans to transform Plateau to its enviable status as “home of peace and tourism”, which when achieved, will open doors to investments considering the facts that Plateau is rich in all aspects of human and material endeavors.
Mr. Kizito Gukas a teacher and an administrator further stressed that his administration, when given the mandate, won’t punish the people with unnecessary taxation because the state has all it takes to generate its revenue and channel same to its developmental needs.
He appealed to other aspirants to ensure the game was played in accordance to the rules since its “not a matter of do or die”
He promised to unveil his blueprint which will further assure the people that his dreams for the state were genuine and in the best interests of the state and the country at large.
The aspirant pledged to continue where incumbent governor, Simon Lalong stopped adding that “he has done his best” and the people must must not loose sight of this and he should be commended.
Earlier, the northern zonal leader, Hon Yohana Arum Izam said he and other stakeholders carefully and painstakingly came up with the ward leaders and he was sure they are the team to deliver the aspirant when the need arise.
He added that Kizito Gukas was an acceptable aspirants and Plateau people are only waiting for the leaders to unveil to the state; and the unveiling will not take long for it to be done.
Describing his principal as a detribalise or religious bigot as is noticeable in the composition of the zonal team, insisting that name “Kizito Dankat Gukas ” is peace in its self.
Highlights of the event saw ward leaders from Riyom, Barkin Ladi, Jos south, north and east as well as Bassa LGAs pouring enconium on Gukas and pledging to work assiduously for his emergence as sole candidate and eventual success at the polls.
The Executive Chairman of Langtang North Local Government Council ,Hon. Joshua Ubandoma Laven has commended Governor Simon Bako Lalong visionary leadership of constructing flyover bridge at British American Junction linking the University Teaching Hospital ,JUTH, to discongest the traffic logjam in the area that has hitherto be night mare to those plying the road.
As the Executive Chairman of Langtang North LG commended the journalist for their relentless roles in shaping Plateau state Politics by extension Nigeria as a whole.
The chairman who PDP, was speaking during his parley with Media Executives ,in Jos ,Hon.Ubandoma Laven applauded the positive contributions of journalists in shaping the politics in Nigeria .
He said ,” I can’t imaging seeing journalists going through harsh economic situation during the present regime when where they work without enjoying the dividends of democracy.
Joshua Ubandoma disclosed that the role play by media in promoting the tenets of democracy can’t be overemphasized ,we see that they have added beauty to his being popularity as council chairman in Nigeria and across the globe custody of their objective reportage.
He reiterated that what drew him closer to journalists in Plateau state in building cordial working relationship which he has enjoyed for over the years through objectivity and balanced reports .
Hon. Ubandoma decried the introduction of cabals into the Nigeria politics of governance by appealing to government at all level to carry everyone along .
According to him ,the autonomy granted the local governments in Nigeria is just a paper work under the APC regime ,because if without the intervention of the Nigeria media the whole exercise will turn into mirage “.
Joshua Laven revealed that the insecurity in Plateau state is nolonger news if the state and Federal government took proactive measure the way and manner we raised alarm that some strength people are planning to attacks Tarok nation which was aired and many innocent souls were safe .
However, I have first hand information of purported plan ahead which today many councils are victims when we kept discussion it as the security meetings and nothing was done about it .
He called on citizens to support Lalong administration as he is gradually introducing people oriented projects that can touch the lives of the people of the state .
Laven urged the federal government of Nigeria to allow freedom of information to flow under the present democracy not to allow the country democracy collapse under his watch,he maintained.
There has been palpable disquet in the camp of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Plateau State chapter, just as massive defections looms ahead of the forthcoming 26th February, 2022 bye-election into Bassa/Jos-North Federal Constituency, by some aggrieved chieftains of it.
A close source in Hon. Suleiman Yahaya-Kwande’s camp of the APC, confided in this medium that their boss, many other party excos and members within Jos-North and Bassa LGA will soon defect out of the party.
The APC has on 1 & 2 February, 2022 held a bye-primary election to fill in the vacant seat of Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency, where Hon. Suleiman Yahaya-Kwande, faulted subversion of his lawful votes against Hon. Abbey Aku, the immediate past commissioner of commerce and industry by the electoral committee.
According to Kwande’s close aide, they have appealed the, “wrong done to us, but we learnt that the seat of power within the state is still insisting that its anointed aspirant must be fielded.”
“I am telling you that massive defection looms in the Jos-North and Bassa chapter of the APC, and this is sequel to the fall out of the bye-primary election, where our valid votes were subverted.
“Our principal is one of the founding members of the APC, he has won the primary but the power that be is rooting for an unpopular anointed candidate of the Governor,” he alleged.
The source said Kwande’s popularity is glaring, that despite heavy Government pressure, intimidation of delegates, and monetary inducements, yet Kwande who hails from Jos-North virtually won the primary election.
He said pressure has been mounted on their boss, and they have widely consulted, “soon we will make known to the constituents our position, but defection is imminent.”
He said it is possible for them to defect to the PRP, to support it’s flag-bearer.
Our correspondent reports that Gwani Muhammad Adam, another chieftain of the APC, has alongside teeming supporters defected to the People’s Redemption Party (PRP), on the premise that they are been impressed to let go his aspiration to vye for the vacant seat of Bassa Jos/North Federal Constituency, under the APC.
The APC has recently suffered another massive defection few days back as the immediate past chairman,State chapter Letep Daban and his over One Thousand teeming supporters abandoned the ruling APC ,to People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Happy with the decision of the Senate President over the siting of Nigeria Law School in Plateau state,Governor Simon Bako Lalong has welcomed the decision of the Nigerian Senate to create a Campus of the Nigerian Law School in 6 state including plateau the passed Bill amending the Legal Education Act to create 6 new campuses across the country passed second reading.
Lalong said the decision by the Senate is highly commendable as it will further strengthen the training of Nigerian legal professionals and reduce the challenges faced by law graduates in attending the Law School which is a prerequisite for call to the Bar.
He said “I strongly commend the Senate for this decision and the choice of Plateau State as a host of one of the new campuses. This is a right choice considering the fact that Plateau has been a leading producer of lawyers in Nigeria with the University of Jos churning out many graduates who have gone ahead to make the nation proud in the Bench, the Bar and other sectors. Only recently, we finalised plans to establish a new Law Faculty at the Plateau State University Bokkos to expand the training of lawyers in the State and nation at large”.
While expressing optimism that President Muhammadu Buhari will not hesitate to give his assent to the amended law, the Governor assured that Plateau State is ready to host the new Law School Campus as it is a home of learning supported by good weather, hospitable people and enough infrastructure to support the Institution.
Lalong commended Senate President Dr. Ahmad Lawan, the leadership and entire members of the Senate; Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters; as well as the Sponsor of the Bill Senator Smart Adeyemi for doing the needful to pass the amendment creating the new Law School campuses.
The Governor is also happy that the efforts of his administration in working assiduously to restore peace to the State are yielding positive results as Plateau is now substantially peaceful which has continued to attract not only investors and visitors, but Federal projects and Institutions.
It could be recalled that the Federal Government last year approved the establishment of the Federal Polytechnic Ny’ak, Shendam; Karl Kumm University Vom; ANAN University Kwall; and most recently the Federal University of Education Pankshin.
The judicial Staff Union Of Nigeria Plateau state chapter has issued 21 days notice to the state government to implement the agreement he entered the union that make it suspended it months of strike embarked upon some few months back.
The notice of the unions strike dated 7th September,2022 , address to the chief registrar of the state High Court and signed by the Secretary of the union, Comrade Pasi Ishaya.
According to the statement , it said the union decision to resume the ealier suspended strike is the failure of the management to yield to the demands of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) Plateau State branch.
Recalled that union had approached and engaged the management of the judiciary to negotiate the pending peculiar allowance which has been in place and other sundry issues since 2014 that affects the performance of the judiciary in Plateau State. The management demanded for a backup documents to facilitate the implementation of the allowances and same were provided.
Upon receipt of the said back-up documents provided, the management again demanded that they need to verify the extend of implementation of the allowance from various states where a visit in that respect, To: Bauchi, Jigawa, Kano, Nasarawa and Benue States.
It is interested to note that the states visited have since implemented and are paying this allowances long before now. The report of the visit were submitted to the management with aim of following suit, yet the management remain adamant and the union had to issue notice of strike to commenced on Thursday 9th December 2021, whereas the management pleaded with the union to suspend the intending strike to give way for negotiation and committee was setup to negotiate, dialogue and bring out the detailed implementation of the union demand.
After due consultation and intervention by some stakeholders, the union graciously suspended the intended strike.
The committee was constituted and commenced sitting at the instance of the management with a mandate to negotiate and bring out a detailed implementation of the unions demand.
The union however, sincerely commends efforts of the negotiating committee in trying to resolve the issue at stake.
However, Its disheartening to note that, after a long awaiting period the management informed the negotiation committee that they have nothing to offer on the demands of the union, With the information provided to the negotiating committee (i.e. the management side) can’t proceed with the negotiation.
Consequent upon the above narration, it is clear that the management has demonstrated high sense of insincerity, unwillingness and with no intention to foster the harmonious working relationship with Union and the management of Plateau State Judiciary.
Pursuant to the above, the union has no option than to issue a 21 days’ notice of strike action to the Plateau State Judiciary effect from Monday the 7th day of February 2022.
There is pulpable panic in the camp of All Progressive Congress (APC) plateau state chapter as People Democratic Party (PDP) urgued the appeal court sitting at Plateau state division to cancel the earlier conducted local government election conducted by Plateau State Independent Electorial Commission (PLASIEC) in the 17 local government area of the state on the 9th October,2021.
The party equivocally said there is no know law past or present that empowered the electoral umpire PLASIEC saddled with the responsibility to conduct elections in the local government to unilaterally exclude any Political party from participating in the Conduct of an election.
The party maintained this stand today 7th February,2022 during the hearing on the matter between Plateau state Independent Electorial Commission (PLASIEC)Vs PDP Over the exclusion of the party for participating in local government elections in Appeal Court in Jos, plateau state capital.
PDP Represented by it Counsel EG Pwjok Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) make the appeal when the case come up for hearing at the Appeal Court.
PDP who is an Appellant in the matter, however cited relevant constitution to buttressed his augment “Abubakar Vs INEC,2020 Nigeria weekly law report.
He further emphasize that the electorial body PLASIEC has no power know in the constitution which gives him right to disqualify any Political party for any reasons to participate in an election .He further stressed that PLASIEC can’t authoritatively point out any law in Plateau state,and by extension Nigeria to back his action.
In an interview with this medium, Edward Pwajok pointed out that it is ironic that the Commission who disqualified PDP on flamsy excuses that it did not follow guidelines in constituting it exco is allowing the Party to participate on national election, the action he described as absurd.
He described the state Electorial Commission as talking with the two sides of the month.
He Condemned the issue raised by the Respondent Counsel Garba Pwull(SAN) urging the court to consider the right of the 3rd party in this matter who are not a party to the suit that will be affected are the ones that conducted 9th October,2021 election and won they will be affected.
And described the excuses of the Respondent as medicine after death that on eve of the election 8th October,2021,this same court bluntly refused an injunction brought before it to stop the Conduct of the council’s poll pending the resolves of the matter.
They should have put all that Into consideration before conducting the 9th October,2021 council’s election when the case was still pending in court.
He further cited the constitution to back up his claim.
On his part,the Respondent Plateau state Independent Electorial Commission PLASIEC, represented by it Counsel Garba Pwull (SAN) urged the court to dismiss the appeal brought by the Appellant in entirety for umeritorous.
Pwull said the cancellation of the entire election conducted on the 9th on the said date, will affect the 3rd party who are not part of the suit, who conducted election and won.
The court however adjourned the matter for judgement the date to be communicated to the party’s
Hon.Ubandoma Laven the embattled chairman Langtang LG the Appeal Court in Plateau state division had reserved judgement to a later day that will be communicated to the parties on the matter.
The matter which came up today 7th February,2022 is for hearing on the matter as the Appellant PLASIEC urged the court to dismiss the Appeal of the Respondent hon.ubandoma Laven for lacking in merits.
The Appellant Plateau State Independent Electorial Commission, who is speaking through it Counsel barrister Nantok Dashua said the claim that his tenure Hon.Ubandoma as the chairman of Langtang North LG has not expired as at the time the commission advertised to conduct council’s elections in the whole LG including Langtang North does not hold water.
According to barrister Nantok,the Respondent know fully well that his tenure as the council’s chairman has not expired ,but when the Appellant PLASIEC was adverting the seats of the chairmen of the 17 LG in the state he went ahead to purchase the nomination form.
Nantok further add that the action of the Respondent is after thought because he had already indicated interest to re-run for the chairmanship Election and even bought a form before he realized that his tenure has not expired.
He argued the court to over turn the Plateau state High Court judgement which hold that the office of the Respondent Ubandoma is still running as at the time PLASIEC advertised for the council’s elections.
On his part,the Respondent Hon.Ubandoma Laven Represented by his Counsel H N Ugwala urgued the court to restore his client back to his chairmanship sit in Langtang North LG because by the constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria, Political office holders tenure continue counting the day he is sworn into office.
But the case of Hon.Ubandoma
is slightly different as he was not sworn Into office following tribunal case which almost encroach Into his tenure for close to one year.
He however auged the court to strike out the Appeal filed by the Appellant for lacking in merits.
The matter has been adjourned for judgement, the date will be communicated to the parties.
The People Democratic Party(PDP) ,the opposition party in Plateau state has been advised to face her plethora of problems at it’s disposal that are currently begging for attention .
As it seeking to remove the pebbles in another person’s eyes left the log of wood in her eyes.
Governor Lalong is blamed for everyone’s failure not to perform their domestic responsibility like a married man not satisfying his woman in Bed in linked to Governor Simon Bako Lalong these days.
The opposition working with aggrieved members of the ruling party have been feeding the gullible on social media of a certain Government candidate Joseph Abbey, who was a former commissioner of this government.
The PDP propaganda machine went to town with this skewed narrative on the heels of a tie between Hon Yahaya Kwande and Joseph Abbey who were engaged in a free democratic contest devoid of Governor Lalong’s interference, If Lalong had a candidate, there win be any contest in the first place.
The PDP & Some disgruntled elements were scheming to whip up sentiments that border on religion to sway the gullible to vote against the APC, you see unpatriotic comments from the data boys of PDP insinuating Abbey as a Christian is Lalong candidate and that APC must give the ticket to Kwande who is a Muslim, with the intent that they will have a smooth sail at the secondary elections by going to town with their predictable campaign slogan, Lalong has given the state to the caliphate, APC is Hausa/Fulani Party, Lalong is son of Buhari etc. (No substance in their campaign but blackmail, divide & rule and sentiments)
The politics of religion and ethnicity has eaten deep into the fabric of our society that opposition parties and opposition within are now using it as a bait to command political advantage.
You can see some unfortunate fellows saying they will do anti-party at the secondary elections because it is Christians that emerged as flag bearers in both APC & PDP, How is that Lalong’s fault?
Ahead of 2023, I can see so many Campaign groups and aspirants coming out to say they are “Government Candidate”
there is nothing like Government candidate as Governor Lalong has not endorsed anyone for the Job at little Rayfield.
everyone is trying to get his blessings as the leader and father of the party, at the moment he wishes all the contestants well, especially those that came to him to intimate him about their ambition.
if they call you a Government candidate, PLEASE RUN, they are trying to give a dog a bad name just to hang it.
No fewer than 20 gubernatorial aspirants on the platforms of both the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have indicated their interests to succeed the incumbent Governor of Plateau State, Mr Simon Lalong whose second term in office expires in 2023. The political temperature in the state is gradually being raised with anxiety coupled with delve political moves in various quarters, while aspirants have started traversing the state for consultations with various stakeholders.
The scheming to succeed the incumbent in the state is coming against the background of unique history in the state. It is obvious that since the inception of this dispensation in 1999, no incumbent government has been able to install a successor. As the second term of Governor Lalong is gradually coming to an end, political observers have been asking if the governor can break the jinx and successfully install his
successor. Another puzzle is: who will be his anointed candidate among those who have indicated their interests so far?
Going down the memory lane, Senator Joshua Dariye, who governed the state from 1999 to 2007, could not hand over to the person of his choice on the platform of the PDP. Various interest groups ganged up to frustrate his plan in this regard.
There was a huge opposition against him. The situation was so tensed he had to abandon the platform for another political party. Yet, he couldn’t make any head way. Senator Jonah Jang won the 2007 election.
Senator Jang had a good time in office as the governor of Plateau State with a solid political structure. His achievements while in the office are reverence points to date. But despite this, he failed to plant a successor.
His choice of the late Senator Gyang Pwajok as the gubernatorial candidate of the PDP did not go down well with certain stalwarts and members of his party who opposed his choice of successor from Plateau North which produced him.
For this reason, there was a huge and thick opposition against him. The party was fragmented, some notable members of PDP kicked against his succession plan. Before the election, some jettisoned PDP and openly worked against the candidate of the party, while a good chunk of others stayed back to sabotage the party within.
The ability of the late Senator Pwajok to govern the state was not in doubt. He was an intelligent young man and played a formidable role in Jonah Jang’s administration. But his albatross was being from the same local government with Jonah Jang. Governor Lalong attested to this when he openly declared that the wrong political calculation of Jang gave him victory while receiving his certificate of return at Hill Station Hotel in 2015.
Though there is no written agreement to back up zoning arrangement among the three senatorial zones in the state, it is sacrosanct and strictly adhered to. Currently, it is the turn of the central zone to produce the next governor, hence the reason no aspirant from both the North and South has shown interest.
Among the array of aspirants that have shown interest to contest the gubernatorial primary in APC, it is not yet apparent who Governor Lalong wants to support for the ticket of the party. Observers opine that the incumbent is being careful and trying to avoid the pitfall of his predecessors. His body language at the moment is causing hiccups while some members call it a pretentious posture.
Watchers of Plateau politics would want to see whether Governor Lalong would stand aloof and would also want to see whether he would throw his weight behind a private sector or a career politician or if he will allow the process to throw up the most popular candidate.
A former Nigeria Ambassador to Ukraine, Ambassador Ibrahim Kasai, said the governor is well-informed as a lawyer to know that imposition of a candidate might have undesirable effect on the party. “I know him very well he will not impose anyone on the state, his background would not allow him to do that,” he said.
In contrast to the Kasai’s position, a member representing Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, Yusuf Gagdi said that only the candidate that is chosen by the governor would be supported to succeed him in 2023.
He noted that the governor would consult widely with relevant stakeholders and bring out an acceptable candidate that would not be rejected by the APC as well as the people of the State.
Gagdi insisted the governor bringing a successor will ensure that “by the will of God that we have a governor that can determine and decide who succeeds him on the Plateau.”
A political analyst Dr Victor Danjuma said in Nigeria political context no governor or president will fold his arms and stand aloof over who succeeds him no matter how pious and democratic such a governor is.
“Governor Lalong holds the ace as far as APC in the state is concerned. He is in the full grip of the party. Those who could be considered as opponents within have been cut to size and some frustrated out of the party. He has the party in his palm, the bulk of delegates who will determine who pick the gubernatorial ticket are his cronies. So he has what it takes to determine who picks the ticket but who becomes the next governor of the state is a different ball game,” Danjuma said.
Another analyst who preferred to be anonymous declared this:” From the body language of Governor Lalong, especially over the recent political developments in the state, it is crystal clear that he will follow the tradition of other state governors in ensuring that his preferred candidate gets the party’s ticket.
“Let us be honest with ourselves. Who would not want him to prefer the person to take over from him? Who would not want a successor that would protect and consolidate his achievements? It is either he succeeds or is frustrated. Governor Lalong cannot be an exception in this regard. Moreover, there is an insinuation already that he is in support of this or that,” he said.
Though aspirants are trying to curry the favour of the governor for possible endorsement, a source close to the party told Sunday Tribune that there are aspirants and groups within the party working independently not minding the influence of the governor.
At the moment, those who have shown serious commitment and interest in the platform of APC are the Chief Executive Officer, Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN) Dr Patrick Dakur; former Dean Faculty of Law University of Jos, Professor Dakas C J.Dakas (SAN); the deputy governor of the state, Professor Sonny Tyoden; Garuba Paul (SAN); Senator Hezekiah Dimka; a retired Assistant Controller of Customs, David Dimka; and former Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Benue State, Nentawe Yilwatda, among others.
The question now is that who gets the nod of Governor Lalong for the gubernatorial ticket of APC? Sunday Tribune learnt that every one of the aspirants has notified the governor to contest for the primary and as well-received his blessing.
A source close to the governor disclosed that Lalong is determined to break the jinx by not only ensuring that a candidate of his choice emerges, but also that APC wins the 2023 governorship election in the state. He quickly dismissed the speculations in some quarters that the governor is standing aloof or planning to impose a candidate on the party.
“The governor is just being careful not to fall into the mistake of his predecessors. I can assure you that a strong candidate will emerge without much interference in the process,” said the source.
However, whoever picks the ticket will determine if the governor will be able to break the jinx or not. Sunday Tribune findings revealed that the wrong choice of candidate couple with poor performance have always robbed the previous incumbents of the chance to produce their successors.
Ahead 26th February 2023 bye Election in Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency,the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has affirmed the candidature of Hon.lsmaila Rukuba as it only candidate to run for the House of Representatives bye Election slated for 26 February,2023.
Rukuba promised to bring to end the sporadic Crisis that has bedeviled the Constituency and claimed lives and properties for sometimes now.
Hon. Rukuba made the promise in an interview with journalists after his emergence as African Democratic Congress (ADC) consensus candidate ahead house of representatives bye election for Jos North/Bassa Constituency held in Jos , plateau state.
The consensus candidate identified lack of understanding , suspicion and forgiveness as some of the ills that has not allowed the Constituency to leave in peace and harmony for close to a decade now.
He further promised to change the narrative under his watch as Representatives of the Constituency at the Federal House of Representatives.
Hon.lsmalia Rukuba who is the Founder of Non Governmental Organization (NGO) called “Zama Tare” meaning let leave together in peace an peace Advocate ambassador, said when he is member of the house,he will ensure that everybody are carry along irrespective of religion , tribal and Political lineage.
Those who grace the occasion are the electorates from Jos North and Bassa , representatives of INEC, ADC , National Coordinator Ananyo Arize , State Chairman of the Party in plateau state, Ibrahim Sabiu and the party National Secretary Baba Abdullahi.
In his speech,the party National Coordinator Anayo Arize advised the members of the party that work has just started, they should go all out and campaign for the party to take over from APC that has been rejected by the people of plateau,and by extension Nigeria.
And stressed that ADC is the the only choice for the people of Nigeria now because the other Political parties APC and PDP has been tested by Nigerians and failed abysmally.
He further advised them not to look at the size of the Party compared to PDP,and APC which their population size has cause them crisis all the time and they should capitalize on on it and clinch power
The immediate past commissioner of commerce and one of the aspirant for the All Progressive Congress APC, Jos North/ Bassa Federal House of representatives rerun, Hon Abbey Aku promised to extend olive branch for his co- aspirant .
As he promised to bring peace to the Constituency if he finally win the house of representatives because he is not mindful of the fact that jos North/bassa is the epicenter of crisis in the state.
Aku was speaking with journalists immediately after the counting and announcement of the primary bye election results held at Bassa local government of Plateau state.
Abbey said the primary of the election have come and gone, it’s time for the family of All Progressive Congress (APC)to close Rank and work with him for the party to win the house of representatives seat slated for 26th Feb,2022.
He hailed the Electorial body INEC for conducting transparent , Free and fair Elections that produced him the candidate of the party.
However,Hon Abbey Aku has be declared the winner of the primary election after he pulled 809 votes to beat his close opponent Suleiman Kwande who scored 74 votes one invalid vote and 888 total vote cast.
The chairman of the electoral Committee saddled with the responsibility of conducting the bye election Habu Ajah , argued all the party’s family to bury their misunderstatin to achieve the desire result.
It would be recalled that the party ,apc conducted it primary few days back which wasn’t concluded largely due to the fact that two of the candidates scored the same votes 344 apiece which gives room for the reschedule for rerun.
Sequel to the tie recorded by two aspirants for the jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency bye election by , Honourable Abbey Joseph Aku Honourable Suleiman Yahaya Kwande, the All Progressives Congress, APC, primary election for the Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency 26th February, 2022 bye- election , a rerun primary election has been scheduled for
Friday 4th February, 2022.
This is contained in a press release made available to this medium and signed by the publicity secretary of the party hon.sylvanous Namang .
According to the release,the Venue for the rerun is the Bassa Local Government Secretariat, Jebbu Bassa,
time is 10:00 a.m prompt.
Delegates who took part in the 1st and 2nd February,2022 primary election are to take note and participate in the rerun election accordingly.
The Independent National Electoral Commission and personnel of security agencies in the state are by this notice, invited to attend as observers of the exercise.
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Plateau state chapter has called Nigerians to raise against the All Progressive Congress (APC) Carnivores Administration that has bring the country economic and other facet of life to it lowest ebb.
As he warned the the nation Electorial umpire ,Independent National Electorial Commission (INEC)and it cohort the All Progressive Congress (APC) to please for the interest of peace and over 200 Million Nigerians that are languishing under the bad governance of president Buhari led APC Government to allow the will of the people prevail and conduct free fair and credible election.
The chairman Electorial Committee for the conduct of the party primary election for the House of Representatives to represent Bassa/Jos North federal Constituency of Plateau state Hon.Francise Orogu State this during the conduct of PDP primary held in Jos the state capital.
Hon.Francise called on INEC, and the ruling Party, APC, to free the citizens from their carnivore administration by ensuring that they didn’t subvert the election process at the detriment of the people of the state,and by extension Nigerians who are tired of the Party’s bad governance.
He decried that Plateau state is one of the many states of the federation facing the negative heat of APC’s administration ,and called on PDP to rally at one another as family , avoid making any further mistake , rather capitalize on the crisis bedeviling the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) and recapture power stolen from PDP through lies and deceit.
He stressed that the committee who are humans has done their best , urgued every loving member of the party to ignore the technical faults or errors they must have committed during the conduct of the primary to forge ahead and displaced the All Progressive Congress APC, Carnivores Government.
“PDP have taken a stage nation wide ,we are appealing to INEC,and APC in the name of Almighty God and Allah we all worship,save Nigerians and avoid anything that we further put the country into shame” .
“Let Nigeria decide what we are going through, enough is enough,he maintained.”
However,Hon Musa Agah who is the current serving member of the state house of assembly representing Bassa and Pengana emerged the winner of the primary by scoring total vote of 152 , as his closet revival Jonathan Dabo scored 127 vote, David Rancha scored 01 vote,01 invalid vote was recorded.
The total vote cast is 281.
In his acceptance speech, Musa Agah called on other contestants to rally with him to deliver the position of the house of representatives to the PDP.
The New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) has concluded arrangements to commence voters education ahead of 2023 general elections focusing more on educating the youths on their roles in elections and advising them not allow some desperate politicians use them to commit atrocious acts before, during and after the elections in.
The Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the party, Rev. Emmanuel Olorunmagba, made the disclosure to newsmen at the National Secretariat of the party in Abuja, Nigeria; Monday January 31, 2022 after a meeting with the National Secretariat Media Team.
He added that the Publicity Directorate of the party under his leadership “will reach the youths through the avenue they understand most and in the language they will easily flow with. We can’t just continue to watch other youths like us being so vulnerable that some politicians will continue to manipulate them using them as dirty weapons to perpetrate their nefarious ends.
“To be informed is to be reformed and to be uninformed is to be deformed. I can authoritatively say that the youths are more informed now, but there is need for more enlightenment and that is what we are about to set on track through the Publicity Directorate of our great party”.
He thanked the “National Chairman of the party, Dr. Boniface Okechukwu Aniebonam for always having the youths at heart and the free hand of operations.
“With the free hand we enjoy we will surely go all out to reach the youths and we invite interested people, groups and organisations to work with us, as it’s an enormous task,” he maintained.
The immediate commissioner of commerce and industry in Plateau state Hon.Abbey Aku , aspirant for Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency Bye -elections under the ambrella of APC has raised alarm over what he described perfected plans by the All Progressive Congress (APC) his party in plateau state to shortchange him and Rob him of the primary election victory.
As he said if something argent is not done to stop the under ground move by those who want to hijacked the party may spell doom for the APC in the forthcoming 2023 General election which is just by the corner.
Abbey was speaking in an interview with Journalists during the conduct of Bassa/Jos North Constituency Bye election held in Jos the Plateau state .
Hon.Abbey said he is not in doubt of his victory in the keenly contested election as he was leading his opponent Suleiman Kwande throughout the conduct of the exercise with 26 votes.
Abbey who commended the Committee for good job done, said when I went out to eat,my agent who was monitoring the ballot send me several text messages that I am closed to victory, I am taken by surprise when less than three minutes later, the results for the primary is announced by INEC, they said I scored 344 votes the same with Hon.Suleiman Kwande.
He called on the All Progressive Congress APC,and the independent Electorial Commission to intervene in the matter to avoid Political collateral damage in the party that can cause more harm in the party.
Abbey who said he is not comfortable with the outcome of the election results, further said as law abiding member of the party and it’s constitution,he will patiently wait for the out come of the decision of the National body of APC saddled with the responsibility to make final verdict on the matter.
He called on the party to do the needful and revert his earlier voters of 366 as his opponent Suleiman Kwande has 344.
On his part, Suleiman Kwande regretted the out come of the primary election which he said something that had come out crystal clear that he is at the verge of winning the election with wide margin, less than ten minutes they claimed the election is inconclusive the action he described as unfortunate.
He lamented his contributions to the growth an sustainance of the party in the state.
Barrister Niri Darong has advised Political parties in the country to avoid any mistakes and field credible candidate to avoid the repeat of what happened in Nigeria 2015 and 2019 Election that currently hunting the country.
As the law on independent candidate is yet to be passed,if Political party is not anticulate enough by fielding credible candidates,the electorates may be forced to vote in another unpopular candidate which the country is yet to come in terms with in the present administration.
Barr.Darong was speaking in an interview with Journalists recently in his office in Jos, plateau state capital .
The barrister advised the voters to come all out and vote for the candidate of their choice during Election ,and avoid flamsy excuses of l am too busy ,my vote will not count even if I vote ,they should go and waste the ballots papers and leave non remaining because is those leftovers ballot papers they us for Electorial fraud.
He called on the nation Electorial umpire Independent National Electorial Commission(INEC) and those at the corridor of constitutional amendment to pass into law, electorial bill that will dymstify the hitherto lucrative Political offices and make it less attractive which Political office holders are using as Conduit pipe to milk the nation dry.
Darong applauded the recent supreme court Judgement streamlining the role of the financial and crimes agencies (EFCC) as he described the judgement as landslide for instance kill, stealing and other crimes comes under universal law which is not suppose to be on the purview of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
So it’s common to witness the EFCC, investigating somebody or group of persons for stealing,you see the agencies investigating lawyer for communicating with judge that is not financial Crimes, non economic ,at best it’s a professional misconduct which suppose to be handled by the professional body saddled with the responsibility of discipline an earring lawyer like the (NBA).
You see EFCC,doing all manners of things that is not covered in their operations.
Anybody who is involved in failed contract, EFCC go after him ,they did not have the jurisdiction to investigate cheating related cases which is the jurisdiction of the Nigeria police force to do so.
He further added that National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) is to investigate drugs related matters,they can’t investigate stealing which is not their mandate.
I read the Supreme Court Judgement, they did a good job as he even went further by looking at the international instrument to pass his judgement,I Commend the apex court for the judgement.
Barrister Darong who is also one time Secretary of Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) Plateau state Branch said the recent withholding of assent on the controversial Electorial Bill by Mr President Mohammedu Buhari,it would have been one of the bills that would have put our Electorial system in the Political right part he stressed that the implications are enormous,the executive represent few, while the National Assembly have Advocated for “Direct” Primaries ,means they are speaking the mind of the majority of Nigeria.
“The reason is also because most of the Political parties in the country are now being control by the bigwigs .
” “Direct” Primaries will also help to add to the credibility of the election ,a situation where a candidate is scoring abysmally low in a delegate elections because the election is rigged speaks volume for the kind of Electorial system Nigeria is operating hence the need for credible system that can be seen to be rigging free.”
He stressed that when you have Direct Primaries it will give more credibility to the General Election.
Darong said Direct Primaries is the best thing that would have happened to Nigeria Electorial system ,” the president should not hold us as a country to ransom for refusing to assent to the proposed bill as the national assembly who are more in population than the executive are voted by us the electorates.
He lamented the way court Judgement are being flouted by mostly the power that be ,but warned those involved that sooner or later, nemesis will caught up with them when they are nolonger in position of authority.
But supported the initial proposition of the National Assembly and state house of assembly police .
“If we have police belonging to the state house and national assembly,the recent invasion of the Plateau state house of assembly during speakership imbroglio by Nigeria Police force last year wouldn’t have happened.”
“Now the embattled speaker of Plateau state house of assembly Nuhu Abok Ayuba have all his personal security men withdraw.”
“That we would have the police answerable to the house of assembly this wouldn’t have happened ,the clerk of the house of assembly knows his onus very well which is the reason he maintained his nutrality “.
” You can also remember vividly the action of the police in the 1st tenure of this administration of Mohammedu Buhari ,if they have their separate Police , that wouldn’t have happened.”
Under the Judiciary , barrister Niri said the court did not need the police to direct the court to obey order of the court.
” Ones the court passed judgement, everybody should obey that judgement ,if you are not satisfied by the judgement,you go on an Appeal ,you can apply for stay of execution in stead of putting law into your hands,and say to hell to everybody.”
“That is not the constitution those operating it sworn to defend ,that is not what the police who also subscribed to an oath sworn to .”
He warned those disobeying court order because they are in power today to be wary ,
” You think you can disobey the law today because you are in position, tommorow things may turn around ,and you may be at the receiving ends.”
He lamented some people in the corridor of power who is one-time a beneficiary of Court Judgement ,when he is not in power ,is now disobeying court order with impunity to show his strength.
He debunked the alleged contributions of lawyers to Election crisis in court as he further stressed that Court is not politians , they don’t determine Political parties run their affairs.
“What court do is to interpret party’s constitution guidelines , conduct of primary elections and Congress .”
“It’s not the business of the court ,you can cross carpet from one Political party to another, everybody have the freedom of association ,so people leave a political party and they are minority ,but still want to have their way, while the majority have their say.”
And advised the politians to always imbibe the spirit of being democratic ,as it’s not a do or die affairs.”
Niri however commended the recent punishment meted on some Judges who issued two conflicting order as their promotion where withheld for 2 to 3 years to serve as deterant to others,and added that the Nigeria Bar Association has also taken steps to discipline any lawyer or judge that involves in any shameful conduct.
He further advocated for speedy disciplinary measure not only for the judges but also the lawyers.
Barrister Niri cited instance of United States of America for the mere fact that lawyer made pronouncements that election was rigged, without waiting for disciplinary procedure,his license was suspended.
“If that happened in this country Nigeria, judges wouldn’t allowed politians to mess up with them.”
“When matter is bad, it’s bad , because politians know the case will go to court and nothing happened , they continued disturbing our courts ,the cases that shouldn’t get to court in the first place ,is dragged to court.”
Governor Bako Lalong has eulogised frontline 1st Republic politician, Chief Michael Audu Buba, Wazirin Shendam, whom Lalong said had played a pivotal role in the emergence of democracy in Nigeria and opened doors for many politicians in Plateau, the Middle Belt and Northern Nigeria.
Governor Lalong was speaking when he met with some family members of the late politician at the Government House Rayfield Jos, said the late politician was yet to be accorded the honour deserving of his personally and political achievements.
He recalled that Chief Michael Buba, one of the closest associates of the late Premier of the Northern Region, Sir Ahmadu Bello, was a member of the Northern House of Assembly where he became a Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Natural Resources under the then Northern Region.
During the nation’s independence era, he was variously appointed as the Northern Region’s Minister of Trade and Industry, as well as the Minister for Social Welfare and Cooperatives where he served creditably.
Lalong said the late political heavyweight played a key role in launching the then Plateau State into the political landscape of the Northern Region and Nigeria, as well as fought for rights of the people.
He told the family that the Government will ensure that his labour and sacrifice do go unrecognised by ensuring that he is given proper honour in Plateau State, the Northern Region and Nigeria at large for the role he played in the democratic journey of the country.
He urged the family to sustain the legacies of their father and also participate in politics in order to influence the lives of people like their father did during his time on earth.
Responding, a son of the late politician, Musa Michael Buba said they were happy for the invitation by Governor Lalong who is also the Chairman of the Northern Governors Forum, saying they remain proud of what their father did to mentor many young politicians and technocrats who have become great people in Plateau State and Nigeria as a whole.
He said the family appreciates the goodwill of Governor who has decided to give their father proper recognition and honour, many years after his death.
Michael Audu Buba, a prominent member of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) in Plateau State, was also an official member of the Northern People’s Congress (NPC) having served as the party’s regional secretary, Northern Region.
He was born in 1924, and hailed from Shendam Local Government Area of Plateau. He worked with the Lowland Native Authority as a Secretary and Councilor before he was elected into the Northern House of Assembly in 1951, and later became a member of the Nigerian House of Representatives in 1952.
More revelations is beginning to unfold at the on going trial of the alleged kidnapped and murder of the father of former Govenor of plateau state Joshua Chibi Dariye ,Pa Dariye.
The trial of the alledged Kidnappers and killer of the 93 years old Pa Dariye as he is popularly referred to entered the second day with continuation of hearing and presentation of witness.
Inspector Joseph Olarju who is witness in chief who was testifying , told the court that the Abubakar alias Buba in his, confessional statements , revealed to the police crack down investigation units that he operate under a syndicate as, a notorious kingpin and he admitted kidnappings Agboma Agara in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State ,also in Plateau State were they have committed many evil crime against humanity by kidnapping ,killing andbcollection of ransom if the family refused to pay their victim would be beating murdered .
Mr Abubakar Mohammed alias Buba whose confession reveal how they were hired, paid by one Jethro to kidnap late Pa Dariye even when ransom of 10 million naira was paid but we went ahead to killed Pa Dariye in Hok hill few kilometers from the Mushere village in Bokkos Local Government of Plateau state.
The Nigeria Police officer in charge of Intellent investigation Berau ,IRT,FIB an Evidence in Chief ,an IPO , Inspector Joseph Olarju has told the court his line of duties to investigate criminal offense and heinous crime like armed robbery ,kidnappings ,culpable homicide and act of terrorism and has spent 17years in service .
He identified and recognize all the defendants in the dock narrated how he got to know all the defendants through Buba confessional statement on their involved in kidnapping ,armed robbery,culpable homicide which was officially reported to the headquarters in Abuja and the case was assign to him with some of the team members on October 2020 involving one Mustapha Mohammad Alias Rutuma .
According to him ,Mustapha Mohammad are syndicate that specialist in kidnappings which a case of one first class chief kidnapped in a village in Kachia LG of Kaduna State by name Agboma Agara on the 19th Oct.2018 .
He explained that during the investigation Mustapha Mohammad was arrested in connection with the case and himself Mustapha Mohammad confessed to the series of his participation in many armed robbery ,kidnapping ,culpable homicide in Kaduna and its environs .
During the investigation Mustapha Mohammad mentioned the names of his gang members as alias Buba Dauda ,Nasiru Kachalla in connection with the Agboma Agar and furthermore,Mustapha Mohammad gave them the address of Buba in Bokkos LGA of Plateau State and they continued with his investigation and intelligent gathering of their criminal activities when swing into action to unravel the culprit .
Olarju further disclosed that on the 19th Feb 2021 ,the team embark on search for Buba as the perfected their investigation activities with the team members ,Inspt. Joseph Olarju ,Insp Musa Jafaru ,Insp.Bulama Mohammed ,Insp.Benarch Adejo ,Insp.Gift Inokela and Sqt Samuel Maiyaki .
We came to Jos on the 4th of April,2021with our suspect Mutapha Mohammad were we perfect on how to carry out the investigation by reporting to the commissioner of Police Plateau State command as he endorsed their journey and referred them to the Deputy Commissioner of Police who communicated all the Divisional Police officers across the 17 LGAs to assist them with the investigation where necessary and from there we proceed to Bokkos LGA , The,DPO office to book for their arrival ,however,in Bokkos they met with the DPO ,DSP Thomas Shehu who attached them with two of his surveillance
team ,Insp Ayuba Garba .,Sqt John Garba there we sat with the surveillance team and told them we are looking for one Alias Buba with our suspect Mustapha Mohammad who described that he is slim tall and fair complexion and their suspect Mustapha . The information given them by Mustapha Mohammad was that they used to meet with Alias Buba in Daho,Maituna ,Mangar,Hurtish,Jo so,all in Bokkos LGA .
Then,they immediately hook with the surveillance team together with their suspect Mustapha Mohammad who led them into the villages that were mentioned in search for alias Buba.
Finally,we got Buba arrested on the 24the June,2021 at Mangar village when we arrested him he was wearing a camouflage trouser and yellow cap mask and camouflage.
However,Buba on sighting Mustapha Mohammed ,he knew that something is wrong somewhere so we arrested him and immediately moved back to Bokkos Division together with my team members with the surveillance team and the two suspect from there we move to the force headquarters .
Insp.Olarju stated that he took the suspect to our investigation room where there is chairs ,tables with some of my team who are already sitting down inside and his superior officers ASP Mohammad Amadu ,ASP Usman Mohammad and he questioned Buba in English language which he ask of his communication and said he prefer Hausa and I understand both were I translate the words to him in Hausa and he now thumb print his statement.
Aftermath ,the thorough investigation ,Buba now told us his real name as Abubakar Mohammed who is now standing trial before the court .Abubakar Mohammad now confessed of his series of participation in armed robbery kidnappings,culpable homicide that he participate in the killing of Agboma Agara including the kidnapped and brutal murder of Pa Dariye in Rop village of Mushere district of Bokkos LGA of Plateau state .
During the cause of his investigation ,Abubakar Mohammed ,alias Buba mentioned his gang members whom they participate in the kidnappings of Pa Dariye he then mention ,one Yau Saidu,in Kadan Mushere ,we immediately swing into action .
After his confessional statement Abubakar Mohammad ,I took him before my superior officers and then read his confession to my boss and translated in Hausa and he understood ,there my superior asked Abubakar Mohammad that are you the one who gave this statement Abubakar Mohammad ,alias Buba said yes I gave my statement volunteeringly no threat to me and not under duress then my superior officer confirmed and endorse it .
And our investigation continue where we left our office together with my team members and the suspect Abubakar Mohammed on the 30th June,2021we came down to Bokkos we slept there on 1st September 2021 we booked our arrival at the Divisional headquarters with the surveillance team and move to Horopp village in search of Yau Saidu and got him arrested in Horopp to division down to Abuja with Abubakar Mohammed we enter our investigation room we recorded the statement of Yau Saidu we did the same method of taken his confessional statement and I even bought food for Yau Saidu the suspect.
During interrogation ,Yau Saidu narrated all the story and I wrote it down in English as he mentioned series of his participation in armed robbery kidnappings and culpable homicide after the confession ,he mentioned his gang members whom participate in the Pa Dariye kidnap and mentioned one Dauda Isa ,Titus Ezekiel whose are suspect 3&7 the same day we came back to plateau state on 1st July,2021 myself and the team members with Yau Saidu on reaching Plateau we proceed to Bokkos in the morning where our suspect led us to Horopp in Bokkos in search of Dauda Isa and Titus Ezekiel and they were all arrested on the 2nd July ,2021 .who actively involved in the kidnap we immediately moved them to Abuja and took their confessions in the room and I recorded .
The Two accused persons gave us a vivid involvement in the crime on how him Titus Ezekiel was invited by Dauda Isa in a volunteer Hausa language and record it in English after the thumb print on aged .
Dauda Isa narrated his involvement into the kidnapped of Pa Dariye and mentioned some of the gang members as Sunday Ibrahim and Mangut Shinwar who are suspect 4&5 in the count charge as defendants and again we head back to plateau state and went to Bokkos LGA .We effect arrest on Dauda Isa on 7the July,2021 we head back to Jos and slept .On the 8th July,2021 with all the previous team members and the surveillance attached to us together with Dauda Isa we embark on search of Sunday Ibrahim and Mangut Shinwar and arrested them in Horopp of Mushere district of Bokkos in connection with the killing .
Besides ,we again on the 8th July,2021 we took their confession inside the investigation room both the culprits understood and that time they mentioned one Henry Amos and Jethro Ngusen who masterminded the kidnap of Pa Dariye
How the suspect link the killers of Pa Dariye led to go about arresting all those that where mentioned in connection ,we move to Bokkos with our colleagues to book .The team arrested Sunday Ibrahim and Mangut Shinwar at Pankshin cottage hospital before his arrest we booked at Divisional headquarters on 9th July,2021 and move him to Jos .When we arrived Jos Jethro Ngusen was arrested oppose NTA at the Old Airport including Henry Amos .
Jethro Ngusen admitted committing the offense and his involved on how he instructed Sunday Ibrahim in his confession without use of force and not under duress .ASP Obafemi keeper mark the items as CER 119/2021 written in police statement paper and the items was admitted in exhibit B,B1,B2 on 13-07-2021 .
He also present DVD video of confessional statements of all the accused persons NEKON Digital camera model D7000 which has been working for 5 to 6 years were he also identified all those defendants .
Barr. Steve Abba counsel to the 2nd & 7th defendants opposed that their confession was done under duress and dehumanizing them to accept the outcome of whatever script they witness are looking for .
Abba opposed that his client Mr Jethro Ngusen was tortured to the point that it almost blinding his right eye so he rejected the admissibility of the the statement sought to be tender in evidence saying the prosecution counsel ,DPP need to prove beyond reasonable doubt the alleged kidnapped of Pa Dariye .
Steve explains further that the whole exercise was like a stage of Bollywood script to information in movie fresh in all the accused persons ,how one of the suspected criminal terrorizing Kaduna State exposed Mr Jethro Ngusen and the others criminal gang in alleged kidnap of Pa Dariye.
Justice Goerfrey Kamyal of High Court 10 ,West of Mines Plateau State adjourned to the 7th,8th,&9th of March ,2022 to commenced trial within trials.
Ahead 2023 General Election in Nigeria,member Representing Langtang North and Southern Constituency in the Federal House of Representatives ,Hon. Beni Lar had raised alarm over artificial hoarding of voters registration machines in her Constituency which is obvious antics of the APC, Government to disenfranchise the eligible voters in her Constituency.
As the female lawmaker complained bitterly that her Constituency in Langtang North and South who are not fewer than 5 million population is provided with one functional bio-metric Voters Registration machine to capture eligible voters ahead 2023 General Election.
The Hon.lawmaker raised the alarm during an interview with Journalists at her resident along Beach Road in Jos, plateau state capital.
She accused the Government of the All Progressive Congress (APC)to have set in motion manipulation process to rig the 2023 General Elections through disenfranchise of eligible Nigerian voters with the antics of artificial hoarding of bio metric registration voters mechines.
Beni Lar who is the daughter of the 1st Civilian Governor of Plateau state Chief Solomon Dashep Lar send strong worded warning to APC ruling Government to ensure that all Nigerians of voting age are given opportunity to register and provide enabling environment to vote during election for peaceful change.
She further add that APC (7) years in power can be best described as Seven years that has plunge the country into one of the worst economic crisis in the country history as Nigeria is now rated the poorest country in the world.
Beni Lar who is the chairman of science and technology at the Federal House of Representatives , lambasted the Buhari APC led administration that has impovished the country , strives on lies , propaganda and Promised without fulfilment.
“When Buhari was campaigning 2015 and 2019, he promised Nigeria that he will make the country naira equal with American Dollars , revive moribund Ajakuta Steel Rolling Mill, today inflation is 300-400 percent,food stuffs has gone beyond the reach of average Nigerian as construction materials has hit the roof -top “
” She further stressed that you can’t compared president jonathan’s administration 10 years ago with Buhari led APC, bedeviled with vices like killings, kidnapping and armed banditry”
She exonerated the Lawmakers from any blames of not resucitating the moribund Ajakuta Steel company because the lawmakers has put all frame work in place and is left for the Buhari Government to implement it.
“The issue of Ajakuta Steel Rolling Mill is pathetic,the equipment have been lying wast for long , government of APC has promised that before the end of 2022,they will ensure that the Steel Rolling company will come back on stream”.
She called on the politians to learn from the APC’s administration who made a plethora of promised to Nigerians without fufiling any, rather they are leaving it worst than they inherited from people’s Democratic Party (PDP).
She further called on the politians to allow their words to be a bund and work with it instead of promising and doing different thing as Nigerians are patiently watching and waiting to vent their anger on those politians through the use of the instrumentality of (PVC).
Hon. Beni called on Nigeria to be careful in the forthcoming 2023 General Election and judiciously use their voters registration card (PVC)to determine their future and that of their generation by removing the clueless APC, government from power ,and advised them not to make another grave mistake that will hunt them for the rest of their lives.
She said as chairman of science and technology she is desirous of diversify the economy which informed signing (MOU)with the chainess Government recently.
“My plan is to change the country from mono economy to science and technology.
The All Progressives Congress, APC in Plateau state is currently engulfed by crisis over the seat of Federal House of Representatives as an internal conflict is currently bedeviling the party APC, in an efforts to pick a candidate to fill the vacant position of Jos North Bassa Federal Constituency in the forthcoming by-election slated 26th February,2022.
The independent National Electoral Commission has declared that, the by-election in Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency is billed to be conducted within one month time. Unfortunately, the APC is still battling with one problem or the other.
The party is said to be engulfed in certain disagreements that if not properly resolved would tear the party apart, or even degenerate beyond party misunderstanding to ethnic, or religious crisis, based on the complexity of issues in the Constituency.
It is no longer news as to how the seat became vacant, but for the sake of records, Hon. Haruna Maitala who was elected to represent the Constituency had answered the call of nature during a ghastly motor accident that occurred sometimes last year while on his way to Jos from Abuja.
Since that period, many interest groups thronged out indicating reasons why the ought to be considered worthy to succeed Late Hon. Maitala. The interest was higher beyond surprises as Bassa alone Came out with over twenty Aspirants, aside Jos North.
Apparently disturbed by this scenario, the party, and the government thought it wise to put in place, a committee to mediate and bring down the interest to manageable size.
The interest of the state is that, it has a tradition where in recent time the senator representing plateau Southern Senatorial zone, Ambassador Ignatius Lonjan died, and the party insisted that any of his successor must be from Quanpan, to allow them complete their tenure, where it came to pass.
In a similar manner, when the state lost another state legislator, Hon.Ezikiel Afon, the same principle was applied and a candidate was chosen from Pengana chiefdom to complete the tenure.
But the party believes in this principle seems to be facing a serious challenge as Jos North and other chiefdoms are not willing to conceed to these arrangements.
The lobbying committee set up by the state and party leadership to mediate between the interest groups, are equally indicated of complicity.
Recent report has it that, instead of adhering to the terms of reference, which to prevail on Jos North to allow Bassa Local government to produce candidate under the party arrangrments to complete its tenure, the committee rather went beyond the scope, and announced to the public that they have successfully come out with a consensus candidate, the circumstances that is not going down well with other contenders.
As a result, our correspondent in an interactive session with two of these aspirants; Hon. Abbey Joseph Aku, former Commisioner Commerce and Industry Plateau and Hon. Chindo Gona, former Chairman Bassa LG all vying for same position debunked the insinuation making the rounds that Bassa has produced a consensus candidate for the forth coming By-election for Jos North/ Bassa Federal Constituency.
According to Abbey, .”for us in Bassa , we have never at any time sat down to decided on any consensus candidate. The party at the state had set up a lobbying committee, I was a member of that committee before I resigned to contest. Our primary assignment was to lobby Jos North to allow Bassa to complete its tenure.
“When the party eventually realized that so many candidates came up from Bassa, the party gave the committee additional responsibility to go and bring down the number of candidates to a management size and not to go and bring a consensus candidate. Whatever the committee has gone to do is outside the terms of reference.
“Secondly, Bassa has three chiefdoms; Rukuba, Irrigwe and Pengana. If there is going to be a consensus candidate, all these chiefdoms must come together and agree on one person. It never happened that way.
“Again, Bassa has 16 wards, comprising of Pengana 7 wards, Rukuba 4 wards and Irrigwe 5wards. And in the meeting they are claiming to produce a consensus candidate, eleven (11) walked out. Only five (5) sat to produce consensus candidate, it is not possible. Five can’t speak for eleven.
” Again, out of the ten members committee, Seven resigned from the committee. So for integrity purpose, only three conducted the so called consensus.
“So I am fully in the race. I have purchased my form and will soon make formal declaration”.
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong had vowed to flush our questionable civil servants in the state and replace them with virile blood .
As Governor Lalong said the APC administration under his watch in the state will not tolerate civil servants with questionable records and those who have falsified their data to remain in service or secure placement and promotions they don’t deserve.
Governor Lalong was speaking at the Government House Little Rayfield Jos while recieving the report of the High Powered Committee on Staff Audit and Verification that was saddled with the task of auditing the State Civil Service.
The Governor said the Committee was necessitated by the desire of Government to address some of the challenges that constituted barriers to service delivery, professionalism, accountability and transparency.
He said “among other things, Government was worried that despite the number of people exiting from the Service as a result of deaths, retirements, transfers and withdrawals from service, the State wage bill appeared to be constant and even increasing, the governor added that Government was inundated with alleged cases of age falsification, record tampering, placements and other complaints that cast a negative image in the service and attempted to reduce the effectiveness and efficiency of the Civil Service.
This also restrained Government from conducting recruitment to inject fresh manpower into the system, resulting in a situation where the State Civil Service is confronted by loopholes and critical manpower shortages in various areas”.
While commending the Committee under the leadership of Nde John G Gobak, OFR, mni, for doing a wonderful job, Governor Lalong directed the Standing Committee on White Paper to immediately swing into action and submit a Draft White Paper for Government’s consideration and swift implementation.
And stressed that this will enable Government to resume promotion as well as employment processes in the Service as soon as possible, and also assured civil servants that the report will not be used to witch hunt anyone and those who have questions to answer should be ready to answer them.
Chairman of the Committee Nde John Gobak said as a result of the autonomy granted to the Judiciary and Legislature, the Committee only screened staff under the direct purview of the Executive with a total number of 14,418 officers said to be in Service. Only 13,978 were authenticated indicating a difference of 440. Out of the 13,978 staff verified, 709 staff either falsified or altered their age while 673 others were wrongly placed/promoted/converted. 66 ought to have retired prior to the inauguration of the Committee on 20th April, 2021. 17 cases were recommended for review by a Medical Board.
He said the Committee established that there is a manifest disconnect between the Salary Automation Unit in the Ministry of Finance and other important Offices of Government such as the Office of the Head of Civil Service and the Office of the State Auditor- General resulting in the Unit’s seeming overbearingness and or ability to function unchecked.
This he said resulted in some Staff still being paid salaries months after they had disengaged from the Service either by Death, Retirement, Transfer or Secondment due to failure to timely raise Variation Orders in that regard or collusion to circumvent the System and or outright acts of misconduct.
The Committee therefore recommended that Salary Automation Unit should have a Tripartite Supervisory Linkage among the Offices of the Head of Civil Service, State Auditor-General and the Accountant General who may either jointly endorse the Payment Mandates or ensure on a monthly basis, that what is paid is well vetted and genuine.
That is, while the Office of the Head of Civil Service compiles, the Office of the Auditor General vets while the Office of the Accountant General pays.
It so said all approvals earlier granted some Staff to change their dates of birth be rescinded while all Employments/Placements/Conversions/Advancements done against the provisions of the Schemes of Service and other extant Circulars as captured in the Main Report be withdrawn.
Kidnapper Syndicate has meet their waterloo as troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN acting on credible intelligence have bursted and neutralised a notorious Gang of kidnap syndicate on the plateau. The syndicate has been on the watchlist of Operation SAFE HAVEN and believed to have masterminded the recent kidnap incidences on the Plateau. The syndicate is also believed to have participated in the Jos prison jail break on 28 November 2021.
The syndicate met its waterloo when troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN tracked them to Gyero general area where they plan and carry out their nefarious activities. The kidnappers on sighting the troops opened fire. Our troops responded with superior fire power resulting in neutralisation of 3 notorious kidnappers.
This contained in a release dated 21st January,2022 , signed by military information officer of OPSH, and made available to this medium in Jos.
Acording to the release ,Items recovered from the syndicate includes, one AK-47 Rifle, 2 AK-47 rifle magazines, 101 live rounds of 7. 62mm ammunition and one tricycle (Keke Napep). Other items recovered include one itel phone, one techno phone, 2 sharp knives and 2 military headwarmers.
While Commending the resilience of the troops for another successful operation, the Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, Major General Ibrahim Ali, also warned kidnappers and perpetrators of evil to stay clear of Plateau State as he has restated his determination to make the state unbearable for all criminals to operate. General Ali further urged law abiding citizens to cooperate with security agencies and promptly report any suspicious movement in their area.
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The New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) has send strong worded advise to Nigerians youths to brace up and develop their leadership skills towards involved in governance.
This advise was given in a press statement dated 20th January,2022 , signed by NNPP Deputy National Publicity Secretary Rev. Emmanuel Olounmagba and made available to journalist in Abuja at the end of a close door meeting with some youths aspiring to contest at different levels under the platform of the party.
“The party is proud of the vibrant youths that are already expressing interest in contesting at different levels. And we can confidently assert that the tides is changing already as more youths are beginning to aspire for political positions and not just like it used to be that, some Nigerian youths relegated themselves to mere social media commentators or political thugs used by politicians every four years in exchange for peanuts”.
The party however added that, there is still need for more awakening so that more of our youths can go above sitting on the fence only criticising without working towards being involved at the center. “In as much as constructive criticism is essential in any democratic society, the youths need to try as much as possible to avoid just focusing ONLY on criticism without trying to get involve in governance.
The nation is blessed with many youths that are so intelligent, highly endowed and that have cognitive experience through their involvement in businesses, organisations and leadership positions in other areas”, NNPP observed.
This period that there is awareness in youth involvement in governance, there is the need to understand the importance of having a party like the New Nigeria People’s (NNPP) that has been youth friendly, giving more youths (both male and female) the opportunity to be involved in party adminstration as well as offering them the platform to contest for political positions and they also enjoy massive support from the party.
“Hence, no youth can claim to want to be involved in governance, but have no platform to contest under, except such person is not qualified or not serious. NNPP is that political party that is always ready to give adequately qualified youths platform irrespective of their status, ethnicity or religious affiliation. We are one!”
Operation Save Haven has graduated not fewer than 98 Youths on surveillance and information gathering in southern Kaduna .
This will help to reduce the activities of bandits , kidnapping and other vices that is threatening the cooperate peace of the state in particular, and entire country.
The graduation of Civilian Task Force held on the 19th January,2022, graduated 98 youths trained on surveillance and information gathering.
The graduation ceremony which took place at Headquarters Sector 7 Kafanchan saw youths selected from all the communities and ethnic groups in southern Kaduna passed out in a colourful graduation ceremony.
Speaking to the graduands, the Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, Major General Ibrahim Ali charged the youths to distance themselves from sentiment and discharge their duty without fear or favour. He stressed that the essence of the training is to ensure that the communities are protected against enemies of peace.
General Ali also warned the youths not to allow themselves to be used as political thugs by some persons to achieve their selfish goals.
Speaking earlier, the Commander Sector 7, Operation SAFE HAVEN, Colonel Timothy Opurum noted that the training of the youths was necessary considering the importance of peace to development. He revealed that the team of the Joint Civilian Task Force comprised of youths selected from 7 major ethnic groups in Kafanchan, Kauru, Kaura and Jama’a Local Government Areas of southern part of Kaduna State.
Colonel Timothy stated that the trained youths would be deployed to various communities alongside security agencies. He added that presence of the Civilian Joint Task Force will aid the security agencies to fish out bad eggs who connive with bandits to perpetrate evil in the communities.
Highlight of the graduation ceremony was a match past parade and light combat demonstration by the graduands to the admiration of the Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN.
The Federal High Court in Jos, Plateau state has granted Alh. Abdullahi Usman a.k.a Danchina motion brought before it by the defendant applicant Mr Zhai Peng Qua.
The case which is adjourned to Thursday19th January,2022 is for continuation of hearing of the matter.
Barrister Bulus Danboyi a Counsel to the plentiff applicant told the court presided over by Justice Dorcas Agishi that he has a motion to move dated the 20th Dec,2021 attached with 7 paragraph affidavit .
The Counsel to the plentiff applicant barrister Bulus Danboyi said the proposed motion is seeking the court leave to amend the case file in line with the recent development on the matter, appealed to the court to grant his motion.
In a quick react ,the Counsel to the defendant ,PA Akubo (SAN)
who didn’t initially opposed the plentiff proposed motion, said he also have motion to move, but the plentiff defendant argued that his proposed writ has not even been served the defendant to study before reply.
Paius Akubo, SAN, told the court that the reason why he want the motions for both the plentiff and defendant to be taken simultaneously is to economize the remaining time left for the case which had been pending in court since 2013 which has suffered series of Adjournments.
As both Counsel’s nerves raised, justice Docas Agishi advised that the case been adjourned to the closest date for both motions from both sides be taken before diving into the main case.
Justice Agishi adjourned the matter to 30th January,2022 for the motion for both the plentiff and defendant taken then the main matter of the case.
Alhaji Abdullahi Adamu Usman a.k.a Danchina who is the plentiff in the case, is challenging Mr Zhai Peng Qua for claiming to be the owner of the Mining Company’s property ,compani Zurrak of Wase Local Government of plateau state.
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has Decries the astronomical increase on the attack of traditional leaders in the state, and by extension Nigeria as a whole.
Governor Lalong who doubled as the Chairman Northern Governor Forum said the constant attack on the custodians of traditional institutions across the country is an attempt by criminals to intimidate them against exposing crimes within their domains in order to totally subdue the entire population.
Governor Lalong who was speaking at the annual Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation Lecture in Kano, said it was very worrisome to see that traditional rulers have become victims of kidnappings, murders and other violent attacks by criminals simply because they stand against their activities or mobilise their subjects to reject them.
Lalong who was the Chairman of the event , further said this development portends danger as the criminals seek to dominate the environment and dictate the affairs of society through criminality. This he said must be fought with vigour as criminals must be flushed out in every community.
Lalong stressed that “We condemn in strong terms this shameful and unacceptable act, and call on the security agencies to ensure that these incidences are dealt with swiftly.
As Governors, we will activate all machineries to ensure that such persons and their sponsors are brought to book. Failure to do so will not only weaken the Traditional Institution, but also damage its reputation thereby making it incapable of contributing to finding lasting solutions to the lingering security challenges in the Northern Region and the nation at large.
The result of insecurity is displacement, hunger and food shortages that have resulted from many farmers being unable to go to the farms to produce food. Therefore, all hands must be on deck to tackle the situation and give our people the confidence and guarantee to pursue their means of livelihood without fear of harassment, molestation or death”
He also frowned at allegations that finger some Traditional Rulers of aiding and abetting criminals. These he said are serious allegations that should be investigated and dealt with so as to safeguard the integrity, sanctity and dignity of the revered Institution. Such Traditional Rulers if found culpable should be held responsible for breach of peace and security in their domains and sanctioned appropriately according to law.
Vice President Yemi Osinbajo said the late Sardauna Sir Ahmadu Bello remains an icon for his foresight and ability to carry along all segments of society including the traditional Institution in governance which led to major achievements recorded during his time.
He said the role of traditional rulers in tackling insecurity cannot be overstated because they play a crucial role in mobilising the people to address issues of concern in the society as well as set the tone for peaceful coexistence.
Osinbajo commended the organisers for keeping alive the memory of the late Sardauna whose influence touches many areas including empowerment, peace and security. This he said makes it more urgent for traditional rulers to be given recognition in the nation’s governance architecture.
Kano State Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, former Governor of Niger State Muazu Babangida Aliyu, Sultan of Sokoto and other guests said it was hightime that the nation’s royal fathers were given definite roles in the constitution because they have very crucial roles to play in assisting Government address the security situation that is threatening the stability of the country.
Speaking on the theme, “Reviving the Northern Traditional Institutions: Imperative for Peace and Security in Northern Nigeria.”, Guest Speaker Justice Sidi Bahe, Emir of Lafia said the issues of insecurity and other acts of criminality are largely characterized by unmitigated violence and crime made manifest through complex network of insurgency, kidnappings, sporadic attacks, terrorism, assassinations and armed robbery.
He said looking at the challenges of peace and security in Nigeria and the role expected of the Traditional Institution, there is the need to put them at the centre of decision making as they cannot operate in isolation to other variables which make up our society today.
We said the situation needs to be taken back to the days when the Institution had a direct participation in Governance particularly in the defunct Northern Region.
Awards we given to deserving individuals who have contributed to the development of the Northern Region and Nigeria at large.
As trial case of kidnapped Pa Dafwan Dariye commenced 17th january,2022 at the Plateau state High Court (10) presided over by Justice G.M Kamnyar , witness Daniel Dariye narrated how the 93 years old Pa Dariye was kidnapped in his home at Mushere district of Bokkos Local Government of the state.
The witness who is (PW1), Daniel Dariye resided at Angwan Dokie in Jos South local government of Plateau state,and one of the sons of Pa Dariye narrated the story as witness during the trial case of the ex- governor Dariye’s father.
Daniel further narrated that on that faithful day 17th June,2020,he received phone call from his brother Steven Dariye from the village that some gunmen stormed pa Dariye house and kidnapped him to unknown destination.
“On hearing the news,I left for the village that night ,and get to the village late hours, with mammoth crowd of sympathizers who came to sympathize with the Dariye’s family over the kidnapped of their father”.
Daniel continued that he went along with the brother Steven to the police station to report the matter , though my brother earlier told me he had reported the matter at the police station in the the village.
Daniel Dariye further told the court that on the 18th June,2020 he received a phone call with the number(09029047462) and informed me that my father pa Dariye is in their custody that I should pay 100 million if I want to see my father alive.
He stressed after series of negotiations with the kidnappers form 100 million ,50,40,30 and finally stopped at 10 million naira, they gave me deadline of 26th June,2020 to pay the ransom or they will kill my father,every discussion with the kidnappers I always intimated the family.
“The family rally around and raised the some 10 million naira and i took the money to where they the kidnappers directed me to meet them at Shendam Taraba Road ., ln my company was mr Luka Haruna member of Vigilantee group to accompany me with his motorcycle as the place is not motorable.”
After some hours of getting to the spot ,they came out from different direction Eight of them wearing masks to conceal their identity and collected the money after asking me if the money is complete,I said yes.The directed me to put the money on the ground and walked on it thrice, which I did.
” They Carried the bag containing the money and started walking away,I asked them what about my father, they directed me to “Howk Hill”that my father have been released there.”
Daniel who is a businessman said he phoned his junior brother Steven Dariye in the village to go to “Howk Hill”and bring our father because the kidnappers said they have released him at the hill.
“After some hours my brother phoned me back that they comb everywhere at “Howk Hill” we didn’t find him,we mobilized the Mushere youths including the Vigilantee group to help for the search,we found Pa Dariye dead and buried in a shallow grave with the ankle of one of hands and leg chopped off.
“The police who were among the search team took the corpse of Pa Dariye to the mortuary that is yet to be release to the family for burial”
In his testimony, the second witness (PW2) Luka Haruna ,a 46 years old and member of Vigilantee group in Mushere district of Bokkos Local Government collaborate the narrations of PW1 , Daniel Dariye.
In their separate cross examinations, by the defendants Counsel wether they recognized any of the accused persons at the secen of the crime, they said no.
In separate interviews with journalists, the defendants Counsel,Barr. Steve Abba said his interest on the matter is for justice.
Barrister Abba said the allegations of which the defendant are standing trial ,carry capital punishment,so is very important that the court entertain the matter that they are the persons that committed the offence before they face the music.
Barrister Abba further added that it will be a great injustice if the wrong Persons are erroneously send to the prison like that .
On the prospect of the case,Abba said ,what we intend to do is lay to bare the facts of the case before the court , and the general public , because this people where hitherto subjected to what Abba described as media trial and they claimed they have confessed to the crime.
He further added that the only way the stigma will be remove from the defendants ,is for the true facts of the matter brought before the court , public and for the court to see that justice is done.
On his part, the public prosecuting Counsel ministry of justice plateau state, Barrister Jacob Longden said the office of Anthony General of the state attached important to this case.
Longden decried the astronomical raise of the issues of armed robbery , kidnapping in the state, the government want to get ride of these group of people from the state,he maintained.
“Governor Bako Lalong have one time stated that there will be no hiding place for the criminals .”
“That is why we have given most of our time to ensure this matter is effectively prosecuted.”
He recalled that on the 17th June,2020,the father of the former Govenor of plateau state, Joshua Dariye was kidnapped in Howk Hill in Mushere district of Bokkos Local Government of plateau state.
Barrister Jacob stressed that since then,the police , have been under investigation ,now the police have concluded their investigation,they arrested 8 of them , they have confessed to committed the crime, though one one of them escaped ,now we are prosecuting 7 suspects on the charges of criminal conspiracy , culpable homicide punishable with death and kidnapping.
The state public prosecutor said they are properly equipped as they have the confessional statement which is an admission of committing the crime once you have confessed and heightened the body of prove, they have confessed both on the print and in electronics.
” We are comfortable ,and have all the exhibit at our disposal.”
He further stressed that the investigating police officer who under took the investigation which are eyes witness.
“If the person that under took the investigation is an eyes witness,on the circumstances surrounding the kidnapping of Pa Dafwan Dariye.
Governor Bako Lalong of Plateau State has paid tribute to Nigerian fallen heroes who have made sacrifices for the unity, peace and stability of Nigeria, urgued all the citizens to honour their courage by living in peace with one another and exposing criminals.
Lalong stated this during the laying of wreaths to commemorate the 2022 Armed Forces Remembrance Day at the tomb of the unknown soldier, held at Joseph Gomwalk Secretariat Round About,Jos, plateau state capital.
ln an interview with the journalists after the event said Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies have made sacrifices not only to keep Nigeria one, but also ensure that its territorial integrity is kept intact.
The Governor said Nigeria has in recent years been confronted by internal security threats that are compounded by lack of harmony and tolerance amongst Nigerians which has further stretched the security architecture.
He further stressed that unless Nigerians deliberately work towards building a peaceful society by respecting one another, obeying the rule of law and exposing criminals, the security challenges will not be resolved because the capacity of the security agencies will continue to be overstretched.
He however reiterated the security agencies have continued to do their best to confront the challenges and must be supported by all Nigerians in order to motivate them to put in their best to make further sacrifices.
And appealed to Nigerians to be generous towards the families of fallen heroes as well as retired soldiers who are battling with many health challenges and carrying responsibilities of dependants.
Those who grace the occasion include, Deputy Governor Prof. Sonni Tyoden, Speaker Rt. Hon. Yakubu Sanda, Acting Chief Judge David Mann, GOC 3rd Amoured Division Gen. Ali and other dignitaries laid wreaths in honour of the fallen heroes.
The Plateau state government is to spend 3 billion Naira on the state own educations in the 2022 fiscal year as the same amount is earmarked on the health Sector .
Which is 9.10 and 9.87 percent respectively of the capital estimate which are the amount that projected for the various projects going on in the two affected sectors , education and health.
This was revealed 14th January 2022 by the commissioner of budget and economic planning Mr Sylvester Wallangko during the 2022 budget breakdown held at the Confrence hall of cabinet office in Jos, plateau state.
Wallangko said the 2022 budget estimate tagged “Budget of Economic Recovery and Consolidation “of Inclusive Infrastructural Growth 2″is aimed at rebuilding on the past achievements that the state has recorded in the previous years.
He further added that the focus of the budget is geared towards completion of the on going projects ,and initiations of new ones based on available resources ,he stressed that the budget Implementation will also be anchored on the 3 pillar policy Trust of Governor Bako Lalong rescue administration.
The 2022 budget has the size of One Hundred and Six billion,Eight Hundred and Seven Million,Two Hundred and Sixy -Seven Thousand , six
Hundred and Forty -Two Naira has the following break down in line with their respective ministries and agencies.
Water Resources, energy and sanitation has budget allocation of#4,912 ,566 ,000 ,while his Agriculture and Rural 11.87 percent of the capital estimate , works and transports has 11.08 percent, information and communication,0.78 percent.
Women,Youths and sports Development 5.27 percent, 1.27, commerce and industry while Judiciary sub sectors was earmarked 1.77, environment and mineral development 1.26 while finance got the total some of 8.95.percent
The commissioner for budget and economic development Wallangko enjoined all the ministries , departments, and agencies MDAs to adhered strictly to the basic principle of budgeting and budget implementation.
And urgued all stakeholders to take responsibility and ownership of all the projects in their domain by exhibiting high sense responsibility in terms of maintenance culture as the primary beneficiaries;he maintained.
He commend the Lalong and APC rescue team of the administration under the able leadership of his Excellency ,the executive Governor of the state,and chairman governor forum, Simon Bako Lalong for his relentless efforts to transform and effect positive change in the life of plateau citizens despite all challenges.
The National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency Plateau state command has warned landlords in the state to always scrutinized the track record of their tenant before renting out apartment to avoid renting their property to drugs traffickers.
As he threatened to invoked that portion of the law that empowered the agency to confiscate any property or properties that is persived to be used for trafficking of drugs by drugs barons .
Mustapha Umar the NDLEA boss Plateau state command stated this during the agency inter face with the Youths and stakeholders in Jos North local government of the state.
The inter face meeting with the drugs agency that is organized by the chairman of the council, Alhaji Bala Usman , Mustapha Umar said the meeting is very impressive apart from arresting drugs abuse and traffickers,we feel we have to join hands with the Stakeholders in the council to sensitize the general public about the danger of drugs abuse and trafficking because when you are caught ,the law is there to take care of you.
Umar further added that it’s important that the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency take the message of the danger of drugs abuse down to the grassroots.
He further stressed that Jos North is identify as one of the epicenter of drugs abuse in the state ,we taught it wise that we should Kick start the sentisation from Jos North local government.
The chairman of Jos North local government, Alhaji Bala Usman,who is the chief host of the interface meeting said the program is apt because drugs abuse is one of the problems currently threatening the lives of the youths in the council and the entire state.
The council chairman further said the assemblage of the meeting is to rub mind with the agency to chart the way forward and to make Jos North drugs free council.
Bala advised the youths in the local council in particular and the entire state in general to stay away from drugs abuse and the use of illicit drugs which is the major causes of high rate of crimes and criminality in our society.
Mass defection has rocked the ruling All Progressives Congress ,APC, in plateau state as top officials of the party are defecting en mass with their structure from the wards to Local Governments following political injustice melted on them .
some political pundits are describing the exercise as the non adherent to the APC guidelines and plot to frustrate the former APC chairman, ex-speakers, ex-LG chairmen, ex-commissioner, others whom have concluded arrangement to dump APC to PDP ahead of plan convention .
They insinuated that the abysmal poor performance of the ruling APC, government in the state, and imposition ,impunity has necessitated them to abandon the party to the opposition PDP where it appears our Political future is brighter.
According to the aggrieved members ,some of them who sacrifice for the party were not carried alone inspite of the mobilization ,we see a lot of internal crises that the party might crash anytime soon and the Governor Simon Lalong didn’t have the Political will to produce the next APC governor .
A former chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Plateau State, Chief Letep Dabang and a large number of other aggrieved members of the ruling party in the state have resigned their membership of the party to join the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
The group of aggrieved APC members took the decision to move en masse to the PDP at the end of a meeting held in Barkin-Ladi on Wednesday under the aegis of “THE GREAT MOVEMENT.”
A statement issued on Thursday in Jos and signed by Engr. Manji Danladi, said that the meeting of the group which comprises of all the disenchanted members of the APC in the state, was chaired by Dabang.
It disclosed that over 150 representatives of the group’s men and women across the 17 local governments of Plateau State came together and brainstormed on the way forward.
“After an intensive deliberation, the group unanimously and unequivocally agreed to resign their membership of the ruling party, APC, and collapse into the PDP, where their future is certain and can be assured,” the statement said.
It named some of the prominent decampees as follows:
Chief Letep Dabang, the immediate past and pioneer chairman of the APC in Plateau State.
Hon. Peter Azi, former speaker, Plateau State House of Assembly (PLHA).
Hon. Joshua Madaki, former speaker Plateau State House of Assembly (PLHA).
Hon. Henry Yunkwap, former Majority Leader, Plateau State House of Assembly (PLHA).
Dr. Kuden Kamshak, former Commissioner of Healh, Plateau State.
Hon. Isaac Kwallu, former impeached Executive Chairman of Quanpan LGA.
Hon. Nicholas Vongsing, former Chairman, Langtang South LGA.
Chief Binkur Binkur, former Plateau State APC Assistant Secretary.
Alhaji Ustaz Ibrahim, former APC Financial Secretary, Plateau State.
Mr. Cletus Datong, former Deputy Chief of Staff, Plateau State Government House.
Mr. Alex Pam, former Plateau State APC Youth Leader.
Alhaji Alhassan Ayiki, former APC chairman, Bassa LGA.
Hon. Ajiji Pate, former APC Chairman, Jos East LGA.
Alhaji Kabiru Pakachi, former Plateau State APC Auditor.
However, the former financial secretary of APC, Alhaji Ustaz Ibrahim has debunked the Purported news making around on the social media that he has decamped from the party to the opposition party , PDP.
Ustaz described the story as the handling work of mischief makers.
And threatened to take legal action on those behind the force story.
The immediate past Financial Secretary of the APC in Plateau state Alhaji Ustaz Ibrahim, has debunk the story of his revamping to the rival PDP in the state as been circulated.
Alhaji Ibrahim who reacted to the news that he and a former APC chiraman in the state, including two former speakers with others made in Barkin Ladi LGA of the state met and agreed to decamp said it was false and just a figment of mischief makers.
Making his position known in a press release signed by himself, he warned those behind the purported revamping to desist from such falsehood he will be forced to take up the matter legally.
He said, “Without mincing words, I wish to distance myself from the purported decamping which, as far as I am concerned is the work of mischief merchants.
“I also wish to call on the state APC and the faithful government, my ardent supporters, friends and well wishers to discontainance the said news item because it is a black lie in its entirety”
Alhaji Ustaz added that for the avoidance of doubt, “I was not in Barkin Ladi on the day the so-call meeting was held and in addition,no one had dared to contact me or sold the blackmailing Idea to me to warrant a decamping”
He then warned those behind the story to desist from such acts of blackmail or be prepared to face the consequences of thier actions he stressed.
Nigeria police force Plateau state command has record a major break through in the fight against crimes and criminality in the state as he arrested a notorious Yahoo Boy Moses Okoh who Killed one Jennifer Anthony now deceased who was 300 level student of the university of jos.
As the force also arrested some syndicate group responsible for the kidnapping of the wife of Chief of Staff to the Deputy Governor of Plateau state Tabitha Silas Vem ,and one Dr Samuel Audu
of Barki Ladi local government of the state.
The crackdown on the criminal group in the state which led to their arrest was disclosed to journalist by the command Commissioner of police, Plateau state command CP Bartholomew Onyeka during the parade of the criminal before journalists held at the command headquarters premises in Jos the Plateau state command.
The police boss said the the grusome killing of jennifer Anthony was discovered at Domus Pacis Guest House, Jos and was suspected to have been Killed by a man named Moses Oko male ,aged 20 years, suspected to be her boyfriend who fled after committing the crime.
He said the Command in a bid to arrest the perpetrator launched an aggressive manhunt on the suspect and tactically trailed him to Benue State where he was arrested by hawked-eye police operatives of the Command.
He added that the suspect will be arraigned in court as soon as investigation is completed.
Similarly the police had rescued one Mrs. Tabitha Silas Vem ,wife of the Deputy Chief of Staff, Plateau State Government House and one Dr Samuel Audu ,of Barkin Ladi LG area of Plateau State.
He said the victims where rescue by combined team of Police operatives and other security agencies in a rescue operation, stormed and combed the bushes around Sho Village and rescued the victims unhurt on 11th January,2022.
Cp Bartholomew further said the victims has since be reunited with their families, but efforts are on top gear to apprehend the suspects.
He stressed that Dr Micah Samaila of Bingham University Teaching Hospital Jos; was also rescued from the den of his kidnapper after several hours of gun duel with the police operatives ensued but they were overpowered by the superior gunfire of the Police and in the process, they abandoned the victim and fled into the bush.
The victim was rescued unhurt and has been re-united with his family.
Those also arrested are those with Culpable Homicides, involved one Bilyaminu Ibrahim aged 20 years of Bokkos town had a misunderstanding with one Amandi Atikai of New Layout in Bokkos over tramadol drugs and in the process, the said Bilyaminu removed a knife in his possession and stabbed Amandi severally on his back.
The victim was rushed to the hospital but died while on admission.
Upon receipt of the report, Police operatives attached to the Division were mobilized to the scene. The suspect was trailed and arrested. He confessed to the crime and the knife was also recovered.
“Arrest Of Suspected Cultist And Recovery Of Locally Made Pistol: On 16th Nov,2021 while acting on a credible information from impeccable source, the Operatives of the Command attached to Laranto Division in Jos North local government carried out an intelligence-led raid on black spot at Gamajigo area along Zaria Road, Jos and the following persons were arrested; (i) Patrick Gambo aged 22yrs and (ii) John Yakubu aged 18yrs all male of different address in Jos”.
“Upon interrogation, suspects confessed to have belonged to the same cult group. Exhibits recovered from the suspects include; one locally made pistol, one live cartridge, a jack knife, and three mobile phone.”
Other Criminals paraded by the police include Conspiracy, Trespass And Armed Robbery .
Other Criminals arrested and paraded by the police are human traffickers who stalks in trade in trafficking innocent girls to other african countries for sex slaves“
Troops under the auspacies of Operation Save Haven (OPSH) a security outfit in Jos the Plateau state capital,has on the 11th January, 2022 rescued Mrs Thabitha Silas, the wife of the Deputy Chief of Staff, Deputy Governor’s office Plateau state, from kidnappers.
Mrs Thabith was rescued along with Dr Audu Samuel, the Medical Director Allah Na Kowa Clinic and Maternity Barikin Ladi.
The released of Mrs Silas and doctor Audu is contained in a press release dated 11th Jan,2022, signed by military information officer OPSH Major lshaku Takwu and made available to this medium in Jos, plateau state.
Mrs Silas was kidnapped on Sunday 9th January, 2022 at her residence in little Rayfield Jos, Plateau state while Dr Audu was kidnapped on Monday 10th January 2022 at his residence in Barikin Ladi by the same kidnap gang.
The rescued victims have been reunited with their families. .
Akwa Ibom State Chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (Nuj)South-South Nigeria and Nuj Nation wide has been throwed into mourning over the killing of broadcasting journalist Mr Augustine Ekanem from the state.
As the United Nations Organisation, UNESCO called on the Government to investigate the callous killing of the broadcast journalist Mr Augustine and other journalists across the globe with the view of bringing the Perpetrators to justice.
Mr Augustine Ekanem is among not fewer than 50 journalists killed across the world in 2021,urged the Government to fish out the killer that has started causing disaffection in the nation polity.
Already, the Nigeria union of journalists, NUJ, is calling on the government to wade into the killings and other acts of harassment on journalists by citizens who does not wish the profession well as this has retard the survival of the media in Nigeria by extension the world in general.
This is also coming on heels of an invitation to the reporters without borders, an international body that protects journalists rights to intervene in the purported murder of Mr. Augustine Ekanem; a broadcaster in the latter days of December 2021, by concerned people in his locality.
It was gathered that the famous broadcast journalist was trailed to a filling station by unknown gun men after broadcasting an invitation, calling on sons and daughters of Ibiono-Ibom local government area of Akwa Ibom state to come out and celebrate the creation of the Council area last December.
Eyewitnesses said trouble started when the late Ekanem, when he earlier took a paid announcement to the state broadcast station, AKBC to invite the people to the celebration of the anniverssary of the Council years after it was created by the Gen. Ibrahim Babangida’s administration.
However, after the first and second stanza of that invitation was aired, the subsequent announcements were said to be halted on the excuse that the placement did not follow due process, sources hinted.
Though, the occasion was to coincide with the harvest festival of the socio-cultural group of the local community, a section of the polity were said to be opposed to the holding of the anniversary along side the festival during the said period.
Speaking with our correspondent, on the matter, the youth Chairman of the local government, Mr. Edem Ita, who confirmed the alledged murder, said it was worrisome that murder of this magnitude would be concealed to give a semblance of robbery.
He said he had spoken with the police in the area, who were also worried about the incident. Still, he fears that the perpetrators of this heinous act may escape justice if the investigation is not discreetly handled.
“Since the creation of the local government by the IBB administration, the people in the area are divided on either the citing of the headquarters of the local government or are outrightly opposed to its creation.
” I can tell you, politics is responsible for this, and I call on the people to bury the hatchet as we await an honest investigation and perpetrators brought to book, “he said.
Efforts to reach the state police failed, but a police insider who pleaded for anonymity; confided that the police was aware of the incident, but details are sketchy, assuring the command would get to the roots of the matter.
The Founder of the Non Governmental Organization (NGO) under the auspacies of Aytam Global Charity Care Foundation Nasarawa Gwom, in Jos North local government area of plateau state ,Engr Muhammad shuaibu Abubakar has advocated for the need to help the less privilege child who could not have the means to go to school.
Engineer Shaibu appeal to spirited previlage individuals in the society to please come to the aid of these categories of persons and help them in their educational pursuit.
Engineer Mohammed was speaking on the year of establishment of the school in 2011, Shaibu who is the founder of the school explained that the school had assisted several less privileged individuals who would not have the opportunity to attend school.
He further stressed that the call for the support is impressive hence the urgent need to cater for the everincresing numbers of those who are in dear need for help because of their condition.
According to him, such support from wealthy individual will provide relief to thousands of people who are interested in furthering their education but have no money.
He called on Plateau state government ,and other states in the country to always dedicated resources for the advancement of the less privileged individuals in their respective states.
The foundation has so far provided support to less privileged mostly girls who are currently receiving education at the foundation centre.
Speaking on the award for excellent performance given to the foundation for recognizing their educational contribution to the society by World Humanitarian Aid support development forum, the engineer Shaibu expressed delight with the nomination.
He expressed appreciation with the role played by the chairperson of the organization Dr.Lilian and Hajiya Jamila A Umaru for the kindness and generosity shown to the management of the foundation.
The engineer expressed appreciation to all those who contributed in ensuring the successful award for the foundation.
He said that the Humanitarian award ceremony which took place at Sandralia hotel in Abuja was attended by personalities among whom is the secretary to the government of the federation,Boss Mustapha and Abubakar Malami(SAN) .
Others persons who were physically present at Sandralia hotel in Abuja for the award ceremony included Dr Iliya Sharma, Barrister Fidelis Ugbo, HRH Prof ererChudhury Musharraf Hussain,, president UNNSC, Mrs Faika Ahmed,
Commissioner for Humanitarians Affairs, Zamfara State and Asmau Benzier leo, executive director center for non violence and gender advocacy in Nigeria among other recipients of the award ceremony
Ahead of 2023 General Election in plateau state, Governorship aspirant under the platform of people Democratic Party (PDP) in plateau state Solomon Nandi Chendan has said for the state to come out from the current insecurity bedeviling the it ,and take it rightful position as the “Home of Peace and Tourism” a serious minded leader most enthroned the position of Governorship of the state.
As honorable Chendan further added that with secure state devoid of crisis and sporadic killings in plateau state and it environ, all other things that will make live better for the citizens of plateau state will be a work over.
The Plateau state Governorship aspirant for 2023 election in the state , honorable Solomon Nandi Promise is contained in pamphlet containing his blue print for the growth of plateau state if voted for as the governor in 2023 general election.
Nandi who is security consultant decried the spate of killings and destruction of properties in state, which has forced many investors to relocate form the state to other a safer states and countries , reduce the state to Civil service state without industries .
He however promised to return the state to her original position it was know for in time past where foreigners were trooping Into the state because of her Peaceful disposition and weather that can be compared to that of Europe and America.
Honorable Solomon said under his watch as the governor of the state he will ensure he bring hope to the hopeless youths that is already disenchanted because of lack of job ,and creat employment of the teeming youths who have nothing doing because it’s idleness which gives room to insecurity in the state.
“We have consulted widely ,I have meet with significant number of the elders , youths and women in the state who has given me their blessings,our consultation we continue because I hope to carry my campaign train down to the grassroots.”
He said as security experts who has managed the security of other states for some years, that of plateau will not be problem if given the mandate to serve as governor of the state.
Ahead of the All Progressive Congress (APC’S) National Youth election bill to hold February,2022,the aspirant for the position of National Deputy Youth Leader , comrade Solomon Yanet Ndem has promised to provide transparent , fair ,just faithful leadership if voted into power.
As he promised that the All Progressive Congress APC, which represents the collective will of all the members of the party across the states of the federation, if elected as the National Deputy Youth Leader his administration will reposition and reorganize the party base on its philosophy of Social democracy.
Comrade Solomon stated this on Thursday 6th January,2022 in his speech during his formal declaration of his ambition to contest for the position of National Deputy Youth Leader held at Jonggrand hotel Bukuru express way Jos, plateau state.
Comrade Solomon further said the Youths under his watch as Deputy of the body, will be an aggrieved membership driven party that are grounded at the grassroots which are authentic with verifiable membership register that can be checked and verified by the party’s member and non members of All Progressive Congress (APC), urged the party to have credible membership register that can’t be altered at any given time.
He however lamented the raiding and destruction of the data by the state security service on the order of People Democratic Party,PDP, during president Good luck jonathan administration in Nov 22nd 2014,he said is not enough to lament the destruction of the data center, but see how possible it can be rebuilt as soon as possible which the Deputy National Youth Leader Aspirant Promise to rebuild if given the mandate.
He further stressed that the rebuilding of the data center would help to eliminate abuse and corruption in the conduct of interparty elections from unit towards local government to state and national levels,it will also create a credible platform for conducting direct primaries which will afford every member of the party to participate in the party primaries at all levels.
Ndem promised that under his watch as the National Deputy Youth Leader,he will give attention to APC, Article 25 of the Party’s constitution which provides that National Convention of the Party shall be held once in two years, National Executive Committee (NEC)every quarter and National Working Committee (NWC)once every month.
He stressed that the overall objectives will be to create platforms for setting National development agenda that will focus on issues that affect the people of Nigeria on the front burner and lamented the absence of such credible platform to interogate and debate matters of National importance which has created void for ethnic champion , religious bigots and other element with different motives.
Comrade Solomon added that if supported and become the Deputy National Youth Leader ,he will strive to ensure the creation of internal democracy within the party, because Political party is structured , voluntary association and informal mob that is not governed by the mood of its leaders at the various levels.
The Executive Governor of Plateau State, Simon Bako Lalong has commended Operation Safe Haven(OPSH) in Plateau state for uniting youths of diverse backgrounds in its area of operation in Plateau,Bauchi and Kaduna state.
The governor gave the commendation during 8 January,2022, Grand Finale of the Chief of Defence Staff Peace and Unity Marathon and Football Competition organized by Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) held at the Rwang Pam Township Stadium in Jos, plateau State Capital.
The who is represented by the Secretary to the Government of Plateau State, Prof Danladi Attu, noted that bringing the youths together from 24 local government areas of Plateau, Bauchi and Kaduna states is a nobel idea towards promoting unity, friendship and teamwork.
He further stressed that the competition was an indication that sporting activities could be used to unite the youths and take them out of crime.
Governor Lalong further lauded the pragmatic approach of Operation SAFE HAVEN in deploying non-kinetic means in solving communal crises in its area of operation,and urged the participants to be agents of peace in their respective domains in order to consolidate on the efforts of the security agencies in securing citizens’ lives and property.
In their separate goodwill messages, the Governors of Kaduna and Bauchi states represented by the Commissioner (Administration) Kafanchan Municipal, Hon Phoebe Sukai Yayi and Special Adviser to Bauchi State Governor on Security, Brigadier General MJ Yake (Rtd) said the competition was capable of fostering unity and bringing permanent peace to the nation if emulated by both private and public institutions.
They commended Operation SAFE HAVEN for its commitment to national security and congratulated the youths for participating in the competition.
They also urged the participants to consider a career in sports which could bring glory to the country.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, Major General Ibrahim Ali, called on all peace loving citizens to unite against the enemies of peace in the society.
He urged the youths to distance themselves from activities that will destroy their future, noting that exposing bad eggs in the society is the surest way to achieving peace. He further assured that the competition would enhance robust civil/military relations of the command.
While encouraging the athletes to make good use of the opportunity provided by the competition to discover and develop their potentials towards becoming better persons in the society, General Ali called on community and religious leaders to champion the course of peace in their various domains.
Also Speaking during the event, His Royal Highness the Mbra Ngwe, Rtd Rev Ronku Aka , the paramount ruler of Irigwe kingdom and the Ardo of Gashish, Ardo Idris were optimistic that the event has proved that peace has come to stay. They called on the youths to maximally support security agencies and never to harbour criminals in their communities.
Highlight of the event were presentation of trophies, medals and cash prizes to the champions, second, third and fourth positions of the football tournament as well as winners of the boys and girls categories of the marathon competition. Consolation prizes were also presented to physically challenged, oldest and youngest competitors of the tournament.
Ahead of Nigeria 2023 General Election,the country largest opposition Political party, People Democratic Party (PDP) has raised alarm over the ground plans of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) to rig the country election to the party favour slated 2023.
As he urged the Nigerians, Political class, media, civil Society organizations and the clergy who believed in democracy to Vehemently resist the APC plans capable of disable the nation hard earned democracy.
The former Houses of Representatives in the National Assembly representing Pankshin ,Kanke and Kanam Constituency in the 7th Assembly,Hon. Timothy Golu stated this in an interview with journalists during his declaration to run for the Governorship Race of plateau state in 2023 General Election held at the party’s secretariat along Bukuru Road in Jos, Plateau state.
Timothy further said president Mohammedu Buhari led APC,is working very hard to score the goal with hands as against the approved rule of the game by the use of foot by football governoring body which he said are one of the reasons mr President bluntantly refused to sign the direct Electorial and electronic bill Into law.
The Hon. Urged Nigerians who believed on democracy not to allow things to continue this way , but should stand up and rescue democracy from the firm grip of some cabals who are currently trying extra hard to strangulate the child called democracy.
He described democracy as a due process of law , devoid of impunity, which doesn’t have room for impunity,but Condemned the impunity enthroned by the APC led Government with unilateral removal of seating Local Government chairman despite the fact that his tenure is till running,and described those behind the disgraceful and reckless disregard for the rule of law are somebody who is a beneficiary of a sound judicial system ,now trying to work against his fellow democratic within the bane of Politics , which is bad Golu maintained.
A journalist turned politians Hon.Golu said he want to contest the governor of the state to continue from where the former Govenor Jonah Jang stop.
“Yes because I was Part of that government,l celebrates that government,in fact I was part of everything that happened”.
” I am happy of what we did as a member of the 7th Assembly, together with the former governor Jonah Jang ,we know the master plan we did for the state both in security, infrastructural provision that are all bound across the state.”
The former law maker who said he is not trying to undermine the country constitutional provision said 8 years as Governor is not enough for a governor to accomplish all the developmental projects he has in mind ,but should be able to do something reasonable with the time limit at his disposal which will indicate that if there is more time you can do more.
“During Jang administration, you witness a prudent utilisation of fund, quality provision of infrastructures because when they say something they back it with action”.
He stressed the massive infrastructural development in the state during David Jonah Jang,the harmony existed between the executive and legislature during Jang administration.
“The Government of Jang has never undermine the state legislature,or removed speaker.”
” What we have in the state legislature during Jang ,is internal affairs ,the governor has never removed the local government chairman, you can see what is happening now under APC,led Government in the state,so many unpleasant are happening, we are not happy about this ugly development .”
Hon.Timothy further said the state need restoration where democracy can be respected,the people of the state to feel the impart of democracy.
However decried the rejection of the electoral bill by Mr President which has make a mockry of democracy with clear indication that somebody somewhere is not ready in deepening democracy the way it should be.
“In 2015 the former president Good luck jonathan decided to leave a legacy of electoral reform ,electoral morality, because at the end of the day,he become victim of what he put on ground but didn’t mine because he said there was no any Persons ambition that worth the blood of any Nigeria.”
“Today is completely opposite ,if it where to be in 2019,one will say that president Buhari is afraid of loosing election ,as it stands now,he is not going to contest any election,the question is why is he afraid of signing the electoral bill Into law.”
I stand to be corrected,no Nigeria that doesn’t not want the transmission of electronic result.
On his decision to contest for Governorship instead of house of representatives he earlier declared, Timothy said ,
” This is democracy which is measure by the quality of governance, happiness of people, provision of items of developments with many indices which includes,the satisfaction of your leadership style, in 2019 when I wanted to go back to the house, it’s still within the ambit of Politics”.
Golu called on the people in the state not to allow the 2019 Political style in state discourage them , that if he had gone to the house,he would have still aspired to become governor of the state 2023 because my wealth of experience will continue as long as l am alive.
“I want to be the governor of plateau state to contribute my quarter in providing the democratic dividend not like holy communion people take all the time without knowing the values.”
“It’s authentically what should be given to the people ,so that the people will know that we are talking about good democratic goverance.”he maintained.
The Eggon Cultural and Development Association of Nasarawa state ,plateau chapter ,has decried the abysmal failure of the All Progressive Congress ( APC) led government in Nigeria in all facet of human endeavors.
And said despite that ,the association will not be deterred ,we will continue to work together as a team for the unity of all the members of Eggon sons and daughters in plateau state and by extension Nigeria as a whole.
The Chairman of ECDA, in Plateau state chapter ,CSP,Magaji John stated this in an interview with journalists during the association celebration of Eggon Cultural day celebration 2022,held at the police field in Jos, Plateau state,3rd January,2022.
Mr Magaji said without no apology to anybody,and mincing a work , Buhari led Government has failed the people of Nigeria who so much put their trust on him during his electioneering campaign.
He said the association is highly disappointed over the insecurity ,killings, kidnapping, banditry and other criminal vices that has been going on under the Buhari Government, as the situation has gone beyond ordinary man.
He said the celebration of this year 2022, Eggon Cultural day in plateau state is remarkable for obvious reasons that it’s been organize after 30 years due to the Internal rangling between the members of the association which has now been resolved and pledged to work with unity.
The chairman further stressed that one of the mandate of the Excos during the inuguration, is to resocitate the baned cultural association of the Eggon people in the state.
Magaji added that the museum authority has allocated a pieces of land to the cultural association to build their artifact which means that we are doing our very best to be reintegrated in the cultural heritage.
CSP, Magaji promised that all modalities has been put in place for the cultural association to fully participate in the forthcoming meseum day that will be held in the state earlier in the year.
He called on the Eggon people to unite and defeat invaders of their communities in the state,and called on the Eggon youths to be active in Politics, good ventures,and shun other social vices, stressed that the unity of Middle Belt is paramount.
Similarly, Chief J.A Bezum the Ari Eggon, plateau state chapter,said the cultural day has made him different person because what is happening today has taken long time without happening.
Chief Bezum harp the need for unity because it’s not possible for anybody to live in isolation so “You can’t unite without gathering together, when you laugh with your brother,you will be happy,we need Unity ,that is the Unity of today event.
The Ari Eggon of Jos, further decried the gradual extinction of the Eggon languages ,as he lamented that parents no longer teach their children how to speak their mother tongue , instead speaking hausa languages instead of their Ancestral languages.
And however called on the parents to make it a duty, and teach their children their mother tongue.
He further lamented the current hardship Nigerians are going through under Mohammedu Buhari Government which make it difficult for many family to eat four square meals a day ,let alone three times a day.
“When president Buhari was coming to power,most Nigerians where happy considering his track record as military president in 1984.”
“On assumption of power,his first gift to the people of Nigeria who over whelmingly voted him into power is to increase the price of petrol from 85 to 145 Naira per pump price.
He however pleaded with president Mohammedu Buhari to maintain that name “Baba Buhari” that he was popularly called during his electioneering campaign and address the issues of insecurity, kidnapping, banditry,and sky rocket of essential goods and services that has gone above the average Nigerians.
The Royal Father stressed that if Buhari is able to accomplish this before living Office as president, history will never forget him,he maintained.
In his speech Hon.Bob-Dk Alaku who is the chairman of the occasion, lamented the internal rangling that had put on hold of the Cultural activities among the Eggon people in the Plateau state for over 20 years.
Alaku said now that the difference amongst the people have been amicably resolved, and the cultural activities with the Eggons in plateau State back on stream,we have agreed that the cultural festival shall be holding every begining of the year.
The chairman further reiterated the need for the Eggon nation both at home and in diaspora to unite together and fight a common cause.
Hon. Alaku called on the government to support Cultural Association as it’s use as a unifying factor to being people together.
This year 2022,Eggon Cultural Development Association (ECDA) celebration plateau state chapter ,has it theme “The Unity Of Eggon On The Plateau”.
The people of Middle-Belt ,under the aegis of Middle-Belt Forum North Central Nigeria has accused president Buhari led Federal Government ,of making them Vulnerable to attack by bandits ,Boko Haram and other attacking marchant as they are been Killed on daily basis without any help from the government.
As Forum has advised the people not to stand and fold their hands while they are being killed on daily basis ,and advised them to go all out and defend themselves from the attackers whose aim is to annihilate the whole Middle-Belt.
The states under this Forum comprised Plateau , Benue,Nasarawa,Taraba,Kwara and Adamawa state made the accusation in an interview with it’s National Secretary ,Hon. Bob- Dk Alaku with journalists in Jos, plateau state Capital.
Bob Alaku said the killing currently going on in the Middle -Belt that seems to have defies all solutions ,had before now been envisaged by the governor of Nasarawa state ,Abdullahi Suleh when his Excellency raised alarm that Boko Haram had migrated from their enclave in the far North East Nigeria, and are currently at the boundaries of Benue and Nasarawa state perpetrating atrocities , killing the people of the Middle-Belt ,but the Buhari led Federal Government didn’t respond to the alarm.
He further said the people of the region are peace loving ,and we have been watching events,and we don’t want to put the law into our hand and fight back ,that is why we always advice them to protect themselves within the confine of the law.
The National Secretary, Middle-Belt Forum Bob-Dk further add that the region have put plans in place to come up with security outfit like our counterparts in the Southeast and Southwest to help and tackle the problems of insecurity in the region.
He commended the efforts of the National President of Middle Belt Forum Dr.Bitrus Pogu over his peaceful disposition which our enemies , particularly those who are not from the region are under rating the peace enjoying in the Middle-Belt.
He decried the killings carrying on by some people who vowed to annihilate the people of the Middle Belt from their Ancestral Land without the Government intervention.
“They have been killing our people ,but we always tell them to calm down and pray over it.”
On the recent massacre of persons particularly from Tiv extraction in Nasarawa state, the National Secretary explained that the governor of Nasarawa state,Abdullahi Suleh had earlier raised alarm over the impending threat of attack,and reported the matter to the Buhari led Federal Government without any proactive step to nip it on board, they invaded their targeted communities unchallenged, and unleashed mythem on the people and leave not fewer than (70) Seventy persons massacred in Cold blood.
“They came through Taraba state axis,the Federal Government was aware of the Killings in those areas, some of them apprehended, they where eventually released.”
He stressed that ,there is no crisis that exceeded more than Fourthy -Eight hours unless there is government hands in it ,he maintained.
Hon.Alaku called on the Federal Government to take proactive steps to protect the lives and properties of the citizens in Middle Belt who are at the vague of been exterminated by bandits and Boko Haram insurgence particularly as the general election is fast approaching because the modus Operandi of the insurgent is to claim the people’s Ancestoral Land .
The National Secretary of the Middle Belt Indigenous Tribes of North-Central Nigeria ,Hon Bob -dike Alaku has berated president Buhari as he described the president as leader who not sincere with his numerous excuses on the electoral law which he benefited from the direct and indirect primaries in 2015 and 2019 .
Hon. Bob-Dk in an interview with journalists in Jos , plateau state capital said the long delay of President Buhari refusal to assent to the electoral law, is a clear indication that the president has something at the back of his mind which he later followed his blunt refusal assent to the bill into law .
The National Secretary further said it is quite disturbing that in politics the government themselves are not sincerely in aspect of the electoral law which is supposed to be assented to by Mr President , added that president Buhari was beneficiary of direct and indirect primaries when he came into office in 2015 and 2019 respectively, it was through indirect primaries that gave him the victory.
According to him,PMB second tenure was done through the direct primaries that gave him victory, now why is he saying that the direct primaries is costly to run as a form of electorial system, he further emphasized on the indirect system of elections which is for the higher bidders ,and cost more money to run as money is use to buy the delegates votes by politians
Hon. Bob-Dk explained further that the direct primaries is the best option which is just like that of the 1993 zero party primaries aka option A4 during the zero party, so signing the electoral act into law is given Nigeria government complaint .
He lamented that the excuse given by Mr President lack merit and didn’t hold water ,so it behoved on the National Assembly ,they have the constitutional power if Mr President refuses to sign the electoral act into law by implications President Muhammadu Buhari is trying to draw Nigeria Democracy backward because of this singular act of his refusal to append his assent .
Hon. Alaku said if I were President Buhari ,I will assent to the Direct Primaries Bill not minding the consequences to avoid embracement ,if Mr president does this singular act the credit would go to him and he won’t be forgotten in the Political history of our great country .
He stressed that ,”I don’t know the advice given by the Attorney General of the Federation to the President on this ,well ,this is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria ,SAN ,and he knows the implications when INEC agreed that they have the capacity to transmit all the results then why are they bringing the issue of some local governments that don’t have networks which is only 74 out of 744 nationwide “.
Adding ,that around 200 LGAs that don’t have networks are only 40% compared to that don’t have networks in their various headquarters .
He pointed out that Turaya phone manufacturer has promised to provide the same networks through their own handset sometimes they said no network which can be understand so it is not late to provide all LGAs with the network before the 2023 general election .
The Secretary General of the Middle Belt Forum ,commended the National President of the forum Dr Bitrus Pogu for his visionary leadership of ensure the safety of all the middle belt assembly .
He described the middle belt people as the most peace loving people with a lot of enemies encroaching into their ancestral farmlands by Northern bandits and Boko Haram, maiming ,killing their natives .
Hon. Bob-Dk cautioned against the farmers ,herders clashes that the people of the middle belt are peace loving Nigerian and are constantly attack by those who want to claim their farmlands .
Gov.Lalong’s New Year Message,Urges Nigeria To Be Hopeful.
By, giwa alex, Jos
Governor Simon Bako Lalong of Plateau State and Chairman, Northern Governors Forum has asked Nigerians to look forward to a great year 2022 with optimism and hope, as they prepare to make personal sacrifices and unite in supporting Government address the critical issues militating against the peace, unity and progress of the nation.
In his new year message, Governor Lalong said the nation has a lot to thank God for having experienced highs and lows in many sectors. He said though there were many challenges, so much was equally achieved in many areas which affirmed the resilience of the Nigerians.
He said with the determination and collaboration of the people, insecurity and unemployment which are major factors that threaten the future of the nation will be overcome.
“Nigeria is tremendously blessed and endowed with not only natural resources, but good people who want to live in peace and pursue legitimate endeavours in peace, unity and tranquility. That is why we must all work together in the new year to confront those who want to take away the collective destiny of Nigerians through terrorism, banditry and other criminal activities. We must deny them such opportunity and also ensure that we put them to shame. We should do so believing that evil cannot triumph over good”, he said.
Governor Lalong said in 2022, his administration will continue with its Rescue Mission of developing human capital and physical infrastructure by completing those in progress as well as carrying out others which are coming on board. This he said will ensure that the Government fulfils its promises to the people.
Among others, the Governor said the Lalong Legacy Projects will be completed while work on the British-America flyover bridge will be carried out including other ongoing projects across the 17 Local Government Areas of the State.
He asked the people to continue to work on building peace and maintaining law and order which is central to development.
While wishing Nigerians a prosperous 2022, Lalong admonished them to continue to love one another as they improve the culture of tolerance irrespective of their diversities.
Release Of Abduct Mornach, Security On The Trail Of Perpetrators .
By, giwa alex, Jos
As the paramount ruler of Pyem Chiefdom of Ginidiri in Mangu Local Government of Plateau State was released on the 31st December,2021,the Securities understand the auspacies of Operation Save Haven (OPSH) said they are still on the trail of the abduptors with the view of bringing them to justice.
As they said so far not fewer than (8) suspects so far arrested in connection with the kidnapping the Paramount ruler who was abducted earlier in the week.
The security’s undate is contained in a release issued by the OPSH, spoke man Major Takwa and made available to this medium online which read in part,
“While the Paramount ruler of Gindiri in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, Chief Charles Mato has been with his abductors, the commander Operation SAFE HAVEN Major General Ibrahim Ali placed the troops deployed at Gyanbus on red alert and hot trail of the perpetrators.”
“Consequently, Eight suspects were arrested in connection with the kidnap incidence and are being interrogated. Following this development, the paramount ruler early this morning of Friday 31st December 2021 was released by his abductors.”
Meanwhile the release further said, Operations SAFE HAVEN is still very much on ground to ensure all those involved in the kidnap of the traditional ruler are arrested and made to face the full wrath of the law. Thank you.
Governor Simon Bako Lalong has expressed deep sadness over the death of a First Class Traditional Ruler in Plateau State, the Mishkaham Mwagavul, Da Nelson Bakfur who joined his ancestors on Tuesday 28th Dec,2021 .
Governor Lalong expressed his sadness during a visit to the family of the monarch in Kerang, Mangu Local Government, said he received the news of the passing of the royal father with shock and grief as the deceased was a peacemaker and a rallying point for not only the Mwagavul nation, but the entire State.
The Governor who was accompanied by First Lady Regina Lalong, said “Da Nelson Bakfur did a lot to promote peaceful coexistence and development in his domain since assuming office as Mishkaham Mwaghavul in 1999.
He added that as the Chairman of the Mangu Traditional Council, he was very instrumental to the substantial peace recorded in the Local Government as well as the confidence building that grew among various ethnic groups in the area,this Lalong said has facilitated the resolution of many disputes which prevented escalation”.
The Governor also paid tribute to the late Royal Father for his passion for economic emancipation of his people as well as paying special attention to educational development. He said the Royal Father also motivated the people to participate in agriculture and produce food for the State and nation at large.
While encouraging the immediate family and the Mwagavul nation to accept the passing of the late royal father as the will of God, Lalong challenged them to keep his legacies alive and continue to embibe his good virtues.
Responding, Da Philemon Mutang, District Head of Kerang said the visit of the Governor to the family is consoling and reassuring which further demonstrates the good relationship that existed between the Governor and the late Royal Father.
Commissioner for Minerals Development Hon. Jude Dakur prayed for the family and for the repose of the soul of the Royal Father.
The youths of Mopamuro communities in Kogi State have decried the recent spate of robbery and kidnappings in the local government.
In a public demonstration carried out on Tuesday, the youth marched across various communities in the LG in condemnation of what many described as an evil development.
According to the youths, Mopamuro had been peaceful until the influx of Fulani/herdsmen settlers believed to have been dispersed from south western parts of the country on similar allegations of kidnappings, robberies, assaults and farms destruction.
The youth who were chanting ‘Fulani Must Go’, ‘Bororo Must Go’ in their protest also alleged that a Chief in Mopa called Sunday Asipa and another man known as ‘Ilorin’ abhor and provide information to these suspected criminal elements in the community.
The youth, during the peaceful protest, appealed to traditional rulers, the Chairman of the Local Government, and their representatives at State and federal levels to please come to their aid in securing the release of the kidnapped victims and avert the looming evil bedeviling the local government.
Few days ago, youth, hunters, and vigilante personnel in a joint force were also reported to have attempted to apprehend some of the suspected criminals following the abduction of one Mr. Sunday Agbogun whose car was abandoned beside the road.
The suspected criminals escaped, but two motorcycles with plate numbers; Kogi KNE-41UM and Kogi LKJ-902UX were recovered from them.
It should also be recalled that in a recent video being peddled on the Social Media, a certain firearms smuggler, an old man, paraded by the Nigeria Police operatives confessed that he had been involved in smuggling firearms for some nomadic Fulanis in Isanlu, Yagba East LG, and Efo, Mopamuro LG.
The youth are calling on all security agencies and persons in position of authority to rush to their aid.
Sequel to the recent adoption of the paramount ruler of Ginidiri ,His Royal Highness Charles Mato Dakat by yet to be identify persons, member of the Gindiri Old Students Association (GOSA), in Nigeria and diaspora have been called upon to pray for Save release of the Royal Father who was kidnapped at his resident on 26th December,2021,by his adoptors.
The call for prayer on Save release of the Royal Father is contained in a press statement issued by the association’s president Engr Sunday Hyat , signed by it public relation officer Yakubu Taddy and made available to this medium in Jos, plateau state.
The statement read in part,all the GOSA, received with shock and sadness the kidnap of the paramount ruler of Gindiri and one of its very active members, His Royal Highness, Charles Mato Dakat in the early hours of Sunday 26th December,2021.”
“Hyat said since becoming the Sum Pyem, Charles Mato Dakat has become a rallying point for unity and progress of not only the Pyem people but Mangu Local Government and the country at large.”
“He noted that the Sum Pyem’s leadership has ensured that educational institutions, particularly in the Gindiri Compound strive in his jurisdiction without rancour.
Engineer Sunday Hyat who is the Plateau State Head of Civil Service appreciated efforts taken by His Excellency, Rt Hon Simon Bako and the security agencies to tract down the perpetrators of the dastardly act. “
While calling on security agencies to double up effort and ensure the safe return of the Gindiri monarch, he called on GOSA members everywhere they are to sustain prayers for his release and the safety of all Nigerians.
The GOSA President express solidarity with the immediate family of the Sum Pyem,the Pyem chiefdom,Mangu traditional council and the Government and people of Plateau State.
A non partian and non Political platform under the auspacies of “Road To 2023” has warned those who trying to turned the platform to campaign for any particular politians or Political party to stop forthwith or have himself or herself remove from the platform.
The warning was handed down by on of the initiator of the platform Ado Katen and made available to this medium in Jos, plateau state 27th December,2021.
According to Ado Katen,campaigning for any individual ,we must not be oblivious of the fact that we are non partisan and we only stand for good Governance and representation in public space , If you want to inform us about the achievement of anybody its welcome but we can’t encourage using this platform to campaign for individuals the aim will be defeated .
He however urgued members to abide by the rules governoring the platform.
“We must be guided ,Otherwise the aims,objectives of forming this platform will be defeated , while we respect the right of individuals to hold opinions and promote any candidate of their choice we must be careful not to be seen to be Campaigning for anybody pls ! Let’s abide by the rules”.
Governors under the auspacies of Northern Governors’ Forum has Felicitates with the Governor of Nasarawa Sule Abdullahi and Abubakar Bagudu of Kebbi state over their 60th and 62nd birthdays respectively.
Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Plateau State Simon Bako Lalong in statement said the Governors have played significant role in impacting the lives of their people and Nigerians at large through their various positions of responsibility including their current offices.
He said they have remained key players in the political space in Nigeria and making significant efforts to ensure that good governance, peace and economic development is attained.
Lalong said “Governor Atiku Abubakar Bagudu of Kebbi State is a leader with passion for transforming the lives of the people through empowerment and physical infrastructure.
He has not only demonstrated such in his tenure as Governor, but made enermous contributions to the efforts of the Northern Governors Forum to develop an economic blueprint for the region particularly in the era of COVID-19 and other challenges. He has also shown courage in leadership as Chairman of the Progressives Governors Forum”.
For Governor Abdullahi Sule, Lalong described him as a technocrat with wide knowledge and experience which he has brought on board since coming into office as Governor of Nasarawa State.
He said “The Forum has greatly benefitted from the ideas of Governor Sule whose vast experience in the private sector has enabled it tap from his knowledge particularly in the area of energy development and agricultural revolution. He has put in a lot of efforts to ensure that the people of Nasarawa State benefit from the enermous endowments of the State in agriculture, solid minerals among others”.
Lalong said the Forum while wishing them more years of good health, peace and wisdom, urges them to continue to provide leadership to their people as well as play their roles in ensuring that the region and the Nigeria at large overcomes the many challenges it is currently facing.
The National Chairman of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Dr Boniface Okechukwu Aniebonam has Felicitates with Christians in Nigeria and the world at large as they celebrate Christmas.
Urged Christians to seize the opportunity to pray for peace and show love to both Christians and people of other religions, as he encourages Nigerians to love one another as the season signifies peace and love.
The Party’s Christmas felicitation is contained in a release signed by Rev.Emmanuel Olounmagba, Deputy National Publicity Secretary ,on behalf of the National Chairman,Dr.Boniface Okechukwu Aniebonam,and made available to this medium in Jos, plateau state.
Dr Boniface who extends the good wishes immediately on his arrival from Anambra State ahead of celebrating the yuletide in his village home stressed that,
“While Christmas has great significance for Christians everywhere, it also comes with the message of peace and good will as we mark the birth of the Prince of Peace. Therefore, Nigerian Christians should not relent in praying for peace in the country and keep depicting the examplary life that Jesus lives by showing love to everyone irrespective of the religion individuals practice. The need for all Nigerians to show love to one another cannot be overemphasised.”
“This period he further added, when there is more need of great hope for a brighter tomorrow, the message of hope and optimism gives us confidence towards playing our parts in building a new Nigeria, being confident that set-backs are temporary and we can achieve our dream for a new nation if we don’t give up on our beloved country”.
The business tycoon on behalf of the party (NNPP) he chairs concludes, “God bless everyone and happy Christmas celebrations”.
NGO Donates Food Stuff to Indigents in Plateau Communities
Our Reporter, Jos
A Plateau based non-governmental organisation, Saphira Global Centre for Social Development, has donated food stuff to selected vulnerable households in the state in its 2021 edition of the Annual End of Year Food Drive.
The elaborate event held in Jos, Plateau State capital saw 50 households from different local government areas benefitting from the first and second batches of the project.
According to the Executive Director of the Centre, Ms. Yil Fomsul Gonsum, other selected beneficiaries would be reached via door to door delivery as the Centre was said to be COVID-19 protocol compliance.
Among items distributed were Rice, Cooking oil, Maggi, Milo, and Richfill. Others were Salt, Corn Flakes and Detergents among other.
The annual end of year food drive was supported through crowdfunding with donations from corporate organisations including UAC subsidiary, Grand Cereals, and NASCO Foods. Other supporters according to the Executive Director, were kind spirited members of the public including friends and families.
While addressing journalists, Ms. Gonsum said that the aim and objective of the Centre was to reach out to vulnerable groups, widows, orphans, internally displaced person’s (IDPs), and other person’s that were in need of urgent support.
She lamented the hard economic reality in the country noting that the Centre was able to Garner resources through supports from corporate organisations and spirited individuals.
She said, “I always reach out to the poor and the needy. I cook in my house and feed people who have nothing to eat.
“My aim is to put smiles on faces of the people and my goal is to help those who can not help me back.”
In their separate interviews, beneficiaries, Rebecca Jacob and Christiana Dalop from Langtang and Riyom LGA of Plateau state respectively, thanked the founder of Saphira Global Centre, for wiping the tears of the widows and vulnerable groups. They prayed that God would open more doors of opportunity for the Centre to empower more widows and the vulnerable groups.
They called on the government to come to the rescue of the widows and vulnerable persons in the state and by extension, Nigeria, as they can hardly feed their children and pay their school fees because of the current economic hardship.
“We are calling on the Government at all levels to assist an organization like Saphira Global Centre that is passionate about the welfare of widows and vulnerable persons in every community in Plateau state, and by extension the country as a whole”.
This, they said will enable the organisation to reach out to more vulnerable persons in various communities in the state in particular and the country at large.
The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Plateau State Chapter has with felicitates with Christians in the state and extension Nigeria as a whole on Christmas and New Year Celebration.
The Party’s Christmas and New Year Felicitation is contained in press statement dated 25th December,2021,signed by the party State Publicity Secretary John T Akans and made available to this medium in Jos , plateau state capital.
The statement reads’ as we celebrate this wonderful season occasioned by the birthday of our Lord, and Master, Jesus Christ, we give God all the glory for the joys, the victories and strength with which we embraced and endured all the events and revelations that shaped our 2021.
Thank Plateau people for their continues support and encouragement as we prepare to lead the party to Government, house come 2023, which this mission have continued to receive tremendous support. We are grateful.
“May our New Year be filled with special moments of warmth, peace, happiness and successes. “
“We express our gratitude to our members for their commitment, love, courage and steadfastness this past year. A year filled with challenges, we are grateful for your support ! Together we shall conquer.”
“We draw the attention of our members to the fact that ‘politics is the art of the possible’. We therefore wish and hope that we are guided as we usher in 2022.”
“As we approach 2022, we must continue to show Plateau people why they must keep faith with PDP by showcasing our unity, plans and programs to letting them know that only PDP can truly rescue Plateau and Nigeria.”
“Our aim is to form a government that will transform Plateau into the technology outsourcing nerve Centre in Africa. It is clear that PDP and it’s leadership are committed to this mission by empowering the the people of Plateau and preparing them for the future while increasing our GDP!”
“As you celebrate this festive season, remember to observe the Covid-19 protocols, especially with the threat of the OMICRON variant in the air: Always wear your face masks, maintain social distancing, and regularly wash your hands with soap and running water”.
“Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year in advance to the lovely Plateau People the maintained” .
Gov.Lalong Congratulates Nigerians At Christmas, Says Birth Of Christ Inspires Faith And Hope.
By,giwa alex, Jos
As Christians all over the world celebrate Christmas ,the Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has congratulated Nigerian Christians for marking another Christmas, urging them to use the period to reflect on the hope and joy that the birth of Jesus Christ brings to humanity.
Lalong in a message said the occasion provides another opportunity for Nigerians to be inspired ,eliminate all fears about the issues that stand against the unity and peace of the country which is contrary to the message of hope that the birth of Christ ushered in for mankind.
He said the lifestyle of Jesus Christ clearly indicates that challenges are necessary for the process of development which applies to the various problems that Nigeria is confronting at the moment. This he said should guide Nigerians not to despair but build hope and faith that the country will soon overcome its challenges and achieve stability.
Lalong also said the attributes of love, tolerance, truth, justice and compassion which characterized the lifestyle of Jesus Christ should be embibed by both Christians and non-Christians in their day to day dealings with one another.
While wishing the citizens of Plateau State and Nigeria a blessed Christmas celebration, the Governor asked them to use the event to reach out to people in need and share with people of other faiths in the spirit of the season.
Lalong who is excited about the way people from various parts of the country are trooping into Plateau for the yuletide also wants them to be security conscious and remain vigilant to report any suspicious activity to the security agencies. He also challenged the security agencies to be on top of their game and ensure that Plateau witnesses are crime-free yuletide.
He also advised the public to discountenace some false and alarming reports being circulated in the social media suggesting a bleak Christmas in the State due to insecurity, saying such reports are not only false and alarmist, but also targeted at de-marketing the State by those who take pleasure or thrive when the State is in the news for negative reasons.
Group under the auspacies big “Road To 2023” has congratulated the Director General industrial training fund (ITF)sir joseph Ari Ksm,on his 61st birthday.
The congratulary message is contained in a message dated 21st December,2021, signed by it state coordinator Ado Ali Katyen and Again Suleh Atul Secretary and made available to this medium in Jos, plateau state.
The group who described Joseph Ari as metaphor of competence and good leadership, seized the opportunity to congratulate the Director General ITF, for his commendable and outstanding performance in steering the ship of the prestigious Industrial Training Fund (ITF) in the last six (6) years.
“Your hard work, candour, patience, resilience, penchant and remarkable patriotic antecedents for value creation and addition are qualities that have made you outstanding amongst your peers.”
This moment the message further read’s is therefore well deserved and it’s in recognition of your sterling leadership qualities as a worthy ambassador of our people and illustrious son of Plateau State.
“Your leadership is a source of inspiration to many and has instilled hope and confidence in those aspiring for leadership position given your track record of achievement in public space which is worthy of emulation.”
“The Road To 2023 Grou is proud to identify with you in view of your remarkable feat in spearheading a new wave of leadership in the Industrial Training Fund (ITF).”
“You have so far exhibited an uncanny style of leadership unprecedented in the history of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) in the last six (6) years of your stewardship.”
The “Road To 2023 Group Plateau State Chapter, stands for good governance, accountability, transparency, inclusiveness, fair play in the conduct of public affairs which you have truly and rightly exhibited at the helm of affairs. You have no doubt written your name in the sands of history and your place in the annals of the ITF is assured and will always be written in gold. “
“As you celebrate your 61st birthday, may the Lord protect you and all members of your family and, grant you more wisdom to excel with no bounds.”
“Please accept Honourable Director-General, the assurances of our support and cooperation at all times.”
The Non-Governmental , Non- Profit and Non -Political Organization (NGO) under the auspacies of Saphira Global Center For Social Development has urgued the Government at all levels to shift her development to human angle and empower widows , vulnerable and the downtrodden in the society rather than building infrastructure.
As the organization has raised alarm and Condemned in strong term the attitude of some people who hide under the guise of NGO’S to enriching their pockets and defrauding vulnerable people that has something close to nothing.
The Chief Executive Director of the Center Mrs Yil Fomwul Gonsum stated this in an interview with this medium during the organization yearly ritual distribution of food stuffs to widows and Vulnerable group held at it office in Zuma Steel Rolling Mill opposite Atiku Abubakar street , Rayfield , Jos , Plateau state 22nd December,2021.
The Executive Director said the organization who doubled as Human Rights and Humanitarian Aide aims and objectives is to reach out for Vulnerable group, widows , orphans , Internal Displaced Persons (IDP’s) and any other Persons that are in dare needs of help either in one form or the other ,like clothing ,food items and other essentials.
Mrs Hope further disclosed to our rëporter that every year Saphira Global Center for Social Development , always have what he described as “Food Drive”which usually is slated every ending of the year to reach out to the Vulnerable groups in the community .
Mrs Gonsum stressed that this year “Food Drive” program of the NGO,is taking a slight different dimensions as it’s been done right in our office of the Center which gives us wider spread and not limited to a particular community .
She lamented the hard economic reality in the country,but said ,not withstanding we where able to still garner resources together with support from Nastle Food,Nasco Food , organization and other cooperate body , individual and friends that contributed clothing and other items.
The Executive Director Saphira Global Center ,maintained that with the fund the organization raised ,and items from spirited individual,and organisation we where able to distribute items like Rice,indomie, Cornflake spicy and others to not fewer than 25 Vulnerable beneficiaries who were present because we decided to reduce the number of gathering in line with Covid-19 protocol,as others will be given in their various houses.
She added that her driving force is passion ” I always reach out for the poor and the needy ,I cooked in my house and feed people who didn’t have to eat”.
“My aim is to put smile on the faces of people ,and my goal is to help those who cannot help me back”.
In their separate interviews Rebecca Jacob and Christiana Dalop from Langtang and Riyom LGA of Plateau state respectively thank the founder of Saphira Global Center for wiping the tears of the windows and Vulnerable groups, however prayed God to open more door of opportunity for them to empower more widows and the Vulnerable .
They called on the government to come to the rescue of the Widows and Vulnerable Persons in the state and by extension Nigeria as they can hardly feed their children and paid their fees because of the current economic hardship.
“We are calling on the Government at all levels to assist an Organization like Saphira Global Center who is passionate over the welfare of widows and Vulnerable Persons in every communities in plateau state ,and by extension the country as a whole”.
This they said will enable the Organization to reach out to more Vulnerable Persons in various communities in the state in particular and the country at large.
Over 100 staff of Plateau State Radio Television Corporation (PRTVC) have raised alarm and accused Governor Lalong’s officials and top management of PRTVC are now working hard to frustrate and delay the wheel of judgment ,as some of the staff are receiving threat and intimidation .
Those whose employment was unlawfully terminated by the Plateau State Government, during the Former Governor Jonah David Jang who are now challenging their counsel ,Barr. Gideon Ngwen, a lawyer, for criminal breach of trust and misappropriation funds is gradually taken another dimension .
However, the case which was adjourned to the 16th December, 2021 for ruling on preliminary objection ,(P.O) on Friday raised by Barr. Gideon Ngwen that the high court lack the jurisdiction to entertain the suit .
The Economic and Financial Crime Commission ,EFCC ,arraigned Barr.Gideon Ngwen before Justice C. L. Dabup of Plateau State High Court, Jos, on a three count charge .
He was accused of alleged converted the judgment debt paid into his account on behalf of his clients, which top management of the PRTVC including top government officials in Governor Simon Lalong cabinet are working tirelessly to twist and block the matter for proceedings .
“You would recall,that the workers sometimes in 2014 and 2016 instituted a suit at the National Industrial Court, Jos Division in Suit No. NICN/JOS/25/2014 and NICN/JOS/28/2016 against the Plateau State government for unlawful termination of their employment whereupon the defendant took up their case pro bono” .
This was revealed that during the trial, parties entered into a consent judgement and it was agreed that the sum of N181, 890, 402. 66 (One Hundred and Eighty One Million, Eight Hundred and Ninety Thousand, Four Hundred and Two Naira and Sixty Six Kobo) be paid to all 100 staff through the account of the defendant domiciled in United Bank for Africa ,UBA,.
They further alleged that to their dismay, they discovered that the sum of N107, 000, 000. 00 (One Hundred and Seven Million Naira) which has been paid into the defendant’s United Bank for Africa Bank account, had been converted by him for personal use.
Count one of the charge reads:“That you, Gideon Ngwen (trading under the name and style of Gideon Ngwen & Co.) between 21st September, 2017 and 8th July, 2018 at Jos, Plateau State within the Jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, converted to your own use the sum of N67, 540, 129. 57 (Sixty Seven Million, Five Hundred and Forty Thousand, One Hundred and Twenty Nine Naira, Fifty Seven Kobo) which was entrusted to you by the Plateau State Government as payment of arrears of salaries to David Musa Ayiki and 99 other staff of Plateau State Radio Television Corporation (PRTVC).”
The prosecution counsel, M. O. Tijani when spoke on phone on the next adjourn date ,he respond that no date was given ,as the matter was slated for ruling on the preliminary objection .
The frustrated PRTVC staff are calling on the intervention of the Plateau state government under the amiable leadership of Governor Simon Lalong to come into the matter ,as some of the staff are dead .
Govs. Forum Urgues Armed Forces To Sustain Onslaught Against Terrorists.
By,giwa alex, Jos
Governors under auspacies of Northern Governors’Forum has lauded the Nigerian Armed Forces for stepping up their operations against bandits and insurgents terrorising various parts of the country particularly the North East, North and North West of the country.
The Forum commended the Armed Forces and urged them not to relent in their oars until the bandits, terrorists and other vices that has post themselves as the enemies of the country are brought to their knees.
Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Plateau State Simon Bako Lalong in a statement said the Forum appreciates the recent efforts of the security personnel for carrying out operations across the affected areas of the North East, North Central and North West. He said the ongoing operations in areas of Sokoto, Zamfara, Kaduna States among others where bandits and insurgents who have been terrorising the citizens are dislodged is very commendable.
Lalong said the Forum wants the operations to be sustained and further coordinated to ensure that the terrorists do not shift their bases after been dislodged from current areas. This he said will make sure the terrorists are completely subdued and restrained from regrouping for law and order to prevail across the country.
Lalong also condemned the recent attacks by terrorists in various Local Governments of Kaduna State, Wase Local Government of Plateau State, Askira Uba and other Local Government of Borno, Niger States among others where innocent citizens were gruesomely murdered and many properties destroyed.
While commiserating with the families of those killed and surviving victims, the Forum reiterated its commitment to continue to provide succour to the affected and also work with the Federal Government for further humanitarian interventions.
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