By,giwa alex,jos

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. 

By,Our Reporter

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.

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.

By,giwa alex,jos

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 “.

By,giwa Alex, Jos.

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.

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.

By,giwa alex,jos

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. 

You are please requested to disseminate this information through your medium. Thank you for your usual cooperation 

By,giwa Alex,jos

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.

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.

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. 

By,Giwa Alex ,jos

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. 

Our Reporter.

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 24^thFebruary, 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 24^th 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.

Cull From Reality newspaper.

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.

By,giwa Alex,jos

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)

https://gnews.art.blog/2022/02/21/drama-as-the-murder-of-300-level-of-unijos-student-jennifer-anthony-arraign-in-court/

By, giwa Alex,Jos

.

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. 

.

By,giwa alex, Jos

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.

By Isaac Shobayo

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.

By, giwa alex, Jos

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.

NJC Bars 3 Judges From

Promotion Over Conflicting Orders On PDP Leadership Crisis

Our Reporter

The National Judicial Council (NJC) says three judges will not be promoted for issuing conflicting ex parte orders.

Soji Oye, NJC director of information, in a statement issued on Tuesday, said the council arrived at the resolution during a two-day meeting held on Dec ,14th and 15th

A few months ago, different judges issued conflicting orders on the leadership crisis of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and on candidacy controversies ahead of the Anambra governorship election.

Ibrahim Muhammad, chief justice of Nigeria (CJN), after quizzing seven chief judges on September 6, directed the NJC to set up a panel to probe three of them.

In the meeting which was chaired by Mary Peter-Odili, deputy chairman of the council, it was agreed that Okogbule Gbasam, judge of the high court of Rivers state “be barred from elevation to higher bench for two years whenever he is due, as he failed to exercise due diligence in granting the ex parte order in Suit No: PHC/2183/CS/2021 between Ibealwuchi Earnest Alex & 4 Ors and Prince Uche Secondus & anor, as there was no real urgency, in the circumstances of the matter, that would have required an ex parte order.

“Council also resolved that hon. justice Nusirat I. Umar of the high court of Kebbi state be barred from elevation to higher Bench for two years whenever due, having found fundamental defects and non-compliance with the law in granting the ex parte order in suit no: KB/HC/M.71/2021 between Yahaya Usman & 2 Ors and Prince Uche Secondus & anor.

“Hon. justice Edem Ita Kooffreh of the high court of Cross River state will not be promoted to higher bench for five years for allowing himself to be used as a tool for “forum shopping” and abuse of court process in suit No: HC/240/2021 between Enang Kanum Wani and Uche Secondus as it was evident that, in granting the ex parte order, he was seised of earlier orders of the high courts of Rivers and Kebbi states, being courts of coordinate jurisdiction with his.

“The council also placed him on its Watch-List for a period of two years.”

All three judges also received warning letters urging them to be circumspect in granting ex parte orders in the future.

Oye said the council also approved the appointment of 63 judges for 16 states, nine of which are heads of court.