By,giwa alex, Jos

The courts in plateau state may soon be under lock and key for only God knows how long it will last unless something urgent is done by Governor Lalong and the management of the courts in the state.

As the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (Jusun) Plateau state chapter has decried frustration from the management of the courts in the state over renegotiation on some of the issues which was pending before calling off, of the body National strike that put the courts in the whole country under lock and keyed for some months.

The notice on the resumption of the strike action by the union is contained in a letter dated 3rd December,2021 , signed by it secretary , Comrade,Pasi Ishaya and made available to this medium in Jos , plateau state capital.

The letter further read that since the management has bluntly refused to negotiate in good faith the demands put forward after series of letters and steps taken by both management and the union to reach consensus to the demands .

These demands according to the union that remains on the table unresolved by the management includes ,

I) Conversion, implementation of 2020 promotion

2) implementation of peculiar allowance.

Other demands of the union according to the letter, includes , implementation of ,Domesic allowance, Outfit allowance, Security allowance and Good working environment allowance.

The union lamented the nonchalant attitude of the management by not shown any willingness to the demands put forth,we have no recourse other than to resume our earlier suspended strike, effective midnight, Thursday 9th Dec,2021.

The union however regretted the decision to resume the earlier suspended strike as the necessary decision taken by the union is the last resort .

And promised the union calling off the strike as soon as these unresolved issues are being resolved .

I Never Receive Bribe From Hon.Rufus Bature, APC Led Faction—-Hon. Itse Ishaya

By, giwa alex,Jos

The Factional Chairman of the All Progressive Congress , APC, Plateau State Chapter Hon. Itse Ishaya has debunked the allegations of fraudulent means of alleged conniving with Hon.Rufus Bature led faction to collect bribe of 2million as baseless saying is just a plot by mischief makers to destroy his integrity and his political career .

In an interview with journalists in Jos, Hon. Itse Ishaya said with total regret that he has never held any secret meeting behind close door with the Hon. Rufus Bature led faction that the meetings were at instance of Hon.Garba Pankwal who is a close associate of Bature .

He said ,my concern is that as one family we need to come together towards resolving the lingering issues out of court settlement which we all sat down and took the decision .

We all agreed among us on the terms of agreement which we can come up with it, we said the issue be give and take ,they said yes according to Hon.Rufus Bature we were all brief by Hon Garba Pankwal .

Itse explained further that the Rufus Bature urged everyone of us to spelt out their various conditions that might bring an end to the feud ,those that are interested in state Exco ,National officer or appointment should table them.

Hon. Itse Ishaya maintained that he was surprised because after far reaching decision of settling the matter out of court, the issue of legal fees came up which Hon. Rufus Bature promised to pay the Counsel to the claimants Barr.Gwaison.

He said after we all arrived at the conclusion of , “give and take “and other charges we have to sacrifice that ,there and then he directed his lawyer to contact our lawyer to complete the fee payment .

Hon. Itse Ishaya reinstated that during the Rufus Bature peace settlement, we agreed that the matter has been put to rest the crisis that has hitherto rocking the state Exco of the Party and he gave each of the members the some #100,000 which bring the amount to #800,000.

He added that after the meeting ,we move out of Hon.Bature’s quest house and put a call to our lawyer to draft a letter of discontinuation with the dated 23rd Nov,2021 which was finalized on the 27th Nov,2021 at about 6am.

When the lawyer Gwaison drafted the letter of notification for withdrawal, he sent it through my WhatsApp page and I forwarded it to all the Exco for their input before taking it to court ,but nobody say anything to me till this moment ,he noted .

Hon. Itse stated that until when the lawyer completed the filing process in court some of my Exco started calling me that they were not part of the agreement reach when they visited the former APC chairman Hon. Letep Dabang .

He added that we took the matter to the APC Elder forum,they intervened and appreciated the resolution of settling the matter out of court which is very importance but with the visit to the former APC chairman Hon letep Dabang the issue change and they started singing discondant voices.

Gov.Umaru

Zulum Clears 12 billion Naira Borno State Outstanding Petitioners’ backlog.

Our Reporter.

Governor Zulum of Borno state has cleared the backlog of petitioners pension owning by the state government amounting to 12 billion naira.

As Governor Zulum stressed that it will not be recorded in the history of the state that our parents who use their live time to serve state are being denied their means of survival after retirement.

Governor Zulum further added that God in heaven will not be happy with the act ,as he assured the pensioners that within 48 hours from this announcement,the account of the respectives beneficiaries in the state will be credited.

“Today I have cleared off the N12Billion Naira outstanding. This brings to an end the era of owing pensioners.”

“It should not be recorded in history that our parents who laboured for the state for the past 35-40 years of their lives could not get means of surviving after retirement, even God will not be happy.”

” It is expected that in the next 48hrs, every pensioner should have been credited in their accounts”.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The LG election tribunal seating at West of Mines in Jos division has Strike out the petition brought before it by Hon. Nasiru Aliyu Haruna of Angwan Rogo/Rimi Ward of Jos North local government area of Plateau state challenging the election Aliyu Sule as Counsellor.

The three Man -Tribunal strikes out the petitioner’s petition filed by Hon.Nasiru Aliyu for lacking in merit on ground of duplication of petition as similar petition has been filed before the State High Court of Plateau state.

Following the conduct of the state Local Government Election held on the 9th October,2021 across the 17 local government Area of the state, the petitioner, Nasiru Aliyu contested for counselor seat under the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Angwan Rogo/Rimi Ward.

Nasiru Aliyu has dragged the respondent Aliyu Sule and six others all from the All Progressive Congress APC,and Plateau Independent Electorial Commission (PLASIEC)as the 1st ,3rd applicant objector and respondent respectively seeking the order of the tribunal to amongst other ground disqualify the 1st respondent Aliyu Sule on the ground that he was not qualified to contest the 9th Oct,2021 counsellor position of Angwan Rogo/Rimi Ward as at the time of the election the 1st respondent Aliyu Sule didn’t resign his appointment with the Bauchi State Government in line with the electoral guidelines.

In a counter affidavit filed by the 1st respondent ,Aliyu Sule through his counsel Barr .M .K Abdullahi,urgued the tribunal to discontent the petition of the petitioner Nasiru Aliyu on the ground that the tribunal lacked the jurisdiction to entertain the matter as the petitioner has filed similar petition at the State High Court, plateau State division challenging the same election conduct which tantamount to duplication of petition .

The judge however cited several authorities to buttressed his judgement and stressed that since similar case has been filled at the state High Court, the tribunal lack jurisdiction to entertain the matter and however strike out the matter in favor of Aliyu Sule.

In an interview with this medium , counsel to the petitioner Barr P.K Timothy Posha said as the judge rightly pointed out in his ruling, he faulted the entire process of the commencement of the hearing of the petition.

He said on the day of the lnugural seating of the tribunal ,as petitioner counsel, I should have be the one to apply for the (PO) preliminary objection.

Surprisedly,the court directed that the 1st respondent should apply for it, which suppose to be my responsibility.

Secondly,he added that he therefore went ahead and applied for the prehearing which was served to all parties in the case.

He lamented that the greatest thing in the court ruling ,is that all the issues raised is very important issues that he cannot say much about it.

He however said they will go back and weigh the option of the tribunal’s judgement and look at possible ways justice can be done to those areas.

He stressed that as judge,you are bound to take every application that is brought before you.

The judge also harp his judgement on the ground that the petition is strike out on ground that similar petition has also be filed before High Court plateau State Division,we cannot discuss the case,but have a close look at it whether they are related.

He further said it’s expected that the tribunal take look at the claim before the High Court, and the relief sort .

On whether he will challenge the judgement at the appeal court,he said I can’t quick to say if I am going to appeal or not .

And promised to weigh the option before going ahead to take decision appeal or not.

On his part, Counsel to the 1st respondent M.k Abdullahi commended the judgement as he faulted the grounds of the petitioner which he said is predicated on faulty ground.

He further add that they are waiting for them if they intend to appeal the judgement as it’s matter of law and justice will be done any day,any time.

The 1st respondent who couldn’t his joy said he thank Almighty Allah for the judgement that goes to his favor.

Called Hon. Aliyu and his supporters to come and Join force with him and his team for the development of Angwan Rogo/Rimi Ward.

How lshaya Itse Plateau APC Factional Chairman Betray Colleagues ,Collect Lalong’s 2Million Naira.

By, giwa alex,Jos

Following the conduct of the All Progressive Congress (APC) Plateau state chapter held in the state recently,there is turned of event as the suit filed by the aggrieved factional group not satisfied with the conduct of the Congresses head by Hon.lshaya Itse has said to have sell out his colleagues who are in the same fight by collecting 2million Naira offer from Governor Bako Lalong.

In a suit filed by the Chairman of one of the faction group led by Hon. Itse Ishaya were he ordered their counsel Barr. N.D. Gwallson to discontinue with the hearing of the case on grounds that the matter has amicably settled .

However, when the 2nd to 8th defendants got wing of the secret purported reached of agreement between their counsel and that of meeting with defendants counsel rejected the outcome of the meeting by filing fresh affidavit before the court.

its was gathered that the embattled Chairman Itse Ishaya was bribe with the sum of 2 million to discontinue with the case at the detriment of the others aggrieved APC who approach the state high court seeking for the interpretation of the kangaroo Congress .

when the matter came up for continuation of hearing ,Barr. N .D. Gwallson told the court that the 1st claimant ,Hon. Itse Ishaya has already called to inform him that the matter has been amicably resolved and he should discontinued with the case.

According to him ,Itse Ishaya after waiting for his communication ,he immediately called back to intimate me their counsel (Barr.ND Gwallson that all the aggrieved APC have agreed to settle the matter and directed me to draft a letter of withdrawal notice and effect service on the defendants including the court .

However, Barr. Gwallson expressed his regret on the recent development that the agreement was misinformation which was issued by Hon .Itse Ishaya who has been working tirelessly in connivance with the opposition Chairman Hon .Rufus Bature to truncate court process and alleged to have collected a bribe of 2 million released to him by the Governor Simon Bako Lalong in a meeting cheer by him , G.S. Pwol,Hon Rufus Bature ,his Exco with Barr.N.D Gwallson in the meeting .

Barr.Gwallson told the court that the process for the withdrawal notice which is dated 26th Nov, and filed on the 30th Nov, 2021 that is pending before Justice S.P.Gang .

He explained further that when others petitioners got the information for the file for withdrawal notice ,I started receiving different calls from the remaining clients warning me of the pending danger and rejecting that they are not part of the kangaroo agreement that was alleged to have been written on their behind .

In the same vein, when the defendants counsel Garba Pwol(SAN) drew the court attention to the claimant Counsel’s line of argument urged to the court to discontentance his claim

which which is not for the claimants counsel to explain the incident that transpired between him and his clients in the court .

Pwul revealed that they have reached reconciliation agreement with the claimants where the sum of 2 million was alleged to have been paid to them through Hon. Itse Ishaya account details so why should they come around to twist the earlier agreement .

in his argument ,Gwallson reiterated that others petitioners were not aware of the development or the settlement with the state government which the government alleged that Hon Itse Ishaya signed and collect the said amount of money .

The aggrieved APC urged the court to be guided by the court rules ,saying the signature claim by Pwol was not the agreement but a total plot to bring betrayal and confusion which they are not ready to dance that dirty ideas .

Gwallson agreed that agreement was actually reached by the parties in a meeting held behind closed door which I make it clear to Hon.itse to make the progress made as it regards reconciliation know to the other claimants not present at the meeting.

And regretted that the advice by Barr.Gwallson that was not adhered to, and described the action of the factional chairman Hon.Ishaya Itse as mischievous, misrepresentation , above all fraud tendencies.

Barr.Gwallson revealed that when other clients filed for counter affidavit refusing to consent to the agreement earlier reach with Hon. Itse Ishaya I’m highly disappointed that this guy is a fraudster that only pick interest to create havoc within the party .

He insisted that other petitioners consent were not sought especially on the purported fake letter he asked me to write and sign on their behalf .

Gwallson apply before Justice S P Gang that the matter be adjourn may be it will give further chances to reconcile the parties.

Justice S.P Gang however stood down the case till in the afternoon for ruling.

At the time of filing this report, Barr.Gwallson noted that one of 2nd to 8th defendants were not properly serve with the withdrawal notice and urgued the court to set aside the withdrawal notice and continue with the suit.

As barr.Gwallson berated the 1st claimant applicant Hon.lshaya itse for luring him in writing withdrawal letter without the consent of the other aggrieved parties, which is tantamount to criminal offence and attracts jail team when convicted.

Gov.Lalong Expresses Shock Over Henry Long’s Death.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Governor Bako Lalong has expressed shock over the death of the serving member of Plateau State House of Assembly Hon.Henry Longs undergoing surgery.

Untill his death , Hon. Longs represented the good people of Pankshin South Constituency in the state house of assembly of plateau state.

Governor Lalong says he recieved the news of the death with shock and is deeply grieved by the demise of the State Legislator who he describes as a promising politician, legal practitioner and committed citizen of Plateau State.

Lalong said the late Hon. Henry Longs has been up and doing in representing the interests of his Constituency at the State House of Assembly and doing his best to enhance the delivery of dividends of democracy to the electorates across the entire State.

He said as a Member of the ruling APC, Henry Longs contributed his quota towards the success of the Party both within the Plateau House of Assembly and the entire State through the facilitation and passage of laws for the good governance of the State and the nation.

While commiserating with his family over this sad development, the Governor urged his constituents, the Speaker Rt. Hon. Yakubu Sanda and entire members of the Plateau State House of Assembly to be consoled over the tragic incident as the late legislator did his best to serve Plateau State.

He prays God to forgive his sins and grant his soul eternal rest.

By,giwa alex, Jos

Stakeholders under the auspacies of “J-Town Ambassador”,has lamented the the incessant killing of innocent citizens on the Plateau , which has taken different dimensions , extended to “Highway Reprisal Killings”.

As the body decried the recent trends of events where the Muslims and Christians hitherto coexisting together happily ,who had lived together for over four decades,now raised arms against each other ,worst still, their paths never cross again.

One of the stakeholders of “J-Town Ambassador” Arch Sule Umar made the lamentation in an interview with Journalists during “J- Town Ambassador”meeting held 26th November,2021, at Azi Nyanko Youth Center Jos, plateau state.

Umar said we are trying to address the major problems causing crisis on the Plateau .

The stakeholders meeting has it theme as,”Highway Reprisal”.

He stressed that the situation is becoming disturbing, because as most of the speakers rightly pointed out their various speeches,the situation has degenerate to the level that you can’t pass some places within the state without been apprehensive.

Sule said as a growing up young man living at Tudu Wada suburbs of the state capital,I go to bauchi road and other places that today tagged “flash point”without any apprehension.

He further decried that when growing up in Gangare, which is today a “No-Go Area”because of my faith as christian.

He added that the essence of the stakeholders meeting is to bring Jos back to the good Old days, which I wish we get there.

He further pointed out that the “Highway Reprisal” action which has bedeviled the state ,is damaging the image Nationally and internationally.

And lamented how some innocent people where accosted on the “Highway and killed ,in most cases maimed for what they know little or nothing about.

And further stressed that the people where not talking to each other ,so it’s

time to start taking to each other because there is absolutely no point of taking one another’s lives no matter the level of provocation .

There was paper presentation by Dr.Prince Charles Dickson, which centered on “Early Warning And Early Response”.

Dr.Charles Dickson stressed that the major reason for crisis is lack of employment from the government to keep the youths away from crimes and criminality.

In their separate response ,they blamed the Securities agencies for lack of proactiveness in responding to distressed calls put across to them during Security brenches.

While some harp the crisis that sometimes lead to Killing of innocent person or persons, can be attributed to break down of sociatal value system.

And however call on the Security agencies to be proactive in responding to distressed calls,and the needs to scale up the values system to make the Youths have respect for enormity of lives was brought to fore.

The Community leaders were charged to ensure they identify their subjects ,with the view of fishing out those formenting troubles in their domains ,and hand them over to the law enforcement agencies.

Those in attendance at the peace stakeholders meeting includes, Commander Operation Save Haven (OPSH) Major General Ibrahim Ali who doubled as GOC 3 Division, represented ,association of Hunters, Professionals Hunters association, Youth leaders, traditional leaders, Tricycle Rider association, Market leaders , NSCDC, Vigilantee, neighborhood watch were represent or represented.

In another development,the witness of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Habila Dung, has further testified how the former Govenor Jonah Jang, has directed him to prepared memos for the withrawal of about N4bn, between January to May 2015.

Mr. Dung a former Permanent Secretary, cabinet office between 2014 to 2015, also told the Plateau State High Court, that in all the monies spent by the Governor, there was no payment vouchers to that effect.

The former Permanent secretary who has now retired , admitted that the office of the Secretary to the State Government has two account with Zenith Bank, “the first account is that of the Cabinate and Special Services, and the second was for Overhead/ Political Office Holders Account.”

He said the signatories to the accounts were the two permanent Secretaries, and the director of finance and supply at the cabinet office.

Mr. Dung said all memos raised were under strict instructions of Governor Jonah Jang, and withdrew by former cashier Mr. Yusuf Gyang Pam, are in the name of, “Classified Expenditures.”

“The classified expenditure was raised when the Governor instructed for it, after doing so I took it to the Governor for approval,” he said.

Mr. Dung been lead in by Prosecution counsel, Rotimi Jacob ,SAN, said all the monies were taken to the former Governor at his office, severally, adding that, “I was there twice when the money was brought to him.”

“All the moneies were given to the Govenor without any payment vouchers.

“I was never inquired on whether the monies were not taken to the Governor by the former Cashier, and I am not aware of any query to the cashier for refusing to take the moneis to the Governor.”

Mr. Dung further testified before the court that on the 8 of April 2015, the sum of N700m were withrawn by the second defendant, the sum of N10m into 70 trenches.

“I don’t know how the Governor spent the money after giving it to him,” he told the court.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Group under the auspacies of Bassa Youths Vanguard for Deepening Democracy (BYVDD) has endorsed the aspiration of the son of late Hon. Haruna Maitala, engineer Faisal Maitala for Jos North/Bassa Constituency Bye-Election .

The group anchored their support for the late Maitala’s Son Faisal, to ensure continuity because Engineer Faisal would easily leverage on the alliances his late father built in the National Assembly to attract further development to the Constituency because he has been part of the strategic initiatives that enhanced his father’s achievement in the National Assembly.

BYVDD who is a non-religious,non Political group , but mainly residents of Bassa LG whose activities are geared towards strengthening democracy and promoting good governance ,made the call in a press briefing dated 25th Nov,2021 signed by it chairman Achigak Micheal Amanya, which was made available to this medium in Jos.

The group further add that the endorsement of Engineer Faisal for the House of Representatives bye Election to represent Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency is imperative to continue his father ,late Hon. Haruna Maitala’s Political legacy of All Progressive Congress (APC) adjudged by the media rëports to be one of the best representative Jos North/ Bassa Constituency ever produced since the advent of this democratic dispensation in 1999.

And however pointed out that the plethora of projects to the credit of the late member is conspicuously visible all over the Constituency which includes , construction of two class room block at Gangere in Jos North,two class room block at GSS Kabong ,Kisagyip school at GSS Kwall in Bassa LG.

Other projects to the credit of the late honorable also includes ,the construction of two class rooms blocks at Higher Islamic Secondary school jingir ,jangre Saminaka road, and the construction of 3km Asphalt Road at Rimi ,Pingana chiefdom of Bassa LG.

Bassa Youths Vanguard for Deepening of Democracy, further highlighted the achievement of Hon.maitala as empowering of not viewer than Over One Thousand women within the Constituency with Ten Thousand start up capital.

As part of agricultural revolution program,the late Hon.Member distributed fertilizer to the constitutents in jos North/Bassa , while in the education sector,he footed the Waec/Jamb examination fees of not fewer than One Thousand deserving students across the Constituency.

The body however lamented the sad demise of the Hon . member who died few months back in a ghastly motor accident along Jos Abuja road ,but added that the essence of this media briefing is to make the world be abreast with the decision of Bassa Youths Vanguard for Deepening of Democracy , which informed our position as members of the Constituency.

They reiterated their decision for Engineer Faisal over the vacuum created following the painful death of his father ,aside qualify for the position as a trained Engineer from Liverpool University United Kingdom,he is strategic thinker and Grass-Root mobilizer who designed the frame work of the campaign manifesto of his late father Hon.Haruna Maitala and ensured it’s Implementation.

“He stood firmly and ensured that the second phase of economic empowerment programs earlier planned by his father before his death was not truncated , hijacked or overshadowed by invested interest , reached the intended beneficiaries in June 2021.”

“Over One Thousand items ranging from Motorcycle, pumping machine ,Power generation , sewing machine and other items were distributed cut across the Constituency”.

“Presently, Faisal is making series of consultation with the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives,Hon.idris Maje and ministry of Agriculture with the view to release funds for the construction of 3 Kilometer Asphalt Road in Zagun and Kwall in Rukuba lobbied by the late Haruna Maitala and approved by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.”

The body said they had engaged Faisal on heart to heart discussion with the detribalised engineer Faisal Maitala, and had come to the conclusion that indeed ,he is capable of taking over the mantle of leadership from where his late father Haruna Maitala stop, and possibly do more.

They frawned at some of the attitude mostly applicable in Plateau state, where age is adopted as yardstick for measuring qualifications of those aspiring for Political position rather than what you can offer or promised to offer.

And promised to embark on aggressive campaign for awareness across the Constituency for engineer Faisal to enable the constitutents know our position.they maintained.

Bassa Youths Vanguard for Deepening of Democracy, however said what propel their decision to advocate for Faisal’s support,is already age long position adopted by Political parties in the state regarding the legislators that died in office.

” Hon.Dogara who represented Quaan’Pan Constituency in the state assembly during Governor Joshua Dariye administration,the wife was made to fill the vacuum through consensus,Hon.Gyang Fulani who represented Barki ladi ,was also represented by the wife after his unfortunate demise.

Others are Ezekiel Afon represented Pengana was replaced with his kinsman Hon.Yakubu Sanda , while the late Senator ignatius Longjan who died in the office in 2020,was equally replaced by somebody from the zone professor Nora Dadu’ut.

But pointed out that this may not necessarily be constitutional provision ,but it has been Internal parties arrangement which has over the time helped to promoted peaceful coexistence amongst the people of plateau state.

And however appealed to Governor Bako Lalong and the APC to look into the matter with high degree of consideration.

Plateau State : 2023 Governorship Race, Kizito Gukas,29 Others Jostles For Lalong’s Seat .

By, giwa alex,Jos

As 2023 general elections draw nearer,more governorship aspirants are beginning to emerge under different political parties in Plateau state.

So far, over 30 aspirants especially from the All Progressives Congress, APC, and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, have indicated interest with old and new posters dotting major high ways across the state.

Among those jostling for the number one seat in the state ahead 2023 general election that has captured the interest of Political observers is Mr. Kizito Dankat Gukas who has started unsettling the Political space in the state.

For those in the Political camp of Mr. Gukas, the journey that started shortly after the 2019 general elections is gathering momentum as the silent movement was a strategy, Hon. Sunday Davou Lochang, a spokesperson for the team hinted.

For the first time, the campaign posters of Mr. Kizito has adorned Jos North, Jos South and other LGAs. It was gathered that it was a delibrate act aimed at changing the political narrative of the state; having caught many by surprise.

Mr. Lochang who would not agree that the “Gukas Solidarity Movement” (GSM) is coming out late with his aspirants when most Plateau inhabitants are finding it difficult to accept the fact that the people might have made up their minds as to who to go with under the basis of first-come- first-serve, he added that the credibility and administrative competence of “Kizito Gukas is what will stand him out among others”

According to him, the GSM Team was on it’s final lap of consultations with major stakeholders across party lines, religions , the business community, youths and the women groups. Most of them have seen reason with this aspiration and have pledged their loyalty and support towards its success.

The Aspirant who will ply his aspiration in the All Progressives Congress (APC) is a Civil Servant with a track record to showcase, has also been a major influence on the youths with a difference because of his disposition on mutual respect for each other and being our brother keeper

Kizito who is his mid 50s, is a Mwaghavul by Tribe from Mangu LGA and a graduate of the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; University of Jos and National Open University of Nigeria.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Member representing Mikang/Quaan’Pan/Shendam Constituency in Plateau state under the platform of All Progressive Congress (APC), at the Federal House of Representatives ,Hon. Komsol Alhonsus Longgap to sponsor talented footballers from his Constituency Abroad to continue their career in football.

This will add value to their lives and family to change their lives and be happy.

Hon.Komsol made the promise in an interview with this medium during the Kick-off of football tournament organized for the youths of his Constituency Mikang/Quaan-pan/Shendam held at Quaan-Pan.

The football tournament tagged “Komsol Unity Cup 2021”,said the ensence for organizing the football tournament is to ensure that the youth and everybody in the Constituency are happy as football is a unifying factor to bring people together irrespective of tribes, religion and ethnic background.

The Komsol Unity Cup 2021,has 40 Grass-Root participating across the Constituency , the aim is to fetch Komsol Unity Cup emanating from my conscious desire to reunite and strengthen the bound between our communities that have existed and shared socio- ethnic culture for almost a century now .

The tournament is meant to mobilize the teeming hard working , energetic youths within my Constituency to showcase exceptional talents and apply their energy positively to stall insecurity in different parts of the country as a result of Youths restiveness.

Hon. Komsol said the reason for organizing the football tournament is that the game of football in Nigeria and any where in the world has proven to achieved Unity amongst a multi -ethnic Nation like ours ,where people, young and old sheath their difference irrespective of their backgrounds.

The hon. Member stressed that his expectations at the end of the tournament is that the professionals that where invited to scout out the expectional players in the tournament, will identify some of them and promised to sponsor any of the lucky ones to any clubs of their choice in any parts of the world which is one of the reason the Unity Football is organised in the first instance.

He further added that his desire is to encourage Grass Roots football development among the Youths in my Constituency.

To encourage the 40 participating teams,Hon Komsol said there are prices to be won as the 1st winner will go home with Sharon Car .

While the 2nd and 3rd position will go home with tri-cycle (keke napep) and Boxer Motor -Cycle respectively.

Those who Graced the occasion include the chairmen , traditional rules and host of others.

19.3bn Kogi Salary Bail-Out Funds Returned to CBN .

Our Reporter

The Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, has acknowledged the receipt of the sum of N19, 333,333,333.36 (Nineteen Billion, Three Hundred and Thirty-three Million, Three Hundred and Thirty-three Thousand, Three Hundred and Thirty-three Naira, Thirty-six Kobo) recovered the EFCC from the Kogi State Salary Bail-out account domiciled in Sterling Bank Plc.

This effectively puts to rest the campaign of misinformation and unconscionable denials by the Kogi State Government that no fund was recovered from its bail out account.

The apex bank in a letter referenced, DFD/DIR/CON/EXT/01/099 and dated 9th November, 2021 informed the Executive Chairman, EFCC, Abdulrasheed Bawa that it has received the money.

The letter reads in part: “We refer to your letter dated November 5, 2021 with Ref. No: CR:3000/EFCC/LS/CMU/REC-STE/VOL.4/047 on the above subject and wish to confirm the details of the receipt of the amount as stated below: Bank: Sterling Bank Plc; Amount: N19, 333, 333,333.36; Date of receipt: 04 November, 2021”.

The return of the money to the apex bank is in compliance with the October 15, 2021 Order of a Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi Lagos directing the unfreezing of the Kogi State Salary Bail-out account to enable Sterling Bank to remit the balance in the account to the Central Ban of Nigeria. Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke gave the Order pursuant to an application filed by the EFCC.

The Commission had told the court that the management of Sterling Bank Plc, where the account was domiciled had acknowledged the existence of the said account with the staggering sum of N19, 333,333,333.36 in its books.

The Commission further brought to the attention of the court that “The sum of N19, 333,333,333.36 is still standing in the credit of the account frozen”, adding that “the management of Sterling Bank PIc, has, pursuant to a letter dated 15 September, 2021, signed by its Managing Director, indicated intention to return the total sum of N19, 333,333,333.36 back to the Central Bank of Nigeria.”

The EFCC prayed The court that it “is expedient for the instant suit to be discontinued and the account unfrozen to enable the management of Sterling Bank PIc effect the transfer/ return of the sum of the sum of N19, 333, 333, 333.36 back to the coffer of the Central Bank of Nigeria , where the said bailout funds was disbursed.”

The transfer has put paid to any further controversy regarding source and ownership of the funds and most importantly, aborted the funds dissipation.

On August 31, 2021, Justice Tijani Garba Ringim, a vacation Judge, had ordered the freezing of the account, following an ex-parte application filed by the EFCC.

The EFCC, in a 13-paragraph affidavit in support of the ex-parte application, had stated that it received a credible and direct intelligence, which led to the tracing of the funds reasonably suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities in account No. 0073572696 domiciled in Sterling Bank, Plc with the name Kogi State Salary Bailout Account.

After listening to the EFCC application, Justice Ringim on August 31, 2021, ordered the freezing of the account and directed the publication of the order in a national newspaper by the EFCC.

Wilson Uwujaren

Head, Media & Publicity

19 November, 2021

Police Officer Who Arrested Notorious Armed Robber, Lawrence Anini is Dead.

Our Reporter

Uzebba born gallant retired police Commissioner,of Owan-west Local Government Area of Edo state who arrested the early notorious armed robber in the country, Lawrence Anini in the late 80s, Kayode Uaneroro has been reported died.

The retired Commissioner of police was reported to have died on 14th Nov,2021 in the morning in his resident in Lago.

He was the police officer who arrested the notorious armed robber Lawrence Anini who terrorized the country in the late 1980s.

Kayode was the commandant at the Mopol training school Gwoza when he was detailed to fish out the notorious Anini from his hideout.

Until his death on the 14th Nov,2021 at his resident in Lago,Kayod was a practice law.

NNPP Calls For Punishment Against Uniform Men Involves In Shooting #Endsars Protesters At Lekki.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) has called on relevant authorities to ensure thorough investigation into revealing the Identity of the soldiers and policemen indicted by the report of the Judicial Panel of Inquiry into Lekki #EndSARS brutality.

This was disclosed by Rev. Emmanuel Olorunmagba, the Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the party, following the report of the Judicial Panel of Inquiry and Restitution on Lekki Toll Gate Shooting Incident and Cases of Police Brutality as well as human rights violations, which states that, “at least, 46 people were victims, some shot dead while others injured with bullets, or assaulted by security forces on the night of October 20, 2020, at the Lekki Toll Gate in Lagos State,” thereby indicting the Nigerian Army and the Police of complicity in the death of protesters at the Lekki Toll Gate.

“No where in the world do uniform men shoot live bullets at unarmed peaceful protesters exercising their right to freedom of expression, especially when they are waving the flag of the country,

which is a national symbol to be respected. Hence, the report of shooting #EndSARS peaceful protesters by security forces on the night of October 20, 2020, at the Lekki Toll Gate in Lagos State leading to death and bullet wounds of the youths is completely uncalled for.

“Since the report of the Judicial Panel of Inquiry has indicted the Nigerian Army and the Police of complicity, the right steps should be taken to ensure further proper investigations into revealing the identity of those involved; towards ensuring appropriate punitive measures to ensure justice for those concerned and or their families. And to serve as deterrent to other uniform men who have little or no regard for sanctity of life.”

The party concludes that it’s also very important that the victims and or their families be adequately compensated and the recommendations of the panel require urgent attention.

By,giwa alex, Jos

Haruna Yusuf Abba said his decision to join the All Progressive Congress (APC) is because of the numerous achievement of the party in the state and to contribute my quarter to the development of the party.

As the party remained the only Political Party in the state that accommodate people of different background irrespective of religion, tribal and ethnic inclination coupled with Governor Simon Bako Lalong style of leadership as the leader of APC in the state,I want to contribute my little quarter to the success and development of the party in the state and the nation at large .

Comrade Haruna Yusuf Abba revealed this on Wednesday 17th Nov,2021 in an interview with Journalists during his official decamping to the ruling APC, from Democratic Alternative (DA) Party in Jos, Plateau state.

Haruna Yusuf who is a graduate of Political science form the university of Jos,was the only Not Too Young To Rule candidate for 2019 General election to represent Jos North-North in the Plateau State House of Assembly.

Haruna regretted the deregistration of his party, Democratic Alternative (DA)by the Independent National Electorial Commission (INEC) ,so because of the positive activities of the APC in the state,I deemed it necessary to join the party along with my Young supporters to continue with the change agenda of APC on the Plateau and by extension, Nigeria.

He said the party has good prospects with which informed my decision to join the party and remained the only Political party that accommodate different people irrespective of religion, ethnic, and tribal inclinations.

Haruna commended the Governor of the state Simon Bako Lalong who doubled as the leader of the party in the state for his all inclusive Government which the motivation factor that compelled me to join the party and contribute my quarter to the development of the party.

He further said his initial challenges was the deregistration of my party,as you know I don’t have any party after deregistration of my party by INEC,and no provision for independent candidate in our electorial law,so if you most remain relevant ,you most join a political party.

Haruna however advised the youths not be expectators,but participate in active Politics .

” I always tell my fellow youths that participating in active Politics is not a privilege but a constitutional right ,as such we most all participate in active Politics.

He further encourage them to join any Political party with brighter prospect and contribute to the economic and other development in the state by extension Nigeria.

On how he hope to solve the problems of the Youths restiveness in the state if given the opportunity to rule,Abba said ,”I have template ,I always say as realist,my slogan is ,” Tomorrow Belong To God”, it’s only God that know tomorrow ,as tomorrow is pregnant as we have package for people who are not only members of my Constituency,but cut across the whole of the state.He maintained.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The chairman Plateau state local government Council election petition tribunal, Justice Adamu Zella has reiterate it readiness to work assiduously in accordance and dictates of the constitution to dispense justice to all without fear or favour.

As the chairman of the tribunal Adamu Zella solicited for the maximum cooperation of all the major stakeholders particularly from the bar involved in the petition, to conduct themselves with high sense of decorum , responsibility and dedication to abide a just decision in the petition before the tribunal.

The chairman justice Zella made the promise in his opening speech during the inuguration of the LG election petition tribunal seating at West of Mines in Jos, plateau state 18th November,2021.

Zella further added that elections no matter it level of credibility, fairness and transparency in it conduct,some people must be aggrieved ,hence the law provided on the setting up of election tribunal for any aggrieved person or persons to ventilate their grievances.

He stressed that the tribunal is not unmindful of the generic nature of election matter , promised quick dispensation of the election case before the tribunal expeditiously, and to be fair and just to all parties.

He said by the virtue of section 86(2)of plateau state independent Electorial Commission (PLASIEC) law 2016,the electoral tribunal is expected to deliver it judgement in writing within (90) days of filing of the petition.

He however, stated that on the record at the registry of the tribunal, there is only one petition filed 29th Oct,2021 between Nasiru Aliyu Haruna (petitioner) versus Tanim Muhd Suleiman and (2) others (Respondents) over Angwan Rogo/ Rimi election.

The LG election petition tribunal is made up of (3) man panel with justice Adamu Zella as the chairman, Eric Danboyi and Simon Mom members respectively.

In their separate good will messages the representative of the Antoney General and commissioner for justice R.J Dakoko who is the permanent secretary in the ministry, praised the inuguration of the election petition tribunal which she said will give the aggrieved party to ventilate his grievances, and further added that the inuguration of the tribunal will help to strengthen the justice system in the state.

And however appealed to the press to ensure they verify their rëports to avoid feeding the public with negative reports.

On his good will message, the chairman Pankshin NBA, pledged his unalloyed cooperation for the panel to achieve it set goals.

It will be recalled that Plateau state conducted LG elections in the 17 Local Government of the state on 9th Oct,2021.

The tribunal seating is adjourned to next week, when the tribunal will listen to the PO before it.

Sen.Jonah Jang Lack Morals To Talk About Injustice Over Impeachment Of Speaker—–Alh. Danladi Pasali.

By,giwa alex, Jos

The immediate past Governor of plateau state and Senator in the 8th assembly representing Jos North Constituency in the National Assembly, Jonah Jang lacked every sense of morals to speak on the current impeachment of the Plateau state speaker Abok Nuhu

As David Jonah Jang is described as the father of injustice in plateau state ,by every standard, anywhere in Nigeria as not fewer than 4 speakers where unilaterally removed under his watch as governor from 2007-2015, which he orchestrated.

The National chairman of Buhari Campaign Organization (BCO) Alhaji Danladi Pasali revealed this in an interview with this medium in Jos, plateau state in reaction to the statement credited to the former Governor over the recent impeachment of the House of Assembly speaker,Abok Nuhu.

Alhaji Pasali who doubled as APC Chieftain further said, the statement made by the former Governor of the state, Jonah Jang ,that he will be forced to led protest over the remover of the speaker ,Abok Nuhu ,to say the least is very unfortunate to have come from a man that is the “Father of Injustice”in the state and by extension Nigeria.

Pasali who also doubled as the National Secretary of petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria said the much talked about of the impeachment of speaker house of assembly, followed due process because the lawnmowers has its rules which may not been understand by us layman.

He speaks on the sole candidature of Jos North/Bassa Constituency Bye -Election following the death of Murtala Haruna in a ghastly motor accident along Jos Abuja road.

Yes the seat for the House of Representatives for Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency has officially been declared vacant by the Independent National Electorial Commission (INEC) ,yes the process of bringing out one candidate is best for us.

We are waiting for INEC guardline ,the truth is that in every set up ,is a game contestants trying to out weigh the other.

The truth is that there’s nothing like zoning ,at one point they have make pronunciation that’s not favourable with the majority of the people ,and Committees was set up ,till now we have not hear from the Committee.

One Committee is for Jos North represented by the former State Secretary of APC,Musa Sati, while that of Bassa is headed by Sen.Adudu.

They should come out and tell us their out come.

The mandate of the Committee is to see how they can reconcile the aspirants because in Jos North alone, we where having not fewer than 18 aspirants ,and in Bassa 14 or there about.

The truth is that the party , APC , should try and be negotiating .

that same Committee that gives official for a candidate.

They have not come to make official statement .

They should have make official press conference that after the assignment given to them so,and so candidate have emerged the candidate for primary election conducted.

So if you claimed that was done and there was dissenting voices, it implied that there is an issues.

My call to the people of Jos North/ Bassa to have free ,fair and credible poll is that , it’s true that the seat is purely APC Constituency,and we are going to win the seat.

By the time we are through with the primary,and come out with single candidate ,we are going to rally round that candidate and ensure he win the election.

On the internal rangling In the party,ahead 2023,it is not peculiar with APC alone.Every party has it Internal rangling , it’s a matter of interest ,and it’s normal in Politics.

There most be dissenting voices , people must agree and disagree.its a matter of interest .

So what you are seeing is very normal in a strong Political party like APC.

He commended Governor Lalong over the way he is piloting the affairs of the party in the state.,he said mind you, APC is not having issues in the state.

“There was State Congress where people who where candidates refused to participated in the Congress.”

“To me Governor Lalong has done well so far , there is no dissenting voices over the conduct of the state Congresses.”

“All of you the Journalists witnessed the Congress,and saw what transpired.

The governor is only the leader of the party in the state,not the Excos and not the chairman of the party,so I am satisfied with him so far.”

“The crisis currently rocking the state House Of Assembly, Pasali said some people are in APC but their mind is in PDP.

They are being sponsored outside the party, when you look carefully at the senerio.

When you look at the whole 36 state of the federation in Nigeria ,is there one thing that has not happened.

Plateau state is full with mischief makers.”

Pasali revealed that there are some people sponsored

particularly from the opposition Party’s or outside to distrupt the unity of APC.

He advocate for direct primaries the bill which is currently before the National Assembly for assent ,this will reduce the over bearing of the so called delegates who had turned themselves into “Demi” gods during Primaries election which is gradually threatening the country democracy .

“You know that our party APC had conducted registration across the country which people came out enmass to register.”

“I think direct primaries is a very welcome ideas because is going to solve the problems of candidates imposition by some power drunk stalwart.”

He however ruled out the alledged move by same Governors’ to stall the assent of Mr President to the bill and said,

“Some of us is mr president die hard and Mr President is beneficial of direct primaries in 2019 and Mr President is a stunch supporter of direct primaries and some of us who is a die hard of Mr President is solidly in support of direct primaries.”

“The president will surely assent to the bill which is currently as the final stage of passage.”

“Mind you that it’s not all the Governors’ that are against the bill,some responsible Governors’ are in support of the bill.”

“At the stakeholders meeting chaired by the VP.professor Osinbajo you will know that not all the Governors’ that are against the bill for direct Primaries.”

New Plateau State Comm.Of Police, Bartholomew Onyeka Pledges Commitment To Build Stronger Synergy.

Our Reporter

The newly posted Commissioner of Police, Plateau State Command Mr Bartholomew Onyeka has promised to pledged to build a stronger Synergy in the state.

Onyeka make the promise when he paid a courtesy visit to the GOC 3rd Div Major General Ibrahim Ali at Rukuba Barrack in Jos, plateau state 16th Nov,2021,at his office.

Speaking during the visit, Mr Onyeka informed the GOC that he was visiting as a mark of honour and to introduce himself having assumed office as the CP Plateau State Command.

He noted that security agencies have to work together if they are to overcome the current security challenges. He therefore assured the GOC of his support and cooperation to record more successes.

Responding, the GOC expressed delight with the visit of the CP. He noted that on the Plateau security agencies work as a team especially at Operation SAFE HAVEN where all the agencies are involved. General Ali emphasised that it is only through team work that security agencies can effectively deal with security challenges.

The GOC informed the team that facilities at Maxwell Khobe Cantonment such as the Rhino Officers Mess, the Golf Club among others are open for their use.

Gov.Lalong Berates Those Trying To Play Politics Of Exclusion,Incitement In Plateau State

Governor Bako Lalong of Plateau state has berated those trying to Play politics of exclusion and incitement in the state to steer clear ,as he said the State belongs to all of us and nobody will be allowed to dominate another because he or she thinks he has more strength.

Lalong further add that his administration have to do everything possible to provide a good environment for all people of Plateau State to achieve their aspirations within the concept of One Plateau.

The Governor Lalong gave the warning during the album launching of gospel artists in the state Ernest Dades held on Nov 14th 2021, at the Azi Nyanko Youth Center Adding Kowa in Jos, plateau state.

Gov. Lalong Challenges Nigerian Artists To Project Peace, Unity And Harmony.

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has challenged the artists on the Plateau and by extension Nigeria at large to use their music to project peace ,unity and harmony in the country.

Governor Lalong who commended the musician for his enduring service to God and humanity through music, said the artiste continues to churn out quality music while mentoring younger ones in the industry.

Lalong further stressed that Pastor Ernest Dades has consistently produced music that is inspired by the Holy spirit which has transformed lives and provided godly entertainment for many Nigerians across various faiths and socio-economic backgrounds.

He recalled how the artiste contributed to his campaign in 2015 by producing music that captured the truth and conveyed the concept of justice, equity, unity and peace to the people of Plateau who embraced it and ensured that the collective will of the people prevailed over the diviations of the time.

He launched the new album entitled ” Marmarin Sujada (Desire for Worship)” and also pledged to support the live recording of the compendium of songs by the artiste scheduled for next year. The Governor also directed Dades to work with other artistes to organise a concert before Christmas where the people will converge to give praise to God for his goodness to Plateau State.

Pastor Ernest Dades appreciated Governor Lalong for his support over the years and said he was honoured to have him physically grace the occasion which is a major motivation for him and other artistes. He also appreciated the promise by the Governor to support some artistes with transport logistics to assist them in Ministry.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The High Court in Plateau state has ruled that for plateau State Independent Electorial Commission (PLASIEC) to advertised for the sale of nomination Forms and sell same to prospective aspirants who are desirous to contest in any elected position in plateau state is illegal which has helped to entrenched corruption in Nigeria politics.

As those seeking to contest for various positions like counsellor,or Chairmanship position were either denied because they couldn’t raised the heart bugging amount of money which the state electorial umpire pegged the sale of nomination form.

Delivery the judgement today,12th Nov,2021, justice Ishaku Kunda said it is illegal for PLASIEC to have turned the commission to money making venture where all intending aspirants have to pay through their nose Just to pay for common pieces of paper , because they seek to offer themselves to serve their community or local Council .

Justice Kunda however declared Illegal henceforth for the Commission to engage itself in the sale of nomination forms to any prospective aspirants who indicated interest to run for any elected position in the state, as it help to encourage corruption because when aspirants find themselves in power, they work extra hard to recover what they have extended on the election , including the money for the nomination Form.

However , justice Kunda agreed with the grounds canvassed by the complainant, People Democratic Party (PDP) for the court to henceforth stop the electoral body from receiving fee or fees from any political parties in the name of sales of nomination forms.

It would be recalled that the opposition party PDP approached the high court to challenge the electoral body over the outrageous amount for the sale of forms for the just conducted LG elections which many aspirants in all political parties in the state couldn’t afford.

The case is for the court to determine whether PLASIEC has the power to charge fee or fees on aspirants intending to contest any election more so that they are been finance by the government.

Maj.Gen.lbrahim Ali Bags Africa Meritorious Service Award For Good Conduct.

Our Reporter.

The GOC 3 Division and Commander Operation Save Haven (OPSH), Major General Ibrahim Ali has been confered with the Africa Meritorious Service Award for Good Conduct by International Free Media Organisation.

Presenting the award to the GOC, in his office held at the 3 Division Rukuba Barrack in Jos, Plateau state, the Executive Director of the organisation, Mr Abdulmalik Ohis noted that the award was in recognition of Maj Gen Ali’s sacrifice, courage, exemplary leadership, loyalty and uncommon commitment to the course of peace and security on the Plateau and the country at large.

Mr Abdulmalik remarked that the organisation has keenly followed the effort of Maj Gen Ibrahim Ali towards the restoration and maintenance of peace and security on the Plateau.

According to Mr Abdulmalik, that is what accounted for Maj Gen Ali’s selection for the honour to encourage him to do more for the nation.

Responding, Maj Gen Ali, thanked the Media Organisation for the honour.

He said the award will be dedicated to the gallant officers and personnel that are working tirelessly for the maintenance of peace and security on the Plateau. He assured that, the award would spur him, the officers and personnel under his command to do more to maintain peace on the Plateau and the nation at large.

Hon.Lumumba Adeh Remains The Sole Candidate For Bassa LG, APC Bye Election——Sen.Adudu

By, giwa alex, Jos

The committee set up by the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) in Plateau state to come up with sole candidate in Bassa Local Government has said the sole candidate for the mock Primaries remained Hon.Lumumba Da Adeh.

Timothy Adudu led Committee has confirmed the election of Hon. Lumumba Adah Adeh as the sole candidate of the Bassa Local Government Council for the Federal House of Representative for Jos North/ Bassa Constituency Bye-Election.

The Chairman Senator Adudu represented by subcommittee Chairman Hon. Sam Para and Chairman APC Bassa Local Government D.A.Chongo made the clarification during press conference held at the Bishop Court 11th Nov,2021,in Jos, Plateau state capital.

Adudu debunked the speculation making around by some people that the field for the contest is opened to all eligible contestants, but said that is far from the truth as Committee head by Senator Adudu conducted free ,fair , and credible mock primaries which produce Hon.Lumumba Adeh.

The committee chairman further said those pendling the false rumour were those who for their selfish interest are bent to cause confusion in the transparent manner in which the mock election was conducted devoid of elections misunderstanding.

He urged any aggrieved people or group of persons to channel their grievance to the right and democratic channel for it to be address.

He explained further that the death of the Hon. member of the House of Representatives representing Jos North/bassa Constituency,Hon, Murtala Haruna some months ago has created a vacant.

He said that the party arrangement on harmonious agreement amongst stakeholders to present one candidate each which this same exercise was done during Chief Joshua Dariye when Hon Dogara died ,similarly the late Hon Gyang Fulani and Amb Ignatius Longjan and Prof Nora Daduut emerged to provide a room for the people of Bassa Local Government to lobby Jos North LG to allow them contest the seat.

Senator Adudu said the committee is compiling it report for an onwards summission to the higher body who directed them to carry out the assignment the name of the winner of the mock primaries Hon.Lumumba Da Adeh will be conspicuously reflect on the report as Bassa sole candidate for the bye election.

OPSH Commended For Fostering Unity Amongst Govt. Schools.

By, giwa alex, Jos

OPSH has been commended for initiating quiz competition to promote unity and healthy competition among schools in Kaduna state. The commendation was made today 10 Nov, 2021 during a quiz competition organized by troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN at Sanga Local Government Area of Kaduna state.

Delivering her remarks, the Special Guest of Honour at the event Kaduna State Commissioner for Education, Honourable Halima Lawal called on the youths to eschew criminality, drug abuse and study hard for a better future.

The Special Guest of Honour represented by the Zonal Director of Education Kaduna state, Mr Aku Bawa noted that the activities of Operation SAFE HAVEN has recently brought lots of improvement in the educational sector of the state.

He urged the youths to take advantage of the developmental programmes initiated by Operation SAFE HAVEN to enhance their living conditions. He averred that only education can bridge the gap between the rich and the poor

In his welcome address, the Commander Forward Operating Base, Sanga Local Government, Major Mohammed Galadima said the quiz competition is another non-kinetic initiative of Operation SAFE HAVEN geared towards peaceful co-existence among people of diverse background.

He revealed that education is critical to development and educated youths would always distance themselves from criminalities.

The event was witnessed by the Zonal Chairmen of National Union of Teachers, Parents Teachers Association as well as Principals of Government Schools.

Highlight of the event was presentation of awards and gifts to the winners.

Please disseminate this information through your medium. Thank you for your usual cooperation.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Member Representing Langtang North and South Constituency at the Federal House of Representatives at the National Assembly,Hon.Beni Lar has appealed to state Governors to stop allow themselves to be use to perpetrate illegality to Subvert the rule of law and to suppress the will of the people.

She further said no Government, no matter how suppressive or dictatorial ,it may suppress the will of the people for a while which cannot be substain for longer time when they are determine to do a thing.

The member House of Representatives at the National Assembly , presenting Langtang North and South Constituency of plateau state,stated this in an interview with Journalists in her residence in Jos, in response to the court judgment restored back the chairman of Langtang North LG Hon. Joshua.U.Laven back to his seat that his tenure of 3years is still running as the state electoral umpire PLASIEC err in law by advertising the seat of the Langtang North LG when his tenure has not expired.

According to her ,today marked the history for Nigerians who stand for the truth and justice .The local government in this country law stipulates in Plateau and must states ,the local government chairman shall serve for 3 years.

The state electorial umpire PLASIEC has totally disobeyed this law went ahead to conduct the LG election despite the court injunction restraining the state electoral body of conducting election in the state including Langtang North LG.

Hon. Lar lamented the fragrant disobedience of the rule of by the executive arm of Government in the state and forced to ask “,we wonder whether there is constitution in Nigeria ,and it state without any ambiguity the electoral Act governoring every Conduct of elections in Nigeria, PLASIEC the custodian ,body and organisation responsible for the conduct of elections in a manner that would be in accordance with the law.”

She described the judgement as test case ,as to whether the rule of law will be upheld in the local government election of Langtang North LG,and stressed that this test case turned out to be a glorious one as the court has declared that Hon.joshua .U.Laven has only served for two years, when the citizens of Langtang North where expecting him to finish, because he took an oaths of Office in October 9th ,2019 for 3 years tenure ,we saw an advertisement that his position is been advertise by PLASIEC for an election.

The member commended the judiciary in Plateau state , they have proven to be the judiciary that work in accordance with the rule of law .

“Today I will give pass mark for given the ruling that has brought back the chairman of Langtang North.”

She appealed to the Executives in the state and Nigeria as whole to always try and stop allow themselves been use to scrutle the rule of law and make nonsense of our hard earn democracy .

Beni lamented the illegal impeachment of the speaker of the state house of assembly Hon.Abok Ayuba where some few dissident group gang up to impeached the speaker without recourse to the rule of law.

” I can’t imagine myself Haven elected for 4 years tenure, somebody from nowhere will just come and advertise my seat”.

She accused Governor Bako Lalong over fragrant disobedience for the rule of law and charged him to emulate the federal level.

“We at the federal level are law abiding ,INEC to large extent are law abiding,I want to appeal to the state government to also be law abiding in all their dealing.

On her reaction in an attempt to demarket PDP in plateau state, She said if you took at the slogan of the party ,power to the people.

Power belong to the people,you can’t take it away from them.

“Baba came up with the slogan because when he was in NPP, that was their slogan.”

” As long as you give power to the people, people will always vote you.”she maintained

By, giwa alex, Jos

The sole candidate in Bassa mock primaries elections conducted few days ago for the forthcoming coming Jos North/Bassa federal Constituency of the House of Representatives bye -election ,Hon. Lumumba Da Adeh has promised to initiate bills that will restore permanent peace to the Constituency if given the opportunity to represent the Constituency.

As he said the steps in bringing peace to the Constituency which has had it fair share of crisis, that has claimed many lives and unquantifiable properties destroyed shouldn’t be left in the hand of the few as all shall be involved under his watch to restore permanent peace.

Hon. Lumumba made the promise in an interview with journalists in Jos , few hours after his emergence as the sole candidate among other candidates jostling for the same position at National Assembly.

According to him , bringing lasting peace to jos North/Bassa Constituency, we required collectives efforts ,is not an issues for single person and Office holders to claim to have solution to curtailed the incessant crisis which for now has abated which l pray is over.

One time member of National Assembly in the House of Representatives further stressed that ,I believed that with unity of purpose ,we can achieve that collective purpose.

However,I am returning to bring about Unity , harmony for the people ,the Constituency which he described as one of the most cosmopolitan Constituency in Nigeria , made up of different people, religion and I believed if harmonised ,our views and understanding ourselves ,the crisis will abate, peace and progress will return to us on the Plateau , especially that plateau is the capital of the state.

On his candidacy acceptance by his Constituency, Hon.Lumumba who is currently one of the adviser to the Deputy Senate President in the House of Representatives,Hon.Ahmed Idris Maje said,is not for me to say how accepted I am in my Constituency .Since democratic process was instituted ,and through the process I emerged as the candidate from Bassa ,it tells you my acceptability considering the fact that we where about 18 contestants.

So the people preferred me , believed in me , especially my personal disposition as unifier ,not tribalistic and also believer in the Unity of the people .

On what is coming to do differently considering the fact he was one time in the some position before,he said let me remind you that there is not much dislocation in my been representative and been around the national assembly .

“After leaving the National Assembly in 2003 ,I was appointed the liaison officer in the National Assembly till 2007 ,I have been around .”

“I was adviser to the Deputy Speaker , Hon.idris Maje ,a lot of my friends at the National Assembly ,we still related so I have not been disconnected with the legislature ,l am also abreast with the current challenges , the prevailing system that we be the best interest of the Constituency .”

“Considering the fact that this Constituency has a cosmopolitan background,so I offer myself that will be in constant touch with the people.”

The former member however rated his Party APC high which have bright prospect. “Let me use this opportunity to Commend the Plateau state Governor , Simon Bako Lalong and other APC , stakeholders in the state .

“This process was predicated and the initiator of the process which will be a legacy “.

“And further said, Governor Lalong lead a process that seems to be very democratic and increased the popularity of our party,so I am confident with the recent election and events that was held , APC holding sway on the plateau and this will not be different.”he maintained.

Hon.Lumumba Adeh shower accolades on Governor Lalong for his unique philosophy that has helped in the entrenchment of democracy in the party on the Plateau.

“One thing is that democracy is the Involvement of the people, ensuring that in all process the people are all involved .That is participatory democracy .”

“You know the governor from his background, having been a member of the state House of Assembly,at one time speaker,and above all lawyer is a democratic.”

He stressed that the mock Primaries that was held, which produced his emergence as the sole candidate for the house of representatives bye -election under APC in Bassa LG, is family affairs and should view as one.

“The election is family affairs,some may be aggrieved,some may take it lightly by the end of the day ,as people we will sit down reconcile ourselves and work together as team.”

He called on other co-contestant to forget whatever sentiments and motion that most have expressed in the course of the exercise and see it as purely family affairs so that we can collectively work together and take other seat for APC at the National Assembly.

By, Our Reporter

Hon.Lumumba Da Adeh has emerged the sole candidate for Bassa LG under the All Progressive Congress (APC) mock Primaries conduct ahead of Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency in the House Representative bye -election following the demise of Late Hon. Haruna Murtala who died on ghastly motor accident few months ago.

As the Committee set up by the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) to come up with a sole candidate to challenge other political parties for the Bye-Election for Jos North/ Bassa Federal Constituency has concluded its work on Monday 8th November,2021,in a keenly contested mock primaries for the three aspirants who emerged from the mocked Primaries at the three chiefdoms that make up the local government.

The exercise saw Hon. Lumumba Da Adeh polled 58 , Yusuf Daudu scored 5 votes. as Babale Ibrahim Maitala who opted out of the excercise, scored 0.

In an exclusive Interview with African Drum after the election, Hon. Da Adeh described the outcome of the excercise as a demonstration of confidence on his ability and capability to represent the them in the forthcoming Bye-Election.

Consequently, he called on the other two contestants and other contestants that have indicated interest to consider what happened as a family affair stressing that the common objective was to have one of them to represent them all.

He further called on them to put behind all that transpired in the course of the excercise and join hands to deliver the party to ensure that APC re-occupy the office which belonged to Bassa abnitio until the demise of Haruna Maitala.

Hon. Adeh also advised the APC to mobilize the people and reconcile its members, all stakeholders aspirants in other to forge a common and formidable front against other political parties when the Bye-Election is held.

After the death of the representative of the Constituency, Hon. Haruna Maitala on April 02, 2021, the APC in its wisdom set up a Committee headed by Sen. Timothy Adudu with a mandate to come up with a consensus candidate from Bassa LGA to complete the tenure of the deceased who was from the local government area.

African Drum learnt that the committee began its work by conducting mock primaries at Chiefdoms level involving the over 20 aspirants that expressed interest in the seat.

The first stage of the mock

excercise saw the emergence of two Aspirants from each Chiefdom of the three which make up Bassa local government area (namely; Irigwe, Rukuba and Pengana Chiefdoms respectively).

Another excercise was conducted which saw the emergence of a candidate from each Chiefdom namely; Hon. Lumumba Da Adeh (Irigwe), Hon. Babale Ibrahim Maitala (Pengana) and Yusuf Daudu (Rukuba).

After Monday’s mock excercise, Hon. Sam Para, the Chairman, Electoral Committee stated that with powers conferred on the committee and in line the excercise conducted, Hon. Lumumba Da Adeh was the winner having scored the highest number of vote cast (58) during the primaries.

All effort to speak to Hon. Babale Haruna Maitala on why he staged a walk out during the primary proved abortive as he could not respond to our series of phone calls before press time.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The Commissioner of works in Plateau state,Hon.Pam Bot-Mang has extolled the good virtues bestowed in him as student of Boys Secondary school Ginidiri, Plateau state which is discipline.

As the discipline instilled in him from the Ginidiri boys secondary school always stand him out where he find himself amongst his peers ,by extension society which today still propelling him.

Hon.Pam who is set 1984-1990,of Boys Secondary school Ginidiri,stated this in an interview with journalists during the 70th years celebration of BSS existence held in the school compound , Ginidiri.

Hon.Pam said one of the remarkable moment of his life as student of BSS,is discipline! discipline! You can never find GOSA anywhere ,they full of embodiment of discipline .

Our motor is “light and Truth”, sometimes when we speak the truth,we are on the other side of what people think is the norm ,but any BSS stand for the truth no matter whose ox is gore.

On his feeling that the school is celebrating it 70th years of its existence,he said you have heard from the speakers we call them “Ancestors”, those are the people that graduated in 1955 how their experience was ,and what they came to meet in BSS.

The school which was founded by the missionaries for the sole purpose of educating the young ones.

“I must say I am proud to have been associated with this great institution call BSS.”

He further add that the journey was okey, it was different today, you heard that the students have solar heater,and 24 hours electricity supply which was different from our time as student when we only have 6 hours electricity supply.

Bot-Mang who is set 1990 said ,by and large,the discipline we got here, quality of education which make people like us to be what we are today.

“I am the Commissioner for works today through the benevolence of Governor Bako Lalong,he most have see some qualities in me ,and those qualities were Imbibed in us when we were in BSS ,he maintained.

” You most heard the role call of the high and mighty in Nigeria and beyond, that were graduance of these school .”

Pam stressed that compared to the caliber of people that has graduated from the school,as far I am concerned ,we are still toddlers trying to be at the pick where we should be.

He however thank the Sudan United Mission for establishing the school, the teachers and wish them luck,that is why we are investing back in the school so that the younger ones can still get the same quality of education we got even better.

“As you know the world is now global village so we have move education to science base “.

The Commissioner hope that the old students will replicate the same thing in Girls secondary school so that they will enjoy the same quality of education.

OPSH Commander Urges Plateau Youths To Eschew Bitterness.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH), Major General Ibrahim Ali has urged youths of Plateau to shun bitterness and work for the progress of the state.

The Commander made the call 6th Nov,2021 during the 15 Kilometer Peace and Unity Marathon Competition organized by Operation SAFE HAVEN for youths in Sector 1and 5 in Jos North and Bokkos Local Government Areas of plateau State.

Speaking at the two events, the Commander noted that the competition was a noble initiative aimed at driving the peace building process in the state. He called for harmonious living among people of different background and urged the youths to take the lead in ensuring peaceful co-existence for meaningful development of the state.

Major General Ali also commended the community leaders of Bokkos and Jos North for championing the peace process that has paved the way for harmonious living in their domains. He urged the people to be ambassadors of peace and cautioned the youths not to allow themselves to be used for nefarious activities that would affect their future.

While urging the populace to support Operation SAFE HAVEN by providing useful information on suspicious activities, General Ali encouraged 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.

In their separate goodwill messages, the Chairman, Bokkos Local Government Area, Hon Joseph Mushen and Chairman Jos North, Hon Shehu Bala Usman as well as the Saf Baffo, Da John Gabriel Mallo and Hon Sani Mudi noted that the marathon competition provided avenue to search for talented youths who could bring glory to the state and the country at large.

They reiterated the commitment of the local councils and their traditional leadership to continually interact with security forces to achieve the desired peace on the Plateau.

Earlier in their remarks, the Commander Sector 1, Navy Capt LA Ajibade and Commander Sector 5, Colonel Timothy Opurum, remarked that the marathon competition was organized to encourage physical fitness, promote peaceful living and friendliness among diverse ethnic and religious groups in the area.

They maintained that the competition has provided youths across religious lines the opportunity to interact regardless of their differences.

Highpoint of the event was the presentation of medals, cash donations as well as cheques to the winners and participants of the marathon competition.

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

By , giwa alex, Jos

The annual Inter denominational and inter religious body Total Woman Foundation (TOWOF) “Women Arise Conference 2021″has kick start it in Jos the Plateau state capital.

This year 2021 two days Confrence which has its theme ” Travail In Zion” Kick Start on the 5th November,2021 at the TOWOF Office ,plot 499,Yakubu Gowon Way Adjacent Nta Jos, opposite Mtn Office, Jos will end on the 6th Nov,2021.

The lined up activities for the two days programmes is as follows,

Friday 5thth Nov,2021 ,the program start by 2pm and close by 5pm , while on Saturday 5th has two sessions which is to start by 9am and close 1pm and 2pm to 5pm respectively .

Other men of God to minister at the two days Women Confrence according to TOWOF President Felicia Gyang are pastor David Enejo of Jesus Reconciliation Ministry, Jos .

Host Anna Dangs, Chairman , Executive Committee and Esther Sunwar Chairman , planning committee.

This medium will update you as the program unfold.

Gov.Bako Lalong Praises GOSA @70 ,Says It Has Impacted Society.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has expressed deep appreciation to the missionaries who founded the Boys Secondary School (BSS) and Girls High School Gindiri (GHS) for their foresight in building an institution that has raised leaders who have made their mark and influenced society positively.

Governor Lalong was speaking when he recieved members of the Gindiri Old Students Association (GOSA) who were at the Government House Rayfield Jos, to pay him a courtesy visit as part of activities for the 70th Anniversary of the institutions.

Governor Lalong expressed delight that the institution has remained true to its motto of “Light and Truth” by turning out products that have made impact in various fields of endeavour. He said many of them have risen to very high offices in Plateau State, Nigeria and other parts of the world on account of the discipline, godly knowledge and academic training they obtained at Gindiri.

He urged the old students to use the 70th anniversary celebrations to reflect on what they can do to improve the fortunes of the schools and of education in the entire State using the various opportunities available to them.

He assured them of the support of the Plateau State Government in their activities pledging to intervene in the well being of the institutions particularly the School for the blind.

GOSA President Prof. Rotgak Gofwen said they were at the Government House to appreciate the Governor for his support over the years and also intimate him on the activities lined up for the 70th anniversary celebrations.

He said the old students have constructed science laboratories, remodelled the dining hall and rebuilt the Assembly Hall all in a bid to enhance the comfort of students and teachers.

He also said the body has built a befitting GOSA headquarters which will be commissioned during the festivities.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Jos based legal practitioner Niri Darong has given the illegal elected chairman of Langtang North LG of Plateau state Hon.Zulfa Rimven to honorably package his belongings form the office as the chairman of the Langtang North LG and gives way for the legal chairman of the LG.

Darong said the notice is necessary because justice Kunda’s reference point judgement that removed the illegal chairman and reinstated Hon.joshua Laven back to his seat as the chairman of Langtang North LG is imperative because it’s declaratory judgement with the characteristics of immediacy embedded on its Operation.

The barrister handed down the quit notice during an interview with journalists held 2nd Nov,2021 at the house of the first civilian Governor of Plateau state late Solomon Dashep Lar in Jos , plateau state capital following the state high court Judgement in favour of Hon.joshua Laven over tenure Elongation.

Darong who is visibly happy over the judgement, commended the judge for his erudite judgement, and that ,in fact we sort nothing short of declaratory judgement and the court has make the declaratory judgement ,in other words, what the court says exit.

He stressed that the court has said that in the eyes of the law,the election conducted by the state electorial umpire (PLASIEC) doesn’t exist and void of no effect.

He further added that as against this backdrop, whoever was made the chairman of Langtang North LG,is not a chairman right now as far as the law is concern and should pack his bag and baggages and vacate the seat of Langtang North Chairman,as the chairman remain Joshua.U.Laven whose tenure in office according to court interpretation expired 9th Oct,2022,by the Grace of God.

On whether he is worry over the defendants appealing the matter, barrister Niri said is the constitutional right of the defendant to appeal a matter he felt did not satisfied with the judgement.

And however thank God that the judgement is declaratory and the enforcement takes immediate effect as far as the law is concern.

“We wish them well in whatever they want to do he said.

It would be recalled that Joshua Laven headed for court to challenge the electoral umpire (PLASIEC)for conducting election in Langtang North LG when his tenure has not expired.

In his judgement after perusal, justice Ishaku Kunda stated ambiguous that the electoral body err in law to have conducted election in the local government as the sitting chairman’s tenure has not expire going by common simple arithmetic.

Tenure Elongation Tussles ,Court Orders Hon.Joshua.U.Laven Reinstament.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The High Court in Plateau state has ordered the Plateau state electorial umpire (PLASIEC) to to reinstate the embattled chairman of Langtang North LG of the state back to his seat as the chairman of Langtang North LG of the state.

As common elementary mathematics backed by the State electorial law of Plateau state and the constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria ,the tenure of the embattled Chairman of the mentioned LG is expect to expire on the 9th October,2022 ,

considering that he took an oaths of Office as the chairman of Langtang North LG on the 9th October,2019 following appeal court ruling that declared him the winner of 2018 LG election conducted in the 17 Local Government by the state electorial umpire (PLASIEC).

Justice Ishaku Kunda further state that the chairman Joshua .U.Laven took oaths of Office to superintendent over the affairs of the LG for the period of 3years which started running on the day he took an oaths of Office which will expired by 9th Oct,2022,as spelt out in the constitution.

The Judge further stressed that the relief sought by defense counsel can’t yield any positive result because there was gross abuse by the defendants (PLASIEC) for conducting election into chairmanship seat had flouted the court order .

Justice Kunda added that the tenure of Langtang north Local Government by deligent calculation is expected to expire on the 9th October, 2022 so whatever decision taken by the (PLASIEC) is null and void and lack place in law.

He stated that the exercise of embarking on conducting election into chairmanship seat was unnecessary a wasteful exercise by the 1st &4th defendants and described it as impunity and lack of respect for the rules of law .

According to him ,Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission ,disrespect the judiciary after the interlocutory order stopping them and their agent coming to conduct election into chairmanship seat of Langtang north.

Justice Kunda further explained that the Chairman didn’t write to (PLASIEC) but his party (PDP) wrote and forwarded Laven’s names in the list of aspirants vying for the seat of chairmanship in Plateau state so the exercise was described as null and void the chairman Laven participated in the congresses ,saying the Claimant is a responsible citizens and has demonstrated himself as law abiding citizen that follow the due process .

According to him, the 1st ,2nd ,3rd and 4th defendants had disregard to the court order and they are disrespectful to the court of jurisdiction.

The judgement which is adjudged a reference point declaratory victory to democracy because election was conducted by (PLASIEC) in 2018 ,a year after the Executive Governor Simon Bako Lalong sworn him into office as the Executive Chairman of Langtang North LGA in 2019 which tenure expire on the 9th October, 2022 ,he said.

The erudite judge,Justice Kunda stated that the statutory order to conduct election in the chairmanship seat of Langtang north is irrelevant and didn’t applied to law guiding the (PLASIEC) in the state ,stressing that the tenure of the embattled chairman has not expire until 2022 .

” whether the court has the jurisdiction to entertain the suit filed by the claimant ,I says yes ,the state high court has the power to listening anchored by 254(c) ,a,b,c & k constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended.

Justice Kunda explained that the dispute wasn’t issue of salary ,allowances which is exclusively reserve for industrial court to address, but the tenure elongation which has 3 years hadn’t expire ,citing section 7 of federal and 30 and 38 Local Government law of 2016 there was no dispute arising from salary payment but by law conferred on him under section 271(1) of the 1999 as amended rooted that the originating surmount sought for 4&5 relies shows that the removal of Joshua Laven as the Executive Chairman of Langtang north is illegal where the judge stroke out the preliminary objections raised by the defense counsel .

The Judge pointed out that the claimant seat would be vacant after the expiration of his tenure in 2022 under section 38(1),3 LG guidelines of 2016 which started from the date he took allegiance of office and what happen is a total violation of section 18 subsection (1) of PLASIEC rules .

As against this backdrop, justice Kunda awarded cost of 2.5 million to the claimant .

By, giwa alex, Jos

University Don Professor David Pam Yakubu lecturer with the university of Jos , plateau state has decried the declined in the reading culture amongst Nigerians as he satirically said if you want to keep money, keep it inside book nobody will find it.

As professor Pam said the continued declined of reading culture can be largely due to technological advancement which has made many to opted for internet to get what they wanted than spending precious time reading the “Hard” copy book.

Pam Yakubu ,a lecturer with the university of Jos , Nigeria revealed this in an interview with journalists during book launch and celebration of 50th birthday held at St Louis Catholic Church Plateau state, 31th Oct,2021.

According to the university lecturer, unfortunately ,the reading culture in the country has declined a lot in the country.That is why some people says “if you want to hide money ,hide it inside book nobody will finds it”.

The Prof. attributed this continued declined of reading culture to technological advancement which brought about the use of Lab Tops , Android phones,and other technology which people can easily use without going extra mile in researching on the “Hard Copy” reading.

“He said many Nigerians this days have phobia for reading books ,the reason they shy away from an event such as this, but rather preferred Political gathering where they can show off , displayed their wealth just to score cheap Political point to be notice by some personalities who are in the event to feel their presencs or to get what is referred to as largesse he stressed.

He added that with the culture of Nigeria,it is common to see a science student who has make mark in science ,and he is rewarded with One Hundred thousand, while the “Big Brother Naija first runner is give 100million , which he said is Nigeria orientation generally.

He adjudged the book with the title ” Painful Emotion ” as good book which I never believed that Rev.Fr. Fwogos can put such fantastic write up together.

He further said listening to the book reviewer,it portrayed that the book is very rich in content.

“Is this kind of book that can help to address the ills currently bedeviling the society, that is the reasons we encourage everybody present at the occasion to endeavour to buy a copy of the book as a sign of encouragement of the author who is a Rev.Father to abreast themselves to the fact of the “Painful Emotion”as it’s dealt with in Christ law.

He added that priest Fwogos who is 20th years in priesthood and celebrating his 50th years birthday which is triangler in nature,prayed God to continue strengthen him in the vain yard to continue to work hard.

“Like I told the author that we will love to see the second part of the book,and wish the Rev.Fr. well and pray that God will continue to giving him the strength to continue work and document matters that can help us resolve vital social problems.”

By, giwa alex, Jos

The People Democratic Party (PDP) plateau state chapter has called on president Mohammedu Buhari to as matter of urgency called on the Governor of Plateau State Simon Bako Lalong and the commissioner of police of the state, Edward Egbuka to order to avoid breaking down of law and order in the state .

As the speaker of the house of assembly legally impeched by some dissidents group members was held hostage in the house of assembly complex by the commissioner on the alleged Governor Lalong’s when the speaker and other members came to the chamber for legislative business .

The opposition Party in the state (PDP) made the call in a press statement dated 1st Nov,2021 ,signed by the Party state publicity secretary John T Akans Ksm and made available to this medium in Jos , plateau state reads,

The attention of the Peoples Democratic party (PDP) has just been drawn to the unconstitutional role of the Plateau state commissioner of police under the directives of the Presidency through Governor Simon Bako lalong to harass, intimidate and arrest 12 Hon members of the plateau state house of assembly from carrying out their constitutional responsibilities as representatives of the People.

The party at this moment alerts Nigerians in particular plateau people on this unfortunate undemocratic and unconstitutional role of the commissioner of police who have since morning relocated his office to the Plateau state house of assembly.

The CP and other security agencies used should explain to plateau people if he has turned the office of the plateau state house of assembly speaker into his office or one of his divisional office because since morning he has occupied the office with his armed men and as at this time the CP has arrested 12 members including the speaker taking them to an unknown location he should note that he has no constitutional right to prevent members from discharging their responsibilities inline with the constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended.

The Peoples Democratic party is monitoring as things unfold and will inform the people of plateau state on happenings.

We commend our house members for their steadfastness in sustaining Democracy and the rule of law and for showcasing the capacity of the party in the face of this uncivilized bloodthirsty and barbarians.

The party is proud of all its members as they are the true representatives of the people.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Governor Bako Lalong of Plateau state has denied of having hands in the impeachment of embattled speaker of the state House of Assembly,Hon. Abok Ayuba.

As the embattled speaker was impeached by handful of the house of assembly few days ago ,the action which has continued to generate reactions from the general public who are insinuating the alleged Governor Lalong’s involvement in hon.Abok Ayuba’s removal as the speaker.

Governor Lalong while responding to a submission by a Jos-based Christian cleric Prophet Isa El-Buba at the Annual Thanksgiving Services of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) held at the Jesus Power Crusaders International Assembly Jos where the cleric asked the Governor to restore stability in the House after the recent impeachment of the former Speaker and the election of Rt. Hon. Yakubu Sanda.

Lalong said “the House of Assembly is an autonomous body that runs its affairs independently. You will recall that I was the first Governor in Nigeria to sign into law the Autonomy Bill when it was passed.

I did that because of my passion for democratic growth and the strengthening of the Institution. Having served as a Speaker who was also impeached, I have no hand in the running of the House, not to talk of the change of its leadership. They run their affairs and do as they wish based on their rules and the law”.

The Governor also advised the citizens particularly the leaders of thought to always verify information and also engage before taking a position on any matter such as the impeachment story that has been widely misrepresented.

He advised those who have concerns to reach out to the members and get the complete picture before reaching conclusions. He called for prayers and support for those in authority.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo in his message said Nigeria is a great country with huge potentials which needs to be nurtured and built by its citizens. He said though the current challenges are huge, there is biblical support to the fact that things will change for the better in no distant time. He urged Nigerians to speak well of their country and not use confess negatively.

He commended PFN for organising the Thanksgiving Service which is an opportunity to recognise and appreciate God’s goodness for the nation in times of difficulty, saying this makes God to do more.

PFN President Bishop Wale Oke in his sermon said the challenges Nigeria is facing are prevalent and appear daunting, but will surely be overcome according to God’s promises.

Hon.Nanlo Daniel Describe Former Speaker, Nuhu Abok As A Disaster, With Dictatorial Tendencies.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The Majority Leader of the Plateau State House of Assembly (PLHA) Hon.Nanlo Daniel has described the impeached Speaker of the State House of Assembly Abok Ayuba as a disaster with dictatorial tendencies the actions which cost him speakership position.

As former Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly (PLHA), Hon. Nuhu Ayuba Abok is said not to have been in support of policies that could have engendered development to the state rather, he is said to have been using his position as Speaker to developed his personal political empire.

This submission was made by the Majority Leader of the House of Assembly who doubled as Member representing Mikang Constituency in the State House of Assembly, Hon. Nanlo Daniel in an interview with Journalists after the impeachment of Hon. Abok as Speaker on Thursday 28th Oct,2021.

According to the Majority Leader, the former Speaker was impeached on account of incompetence and financial misappropriation.

The Lawmaker further expressed with regrets that the House was just managing Hon.Abok Ayuba as he was at the lowest ebb on intellectual matters particularly relating to legislative businesses.

Abok is also said to have made concerted efforts to thwart all the efforts put in place by the current administration of Governor Lalong and the goodwill earned by it simply because he felt he has found a new home other than the APC.

Hon. Nanlo Daniel posited that Abok is a product of the ruling APC stressing that all he ought to have done (just like other members of the party were doing) was to have worked in line with the policies and programmes of the the current government to ensuring delivery of dividends of democracy to the people of Plateau State.

“But I want to tell you that what the House under the former Speaker Nuhu Abok was doing is totally in negation of what is expected of a Leader who is supposed to put into account his primary responsibility first in all his undertakings.

Because we have the mandate of the people of Plateau State to represent them well. Being a Speaker is a previledge and I must tell you that the way and manner Abok has managed this House as it’s Speaker can be summarized as “Embarrassing”.

Firstly, since autonomy was granted to the PLHA under Abok, there was never a time that the Principal Officers ever met, discussed and took any decision on any issue. Abok was only taken decisions solely without recourse to Principal Officers of the House. And I would be bold to state that his dictatorial tendencies is one of the reasons that cost him the Speakership”, he said.

The House Leader added that apart from financial the allegation of recklessness, the former Speaker’s attempt to undermined policies of the current government embedded in Executive Bills was also his albatross.

“Let me tell you that there is a Bill for Livestock Transformation on ground. And if you look at the substance this Bill is carrying, you would agree with me that it has the potency to addressing the issue of insecurity in Plateau State. You would also agree with me that we have been bedeviled by security challenges in the State and the government and all spirited individuals are expected to work in synergy to bringing an end to the menace.

Because the Trinity of separation of powers involving the Legislative, Executive and the Judicial arms of government is such that these arms of government can always put heads together to bring about good governance.

So, it is not about one arm of government fighting or challenging another arm because our mandate is not to fight one another but to work in harmony towards ensuring the delivery of dividends of democracy to the people”.

Nanlo said it was laughable to hear some people said that the former Speaker’s behavior and attitude was geared toward protecting the interest of Plateau State.

On this, the member asked rhetorically, “what is Plateau interest?. And how can the House of Assembly achieve that interest if is under lock and keyed as members of the Plateau State House of Assembly have not sit to deliberate on issues affecting the state since August?.

“Let me tell you, since August, members of the House have not been able to sit despite the fact that they have motions and Bills that they needed to present, deliberated upon and when passed would have enhanced good governance.

The former Speaker has vehemently refused to open the House for business since August. It might surprise you that attempt was made on the former Speaker three times to allow the Governor of the state to satisfied the requirement of the Constitution by fulfilling section 121 sub section 1 of the 1999 constitution to present the Appropriation Bill 2022 before the House.

He refused. We had to go begging him and you know that the budget carries the envelope containing developmental programmes for the state. Is this what the people voted us in to do? You shouldn’t bring your personal vendetta on the entire people of the state”.

Hon. Nanlo further expressed dismay over submissions of those who held the view that the former Speaker’s acts were geared toward protecting the interest of Plateau.

“Tell me how has he protected the interest of Plateau? Firstly, what is Plateau interest and defined by who? We are all people of Plateau State. We all have the same rights and duties. And I believe the interest of any Plateau person who have the interest of the state is to ensure peaceful coexistence among the divise ethnic nationalities in the state which falls in line with the programmes and policies of this government.

You’re a journalist, please tell me if the former Speaker ever introduced new and useful ideas or laws and the government refused to consider them?”, he asked rhetorically.

The Lawmaker also observed with utmost disappointment that some people have equally fallen into the former Speaker’s religious antics noting that he was instrumental to the emergence and series of extension of tenures of Shehu Bala as Management Committee Chairman of Jos North.

Hon. Nanlo Daniel said that it was obvious that the former Speaker had found a new home in the major opposition (PDP) and had been saddled with the responsibility of undermining the success of the Lalong administration.

“It is very clear that Abok has found a new home and the new home has mandated him to undermined the successes of this government. The new home is the PDP and you would agree with me that it is the PDP that is crying more than the bereaved after his impeachment. But Abok forgot that the APC caucus in the House made him Speaker without the support of the PDP members “.

On the rumors that the Gov. Lalong has hands in the impeachment of the former Speaker, the House Majority Leader said,

“The Plateau State House of Assembly is autonomous and members are at liberty to discuss their issues. We are also matured enough to take independent decisions and that is exactly what happened. The House took a unanymous decision because the former Speaker was destroying the Institution. Gov. Lalong has no hand in the impeachment of the speaker.

And I am making this categorically clear for record purposes that Gov Simon Bako Lalong did not in anyway influenced the decision of the House regarding the impeachment of the former Speaker, Nuhu Abok”.

On the submission that the former Speaker was impeached by a number not up to 2/3 of the 24 members of the House, Hon. Nanlo said, “Journalists from both the print and electronic media were invited and were present. We made bold to asked members of the media to take head count of the Hon. members in the House today which they did.

Now, if you have watched the video containing House proceedings today, you would find out that apart from the minority leader and Hon. Simi, all other PDP members were present. In all, 14 APC and 2 PDP members voted and impeached the former Speaker the record is available.

No impeachment can take place without satisfying the requirement of the law and we are fully aware of this. It is equally the reason why we ensured that we followed due process. The list of the members who attended today’s proceedings was submitted to the Clerk of the House and he confirmed it before he authorized the change in leadership of the House”, he said.

Recall that after the impeachment of Hon. Nuhu Ayuba Abok, Hon. Yakubu Sanda member representing Pengana Constituency was elected as new speaker.

PLHA Members Behind Illegal Impeachment Of Abok Ayuba Suspended.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Lawmakers of the Plateau State House of Assembly has Suspended Six members of the state assembly who were involved in the illegal impeachment of Hon.Abok Ayuba for gross misconduct, insubordination and legislative rascality.

Moving the motion for the suspension of the six lawmakers during plenary ,Majority leader plateau House of assembly Hon .Philip Dasun Said their Suspension became necessary owing to their act of insubordination and gross misconduct for attempts to cause disunity in the house.

Datsun said the lawmakers who are desperate attempted to impeach the Speaker in the early hours of the day 28th Oct,2021, but failed haven been induced with millions of naira from Governor Bako Lalong there by suspended.

The Majority leader Philip Dasun Said the suspended members are as follows

Saleh Yipmong Dengi (APC)

Nanlong Daniel Mikang,(APC)

Yakubu Sanda Pengana,APC)

Mohammed Balo Quan Pan South(APC)

Eric Dakogoal Quan Pan North(APC)

Baba Hassan(APC) Jos north north

Hon.Dasun further add that the house leadership has also pass a vote of Confidence on the speaker of the house of assembly Abok Nuhu for his leadership qualities which is a clear indication of his acceptability by the plateau people.

Supporting the motion for the suspension of the lawmakers the minority leader Peter Gyangdeng described the actions of the suspended Lawmakers as an act of illegality and said the house will not tolerate interference by executive.

He also supported the motion for a vote of Confidence passed on the Speaker Abok Nuhu Ayuba for his strong leadership qualities and people driven legislative programs which has endured him to the people of plateau state.

It would be recalled that as early as 8am 28th Oct,2021,six lawmakers constitutes themselves into dissidents group attempted to remove the speaker from Office.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The New Elected Chairman of Jos East LG of Plateau state,Hon Yakubu Izang Ezekiel has promised to tackle the issues of insecurity and attract developmental projects to Jos East LG of Plateau state under his watch.

As he promised to create conducive atmosphere for agricultural farming to strive considering the that the people of the council are farmers which will improve the Council’s Internal Generated Revenue (IGR).

Hon.Yakubu Izang who was elected the council boss few weeks ago stated this in an interview with journalists at the Council’s Secretariat recently ,reel out his plans for the council under his watch as the Executive Chairman of Jos East LG.

“On what the people of the council expect from him as the chairman of Jos East LG,Hon.Izang said,as grassroot person ,I am very much conversant with the challenges of the local government,we have quite a lot of challenges.

And add that we are making sure we swing into action towards addressing the challenges confronting our people .

He stressed that the key issues in our agenda is Security, without peaceful coexistence no any meanful development can be achieved.

“So we want to ensure that our Council live in peace and harmony to ensure the Peaceful nature of our people which they are hitherto know for is maintained.

The chairman who vowed to do anything humanly possible to tackle insecurity head on further add that ,we will do anything within our power to ensure Security is given proper attention it deserves in the council under my watch.

Hon.Yakubu said because the major occupation of the people of the local government is agriculture, he will encourage the use of modern farm Implements that will boost high agricultural yields that will increase the Council’s (IGR) following the economic challenges globally ,we have to look inward towards addressing some of the challenges .

He said the other aspects the council under my watch hope to give attention is the area of infrastructural developmental development “when you were coming,you saw the condition of our road leading to the Council’s headquarters which needs urgent attention to address some of these challenges , so that those who farm will find it easy to transport their farm produce to the market.

The chairman said the other area his administration will look into Is the provision of portable drinking water ,

” Those living in the rural areas find it difficult in getting portable drinking water ,we have directed all our Counsellors of the council to go to their respective districts and find out those boreholes you know are bad condition and report back to us with the view of fixing them for use.

“You know we are just coming on board, with no resource on ground, but we have to create impact .”

To start with ,we have instructed all the counselors to go round to their various wards and districts and identify those boreholes that are not functional with the view of activating them.

“We want to improve on that by ensuring our people have good drinking water.”he maintained.

“I have identify education as another critical area his administration will work hard to improve on under my watch because any society that are not educated is improvish and promised to liberate his people from the shackles of educational backwardness and illiteracy currently steering our people on the faces.

“We want to also look on the area of health with the view of delivery qualitative health to our people in Jos east local government of Plateau state if God permit.

On the aspect of workers welfare,the chairman said he had held meet with the directors of departments of the council and intend to meet with NULGE,”you know we can’t function effectively without the workers of the council”.

“I was a staff of the council before I retired and joined politics I know the important of workers ,we try as much as possible to see how we can carry everyone along to ensure that their working environment is improved ,I think on that area l wouldn’t jeopardize it.

The chairman stressed that he hope to set up Committee with the view of wooing investors to come and invest on the mineral deposit that are abound in the local government.

“I already have a plan of setting up a committee that can look into ways we can improve our revenue generation “.

“We most provide enably environment for investor to come in, firstly , if we have a peaceful coexistence ,investors will be willing to come “.

We want to also see how we can partner with Non Governmental Organization (NGO’S)with the dwingling resources of the council ,the (NGO) can be of help in that area .

“We want to use the Committee to explore on how we can improve our (IGR),if we are able to do that ,we will be able to know the areas we can make resources ,income and can create revenue for the council .”

We have to look inward because we cannot continue to rely on the federal pulse.

On his template to improve the council”we want to ensure that the voices of critical stakeholders are heard ,we don’t want to run a one man show .

“Nobody knows it all , when you get people involve they we help you bring ideas that will move the council forward .”

“Like the religious bodies , tribal association , Youth organization and traditional councils we would bring them together so that we can bring our head together and see how best we can move the council forward,”

“And their inputs will be highly respected “.he stressed.

Electronic Transmission;How INEC slayed The Dragon.

By Matthew Hassan Kukah.

First, let me congratulate the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Professor Mahmud Yakubu, all his staff and the Members of the National Assembly Committees on INEC for re-enkindling our hope in the building of our Democracy.

The passage of the Bill to enable INEC transmit election results electronically both the House and the Senate is worthy of celebration. It seems a simple and straight forward activity. However, this is Nigeria where nothing is ever simple or straight forward. I am hopeful that President Muhammad Buhari will go ahead and sign the Bill into Law immediately. In doing so, he will give credence to his commitment to giving the country the gift of a better INEC than the one he met. This is a turning point for our nation.

When Neil Armstrong landed on the moon on July 17th, 1969, he said to a stunned world, This is a small step, but a giant leap for mankind. I feel the same about this development.

The reader might accuse me of exaggeration or wondering what there is to celebrate. However, if you live in a country which thrives in self-flagellation, openly embraces fraud, thrives in duplicity, skullduggery, subterfuge and barefaced

underhandedness even at the highest level, then, this stab at the elephant of corruption should not be taken lightly. It is the first in a million stabs that will follow before we slay the dragon of corruption in Nigeria. The journey has begun but there is hope ahead.

We will all be right to assume that in human terms, fraud is built into any process of human transaction because each always seeks to take advantage of the rules of engagement by subversion one way or the other. Each process of transaction poses a moral dilemma. We are often offered tips on how to cope by such saying as; when faced with two evils, choose a lesser one. However, if we see evil as intrinsic, then it should not be judged by size especially given that with time, it will grow.

Faced with moral probity in our struggle for power in Nigeria, we have always said it is better to choose a lesser evil. However, with time, these lesser evils grew with practice and refinement until they became embedded in the fabric of our collective lives. With time, we saw yesterday’s thugs, ballot box stuffers and snatchers, vote pilferers, all mutate into respectability.

With time, in return for their perfidy they got rewarded with promotions and appointments once their sponsors got to power. With time, their fingers became firm in holding and climbing the greasy poles of politics. With time, the little plants developed sturdy roots, with corruption as its nutrients. With time, Nigeria soon became a massive forest adorned with rotten fruits of its political sins.

With time, some of these thugs of yesterday actually went all the way to the top and gradually, the proceeds of corruption filtered into the blood of sacrifice for political power in Nigeria. With time and before our eyes, Nigerian politics descended into sorcery, voodooism, necromancy and divination. The falcon could no longer hear the falconer as the country slid down and down.

Appropriation from the State and institutional capture became the next goal for political activity. Whereas lawyers, engineers, doctors, or even mechanics, masons, tailors often made legitimate claims of their qualifications by adorning their offices with the relevant

certificates, politics is the only profession that you do not need any qualification to join. Thus, as the years have rolled by, the rules of the game became subordinated to the whims and caprices of the key political elite. In turn, the political class in our country has continued to operate below the radar of legitimacy.

The most dangerous time for any country is when its criminal class seek to become what the mafia calls, legitimate. They start by identifying and literally taking over key institutions. They place their cronies in key public offices or, when they cannot, they resort to blackmailing those who stand up to them. They set their eyes on key institutions such as the Judiciary, the Legislative bodies, the Security agencies or holders of key public offices. They fund their cronies in politics. Then, they wear a toga of invincibility, walking with the swagger and defiance of catch-me-if-you-can.

In this way, through some form of dialysis, their blood continue to circulate within the system until they poison the entire national blood system. Recall that had Abba Kyari not saved us from Chief Evans, the kidnapper king, he would probably have been on the ballot in Anambra as he himself confessed. It is against this backdrop that I am excited about the prospects of the signing of this Bill into law.

This development does not mean that the bad days are over. If anything, it means that the forces of darkness will fight back and seek to subvert this new law. The criminals and their cronies will get to work and, as we have seen with the Internet, the fraudsters are often ahead of the game. INEC has to scale up its technological innovation and create a firewall to protect these gains.

Those who are used to living under the radar will try to side step the law no matter how tight it seems. As we all know in Nigeria, over time, electoral corruption has been the stuff of hundreds of anecdotes. Political actors with dubious characters have been the subject of political characterization by writers. Chinua Achebe took on this theme quite early. In his novel, A Man of the People, Chief Nanga represents the typical money-miss-road, smash and grab politician. He spends money like san san before his hapless constituents. He represents political malfeasance in Nigeria.

In another little collection of short stories titled, Girls at War, Chinua Achebe tells the story of a voter who faced a moral dilemma on voting day. I remember the story faintly. I think the man was an official of his party. All key party members were under oath not to take a bribe or act against the party. However, before the date of elections, the opposition offered him a bribe he could not resist. On voting day, he went to the tent, held out his ballot paper, thought ruefully about his moral dilemma. However, to honour both and satisfy a crooked conscience, he folded his ballot paper into two equal parts, tore it and then dropped one half for both the party and the opposition that had bribed him.

Let me end by offering a few reasons why I believe that this is really a turning point moment for our Democracy. First this has potential for changing the face of Nigerian politics for good. It will restore Trust, that much missing link between Nigerians and the political elite. The lack of trust in the political process accounts for voter apathy in Nigeria. Nigerians have become despondent and convinced that their votes would never account. This has opened up politics to those men and women of violence who have taken our nation hostage by violence.

Second, is the demystification of the electoral processes. The scales will fall from our eyes, the walls separating lies and subterfuge which have allowed too many camels to pass through the eyes of the needle of truth will fall. The clarity of the process will naturally empower citizens that their vote has power and encourage them to go out and vote. Those who have taunted the system have their days numbered.

Third, citizens will now take full responsibility for their votes and how they cast them. The stock market of fake electoral currencies is now closed. We cannot blame anyone now for our misfortunes if we vote wrongly. The days of whether-you-voted-for-us-we-must-win will end. Yesterday was for the thief, today is the day for the owner of the vote.

Four, fake and midnight pastors and Imams may have to look elsewhere for cheap money from politicians desperate for endorsement. Very soon, our anointing oils or royal blessings will no longer be required for the manufacturing of votes. There are no prayers for winning elections just as there are no prayers for stopping the traffic lights. Corrupt judges waiting for Tribunals to ambush the process along with their high profile lawyer counterparts now have to look elsewhere.

Five, this is the dawn of technology which will shame those who have invested in preying on the ignorance and vulnerability of their people and continue to exploit them. Magic and sorcery have no future.

We hope the National Assembly will continue to appropriate the required funding to enable INEC embrace the required technology. If we do this, perhaps, Nigeria’s days of shame might come to an end sooner than later. A few other things have to happen before we start our celebrations and INEC has requested that on the whole, human interference, manipulation, should be replaced with technology.

Six, Rather sadly, the writers of the Electoral Act did not anticipate something like the Card Reader. Those sections of the Act that did not foresee technological advancement should be immediately eliminated and the doors fully thrown open for INEC to use its researchers to explore the limitless frontiers of technological possibilities. Thus, the electronic transmission of results is contingent on other technologies such as; a biometric register, electronic accreditation of voters, electronic balloting and collation of results. It is a successful sequencing of these phases that will mark the turning point for us. It is still a long road ahead but it is one of promise for us.

Finally, praise must go to the civil society family, who have remained committed to the principles of Democracy. Our friend and brother, Emma Ezeazu who founded the Alliance for Credible Elections and our sister, Barrister Esther Uzoma both of blessed memory must be smiling in their graves. They were relentless in their passion for credible elections in Nigeria. Whether the National Assembly has seen the light or they are responding to the heat of civil society, the struggle must go on.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Hon.Joseph Abbey Aku aspirant for Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives at the National Assembly has promised to attract developmental projects to the Constituency if given the opportunity to represent the good people of Jos North/Bassa at the Federal House of Representatives.

As he said the Constituency is currently facing Security challenges ,I shall collaborate with the Plateau state Peace agency and other peace building Non Governmental Organization (NGO’) such as Humanitarian Dialogue to entrench peaceful coexistence among the people of my Constituency.

Abbey who is currently the Commissioner for Commerce and industry in the state made the promise in a press briefing dated 24th October,2021 ,held at the Bishop Court Jos, plateau state.

Abbey further add that jos North/Bassa Constituency under his watch ,I shall vigorously lobby for projects to the Constituency using my connection as the former senior legislative Aide in the National Assembly armed with the dynamics .

The commissioner who want to be judged as reformist promised the passage of important bills that will impact positively on the people of the Constituency,by extension Plateau state,and regular consultation of my Constituency.

He however appealed to the other aspirants contesting for the Bye-election and other election to shun campaign of Calumny aimed at smearing the reputation of Political opponents which is capable of sowning the seed of hatred and bitterness .

Hon. Abbey, frawned at the recent publication made by anonymous person with a bide to create mischief.

“I wouldn’t have not joining issues over a write up by a faceless person since in democracy , freedom of expression is encouraged.

He however described the write up as the handing work of mischief makers who are spreading falsehood that his candidature is endorse by religious body.

“Those who know me closely can attest to the fact that I am man of the people owning to my background as well cultured man.ln my years of Political sojourn, I have not received an endorsement by any person or group to succeed”.

“My manifesto has always been my selling point and have always believe in team work irrespective of ethnic or religious affiliation.”

“I have made it clear that my interest in the House of Representatives is because it’s more vibrant of the two chambers”.

Hon.Abbey however debunked the rumour making around that he is Government candidate.

“I am not government candidate contrary to the rumour making around that I am having the backing of the powers that be”.

“My quest to contest for the position is to serve my people and bring developmental projects which had hitherto been lack in the Constituency.”

HuCaPAN Celebrates Golden Femi Ogunlowo @50

By Our Reporter

The Human Capital Providers Association of Nigeria, HuCaPAN, has felicitated her President, Dr Olufemi Olukayode Ogunlowo on the occasion of his golden jubilee birthday celebration.

In a statement issued and signed by the Association’s Executive Secretary, Mr Olajide Afolabi, he described Ogunlowo as a quintessential, exceptional leader, a rare gem and breed whose sagacity has helped in improving the outsourcing and human resources industry not only in Nigeria but globally.

He said that the celebrants wealth of experience has greatly impacted the Association in no small measure stressing that with Ogunlowo, “it can can only get better”.

Afolabi noted that Ogunlowo has lived the last fifty years to serve humanity and God.

He said:

“Mr. President, on this special occasion of the celebration of your Golden Jubilee on earth, the entire HuCaPAN family felicitate you.

“Within the short time you have occupied the office, you have shown that you are a visionary leader, incurable optimist, a pathfinder, and a gold shining on the Association. You are such a rare gem!

“Under your watch, our great Association, the Human Capital Providers Association of Nigeria (HuCaPAN) has witnessed significant improvement in capacity building, membership services and collaboration with the regulatory agencies, social partners and other critical stakeholders.”

Ogunlowo is the founder and the Chief Executive Officer of BMC Group comprising of Strategic Outsourcing Limited, a personnel services outsourcing company that provides Managed Staff Services, Recruitment Services, Temporary and Permanent Placement Services, and Payroll Management Services; Easy Distribution Network Services Ltd, a company that provides sales outsourcing services;

Shepherd Insurance Brokers Ltd, a company that sells insurance products and services; and Lekki Serviced Flats, the owners and managers of TPDC and TOJA estates. The group has a staff strength of over 15,000 staff and serves multinational and indigenous companies in diverse industries. Over the past years, the company has built a record of excellent service with all its clients.

“As you turn 50 today, may you wish on every candle and may all 50 of them come true. May you be as radiant and golden as the sun this day and beyond. May your years be renewed like the eagle. Hope your 50th is just the beginning of amazing things to come.”

Human Capital Providers Association of Nigeria, HuCaPAN, is the umbrella organisation of registered/licenced recruiters in Nigeria, also referred to as Private Employment Agencies (PEAs).

The aims and objectives of the Association, among others, are to develop and promote International Labour Organisation, ILO, Standards and ethical practices in Recruitment, Deployment and Management of outsourced personnel in Nigeria.

APC Pass Vote of Confidence on Hon.Ishaya Itse.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The All Progressive Congress ruling party in plateau state (APC) under the auspacies of “Concerned APC, Stakeholders ,Jos Jarawa Ward” in Jos North LG has passed a vote of confidence on the chairman of party in Plateau state ,Hon.Itse Ishaya the newly elected chairman .

The vote of confidence was passed on the newly elected chairman of the ruling party in the state is contained in a press statement dated 22nd Oct,2921, signed by the chairman of Jos Jarawa Ward the ward of the state APC chairman, signed by the ward chairman Ajiji Gideon and made available to this medium in Jos, plateau state.

The Stakeholders of the Party in his ward , Jos Jarawa discribed their Chairman Ishaya itse as a worthy son of the soil and they are proud of him,his Leadership Style and his EXCO members.

Chairman of the Jos Jarawa of APC Stakeholders in an unanimous decision Said Ishaya Itse is a registered and bonafide member of the party at the Federal ward and has his authentic membership card but wondered were some people are claiming otherwise

They wondered how Some group of individuals will Seat down in a beer parlour and discuss that the state Chairman is an absentee member of the party and claims double indigeneship,

According to the Chairman these Set of people are cracking the most expensive joke of the 21 century and their figment of imagination.

The group says the party Chairman has done so much for his people in Jos Jarawa ward,Jos North local government council and the entire Plateau Northern Senatorial District and has dished out so many assistance to so many people in the Society as he been paying scholarships and JAMB to the students,

rendering financial assistance to both individuals and group across board and as well as her Supported the ruling All progressive Congress in so many ways and has been a loyal member of the party

This good gestures has endured him to the people which has Calculated into him receiving numerous awards within and outside the state.

Ishaya itse is a God send to our ward who has Contributed immensely to the growth and development of the party in the ward and Jos North local government council

We equally want to pass a vote of confidence on him being a worthy son and Ambassador of Jos Jarawa ward and Jos North as a whole. He has our full backing,

blessings and support to Continue to run the affairs of the party as the state Chairman haven followed due process of the party Constitution by purchasing the forms of the party and been affirmed by the party faithfuls to be the authentic Chairman of the greatest party in nigeria.

As stakeholders of the Party, we wish to Sate Categorically that nobody has the Monopoly of dislodging this noble gentleman who has put in so much to ensure the party is intact and united Hon. Ishaya Itse has been supporting the party both morality and financially.

As peace loving Supporters who has been fore runners of the party since the emergence of the party in 2014 ,we cannot remain mute and his hard earned reputation dragged the mud by desperate and in productive members of the party who has brought forward baseless propaganda and allegations and empty threats that if not well handled can led to the destruction of the party and if not properly handled can led to the distinction of the party and all the effort of the rescue adminstration will go down the drain we cannot allow that to happen .

We therefore wish to extend olive branch to such individuals who due to financially induction and threat have abandoned the truth for Stomach infrastructure to the drawing board so that we can move the party forward not only at the ward level,but at the state at large.

Sylvester Namang : The Return Of a Spent Force In Plateau State.

By , PDP, Plateau State

It is quite interesting that of all the vibrant media personalities in the Apc, the only person Governor Simon Lalong could see is the 19th century, exhausted spent force, Sylvester Namang to salvage a supposedly ruling party at such a time.

Retired and tired, Namang has truly revealed what he can do by giving a tales by moonlight story instead of sending out concise press statements with factual information about the state of a downing party that is been pillared by the desperation of a failed blind principal, Governor Simon Lalong who believed that loyalty is competence.

Struggling to catch the public attention with kindergarten media thinking, we are very sure that even Lalong himself is not impressed by the media approach and thoughts of his new factional party spokesman.

But what can they actually do? They can not give what they don’t have. Bringing in such a man to salvage himself ( Namang) from retirement or to salvage a party struggling for legitimacy and striving on falsehood, deceit and dictatorship to survive can only but complicate its already battered image.

The APC in Plateau State is a sorry story of chronic deceit and fraud. How else can the party clean and convince itself with the prevailing state of political intolerance, especially the outcome of its selective state congress, where a whole unelected state exco is parading itself with the support of the Governor as the party’s leadership?

Governor lalong and his new recruited story teller should note that this gimmick is dead on arrival.

Plateau people can not be deceived the second time.

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, is a party founded on true values of democracy with a sound focus to contribute to the growth and development of the state,while APC is only playing the ostrich by it’s continued deceit and attempt to play on the peoples intelligence through lies and propaganda.

Namang should be ashame of himself for coming at such a time when there is nothing to defend of a party that has inflicted untold hardship on the people.

With reckless mismanagement of billions of naira on wasteful ventures, misguided political calculations , we can only but imagine how Lalong is thinking of life after 2023.

The state has been in the saddle for the past 6 years with absolutely nothing on ground to justify huge revenues. Lalong has even forgotten the many promises and pledges he made to the people. Is that how to be the Vice President of Nigeria or to be the Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria? Only time shall tell.

The level of infrastructural decay in the state is unparalleled and unprecedented. Even traveling across the state under lalong’s government today takes the whole day because of the deplorable condition of our roads. That is the new identity of the Governor and his now factional APC.

When Jonah David Jang was Governor of the state, people can freely move from one point to the other in an hour. Now six years down the line, even Lalong himself finds it difficult to move around instead he is using chopper flying to his home town ajikamai.

We therefore call on Slyvanus Namang to go back to the school of journalism which he has left many years ago, to refine his mind so as to fit into the new level of media administration, management and propaganda and not the crude and local type of Lalong’s descriptive journalism.

For him to enjoy any form of legitimacy and respect, Namang should immediately accord respect to the rightful owner of the occupant of the office of state publicity secretary of the Apc in Plateau,.thats the Hon Ishaya Itse’s popular faction.

We know the socalled Rufus Bature faction did not buy nomination forms neither was there any election that produced them. They should stop deceiving Plateau with cheap lies and uncooked propaganda.

Nanmang and the APC should be ashame of being corrected all the time because of their intellectual laziness and lack of political pedigree. What Plateau needs now is transparent governance built on honest and sincere democratic leadership. Its obvious Lalong has nothing to handover to the next administration come 2023, but he should not make it worst for the incoming administration.

Signed…

John. T. Akans, ksm FICA JP.

State Publicity Secretary ( PDP)Plateau State.

1,000 APC Members, Others Defect To PDP In Bauchi State.

Our Reporter

No fewer than 1,000 members of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Peoples Redemption Party ,PRP and All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, have defected to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Dass Local Government Area of Bauchi State.

Receiving the defectors at a ceremony held at the Government Lodge in Dass, PDP chairman in the area, Alhaji Sani Korau, welcomed the defectors to the ruling party.

According to Korau, from the inception of the Fourth Republic in 1999, Dass was never in the opposition until recently as a result of certain reasons, which he said had been politically resolved.

The party local government chairman disclosed that the resolution of the issues had made it possible for PDP to experience mass return of the former members back to the party.

In his speech at the event, PDP state deputy chairman, Bala Hadith, while urging the new members to support the party for the betterment of the state and the country at large, declared that the PDP was not only a united party but also the most powerful political party in Africa.

Also in her address, the state Commissioner for Science and Technology, Maryam Garba Bagel, said the defection was a great development for PDP, saying that it was mandatory for members to work hard for the party’s success in the state, particularly in Dass LGA in view of the good works going on in the state under the administration of Governor Bala Abdulkadir Muhammad.

Other speakers at the event urged people of the local government area to continue to support PDP’s transformation efforts in the state and also continuously support Governor Mohammed for him to deliver more dividends of democracy to the people of the state.

Those who spoke on behalf of the defectors from their respective parties submitted that they were motivated to defect to the PDP by the giant strides being recorded by the Governor Mohammed administration in the state.

The highlight of the defection of the ceremony was burning of brooms, being the symbol of the ruling APC, by those who left the party to publicly renounce their former political party.

Plateau State : Court Dismisses Bokkos APC Case For Lack Of Jurisdiction.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Plateau State High Court on Friday 22nd Oct,2021 has described the suit on Bokkos Local Government All Progressive Congress (APC) candidature as”Status Bar” and dismissed it for lack of jurisdiction.

Justice Geoffrey Kamyal of Plateau State High Court 10 made the declaration in his judgement on the suit filed by Mr Mallo Best, an APC aspirant against his opponent, Mr Joseph Guluwa over a controversial party primaries held on June 23rd 2021 in Bokkos.

The judge said that the Plaintiff, Best, did not file the case within the 14 days as required by section 285(9) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) being a pre-election matter, and rendered it “status bar.”

“Having filed this suit 14 days after the stipulated time frame as contained in section 285(9) of the 1999 Constitution as amended, it’s status bar, and therefore deprived this court the jurisdiction to entertain it.

“By that law, which the supreme Court also ruled upon, the implementation is that it deprives the Court the jurisdiction on this suit and fore closed the litigan’s right to institute a cause of action, “

“Where a suit is status bar, the Court lacks the jurisdiction to entertain it,therefore this court found this case status bar and is hereby dismissed,” Kamyal declared.

The Judge had explained that by the submissions of the Plaintiff, he got win of the Guluwa’s APC candidature status for the Oct 9 Plateau Council Polls on July 19, when he (Best) wrote to PLASIEC to confirm in a letter submitted as Exhibit H.

He explained that date July 19th 2021 was the date of consent but that the filing of the suit on Aug 19, which is above the 14 days requirement for pre-election matters, rendered it status bar.

This medium reports that Best, had through his Counsel, Mr Munir Abdullahi, filed a case before the court contesting the outcome of the party’s primaries held in Bokkos Local Government Area on June 23rd 2021 by their party, APC.

Best, in an originating Summon, told the court that APC, allegedly goofed when it announced Mr Joseph Guluwa as its Bokkos LGA’s candidate for the Oct. 9th Council polls held in Plateau.

Speaking to newsmen shortly after the judgement, Mr Nantok Dashur, Counsel to Guluwa and PLASIEC, (2nd and 3rd defendants respectively, described the judgement as “very sound” and”apt.”

Dashur said that the judge acted in accordance with the law, considering the fact that the suit was Status Bar for falling short of the law, and couldn’t be entertained.

Responding, Best, through his Counsel, Abdullahi, said that he would carefully study the judgement and take the necessary action.

How Shehu Jatau, And His Boys Kill Our Husbands At Jawuri—-Widows Testifies.

By ,giwa alex,Jos

The trial of Shehu Jatau &3 ors has resumed on Thursday 12st Oct,2021 in Jos Division of Plateau State High Court , who allegedly killed Apolos ,Nanven and Nanlir all deceased in Jawuri ,Boltak communities of Kadarko district in Wase Local Government of Plateau State.

The trial of Shehu Jatau and 3 others before Justice S.P Gang of the State High Court in Plateau state with four prosecution witness, PW 11-15 Mrs Janet Nanven,Mrs Angelina Dogo ,Mrs Ladi Ponven and Lucy Apolos providing more details on how Shehu Jatau and his boys shot the three persons to death while trying to escape their deadly onslaught 2 years ago at Jawuri ,allegedly riding on Motorbike by Nanjul .

Thurday trial was initially slated to take four witness evidence which captured dastardly action taken by Shehu Jatau and his dissidents boys over the alledged massacre of women and children in jawuri.

The widows of the husbands now deceased, who speaks in Hausa language and interpreted by the court clerk couldn’t explained and ask PW11 Mrs Janet Nanven ,whose husband died instantly from gunshot of Shehu Jatau and his dissidents group that scared them to run into a hideout before they drove to their compound and instructed them to lay on the ground .

The PW11-15 in their separate evidence before the court , narrated the involvement on the murder of many people by the accused persons, Shehu and his dissidents group after sporadic shootings, blocked all entrances to the community to ensure nobody comes in and out .

Mrs Janet Nanven recognized Shehu Jatau and Nanjul as the mastermind of the dastardly massacre of people , in their evidence, recalled her previous encounter with how the defendants who came from Kurmi of Taraba state unleashed terror on the people of the Community 12th July,2019 when her son came for school fees and herself along with the husband Nanven intensified preparation for the son returning back to Pil-Gani where the son now deceased is schooling .

They further told the court their ugly experience in the hands of Shehu Jatau and his blood thirsty boys who had sentenced many of the Community people to untimely death .

“We reported the incident to our village head who later reported to the Wase Divisional headquarters ” .

Meanwhile, Lucy Apolos explained that Shehu Jatau was the Ponzhi Kurmi in Taraba State yet he sneak into Jawuri to wreck havoc on the people of the community .

“We abandon our home in Boltak to take refuge at Jawuri but one faithful Friday evening, we were cooking when we heard sporadic gunshots in all direction of Jawuri little do we know that Shehu Jatau was coming to unleash mayhem on us sacking the entire residents”.

“Close to the river bank where we were about to escape through ,we saw how corpses of our husbands with mutilated body on pool of blood,she narrated “.

Mrs Ladi,Angelina ,Lucy and Janet both witness gave a vivid account of their encountered with Shehu Jatau and his killers squad where security personnel were not spear ,our farm produce including animals were carted away .

We beg Shehu Jatau to spear our lives by kneeling down to plead with him and his boys ,he allegedly rape us and ,we refused to expose our true identity to him because he has concluded plan to kill us .

Justice S.P Gang has however adjourned the case to the 8th of November, 2021 for continuation of hearing and taking of additional two witnesses .

The adjournment was for the C.O.P to close their case and the defendants will open defense .

Those Claim To Have Suspend Hon.Ishaya ltse From APC Jarawa Ward Are Impostors , Cowards——APC Jos Jarawa

By, giwa alex, Jos

As the dust over the conduct of the All Progressive Congress (APC) state Congresses in Plateau rages, our attention has been drawn by a purported statement from an amorphous group that claimed to be APC Excos of Jos Jarawa.

Ordinarily,we wouldn’t have reply such non existence Group,but for the sake of History and to set the record straight. We the Excos of the All Progressives Congress (APC) of Jos Jarawa ward are firm and resolute and have never contemplated of suspending the newly Elected vibrant,astute, Workaholic and Industrious Chairman of our dear Party in the State Hon. Ishaya Itse,the Youth emancipator and Philanthropy per excellent.

This clearification is made by the press release dated 20th October,2021, signed by the chairman and secretary Jos Jarawa federal Ward james Atang and Abel Emmanuel respectively.

The jos Jarawa exco have suspended ishaya Ashom for criminal offence of impersonation.

We the EXCO’s at the ward level Suspend the said Ishaya Ashom whose action and other person are impersonating as EXCOs of Jos Jarawa ward and we therefore, suspend them in line with article 21, particularly (A)III and we have constituted a three man committee to investigate the said Ishaya Ashom and his accomplice on financial allegations infractions, and anti party.

The three member Committee will be soon Inuagurated to swing into action to carry a thorough and meticulous probe on the duo.

Those impersonators are cowards because they failed to mention their names and append their signatures on the said statement.

We wish to appeal to all party faithfuls from Jos Jarawa ward and the state as a whole to remain calm and resolute amids such provocations. We will continue to strive hard and entrenched internal democracy in our Party.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The Plateau State People’s Democracy Party (PDP) Chairman ,Hon. Chris Hassan ,has reiterated the end of the clueless rule of misrule by the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC)in Nigeria 2023.

Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party in Plateau State, Hon. Chris Hassan Said, “the reign of the parallel ruling party in the State would end in 2023 and there is no vacancy in little rayfield again.

The state chairman of the largest party in Nigeria made the statement while receiving Pankshin Stakeholders on a congratulatory visit and presentation of portrait.

Hon.chris Hassan Said, “Pankshin Stakeholders has set the pace, with the unity and harmonious relationship within the party members in local government is highly commendable”

He added” 2023 is the terminal date for APC, in the State and their impunity nature”

Responding, the LGA Chairman, Bala Dalen, Rt. Hon Emmanuel Go’ar, Rt. Hon Istifanus Mwansat and Martina Dakur all spoke separately on the way forward and the need for the party members to work harmoniously.

The former LG Chairmen , deputies, Commissioners, Press secretary, secretary primary Education Board, councilors, Directors, and all past & present Excos were at the entourage.

Plateau State : Securitymen Invades New APC Secretariat Pull down Flags ,Destroy Valuables.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Tension has started to mount on the All Progressive Congress ,APC, Plateau state chapter following alleged Kangaroo state Congress of the party held at the Crest hotel on Saturday 16th Oct,2021.

As Governor Simon Bako Lalong faction of APC, on Monday 18th Oct,2021 ,invaded the New APC Secretariat which was relocated from Angwan Rogo to Kalwa House along Bukuru Road in Jos,pull down flags, destroyed properties as the governor drafted fierce looking armed Security personnel to the New office of Hon Innocent Maimagani Zhattau

However, its was alleged that the desperate factional APC stormed the party Secretariat that has members across the 17 local government of the state by making mockery of democracy in Nigeria with security personnel overrunning the Secretariat of the party.

Zhattau said ,our headquarters was invaded by a group of Governor Security dissidents who stormed the Kalwa House Secretariat building in Jos South Local Government Council of Plateau State .

Speaking through telephone conversation on Monday morning Hon Innocent Zhattau told this medium that those security personnel were sighted pulling down our party flag at about 8am creating palpable tension to motorists plying the Jos -Bukuru road .

According to him,we hated impunity ,imposition of unpopular candidates on the people of Plateau state where those who didn’t buy forms where gathered to be pronounced as consensus candidates on Saturday .

we are the legitimate members who indicated interest to obtain nomination form , we participated by ensuring that the right thing is done to move our party forward .

“The Governor ordered security personnel to forcefully close down our Secretariat and we are calling on international community to come and see how Governor Simon Bako Lalong is destroying the tenets of democracy in Plateau state ,and Nigeria in general”.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Hon. Ishaya Itse led All Progressive Congress (APC) in Plateau state has threatened to arrest Hon. Rufus Bature led faction of the party for impersonating themselves as the Excos of the party following the “Kangaroo” Congress held at the Crest Hotel 16th October,2021.

And called on the party National body to beem it searchlight of recognition to Hon. Ishaya led Excos in Plateau state and disregard hon.Rufus Bature led dissidents group parading themselves as the chairman and excos apart from our authentic excos.

Hon.Itse along side with others APC excos make the threat in a press held at the New APC factional office located at Kalwa House along Bukuru Road in Jos, plateau state capital.

Hon.Ishaya Itse ,the party chairman,flanked by the Party excos hon Damon williams,pro , innocent Maimagani Zhattau, Secretary illiya Samson Bontu and Drying Nenrotmwa as the party women leader.Other members of his excos are williams phillibus ,Garba Pankwal treasurer and Hon Monday Nyam .

Hon.Ishaya said he remain the authentic chairman of APC in Plateau state because I fulfilled the party’s guidelines from the national to the state level .

The guideline of the APC clearly stated that before you contest for the position of the party chairman and any other elected position of the party, you have to purchase nomination form.

I fulfilled the party guideline as spelt out on the Party’s constitution and obtained the nomination form ,for that reason , there was a committee from the national headquarters that came to Jos .

I went to the acting chairman’s office Enoch Fomark to purchase my nomination form after making bank payment,I was told that all the nomination form where at the Government House Little Rayfield .

As against this backdrop, I have follow the party chairman gradually till I was able to obtained the nomination form with all my members that are here now, you can see them here we all obtained the nomination form for different positions ranging from the women leader, treasurer,pro , secretary and other positions.

He further explained that the election for the Congress which is earlier slated for 10am on Saturday 16th Oct 2021 ,we where at the venue at crest hotel, and we where made to understand that they have prospone the Congress from 10am to 4pm without prior notice to the aspirants.

Before 4pm ,we where at the venue again waited for the Committee saddled with the responsibility for conducting the election till 10pm before they eventually came to the venue .

They couldn’t spend one hour and they reel out some names purported to be the New elected party excos ,In fact there is no election there.

We where the only candidate that purchased nomination form without anybody contesting with us,Maimagani brandishing his bank payment for his nomination form maintained.

He further added that the reason why they rejected the election is because ,as I said earlier,we where at the election venue by 10am the earlier official fixed time for the Congresses ,we were greeted by the information that the time have been shifted to 4pm without recourse to communicating the aspirants, we waited for the Committee , they were nowhere to be find.

When the Committee eventually came to the venue ,there was no casting of votes ,we are the only aspirants that purchased nomination form which automatically make us unopposed candidates,so we emerged as there was nobody contesting with us.

On the location of the party office,he said they where previously located at “Angwan Rogo in Jos North local government of the state.

During our meeting with the chairman of the party hon. Ishaya ltse, he suggested that we get a more spacious accommodation for the party office,secondly, considering the distance of Angwan Rogo office to the city center, also which informed relocating the party’s office to “Kalwa House” along Bukuru Road.

Presently ,all our members and the elected excos have their offices at Kalwa House and currently on ground.

On the expectation of the party members in the state,the chairman said he has directed the secretary of the party to officially write Governor Bako Lalong, members of the state legislatures , commissioners and chairmen of the 17 local government to avail themselves to the Party’s office at Kalwa House.

And strongly warned that any member or members of the party that disobey this directive will face sanction as spelt out in the party constitution.

“We have constitution guiding this party ,and will abide by it as the law abiding Citizens of the state and the party.”

The chairman further add that as the authentic chairman of the party, empowered by the constitution,any members of the party who refuse to align himself to authentic excos under the leadership of hon ltse shall be expel , suspended or set up dispensary Committee to investigate there disobedience with the view of disciplinary action.

He said what transpired on 16th Oct,2021 at the Crest Hotel Venue of the APC purported state Congresses is “Kangaroo” to say the obvious,he maintained.

Gov. Lalong Praises Plateau APC New Excos Elect, Amidst Crisis.

By,giwa alex, Jos

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has congratulated the All Progressives Congress (APC)New elected Excos of the party as he described the Party as beacon of democracy and the hope for the peace, progress , unity of the State and the nation at large.

As the agrieved faction of the ruling party who feit short changed in the just concluded controversial APC state Congresses said they will not sheath sword until the ruling party in the state do the right thing by conducting the party’s constitutional acceptable Congress which frawned at the imposition of candidates by those he referred in the party as Political “Draculas”.

This medium who speak to one of factional group of the party few minutes after 12noon 17th, October,2021 said they are currently in the meeting brain storming on the next line of action they will take to right the kangaroo Congresses organized by the party’s “Demi gods”.

They lamented that they have pay Fifty thousand naira to purchase nomination form ,and nobody have approached them to discuss any constitutional change of the Party process of conducting Congresses , which is to the best of my knowledge has not been amended.

However threatened court action against the party for dening them their inalienable right to vote and be voted for in a political party we have put both financial and moral support Into ,since it establishment in the state.

However Governor Lalong have praise the APC State Congress in Jos where members of the State Executive Committee were elected, said the level of maturity and seamless conduct demonstrated by members clearly shows the strength of the party in the State and the unity of its members.

Lalong through the Press statement dated 16th Oct,2021, signed by his Director of press and public affairs to the Mackut Macham said the peaceful conduct of the State Congress which was through consensus shows how committed the members are in galvanising all differences and working together for the common interest of the party.

The Governor said such unity of purpose has been responsible for the continous acceptance of the party and its consolidation in Plateau State, which accounted for the recent overwhelming victory of the APC in the recent Local Government elections and enable the party to win in all the 17 Local Government areas.

While urging the new State party Executives to work in synergy with other party officials at the Local Government, Ward and Unit levels, Governor Lalong emphasized the need for them to carry along all members and be fair, honest and transparent in all their dealings.

Deputy Speaker House of Representatives Idris Wase and other APC political leaders described the State Congress as yet another record breaker in the successes achieved by the party in the State.

They said this successful congress has clearly shown that the APC remains the biggest party in the State and across the nation with clear capacity for more victories in forthcoming elections. They urged members to come together and embrace reconciliation and patience in supporting the elected party officials to deliver on their mandate.

Responding on behalf of the newly elected State Exco, Chairman-elect Hon. Rufus Bature, immediate past Secretary to the Government of Plateau State and one time member of the State House of Assembly, expressed appreciation to the members and leaders of the party for electing them.

He said the fact that their election done through consensus without any challenges means that the party has fully evolved and is taking major strides in good governance, inclusivity and fairness to the citizens.

Bature specifically thanked Governor Lalong for giving the State the needed leadership that has endeared APC to the people and continued to give them hope. He said the party exco will support him and also carry along all members at all times and also avail them level playing field for aspiring to any position.

The election was conducted by the APC State Congress Committee set up by the national body and witnessed by INEC. The new Exco has 36 members.

APC Faction groups Inaugurates New Exco In Plateau State Amidst Tension .

By giwa alex,Jos

The much awaiting APC state Congress just be heading for unimaginable crisis as factional leaders have been inaugurated at the Angwan Rogo branch headquarters on 16th Oct amidst palpable tension arising from the party division .

This medium can authoritatively confirm from Crest Hostel venue earmarked for the party’s Congress ,that the stakeholders of the party like Governor Simon Lalong and the immediate past secretary of the state Hon. Rufus Bature who is vying for the party chairman and other stunch members of the party are yet to arrive at the Crest Hotel ,Venue of the Congress .

Although the venue of the Congress which is expected to have commence by 10am Nigeria time was shifted to 4pm for them to finish their meeting organized at the instance of the state APC stakeholders to probably calm the frail nerves ,as the delegates are yet to arrive the venue while the party loyalist blare music to entertain their respective aspirants.

However, majority of them came and left with high spirit of support to vote .Our correspondent continue see top politician coming and going out .

Most of the APC delegates besieged the APC primaries were frustrated by the new development because some of the party officials were no where to be found including the national working committee that would monitor and conduct the exercise left with confusion .

Plateau State : APC State Congress, Two Parallel Office Emerge As Party Disagrees Over Consensus.

By,giwa alex,Jos

The Plateau State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress ,APC, has disintegrated into two factions ahead of Saturday scheduled Congress as aggrieved members of the party formed parallel offices with one at Aware wah complex in Miango Junction and in Angwan Rogo of Jos North LGA .

The APC which congress was slated on Saturday 16th Oct,2021 at the crest hotel at about 10am was however rescheduled back to 4pm for more consultation with stakeholders.

Our medium was at the crest hotel earlier around 9:45am to witness the arrival of party faithful and loyalist but the situation too palatable where the aggrieved members were sighted waiting patiently for the national working committee to be issue with their nomination forms .

Speaking to our reporter,one of the agrieved aspirant for the post Secretary ,Hon Nanman Maimagani Zhattau and that of the Treasurer and of his treasurer counterpart ,Hon Garba Pankwal ,that of the Publicity secretary ,Hon Dakom Williams Danjuma they all express dissatisfaction with the manner the conduct of kangaroo arrangement reached without them whom they purchase nomination forms ready to go into the contest .

According to them,by virtue of the APC guidelines for the conduct of convention ,the selling of nomination forms to all aspirants end on the 11th of October, 2021 but here in Plateau State the party failed to meet up the requirement demand .

They frowned at the conduct of primaries which breached by the party executive on arrival .

Nanman disclosed that the following galleries of personality that bought the party nominations form include ,Rt .Hon. Peter Ajang Azi ,Rt.Hon .Isa Chungwomson ,Rt.Hon. Joshua Madaki ,Hon .Sam Para ,Hon Rufus Bature ,Hon Aliyu Mohammed for chairmanship aspirants for Plateau State seat but where they alleged the party jettisoned the system for their selfish plot .

They alleged that without proper consultation with stakeholders of APC ,they are all unopposed as Secretary, Treasurer and PRO respectively, and they don’t know where the forms neither did they see where the forms are sold to intending aspirants.

He restated that any contrary view from the party guidelines shall be resisted vehemently so described the exercise as null and void that the conduct of kangaroo consensus candidates arranged by the party had woefully failed on arrival .

“We have been waiting here to see the committee to register our displeasure but very sad that nobody is here to attend to us “.

“We are the founders of APC so we won’t allow anyone to come and dislodge and hijack the system who the real founders ,what we are saying now is that no aspirants was invited or consulted before taken such decision “.

He explained further that about 9 local governments didn’t conduct their wards and LG congress so the entire exercise is a total complete destruction of the APC guidelines which we have forwarded our complained to the national working committee to weigh into the party conflict in Plateau state before it’s too late .

They expressed dismay that the party Extra Ordinary working committee chairman Mai- mala Buni could not follow the APC guidelines but worked closely with the governors who have already destroyed the party at the state level.

He restated that any contrary view from the party guidelines shall be resisted vehemently and described the exercise as null and void that the conduct of kangaroo consensus candidates arranged by the party had woefully failed on arrival .

By, giwa alex, Jos

To hit the ground running in legislative business ,Jos- East local government of Plateau state has Elected leaders and principal officers to pilot the affairs of the local government for the period allowed by the body’s constitution.

As they where charge to run an open door leadership devoid of sentiments, ethnic and above all religious coronation ,and operate leadership of all .

The clerk of the counsellors in Jos -East local government of Plateau state , give the advice during the swearing in of the 19 elected counsellors held at the Council’s Secretariat 14th October,21.

The clerk advised the newly elected Counsellors of the council to know that they are now leaders of their unit that all eyes are on them not to disappoint the people who voted them into power , rather reciprocate the good gestures by giving them the dividend of democracy in at the grass roots level.

Speaking on behalf of the other sworn in counsellors, leaders of the counsellors,illiya Azi assured the people of the local government that they will make laws that will attract development to their various Councils.

In their separate interviews with journalists,the newly sworn in counsellors promised to bring developmental projects to the door steps of their various Communities.

Those elected includes illiya Azi,leader of the council,Nyam jonathan , as his Deputy .

The council also elect the principal officers of the council.

They are ,Luka Nyam , Deputy whip ,Izang Kaze, majority leader, Esther Sunday, Deputy leader and others.

It would be recalled that the Plateau State independent electorial umpire (PLASIEC) conducted the much awaiting local government election with the largest opposition party in the state ,by extension Nigeria PDP, excluded largely due to court Judgement.

This gives the ruling party APC, the opportunity to sweep all the positions from the Chairman down to the Counsellors.

Gov.Condoles With Jukun Nation Over The Death Of Akun Uka.

By,giwa alex, Jos

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong on Thursday 14th October 2021 led a delegation from Plateau State to Wukari in Taraba State to condole with the Jukun nation over the death of the Aku Uka, His Majesty, Dr. Shekarau Angyu Masa Ibi, Kuvyo II, CON, who recently joined his ancestors at the age of 84.

Lalong while condoling with the family, the traditional council and the entire Jukun nation, described the passage of the Aku Uka as painful. He however said there was great consolation by the fact that he lived a fruitful and long life where he impacted positively on the fortunes of his people and society at large.

He said the Royal Father who was the Chairman of the Taraba State Council of Traditional Rulers, demonstrated high sence of patriotism, peace and goodwill towards all manner of people irrespective of their backgrounds.

The Governor said he learnt a lot from the late monarch who was a father to him many others, and constantly reminded him of the need to be fair, just, humble and peaceful in all his activities. This he said has guided him in governance where he remains passionate about unity, forgiveness, dialogue and tolerance.

While praying God to grant the immediate family and the sons and daughters of Jukun nation the fortitude to bear the loss, he admonished them to keep alive the legacies of integrity, unity, loyalty and peaceful coexistence which the Royal Father preached and practised during his reign.

Also speaking, the Long Gamai of Shendam Miskoom Hubert Shaldas III said the passage of the great monarch who reigned for about 45 years was filled with achievements that brought peace and progress to the land as well as improved the lives of the Jukun people.

He said the Gamai nation will continue to remember its roots in the Kwararafa Kingdom and also uphold the rich history and tradition that has made the people stand out anywhere in the world.DoResponding on behalf of the most senior traditonal title holder in the palace, the former Deputy Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Samuel Danjuma Gani expressed the deep appreciation of the Aku Uka palace and the Jukun nation for the show of love and solidarity of the Government and people of Plateau State.He said the Governor who as a Kwararafa son has recieved a traditonal title from the kingdom, continues to show high sense of fraternity and solidarity with the Jukun nation.He said the respect and honour he has done to the Royal Father both in death and in life will never be forgotten.Dr. Samuel used the opportunity to also thank the entire people of Plateau State who have maintained friendship and goodwill with not only the Jukun people, but the entire people of Taraba State.

Embrace Digital Technology For Improved Security—Maj Gen Ibrahim Ali .

By,giwa alex, Jos

The General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army/ Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN Maj Gen Ibrahim Ali charged officers to embrace digital technology to improve security in the country.

Maj Gen Ali gave the charge today 13 Oct 21while delivering his opening remarks at the sensitisation lecture organised on the use of Digital Emergency Alert and Tracking Application at Headquarters 3 Division Nigerian Army Jos. The GOC noted that the current security challenges calls for the use of technology to overcome them.

During his presentation, the Resource Person, Mr Atai Akpan who is a digital transformation expert noted that the application would be useful against crimes such as kidnapping, banditry and other crimes.

The presentation featured interactive session and practical session, where the use of the application was demonstrated to the officers.

APC Chairmanship Slot, Group Drum Support For Yakubu Datti .

By, giwa alex,Jos

Group under the auspacies of Concerned Progressives, members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), have urged the party to cede it’s chairmanship seat to the Southern zone of the State.

The group also said its heavy weight of support is thrown in favour of Hon. Yakubu Datti, to serve as Chairman of the party in the forthcoming Saturday congress.

This was contained in a resolution signed by the group’s Chairman, Eplong Naa’anlong Joseph and his Secretary, Kabir Yusuf Umar, issued to pressmen Tuesday in Jos.

They said the resolution was reached at an emergency meeting held on Monday in Jos, after the swearing in of LGCs chairmen, by his Excellency Governor Simon Lalong

They said as the APC, get sets for the State Congress it has become important for them to call on State Govenor Simon Lalong, been the leader and all critical stakeholders of the party to see reason in allocating positions of leadership in the party to the three senatorial zones.

“It is factual that the chairman of the party from inception was cided to the Central zone, the Secretary to the Northern zone, Governorship to the South zone, and deputy Governor to the Central zone.

“It is also practicable that the positions of SGS and House speaker are all cided to the Northern zone, exhibiting fairness, equity and justice to the zones of the state,” they said.

The group said now that the principles of gentleman arrangements is about to shift the sharing formula; “we deems it wise to urge that the Chairmanship position of the party should be cided to the Southern zone, while that of the Secretary should be left at the Northern zone.”

They said: “We urge that the Chairmanship position should either be zoned to Mikang or Qua’anpan LGAs, where party loyalist like Hon. Yakubu Datti, whose experience nows no bound should preferably be made the chairman.”

They said their position is predicated on the thought that the Governorship seat of the APC will be shifted to the Central zone.

By, giwa alex, Jos

High Court plateau state division has adjourned to 19th November,2021 for ruling on application for bail of the Nine(9) accused persons alledged to have kill Muslims clerics on board along Rukuba road in Jos North local government Plateau State.

The prosecuting Counsel barrister NP Tali told the court that the matter is slated today 13th October,2021 for the ruling on application and continuation for hearing on the matter.

The prosecuting Counsel further told justice Musa Ashom that the prosecution will not continue because one of the accused person who is a minor is not in court and cannot be prosecuted in absentia.

In quick response,the Counsel to the 1st-6th accused person who doubled as the chairman Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) Plateau state chapter, barrister Yakubu Bawa volunteered his car to facilitate the bringing of the accused Minor who is in the custody of the Young People’s Home facility to the court.

As against the background, the presiding judge, justice Musa Ashom ordered that the case been step down for an hour to enable the accuse to be brought to court.

On the court resumption from an hour step down ,the Counsel to 1st-6th accused persons,move the application for the accused persons bail and assured the court that his clients will always avail themselves throughout the trial and ruled out the fear that his clients may likely jump bail.

In quick reaction,the prosecuting counsel, NP Tali vehemently opposed the bail application moved by the defending counsel Yakubu Bawa on the ground that the offence is a capital one which if the accused persons are grant bail they are capable of posing risk to the society ,and setting bad presidence.

Justice Musa Ashom adjourned the matter to 19th Nov,2021 for ruling on the bail application and continuation of hearing.

His Lordship , justice Musa Ashom ordered the accused persons and the minor to be remand in the correctional center and Young People Home respectively.

Plateau State : APC Congress And Zoning ,I have confidence In Lalong, PD Gyang—- Comr Adik.

By,giwa alex, Jos

A staunch contender of the Chairmanship position in the forthcoming Plateau State Congress of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC), Comrade Philip Asanato Adik has expressed confidence in Governor Simon Lalong who is the leader of the party in the State and Arch. Pam Dung Gyang, a respected elder and stalwart of the APC as well as the Chairman, Zoning Committee.

The vote of confidence is coming on the heels of a story making the rounds in the social media by a faceless group suggesting the rezoning of the Chairmanship position of the party to Southern Zone having been already zoned to Northern zone of the state which saw more than 8 people expressing interest and have engaged in vigorous campaign activities. The group was explicit on who it was working for in person of Yakubu Dati, the current Commissioner of Lands and Survey.

It is in the light of this that some journalists contacted Arch PD Gyang on the matter who described the said write up as thrash stressing that as far as the Governor is concerned, Northern zone would produce the next Chairman of the party.

In his response, Adik noted that one good thing about democracy is that people have the right to express their views and those campaigning for Yakubu Dati for the Chairmanship have the right to do so. “But you see, in politics just like in other deciplines, there is morality which guides the way and manner we conduct our affairs.

It is for this reason that the respond of PD Gyang (a respected elder statesman) did not surprise me because of his moral standing. And I am positive his position is equally the position of Gov. Lalong. You see, the issue of zoning is already engraved in our minds and we conduct our political affairs in the line of this unconsciously.

You would agree with me also that it is as a result of this that Lalong became the Governor of Plateau State”, he said.

Adik called on his supporters not to be distracted by such pettiness and urged them to remain steadfast to their cause.

He reiterated his desire to run a descent and all encompassing people oriented political party that new comers can readly keyed into as well as providing leadership and foster strong bonds of unity, peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and confidence among party members if given the mandate.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Plateau state legal practitioner, Barr. Niri Darong has adviced the People Democratic Party (PDP) Plateau state chapter to go back to the drawing board and put their ass together to forestall the reoccurrence of what has befall the party for excluded by court Judgement for participating in the LG Polls.

As the party should know that party congress is not the same as general elections. You may fight the general elections to the end because you’re fighting a person who has no ideological point of agreement ,but you cannot fight a person you have an ideological point of agreement with to the end.

This takes us to whether members of a political party share the same ideology. They don’t because if they do share the same ideology, they won’t fight to the end.

The legal practitioner was speaking to this medium via WhatsApp conversation held in Jos ,plateau state after the largest opposition Party in the state ,by extension Nigeria failed to participation in the LG polls held 9th Oct,2021 which was finally put to rest by the Appeal Court judgment 8th Oct,2021 uphelding High Court judgment.

Niri said although the horrowing experience is very instructive and fundamental that point to the fact that Congress is not the same thing as general election,and adviced the party to go back to the basis and conduct the Party’s constitutionally recognize excos that will be qualify to conduct the party affairs, which is hitherto the bone of contention in the first instance.

Niri further add that although the lesson is very hard to come in term with,but it’s teaches us that it’s not all our clothes that is Wash in the public glare.Secondly ,it brings to bear the old but very instructive adage that says”Anybody who bring Ant infected wood to the house should not complain when visited by the lizard”.

From this experience of PDP which I adviced that from now onwards they should endeavor to settle their difference within themselves instead of resulting to legal tussle that warrant the third party to cash in.

“If the PDP had resolved their Internal problem themselves,the Kaze led group wouldn’t have gone to court to seek redress, which eventually cause the party alot.”

By, giwa alex, Jos

The commissioner for women affairs in Plateau state Hon.Rabacca Sambo has lauded the peaceful conduct of Plateau state local government polls held across the 17 Local Government of the state 9th Oct,2021.

The election which started as early as 8 am with the distribution of voting materials to all the polling unit across the council .

The commissioner for women affairs in the state Rebacca Sambo Stated this in an interview with our correspondence in Jos East LG of plateau state .

She said today history has been made for the peaceful conduct of the much awaiting Plateau state local government election in the realm of politics in the state.

According to Rebacca the exercise which stated as early as possible in Jos East with the distribution of sensitive voting materials and non sensitive material across the LG went on peaceful without no witness and reported cases of breakdown of law and order in any polling unit.

The women Affairs commissioner further stressed that the local government of Jos East is know with one particular party APC right from the beginning which informed the Peaceful conduct of the poll in the LG.

On the low turnout of voters during the election ,she said” You know that the people of the local government are farmers and we are in harvesting season that could be one of the reasons for low turnout of voters.

She further stressed that no election in an parts of the world can be perfect ,ours is to reduce some of these flaws associated with elections conduct which cannot entirely be eradicated. In addition ,we on our side did not have much time to sensitize the voters on the need for them to come out emass and cast their votes.

On how the party in the LG where able able to overcome the Crisis which be devilled recently , the honorable “Jos East is always example to other Local Governments in plateau state .

Yes during Primaries there was little challenges ,is something to identify your problem and go all out in solving it.

She said in God’s wisdom the parties involved where able to identify our problems ,and try to manage it with the way you see it now.

And further assured the people outside the localities thinking that we are still having problems within our political fold in Jos -East ,I am glad to inform them that Jos East is politically Peaceful contrary to the thought of many.

Plateau LG Polls : Shattered Hopes , Fracture State.

By,Chris Gyang ,Jos

“Please what is happening?” “Are we not going to be allowed to vote in this local government election?” “Please this problem should be solved so that we can vote candidates of our choice!” “There is no need to vote since only one political party will be contesting.” “This is not an election since it has already been rigged in favour of one political party.”

These were the anguished frustrations of Plateau State citizens in the anxious days preceding these local government elections organized by the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC), funded by the Plateau State Government.

They were afraid that the judgement barring the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from contesting the October 9 polls would deny them their constitutional right to participate in this cherished democratic process.

But their wildest nightmares have turned into a crushing reality. PLASIEC is conducting the elections without the participation of the main opposition PDP. The overwhelming hopes of the people, some of whom had enjoyed the luxury of electing their chairmen and councilors since 2015, have been mercilessly shattered.

Again, Plateau State is setting another odious record in political ignominy for the world to see. Those politicians and other Nigerians who gain from this travesty because their consciences died long ago would tell you that this had also happened at other times.

Perhaps. But not in this fashion where a whole generation and millions of eligible voters are so flagrantly disenfranchised and their other rights squashed in one fell swoop. Even in war, certain moral principles are upheld to demonstrate that man still clings to some pieces of decency.

This is supposed to be more so on the political turf where politics should be seen as a passionate pursuit that seeks to enhance and uphold the general good and welfare of all citizens – without the undue influence of deleterious factors.

And even if something of this nature had happened before, does it make this mass disenfranchisement permissible? Even justifiable? Defending these actions with the past infractions of others only compounds the problem; makes it knottier and deeply entrenched.

Unfortunately, this has become the norm in the current dispensation where the Buhari government takes morbid pleasure in comparing the number of victims of insurgency under its watch with what prevailed in the past in a desperate attempt to shore up its abysmal record in that and other departments of governance. No wonder, violent crimes and lawlessness have become the order of the day all over the country.

THE JUDICIARY/ A GOVERNOR IN LIMBO

Yes, the courts could be at the centre of the adjudication that led to this state of affairs in Plateau State. To be sure, we hold our legal system in high esteem because we believe that it is the last resort and hope of the common man. And it is the pillar upon which our democracy rests.

Yes, the judiciary,

universally symbolized by that iconic blindfolded lady wielding the sword of justice, is no respecter of persons and strictly abides by the cold letter of the law. But sometimes, the outcomes of its judgements arrived at through sound, diligent, dispassionate and critical examination of facts can be manipulated by self-serving individuals and interests to the detriment of the people and society it seeks to serve and protect.

Could this be the case in Plateau State today where a local government election is being held with the majority of the citizens willfully disenfranchised? As we contemplate this, we should chew over this statement by the retired legal luminary, Justice Daniel Longji: “I can confidently say that the judiciary is just an appendage. People want the judiciary to be impartial but it cannot be impartial because it is an appendage of government. I say this very openly and I have no regret saying it…. And if you dare give judgement against the government…. I said I have no regrets, but if wishes were horses….” (TODAY’S CHALLENGE, February, 2020).

That said, even the most brutal law is sometimes tampered with mercy. There is also what is known as the spirit of the law. But the case that ultimately led to stopping the PDP from contesting the election was essentially sensitive.

It was sensitive because it had resounding political ramifications. And because of the volatile nature of Nigeria’s politics, it had to be handled with utmost caution.

But the Plateau State acting chairman of the APC, a beneficiary of that court judgement, gloated: “The PDP shot itself on the foot.” Sadly, and unknown to him, it is the soul of Plateau State that was shot with a poisoned arrow. And the wound may take a long time to heal. He proceeded to paint the glorious scenario of his Party recording a landslide victory! In his reckoning, the courts had finally paved the way for the APC to dominate the political space.

Governor Simon Lalong later expressed the same sentiments when he addressed APC members at a rally in Shendam to flag-off campaigns for the local government polls. He proclaimed: “I am very optimistic that we will sweep the elections because we don’t have opposition in Plateau State.” For them, therefore, the fact that the main opposition party was not participating in the vote did not take away the inherent joy that comes with winning an election keenly contested with worthy rivals on a level playing ground.

It is this warped sense of accomplishment and braggadocio that is fueling the feeling among citizens that some undue pressure may have been mounted on the judiciary. Also, this may go a long way to confirm the position of critics who had hitherto maintained that the Lalong administration has always been afraid of conducting free and fair local council elections for fear of woefully losing.

This is because, first, his performance in critical areas such as infrastructural and economic development and maintaining peace have been extremely dismal. Second, his image as an appendage of the core North, as demonstrated by his actions as the so-called Chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum and self-serving political maneuvering, has further pushed his estimation to near zero in the eyes of citizens who see themselves as unapologetically belonging to Nigeria’s Middle Belt region.

Third, the internal crises in his APC have so torn it apart that the person who has always controlled its key structures had to part ways with the governor and was well prepared to go against the APC had the local government polls not been restricted. Therefore, edging the PDP out of the fray has proved to be a massive saving grace for Governor Lalong as it offered him a soft-landing.

JOS NORTH DISCONTENT/ CORE NORTH AGENDA

It must be pointed out that this disenfranchisement of Plateau citizens would rankle most in the minds of the people of Jos North, Jos South, Riyom and Barakin Ladi local government areas. While other parts of the state had the benefit of voting for their council chairmen and councilors in 2018, elections were shelved in these four LGAs due to security concerns. Ever since, they have been ruled by APC loyalists appointed by Governor Lalong.

Just as they were optimistically looking forward to massively participating in the current electoral process, their hopes have once more been dashed. But prior to this, political analysts had argued that the Lalong administration had cited insecurity for not conducting elections in those areas chiefly as a ruse.

They point out that the state government had always known that it would not win elections in those LGAs because they remain solid strongholds of the opposition PDP. They therefore contend that the current trend may just as well be a continuation of that policy of denying them their franchise in order for the state government to avoid a crushing defeat.

There are still others who believe that Governor Lalong exhibited an acute lack of political acumen when he approved elections in these four LGAs (and Bassa) even when their security situations were still very teneous, to say the least. They especially point to Bassa and Jos North which were rocked by eruptions of bloody violence in August which necessitated the imposition of a twenty-four-hour curfew, which has now been relaxed to between 10pm and 6AM.

As things stand today, four of these LGAs are effectively under curfew. Yet Governor Lalong wants council elections to hold therein mainly because the coast is clear for his APC to have a field day.

However, the governor is facing stiff opposition in Jos North LGA from within his own APC. He is accused of hand-picking and imposing a non-indigene, Alhaji Shehu Bala Usman, as the Party’s flagbearer over and above other members belonging to the three indigenous ethnic groups of the area who had also bought forms for the chairmanship position. Apparently, APC loyalists here are also smarting from the excesses of Governor Lolong just as their opponents in the PDP and other citizens of the state.

The Jos North APC is now demanding for the conduct of a free and fair primary election to elect a chairmanship flagbearer in accordance with its constitution. In the alternative, they joined other individuals and groups in calling for the cancellation of the polls on the grounds of the state of insecurity in Jos North alluded to above.

But, against all odds, the governor is bent on installing Alhaji Usman as executive chairman. Critics claim that he cannot backtrack now because he must fulfill a pact he entered with the Hausa/Fulani settler community to hand over the council leadership to them for ‘favours’ rendered him. There have also been unconfirmed reports that the long-term plan of the Hausa/Fulani settler community is to carve out an emirate in Jos North to serve as a launching pad for the Islamization of other parts of the state.

This is seen as part of the core North’s overall agenda, presently vigorously pursued by the Buhari government, to make other parts of the country subservient to the Caliphate. The Federal Government’s open support for killer Fulani herdsmen’s litigations against Southern Governors’ enactment of anti-open grazing laws is a clear matter in point.

CONCLUSION

It is very obvious from all of the above that the proposed October 9, 2021, Plateau State local government elections have served to shatter the hopes of Plateau citizens, even beyond political party lines. The elections have also exposed Governor Lalong’s penchant for subordinating the common good of citizens to his own personal will and ego, no matter the consequences to both his own APC and the opposition PDP. But, above all, the elections will further deeply polarize the good people of the state in a most unprecedented manner.

But it is heartwarming that the PDP approached the Court of Appeal with its grievances. This is a positive sign that a segment of the political class still believes in the ability of our temples of justice to uphold the rule of law and protect the integrity of our democracy. Despite the outcome, democracy still looks forward to better days ahead.

Even in this thick atmosphere of despondency, growing out of a collective feeling of shattered hopes, and mutual suspicion, brought about by our fractured unity, there is a glimmer of hope that out of all these may yet emerge a stronger democratic Plateau State – and Nigeria.

(GYANG is the Chairman of the N.G.O, Journalists Coalition for Citizens’ Rights Initiative – JCCRI. Email: info@jccri-online.org)

Garba Pwul (SAN) Says PDP Is Like Bird That Calls For Rain And Beaten By Rain, Speaks On His 2023 Governorship Ambition, Insecurity And Nigeria @61.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN)chief Garba Pwul had said the People Democratic Party (PDP)in Plateau state is like a proverbial bird that called for rain ,and was the first to be beaten by the some rain .

As the legal luminary pointed out that any house that divide against itself can never stand which the people democratic party has demonstrated in the just court judgement in favor of the plateau state electorial umpire , PLASIEC.

Garuba Pwul who is the counsel to the state electorial body PLASIEC against the opposition Party the PDP stated this in an interview with news men in Jos as part of his 61st happy independent

anniversary to the people of plateau state and Nigeria as a whole.

He said its can’t be disputed that the PDP is one of the largest party in this country that ruled Nigeria including Plateau State for 16 years uninterrupted,so its not that you can despised that.

However , like other parties, it’s governored by it constitution, and the constitution of federal republic of Nigeria.

Pwul further explain that at the end of party’s executive tenure,there was an attempt to conduct election to put the new executives starting from wards ,local government,the state and National level.

But in Plateau state ,at the end of the exercise at the ward , local and state level, one of the party member who didn’t agree with the election went to court led by Hon. Bitrus Kaze challenging the election which has Chris Hassan as chairman.

The Court agreed with the complaint Hon.Bitrus Kaze and nullify the election by justice PS Gang and ordered that the party should go and conduct proper election in accordance with the party’s constitution.

The Senior Advocate of Nigeria , Chief Garuba Pwul added that the case was purely between PDP and PDP, APC was not involved the same PLASIEC,it was only of PDP .

Rather than complying with court order,in their own wisdom disolved the Excos nullify by the court ,in it place set up caretaker Committee which is not the same thing as elected Excos.

Then come the opportunity to elect counsellors and chairmen of the 17 local government of the state,they requested the state electorial body PLASIEC to come and monitor their primaries the request declined on the ground that you sent us letter that the court has nullified the existing Excos and directed you to conduct fresh Party election.

Instead of the party complying, they went ahead to sue the state electorial body PLASIEC .

“The High Court said nothing short of you complying to the constitution that makes you worth of Political party ,you will not be allowed to participate in any Political activities in the election.”

Pwul further add that APC is not involved ,it’s PDP alone that went to court got what it bargain for as the court judgement go against them.

“This corroborate the words of our Lord Jesus Christ that ,”house that divided against itself never stand and the bird that call for the rain is the first to be beaten by rain”.

“They choose to take their matter to court instead of settling it amicably as a family, PLASIEC is independent and innocent”.

As against this development Pwul said APC is comfortably waiting to contest election with parties that comply with rules of the constitution to contest election come 9th Oct,2021.

It’s with these, the electoral umpire PLASIEC said unless you meet parliamentary qualify rules, you can not participate on the LG election or any subsequent elections so the blame should be laid on the shoulder of the PDP them self.

He said he is glad that in the course of carry out that professional exercises,I have the benefit of an erudit SAN and experience man Edward Pwajok the longest serving Anthony General of Plateau state who held sway in the position for more than eight years ,and member of the house of representatives for four years, therefore he is not light weight lawyer that took the matter to court.

He is well informed lawyer who know his onus so PDP can not complain of poor lagal representation.

Although their is an attempt for PDP to appeal the matter, till then, and the appeal

court over turn the case in the favor of PDP the remains excluded the to challenge the judgement.

The judgement remain valid and subsecting until the day the court of appeal set it aside

As it’s now that PDP can’t contest the local government polls bill to take place 9th Oct, 21 which is matter of days from now the citizens of the state will cast their votes in peace .

On the 61st anniversary of Nigeria independence from colonial rules which took place in 1960.

Pwul who is the senior Advocate of Nigeria said he aged the country independence country with 2years said the country actually started Political journing with him.

I congratulate all Nigeria , particularly the people of plateau state,for attaining the age of 61 years independent .

I congratulate our leaders at the various points who has steers the ship of leadership troublent water.

“On my opinion ,I didn’t agree with those who says there is nothing to celebrate on the 61st independent anniversary ,I don’t also agree with those who said Nigeria is a fail state even from the words fail state, something that has fail, ceases to exist.

Pwul further said for the mere fact tha there are challenges in an entity does not mean that it has fail or ceases to exist.

Like in the live of human beings,60 years is not a small period even as a country , individual , organization, National entity you are bound to go through good time ,ups and downs that is part of lives.

“So l think there are alots to celebrate,so the countries that is not as large as Nigeria, have divided and go their separate ways.

The legal icon

further stressed, for the fact that we are still alive,it means we have some things to celebrate. many countries that is not as large as Nigeria had scatter and go their separate ways.

For the mere fact that we are still together , it’s a major reason to celebrate.

Indid we where not where we were 61 years ago,we have bad time,at the same time we have also gone through good time.

The economic and industrial development has shown that we where far ahead where will where in 1960.