Barring any last-minute change, former Secretary to Osun State Government, SSG, Alhaji Moshood Adeoti, his counsel and two others may end up in jail for lying on oath, otherwise known as perjury.
This development is sequel to the petition by the National Secretariat of the All Progressives Congress, APC, through its counsel, Gboyega Oyewole, SAN, alleging that Alhaji Adeoti and others forged the signature of the Chairman of the Osun State Governorship Screening Appeal Committee Report, presented an alleged fake report of the said committee and presented same to the court with the sole intent of misleading the court.
Adeoti contested the last Osun APC governorship primary as an anointed candidate of the Interior Minister and former Osun Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola , who had vowed to dislodge Governor Adegboyega Oyetola. But in the end, Oyetola floored Adeoti, recording 222, 169 to 12, 921.
However, Adeoti approached the court, seeking to be made the candidate on the grounds that Oyetola was not eligible to run at the time he contested the primary.
But APC has alleged that the affidavits filed by Adeoti before the court were forged and is therefore seeking a comprehensive investigation into the matter.
In the petition signed by its counsel, a copy of which was sighted, APC is alleging that Adeoti and his counsel forged the Data page of the International Passport of the Chairman of the committee, Dr. Umar Duhu Umar, in the suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/203/2022, filed before the Federal High Court, Abuja, by Alhaji Adeoti.
Already, the Committee chairman and the members have deposed to another affidavits denying knowledge of the existence of the purported report being paraded by Adeoti and his cohorts.
To this end, APC is asking the Inspector General Police, IGP, to use his good offices to “direct the commencement of a discreet investigation into the glaring forgery and lying on oath perpetrated by Alhaji Adeoti and his counsel, having regard to the implications of the documents on which Dr. Umar Dauda’s signature were forged on the sanctity of the court and court processes.”
It will be recalled that this is not the first time Aregbesola’s loyalists, all of who are in The Osun Progressives, TOP, would be emshed in forgery allegation.
During the Congress of the party in Osun, TOP chairman, Elder Lowo Adebiyi, had, after forging the signatures of some members of the party, confessed before the Appeal Panel at the time that he would be withdrawing his petition and pleaded with his kinsmen to forgive him for forging their signatures.
The People’s Democratic party (PDP) has urged the good people of Nigeria,and lover of democracy to disregard the misrepresentation of Governor Wike ,and vice president of Nigeria in waiting by the Grace of God come 2023.
As the misrepresentation of the governor of River State is not far from the handiwork of some mischief makers who are already afraid of the good governmence the party we offer the good people of Nigeria come 2023.
The statement is contained in a press statement dated 15th June,2022, signed by the People’s Democratic party PDP, National Publicity Secretary ,Hon.Debo Ologunagba and made available to this medium in Jos.
The statement which in part:
Attention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been drawn to misrepresenting reports in some section of the media purporting that it had dismissed the reported emergence of Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike as its Vice-Presidential candidate for the 2023 general elections.
The said misleading reports quoted the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP. Hon. Debo Ologunagba as stating such while addressing some journalists in Abuja on Wednesday, June 15, 2022.
For the avoidance of doubt, the National Publicity Secretary did not at any time address journalists on the said subject matter as quoted in the misinforming reports.
To set the records straight, the National Publicity Secretary was a guest on Arise TV Morning Show on Wednesday morning where he answered questions on PDP’s preparedness for the 2023 general elections as well as June 18, 2022 Ekiti State Governorship election
In the course of the interview, the presenters requested some clarifications on reports in the media that the PDP had concluded its processes on its Vice-Presidential Candidate.
In response the National Publicity Secretary stated that the PDP is a party of process and that consultations and discussions were still ongoing in the selection process.
It is therefore mischievous to claim that the PDP National Publicity Secretary made any reference to Governor Wike. Clearly, such distorting claim in a section of the media is the design of mischief makers who are bent on destabilizing our Party ahead of the 2023 general elections.
If anything, our Party reiterates its confidence in Governor Nyesom Wikes’s outstanding ability and commitment to the ideals and values of the PDP. His records of achievement as a Local Government Chairman, Chief of Staff to the Rivers State Governor, Minister of State for Education, currently Governor of Rivers State and the runner-up in the PDP Presidential Primary stand him out as possessing requisite qualities, qualifications, capacity and wide acceptability for the position of the Vice-Presidential candidate of our Party.
The various positions creditably held by Governor Nyesom Wike distinguished him as an excellent team player in public governance.
In fact, Governor Wike’s energy, brilliance, commitment and passion were acknowledged by the National Working Committee (NWC) of our Party and he is adjudged as the foremost candidate in consideration for the position of the Vice-Presidential candidate of the PDP.
While the PDP notes the interest of the media and the public in our Party’s choice of Vice-Presidential candidate it is imperative to state that as an organic Party, all our processes will be followed through in strict adherence to our procedures before any official announcements.
The PDP urges Nigerians to disregard the mischievous reports aimed at undermining our Party’s unity at this critical time.
The Peter and Anna Bawa Ultra Modern Memorial Hospital, Kwande in Qua’an-Pan Local Government Area of Plateau State is to commence full operations in October 2022.
As the management of the hospital will start the test running services in September ,2022 in preparation for the full take off.
The Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Duncan Group of Companies, Dr Godfrey Bawa Shitgurum, MON, disclosed this in Kwande on Saturday June 11, 2022 after he led his management team and medical personnel to an inspection tour of the facilities in the hospital.
Dr Shitgurum, who is the Noetsen Wusai of Kwo Chiefdom, disclosed that the hospital was built by one of their outfit, the Peter Bawa and Anna Foundation as a way of giving back to the people of the community and it’s environs.
He further said once operational, the 50 beds hospital, comprising of 6 male and female Wards in addition to Children and Maternity wards is expected to have 3 doctors and other essential professional personnel to run it.
The GMD/CEO, Miskoom Larry Peters Bawa, the Goena (Barade) of Kwo Chiefdom, informed the team that equipment, drugs and most of the essential materials for the take off are already in place.
He however commended the medical team for ensuring that the hospital is of international standards and urged them not to relent in meeting all the necessary requirements before the October 2022 commencement date.
He further disclosed that the idea behind the establishment of the hospital was based on the philosophy of the Foundation to provide ” modern health facilities for underserved rural areas”, adding that the provision of such services will assist in ending “unnecessary deaths and suffering ” of the people within the area.
Miskoom Bawa opined that apart from the provision of medical services, the establishment of hospital will create jobs, boost the economy of the area as well open other opportunities that will better the lives of members of the community and it’s environs.
Speaking on behalf of the medical
team, Dr Benedict Baamshal Mairiga commended the Duncan Group of Companies and Peter Bawa and Anna Foundation for it’s commitment towards the project.
He assured them of prudent management of personnel and resources, adding that the best hands would be recruited to meet the standards, vision and mission of the hospital.
Some of the major facilities available at the hospital include Ultrasound scan, ECHO and EGG. Laboratories, Ambulance and mortuary, while the services to be rendered include medical, surgical, maternity, neonatal and other specialized care.
The Management further disclosed that it would make available radiological and other facilities recommended by the medical team before the October commencement date.
Estimated billing occurs when a customer does not have a meter, generally, no electricity distribution company (Discos), makes estimated billing its default billing system however, a review of electricity billing practices worldwide indicate that estimated billing is a standard and conventional tool even in advanced economies.
Nigeria is one of the largest economies in Africa despite this great feat it has one of the most significant energy deficit in the world. Although government aims to achieve and boost electricity access from 45% to 90% by 2030, which has been approached by using different techniques to achieve this boost. One of such approach is the privatisation of the power sector in 2013, which aims to improve the power sector efficiency, attract investment and increase the total amount of electricity power generated, however, due to misaligned incentives, this approach has produce results of varying degrees some of the challenges which inhibited the privatisation of the sector include unreliable gas supply, vandalism, insufficient metering among others.
In the Nigerian power industry, many consumers are unmetered and the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) have attempted to reduce the metering gap in recent years through various means such as the baning and criminalization of estimated billing, which has done very little in closing the gap as metering issues still persist.
In another attempt to fix this challenge, the Federal government Launched the National Mass Metering Program (NMMP), an initiative geared towards mass Metering of Nigerians by providing loan facility from the Central Bank of Nigeria to the Discos for the procurement of meters for customers, and the local manufacturers. This is to insure that it provides over 4 million meters as estimated billing encourage a lack of transparency and accountability, worsening tariff collection. In the
first phase of the NMMP called (phase 0) over 1 million meters were estimated to be deployed in about 6 months but the process was delayed as prevailing challenges crippled the roll out of the assets. At the end of the phase, over a million meters were reportedly distributed. Data from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has shown that at least 8.1 million of the country’s 12.1 million customers are unmetered. NERC says that only about 4.66 million end-users, representing 36% of the entire pool had been fully metered at the end of November 2021.
Consequently, the huge metering gap in Nigeria presents a Herculean challenge for the Discos when it comes to measuring the unmetered customers significantly, there is no more interested party in the comprehensive metering discussion than the DISCO’s. And this is because it is estimated that metering alone reduces collection losses by 30%. Additionally it minimizes the alienation of consumers who, often underpay or do not pay their electricity bills, based on the disputed bills. In recognition of impossibility of comprehensive metering within the near mid-term period, the regulator, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission ( NERC) enacted a regulation on estimated billing methodology to guide the DISCO’s in their billing. Nonetheless, application of the methodology remains a very contentions process, as we have seen cases of overbilling and cases of under billing which, the consumers never talk about. Understandably estimated billing is a vexing issue to un-metered customer, due to the perception of over billing situations.
Estimated billing is a major contributor to non- technical losses as customers have resulted in illegal and corrupt practices to get out of paying those bills they considered Exorbitant, which has led to constant and frequent clashes between the DISCO’s employees and customers. These exorbitant bills have been linked to DISCOS trying to recover or improve their profit due to loss of revenues, this is due to lack of transparency and accountability between the DISCO’s and their customers. About eighty percent of consumers grievances received by NERC is related to exorbitant bills, estimated billing, and poor metering infrastructure this practice has continued to be a thorn in the flesh of Nigerians as some non- delivery of paid prepaid meters and are forced to continue to pay for electricity not consumed.
It is not misinformation that the Discos are billing unnecessary and even arbitrary to meet target. Imagine for instance even with the epileptic power supply across Jos and its environs the Jos Electricity Distribution Company (JED), has continued to give out exorbitant bills to consumers for power never consumed. estimated customers in Jos pays between 15,000 to 22,000 for a month as the case may be while his neighbor who feeds from the same feeder/transformer but has prepaid meter spend between 5,000 to 10,000 on buying units in a month, where is the justification and science in estimated billing? The company also charge consumers to replace melted fuse in transformers, buy cables, buy poles if not the community will remain in perpetual darkness and in the end, the company will immediately come in and claim that these equipment belongs to them. And anytime this exploitation, takes place and you complain or take any action not in tandem with the policy of electricity company their personnel will come and disconnect and sometimes remove what you bought.
The scam in estimated billing had previously caught the eye of the national assembly in 2018, the house of representatives moved to criminalize electricity estimated billing system except where a consumer’s meter can not be accessed by the service provider. The bill introduce when Gbajabiamila was the house leader was passed into law but was not assented by the president. However it was introduced again in the 9th House.
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has not lived up to its expectations with respect to estimated billing. The commission tend to work in cahoot with the Discos to exploit consumers. Even after issuing policy guidelines for conduct of business in the power sector, it ends there, the commission does not care if Discos adhere to the rules or not, how many time has NERC issued statements to the effect that customers who are not metered should not pay estimated billing? How many times did NERC direct Discos to meter certain customers annually without results.
Discos have flagrantly abused the procedures for estimated billing of electricity consumers, therefore one thinks there is no justification for estimated billing of electricity customers. Although in some cases estimated billing is calculated based on the level and quantity of supply in an area and not necessarily driven by collection of targets as it is widely believed.
The Federal government through the minister of Finance, Zainab Ahmed, had earlier announced that the federal government had quietly removed all subsidies in the power sector. by implications, consumers may be compelled to pay more for energy not consumed. The federal government should not only stop at removing subsidy, it should find a way of addressing this issue because this exorbitant charges with minimum electricity supply if not addressed may lead to chaos in communities as many have started protesting the issue.
Nigerians are ready to be metered and would readily accept prepaid meters, as this would give them control over their consumption and help instill them energy management. This will inturn improve efficiency, utility operational cost, revenue collection and reduce energy wastage. In a recent report by the Punch, the Executive Director, Research and Advocacy Association Nigeria Electricity Distribution Company (ANED), Sunday Oduntan, revealed that as at the last quarter of 2021, the total shortfall in the power sector is about 1.6 trillion. Shortfalls result in debt, which inhibit further investment and development in the sector.
It is on record that consumers are mostly at the receiving end of the general inefficiency of Discos. Therefore, it is our obligation as Nigerians to speak up and ensure that the right things are done. However, consumers on their part need to rise up to their responsibility of prompt payment of electricity bills, which will enable the industry to have the revenue requirement for efficient service delivery.
It should be noted that with the privatisation of the power sector in Nigeria, it has become personal business which the companies need to provide the necessary equipment to consumers before they start billing them and in situations where consumers invest in the company’s supply chain the company should compensate them.
Plateau state Governorship candidate under the platform of People Democratic party (PDP),Barr, Caleb Mutfwang has exposed plans by the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC),in the state to further sown seed of political discords among the PDP member with intent of causing crisis.
This is as a fallout of the charades conduct of the All Progressive Congress primaries which is not pleased with the members of the party and the aspirants who contested for the various positions of the party including Governorship of the party.
The Governorship candidate of plateau state for 2023 general election on the platform of PDP, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang revealed the plans of APC ln a meeting organised by party towards reconciliation of the perceived aggreived members of the party ahead 2023 general election held on Monday,13th June,2022 at Eliel and Events Center Gold and Base Rayfield Jos, plateau state.
The PDP, plateau state Governor in waiting further stressed that it’s no longer news that the ruling APC in the state are already apprehensive over the successful emergence of the party candidate at the peaceful Conducts of it the party’s primaries waiting to kick out APC out of power ,and put end it misrule in the state that has caused the people of the state and by extension Nigerians untold hardship ,lose of millions of lives and other negative vices, hence APC desperate quest to further destabilize the party for their evil motives.
Hon.Caleb appealed to all the party stakeholders to sheath their sword , give room for reconciliation and avoid playing into the satanic antics of the APC in the state and it’s co- travelers because the people of plateau are looking up to PDP for resuce.
He further add that all machinaries have been put in place to ensure he reach out to all the elders of the party ,in the like of Dr.Jonah Jang ,J.T Useni and others to embrace the spirit of reconciliation ,the move has so far taken him to General Useni residence and promised to reach out to those he has not visited due to my tight schedule occasioned by other engagement.
The former chairman of Mangu local government , appealed to the aspirants who contested the position of Governorship at the primaries with him and lose, those who contested various positions under the same platform and party stakeholders should not take their lost personal because as members of the party ,we are one family “No Victor No Vanquish”.
He however, promised that under his watch by the Grace of God as the Executive Governor of the state, under the platform of PDP, he will carry everybody along irrespective of tribes ,ethnic and Religion inclination .
The meeting later went into closed door where the media where asked to excuse them to have heart to heart deliberations.
Those who attended the reconciliation meeting, include the state house of Assembly members,Senate , house of Representatives members and aspirants who contested various positions under the People Democratic party(PDP) and other stakeholders.
The Plateau State Judiciary has received a boost with the swearing in of 4 new Judges of the State High Court and a Khadi of the Sharia Court of Appeal.
As governor lalong charged the new sworn in judges and Khadi to stay away from from desperate politians who may want to use them to advance their selfish course.
While performing the swearing in ceremony at the New Government House Little Rayfield Jos, Governor Lalong said their appointments are based on merit and in recognition of their excellent service to the State and Nigeria over the years.
He said going by their antecedents, he had no doubt that they will take the Judiciary to higher levels and enhance the cause of democracy, good governance and the rule of law.
Lalong said “Since your calling as Judicial Officers gives you the rare privilege of making decisions that affect the lives of the people and sometimes bordering on life and death situations, you must never take this assignment lightly or allow frivolous considerations to influence you. Consider this duty as a Public Trust given to you by God to represent him in the affairs of men. Endeavour to stay true to your Oath of Office and discharge your duties with the fear of God and without fear, favour, affection or ill-will. Failure to do so will not only erode your integrity, but also put the entire society on the path of chaos and anarchy. When people cannot get justice, they may be forced to resort to self-help and other unconventional means to resolve issues. This will not augur well for the well-being of the society”.
The Governor used the occasion to reassure the Judiciary of his personal support and that of the Executive Arm of Government as well as the Legislature towards making sure that they operate under a conducive environment. He said the new High Court Headquarters complex which is at the furnishing stage will soon be commissioned as well as the Multi-Door Courthouse which has also been completed.
The Governor also advised them to be wary of politicians that will like to induce them so as to get undue advantage ahead of the 2023 general elections.
“At times like this, there is high tendency for enormous pressure to be mounted on Judges by politicians who want to get undeserved advantage at all costs. I know you have the capacity to resist attempts to corrupt, confuse, intimidate or blackmail you towards participating in unethical conducts. Please stay focused on the oath you have taken and discharge your duties according to the laws of the land and the dictates of the legal profession”.
The Judges sworn in are Hon. Justice Ladi Agyer Madaki, Hon. Justice Elizabeth Angai, Hon. Justice Longden Jacob Danladi, Hon. Justice Dasplang Samchi and Khadi Yahaya Mohammed Kanam of the Sharia Court of Appeal.
Responding on behalf of the Judges, Hon. Justice Ladi Madaki said they will do their best to serve with equity, fairness and justice as well as ensure that they live according to the oath they have taken.
The Accreditation is going to be purely, wholly, and totally Electronic. (Section 18 and 19)
If the BVAS Technology fails to complete the accreditation of a voter, the voter cannot participate in the Election. (Section 20)
If there happen to be a wilful obstruction or resistance to the use of the BVAS Device in some of the polling units, such polling units shall be credited with zero votes during collation. (Section 100-ii)
What should now be determining the inconclusiveness of elections is no more the total number of registered voters in the affected polling units, but the total number of PVCs that were collected in the affected polling units.
If the number of recorded votes is greater than the number of the Accredited Voters (that is, as recorded inside the BVAS Device), then the Elections in such affected Polling-Units is regarded as voided Elections. (Section 40)
If the BVAS Device Continues to malfunction, it should be replaced. And if it wouldn’t be replaced within the day of the Election, then the Election in the affected Polling-Unit should be postponed to continue the following day. (Section 23).
Even though there is going to be Electronic Collations and Electronic Transmissions (Section 38), there should also be Manual Collations and Manual Transmissions (Section 48) .
The Electronically Collated Results would be used to check and verify the manually collated results before they are announced. (Section 51)
Thus, the Electronically Collated Results and the Electronically Transmitted Results from each levels of the electoral process, both voting and collation, as well as all the data that are contained inside the BVAS Device, are all going to be playing very important roles in the final results that are declared by the INEC, from now going forward.
As a major stakeholder in the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Plateau State, let me without mincing words, first of all make it clear that, Bola Ahmed Tinubu was not the choice of Governor Simon Lalong at the just concluded presidential primary of the APC that held at the Eagle Square in Abuja.
It is clear to most people in Plateau State and beyond, that Governor Lalong had an aspirant he was supporting for the presidential ticket of the APC but it was definitely not Tinubu who later won the ticket.
Governor Lalong threw his weight fully behind former governor of Rivers State, Rt. Hon. Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi who has been his political ally for long and every sincere observer of political events can attest to this.
The Amaechi/Lalong alliance had been established since the former handed over to him as Chairman of the Conference of Speakers and has since then made him his point man in the North Central Zone and was even a major financier of his governorship election in 2015.
As evidence that Lalong was not keen on supporting Tinubu, the latter had during the campaign for the APC presidential ticket sought at different times to come to Plateau to speak with the delegates, but because Governor Lalong’s allegiance was elsewhere, he made it difficult for Tinubu to do so through various acts of subterfuge that postponed the visit indefinitely till the campaigns were over.
But because the people that worked for Tinubu in Plateau decided to celebrate their victory with humility and measured dignity, the Lalong camp assumed it can capitalise on the silence to play a fast one on the party to claim working for the APC candidate.
But let me state without fear of contradiction, that those that worked for Tinubu to get the number of votes he did from Plateau delegates at the primary, were no other than APC governorship aspirant, Chief Amos Gizo; Minister for Women Affairs, Pauline Tallen; Member representing Mikang/ Shendam/ Quanpaan Federal Constituency, Hon. Alphonsus Komsol; my humble self and a few others.
Though our position pitted us against the Governor and his men, we were not deterred and it this collective effort that saved Plateau from entirely backing the wrong horse.
And while we did that for the interest of our country Nigeria, we find it insulting that some people would try to reinvent the wheel by claiming what did not belong to them all in the bid to cash in on the situation for selfish gains.
This is a typical case of hunting with the hound and running with the hare but I believe that those in positions of leadership should be honest and sincere enough to stand by their convictions no matter the outcome and stop behaving like street urchins who would lie to change positions when it does not suit them.
But beyond the issue of who Governor Lalong supported, I make bold to say that he does not deserve the vice presidential ticket because he is not leader who believes in justice and fairness.
Though there are claims that he has restored peace on the Plateau through the appointment of few Muslims in his cabinet, in the long run, such acts of tokenism have been exposed to have been volunteered only to serve his parochial interest.
Even other ethnic groups in the state have been complaining about how the Governor has favoured mainly his ethnic group to top positions in the state like Chief of Staff to the Governor, Senator from his zone, DG of ITF, the only member in the APC NWC, the Accountant General, the head of the state electoral commission and others.
As the saying goes, if the crocodile can crush its own eggs, what can’t it do to eggs of others?
The Hausa-Muslim community in the state which gave him the winning votes in all his elections have suffered serious marginalisation in the Lalong administration.
For instance, despite the infinitesimal number appointed, they’ve have not been given any serious portfolio in Lalong’s government despite their contributions. What’s more, none of them has been found worthy to serve currently in the party’s exco in the state.
Worse still, even when positions they’re occupying become vacant, they are quickly replaced with others as it happened to the Bassa/Jos North seat.
The Governor’s meddling into the primary election to select a candidate for the Bassa/Jos North House of Representatives seat just to deny the Hausa-Muslims the chance to occupy the position boomeranged with the loss of the seat to the PDP, a development which has brought the once dead party back to life in Plateau State.
It is even worse with the siting of projects in the Hausa-MuslimMuslim dominated areas where no supervision is made over the few given and contractors are left on their own to drag the work endlessly as they wish unlike in the other places.
Besides, it is unpatriotic to begin to talk about religion or region as selling points for leadership when it should be merit and the ability to win the hearts of the people for the party that should count.
Lalong is not that popular and cannot attract the much needed number to add to what Tinubu will bring to the table as the vote margin in the two times he was won elections as governor showed he only managed to pull through with a slight margin.
The most dishonourable thing for Lalong to do now is to try to claim he supported Tinubu when he did not and it is this level of insincerity we have been experiencing on the Plateau where he will do one thing and claim the other since he assumed position as governor of Plateau State.
Such a person does not deserve to be the running mate of a pragmatic and detribalized leader like Tinubu who extends his hands of fellowship to all regardless of ethnicity or religion.
Tinubu should look beyond the deception if he wants to win in the general elections.
Nakande, former Minister of State for Information and Communication wrote from Jos.
The personnel of Operation SAFE HAVEN has debunked in strong term the falsehood been peddled around by one Jama Emanuel that has gone viral in the Social Media which the writer alleged that the citizens where prevented from chasing the bandit that came to attack Government Science Secondary School Kuru on Friday 10th June,2022.
While Operation SAFE HAVEN would have ignored this merchant of falsehood and disunity, considering his lack of credibility, it is however instructive to put the records in a proper perspective for the interest of not misleading peace lovers and unsuspecting members of the public.
OPSH Debunked the statement in a press release dated 11th June ,2022 , signed by Military Information Officer to OPSH Major Isaku Takwa and made available to this medium in Jos, plateau state.
The statement further read thus,
“It was on Friday 10th June 2022 at about 2000Hrs (8: 00pm) that troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN were informed of gunshots between Mararaban Jama’a and railway crossing by Kuru Science Secondary School along Jos – Abuja road in Riyom local government area of Plateau state. Troops immediately mobilized to the scene and on arrival, the people of the area said they don’t need the presence of the security agencies. The troops were asked to leave the area and they withdrew. It is therefore worrisome to allege that troops fired at unarmed citizens and if they did, what was the casualty figure? The report of troops firing at innocent citizens remains an elusive and mischievous figment of the writer intended to mislead, misinform and cause panic among the law abiding citizens of Plateau State. Hence it should be disregarded in its entirety.
We also urge members of the public to be wary of such mischief makers who are frustrated with the relative peace and gradual return of the state to its glory. Operation SAFE HAVEN is on cause and would not be distracted by the antics of vicious mischief makers whose stock in trade is to peddle unfounded rumors and cause panic
While appreciating law abiding citizens for providing timely information to the security agents, the Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, Major General Ibrahim Ali call on all stakeholders to continue to be peace ambassadors as Operation SAFE HAVEN continue to intensify efforts in ensuring peace is fully restored on the Plateau. Security is everybody’s concern, when you see something strange, please report to the nearest security agents.
The mention of the name Simon Bako Lalong simply evokes different feelings and meanings to different people.
Whenever Lalong is mentioned, the name resonates in different quarters differently.
Some say, can anything good come from Ajikamai? Similar to what was said of Jesus of Nazareth! Though such question is rhetorical, the answer is obvious to whoever might raise it! While some genuinely ask such question in marvel to what God can do to and with whoever he pleases, others ask the question albeit derogatorily.
Prior to 29th May, 2015 when Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong was sworn in as Executive Governor of Plateau State, despite the fact that he had held positions to be reckoned with, elective for that matter, he was seen as an underdog, someone that can and will not put up a fight of any kind.
Many people did not even believe that he will make it to Rayfield as Chief Executive of Plateau State not even the person he took over from. It is said that his predecessor was sarcastic at a campaign in 2014/15 referring to Lalong when he symbolitically raised a bunch of keys and said “We cannot build a house and one stranger will bring brooms and pile in it!” That is the level which he (Lalong) did not matter in anyway then.
However, destiny came knocking and like God told Jeremiah in Jeremiah 1:4-8 thus:
“The word of the Lord came to me saying, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.’
‘Alas, Sovereign Lord,” I said, ‘I do not know how to speak; I am too young’. But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am too young’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you; declares the Lord,’’’-(NIV).
Lalong like many, was mirrored differently from the way God looked at him. As a matter of fact, I am tempted to add to his names Jeremiah thus Right Honourable (Dr.) Simon Jeremiah Bako Lalong, KSGG!
Sooner had he assumed office that he faced the issue of insecurity that had engulfed the state of no known dimension and nipped it in the bud to the consternation and surprise of many pundits and pessimists alike. The crisis, insecurity, reduced drastically. Little wonder he was called and consecrated by the Lord himself. Otherewise, he would not have removed us from the situation of hatred against each other.
Like Jeremiah, it is possible that Lalong had looked down upon himself as too young and if that be so, God must have rebuked him not to and went ahead and consecrated him. As a matter of fact, news had it that even people close to him taunted him.
And indeed to their consternation he became governor in 2015 and was re-elected in 2019. And not only that, he was also saddled with the responsibility of leading the 19 Northern State Governors of Nigeria as its Chairman, irrespective of political party and other considerations.
Every human being has two sides. And for Governor Lalong, people only know the seeming weak side of him which is a source of strength for him.
What do you expect of someone whom the Lord has consecrated? The Lalong we do not know is strong-willed, focused, target oriented, resilient and unassuming. This is a man that listens more than he speaks and whenever he chooses to speak, wisdom exudes from his lips. An encounter with him changes your opinion of him for good.
He has ably led the 19 Northern Governors creditably. One of the high points was last week when he led the 13 of the 14 northern Governors of the All Progressives Congress party to insist that the presidency of Nigeria should go to the South when the opposition appeared to have jettisoned zoning and some interests in the ruling party were towing the same line. It takes a man full of wisdom who is focused and who is respected by colleagues to boldly lead this kind of endeavour that has moved our dear nation forward. Equity and justice demanded so and this was demonstrated by the 13 wise men led by Lalong who spoke for national unity, peace and progress. They stood tall in the hour the nation needed them.
What the foregoing means therefore, is that Lalong is God-sent. And if that be so, there is still a lot to be expected from this unassuming, humble, simple and kind son of Ajikamai who does not pride himself on anything apart from God.
Already the people of the Southern Zone of Plateau State have bestowed upon him a higher responsibility beyond the shores of Plateau State to represent them in the Senate following the elections coming up next year.
With the emergence of the APC standard bearer Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Lalong’s name has again resonated among likely candidates to be considered for Vice President.
While he has not said anything about these insinuations, the loud clamour for him to be considered speaks a lot of his personality, achievements and the grace of God upon him. One thing is certain that if he has done it all at the state and regional levels, he can also do it at the national level having been Speaker, Governor and practiced law for many years.
Dan Manjang, anipr is the Honourable Commissioner of Information and Communication, Plateau State
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong and his Nasarawa State counterpart Engr. Abdullahi Sule were among guests that graced the 31st-38th Combined Convocation ceremony of the Plateau State Polytechnic Barkin Ladi with a commitment to pay more attention to technical education which is the bedrock of entrepreneurship, job creation and productivity.
Lalong who is the Visitor to the Plateau State Polytechnic said the Convocation was long overdue as it has not been held over a long period of time due to various challenges.
This situation he said informed Government’s directive for the convocation to hold which offers the institution the opportunity to immediately clear all backlog of graduation and certificate awards.
The Governor therefore directed that henceforth, all Government tertiary institutions in the state must work hard to hold convocation ceremonies at the end of each academic year as it was a sure way of building confidence, maintaining standards, and motivating the graduands to pursue their careers with zeal and contribute to the development of the State and nation at large.
He further said “Our Government has in the past seven years demonstrated its belief in skill-based education that stimulates entrepreneurship and human capital development, It is our conviction that there is no better legacy to bequeath to upcoming generations than giving them education that goes beyond paper qualification. In the light of this, the Rescue Administration has engaged in reinvigorating moribund Technical and Vocational Education by rehabilitating old Technical Schools and building new ones.
Lalong stressed that the Legacy Projects, we are constructing the Technical Schools in Pankshin, Shendam and upgrading the old Technical School (Butex) in Bukuru.
He maintained that the government intend to equip these schools with the modern tools and machineries once they are completed. Through these institutions, we hope to generate the skillful manpower that is needed to create jobs and contribute to the development of our economy”.
He charged the graduands to focus on using their education for productivity rather than the fruitless search for white collar jobs.
“I challenge you to step out of this institution with the mindset of entrepreneurs and job creators rather than job seekers and applicants. You are all aware that white collar jobs are very scarce and Government is finding it difficult to meet its obligations to existing employees. This has made white collar employment extremely difficult and even less fashionable. What is the focus today is entrepreneurship, innovation and skill development. As graduands of this Polytechnic which prides itself as the hub for technical education, you should be at the forefront of starting your businesses.
Government will support you through the Plateau Small and Medium Enterprises Agency (PLASMIDA) and other relevant programmes such as those by the ITF and the Federal Government”.
Nasarawa State Governor Engr. Abdullahi Sule, who studied Mechanical Engineering at the Plateau State Polytechnic and chaired the occasion, said he was proud to have passed through the Polytechnic as one of its first students where his love for technical education developed and grew.
He recalled with nostalgia his days at the Polytechnic and Plateau State when peace, harmony and trust thrived among all citizens and residents regardless of their backgrounds.
Governor Sule commended Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong for working hard to restore peace and security in Plateau State thereby restoring its fortunes as the Home of Peace and Tourism.
He appealed to those causing trouble in Plateau State and other parts of the country to desist because such actions have denied the younger generation the beauty, serenity and attraction that Plateau State and its good people offer to the world.
Chairman of the Governing Council, Plateau State Polytechnic Miskoom Kevin Kwaplong said the institution has grown in many ramifications and continues to perform its responsibilities of training skilled manpower for Plateau and Nigeria at large.
He commended the Lalong administration for paying attention to many challenges of the Polytechnic which are being addressed to enhance teaching and learning in the school.
Rector of the Plateau State Polytechnic Barkin Ladi, Eldr. John Datoegoem Dawam said the institution has made progress in both physical and academic frontiers despite some of its challenges.
He said the Plateau State Polytechnic was fortunate to have an additional technical higher institution through the magnanimity of President Muhammadu Buhari who approved the establishment of the Federal Polytechnic Nyak, Shendam LGA. He pledged to ensure a robust collaboration with the new institution.
The Rector also expressed the appreciation of the Polytechnic to TetFund, NBTE, NCCE, and other bodies who have continously supported the school.
The Polytechnic’s Fellowship Awards were bestowed on deserving individuals including Governor Simon Lalong, the immediate past Tetfund chairman Prof. Suleiman Bogoro, Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Idris Wase among others.
Apart from Certificates, Diplomas and Higher National Diplomas awarded to deserving graduands, Special Awards were given to best graduating students in various courses.
Governor Lalong and his Nasarawa State counterpart Engr. Abdullahi Sule later inspected some workshops in the Polytechnic as well as commissioned the new library complex and twin theatre.
Following the massacre of Christian right inside the alter of God in Owo ,Ondo State by alleged Islamic terrorist that left not fewer than 50 persons dead another unfortunate incident has again before on Christians ,this time Kaduna State.
As the Christians students of Kaduna State University under the auspices Hausa Christians Foundation (HACFO) has cried out as the state governor EL-Rufai has ordered the demolish of the Christians students worship chapel of the university.
The affected christian students lamented that they can’t explain what informed the action taken by the governor as no dispute between Christians and Christians or Muslims and Christians just discovered that the governor desended on the students worship chapel of the university and reduce it to rubble.
And called on the relevant authorities to prevail on the government of EL-Rufai to restore the Christian Chapel located at the institution as that is the only church where the students of the institution pray to their God.
The pictures you see below are for the Church that was demolished yesterday the 6th of June, 2022 at Kaduna State university, KASU. The Christian Community live without a chapel for over 17 years of the school’s existence. Just as the Construction of the Chapel began after about 17yrs of the school’s existence, the government came and demolished it.
Hundreds of police men and military collected the phones of the lecturers at the site and demolished the church under construction.
Pray for Christians in Kaduna State university and make it known every where. The Muslims have about 5 mosques in the school, yet denying the Christians the right to even own a chapel.
The Church in Nigeria must arise now or we perish.
IT’S WELL WITH THE RIGHTEOUS!
WE’LL PREVAIL AGAINST THESE EVILS IN JESUS NAME. AMEN!
The GOC 3 Division who doubled as the commander Operation Save Haven OPSH, Maj Gen Ibrahim Ali yesterday 8th June,2022 commissioned a solar-powered borehole donated to Jebbu community in Bassa Local Government Council of Plateau State.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the GOC noted that the borehole aimed at addressing a critical need of the people was a demonstration of the goodwill of 3rd Division and Nigerian Army to the good people of Jebbu community who are neighbors to Maxwell Khobe Cantonment.
He further said the GOC observed that a situation where the people have to cross the fence to get potable drinking water in the Cantonment, will be a thing of the past and added that the water facility would allow children to concentrate on their studies rather than seeking for water.
The GOC urged the beneficiaries to jealously protect the facility.
Earlier in his remarks, the Deputy Chief of Staff Logistics, Col MT Nagudu remarked that when the need for the borehole was identified, the GOC directed the engagement of a competent contractor who executed the quality work within a period of 2 weeks.
Appreciating the GOC for the kind gesture, the Vice Chairman Bassa Local Government Council Mr Joshua Ishaku noted that the project has relieved the Council the effort of providing water to the community.
Also, in his remarks, the Acting Paramount Ruler of Rukuba Chiefdom Ati Adamu Ingmale thanked the GOC for the gesture and wished him God’s protection and more wisdom in the discharge of his duties.
In her vote of thanks on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mrs Priscilla Yusuf expressed gratitude to the GOC for providing the borehole.
She noted that the borehole would end their daily search for potable water ,and prayed God to grant the GOC more strength, wisdom and blessings in the days ahead.
Governor Bako Lalong of plateau State has charged Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN)to Synergise with other sisters professional agencies to encourage the act of governmence works and block corruption and linkages .
Thank the pioneer of the college for the his foresight ,which has helped in providing employment to the host state of plateau in particular and the country as a whole,and boost the economy of the state.
Governor lalong represented by the Secretary to the state government Professor Danladi Atu,was speaking at the 3rd Session 2022,”Mandatory Continuing Professional Development (MCPD) Programme”organised by the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN)held at Crispan Suites and Events Center , David Jang Express Way, Rayfiled , Jos ,plateau state 7th June ,2022.
Lalong appealed to the professional institution to Synergize with other sisters professional bodies like chartered instituted of Taxation, Auditing, Insurance, Banking and others relevant bodies to help check corruption and block linkages in governmence in other to boost revenue for the state.
He thank the founder of the college for his foresight that has blossom over the year’s and providing employments for the host state and the country at large.
Governor lalong further said his administration will not renege on his earlier promises he made to support the college before his tenure elapses ,but appealed to the body to consider appointing sons and daughters of plateau to the college Governing Council which is the highest decision making body of the institution as the state has competent and qualified hands if the opportunity is given to them.
The Governor Congratulated the university for scaling through the National University Commission (NUC)body responsible for monitoring the quality of University in the country and gives go ahead for the commencement of academic in the university.
And added that some of the request of the university to the government, like the rehabilitation of the road to the university ,l am happy to announce to you that the construction of the road is currently in progress,and before this administration tenure finishes,the government will see to the other requests.
In his welcome address,the plateau State Chairman of (ANAN)Hon.Andy Agbachudah ,thank Governor lalong for giving approval for the state to host the event despite the short notice.
“Your kind support gave us the courage to forge ahead against all odds”
The chairman further stressed that Governor lalong should be honored as the most (ANAN) friendly governor in recent time for hosting the Programme back to back ,2017 and 2022.
He said the governor has appointed members of ANAN,in his cabinet,MDGs,and others.
He also sponsored two ANAN,members ,Dr.Cyril Tsenyil and Mr Ibrahim M.Makut to attend world Congress of Accountants (WCOA)in Rome,Italy in 2014.
“He also hosted International Federation of Accountants IFAC, delegations on a visit to the Nigeria College of Accountancy in state banquet .”
“And further stressed that the Governor lalong is instrumental to the ANAN, state branch Secretariat and assured us of the completion of the road to the university which is currently ongoing.”
In his vote of thanks,the chief Executive Officer CEO, of the university, Dr. Kayode Fasua thank the plateau state chairman of ANAN, Andy Agbadi Udah for making the 3rd Section of the meeting of the college initially billed to be held in North East of the country possible.
In an interview ,the chairman governoring council of the university,Rev.Canon Professor Benjamin Osisioma who doubled as Chief host ,said the university is set to take off academic activities soonest as the university have met most of the requirements of the National University Commission (NUC) for the university to kick start academic programme .
He said the school have sound and qualified lecturers in all the departments that can be compared to any university in the world.
He called on the aspiring students who may want to pursue career in Accountancy, should cash on this “Golden” opportunity and enrolled with the university of Accountancy and get the best training that can be compared to any Accounting training in the world.
The 3rd 2022 Mandatory Continuing Professional Development (MCPD) Programme,has as it theme”Contemporary Auditing Governance, Forensic and Ethical Conduct”
Governor Bako Lalong of plateau State has charged Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN)to Synergise with other sisters professional agencies to encourage the act of governmence works and block corruption and linkages .
Thank the pioneer of the college for the his foresight ,which has helped in providing employment to the host state of plateau in particular and the country as a whole,and boost the economy of the state.
Governor lalong represented by the Secretary to the state government Professor Danladi Atu,was speaking at the 3rd Session 2022,”Mandatory Continuing Professional Development (MCPD) Programme”organised by the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN)held at Crispan Suites and Events Center , David Jang Express Way, Rayfiled , Jos ,plateau state 7th June ,2022.
Lalong appealed to the professional institution to Synergize with other sisters professional bodies like chartered instituted of Taxation, Auditing, Insurance, Banking and others relevant bodies to help check corruption and block linkages in governmence in other to boost revenue for the state.
He thank the founder of the college for his foresight that has blossom over the year’s and providing employments for the host state and the country at large.
Governor lalong further said his administration will not renege on his earlier promises he made to support the college before his tenure elapses ,but appealed to the body to consider appointing sons and daughters of plateau to the college Governing Council which is the highest decision making body of the institution as the state has competent and qualified hands if the opportunity is given to them.
The Governor Congratulated the university for scaling through the National University Commission (NUC)body responsible for monitoring the quality of University in the country and gives go ahead for the commencement of academic in the university.
And added that some of the request of the university to the government, like the rehabilitation of the road to the university ,l am happy to announce to you that the construction of the road is currently in progress,and before this administration tenure finishes,the government will see to the other requests.
In his welcome address,the plateau State Chairman of (ANAN)Hon.Andy Agbachudah ,thank Governor lalong for giving approval for the state to host the event despite the short notice.
“Your kind support gave us the courage to forge ahead against all odds”
The chairman further stressed that Governor lalong should be honored as the most (ANAN) friendly governor in recent time for hosting the Programme back to back ,2017 and 2022.
He said the governor has appointed members of ANAN,in his cabinet,MDGs,and others.
He also sponsored two ANAN,members ,Dr.Cyril Tsenyil and Mr Ibrahim M.Makut to attend world Congress of Accountants (WCOA)in Rome,Italy in 2014.
“He also hosted International Federation of Accountants IFAC, delegations on a visit to the Nigeria College of Accountancy in state banquet .”
“And further stressed that the Governor lalong is instrumental to the ANAN, state branch Secretariat and assured us of the completion of the road to the university which is currently ongoing.”
In his vote of thanks,the chief Executive Officer CEO, of the university, Dr. Kayode Fasua thank the plateau state chairman of ANAN, Andy Agbadi Udah for making the 3rd Section of the meeting of the college initially billed to be held in North East of the country possible.
In an interview ,the chairman governoring council of the university,Rev.Canon Professor Benjamin Osisioma who doubled as Chief host ,said the university is set to take off academic activities soonest as the university have met most of the requirements of the National University Commission (NUC) for the university to kick start academic programme .
He said the school have sound and qualified lecturers in all the departments that can be compared to any university in the world.
He called on the aspiring students who may want to pursue career in Accountancy, should cash on this “Golden” opportunity and enrolled with the university of Accountancy and get the best training that can be compared to any Accounting training in the world.
The 3rd 2022 Mandatory Continuing Professional Development (MCPD) Programme,has as it theme”Contemporary Auditing Governance, Forensic and Ethical Conduct”
The Finals of the Football Peace Competition code named “Major General IS Ali Ramadan and Easter Football Peace Competition 2022” organized by Operation SAFE HAVEN to promote peaceful coexistence among youths of Southern Kaduna was held today, 7th June ,2022 ,at the Township Stadium Kafanchan, Jamaa Local Government Area of Kaduna state as Tricycles were also donated to people living with disabilities at the event.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Special Guest of Honour, Executive Governor of Kaduna State, His Excellency Mallam Nasir Ahmed El Rufai said peace is a neccesity that all must strive to achieve and commended Operation SAFE HAVEN for continuously engaging the youth positively in activities that promotes friendship and harmonious coexistence.
Represented by the Commissioner and Administrator Kafanchan Municipal Authority, Mrs Phoebe Sukai Yayi, the governor revealed that the event has added to the modalities employed by the state towards involving all stakeholders to promote peace and security of the area.
She called on all and sundry to contribute and support the peace efforts of the state and the security agencies as no meaningful development can take place without peace.
On his part, the Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, Major General Ibrahim Ali said the event is part of non kinetic activities employed by Operation SAFE HAVEN to promote peaceful living and healthy competition among the youth.
He employed the participants to use the opportunity to make friends as well support the security agencies operating in their respective communities to achieve lasting peace. General Ali also warned against youth involvement in drugs and criminal activities.
He congratulated the participants for a success competition and urged them to sustain the team spirit. The Commander further thanked the Beautiful Gate people center for partnering with Operation SAFE HAVEN to reach out to people living with disabilities.
Also speaking at the event, the Commander Sector 7 Operation SAFE HAVEN, Colonel Timothy Opurum commended the participants for the high level of discipline exhibited during the competition.
He equally commended the community leaders and the youth for the massive support to the programme.
The event was attended by officials of Kaduna state executive, local government officials, traditional and community leaders, clergy as well as heads of security agencies in the area.
Highlight of the event were the presentation of trophies, medals and cash donations to winners as well as presentation of tricycles to people living with disabilities.
Plateau State High Court presided over by Justice Godfrey M.Kamyal on 25th May ,2022 has ordered that the sum of 3 Million general damages to be given to the family of Hosea Maram and Pastor Mathew Maram judgment creditor by Bokkos LGA and Bokkos Microfinance bank ltd as judgment debtor for illegal land encroachment and building of Bokkos LGA Secretariat Headquarters and Microfinance Bank Ltd without proper channel of compensation to traditional land owners .
On Friday 3rd of December ,2021 in a suit No PLD/BLD/12 2010 has gave an ordered to Bokkos LGA ,Micro Finance Bank Ltd and those who encroached into the family land of Hosea Maram ,Pastor Mathew Maram of Maram Mavolo the creditor .
The court order upon the consideration of the notice of preliminary objection filed and dated the 29th day of July ,2021 .
And after hearing :obed Y D Vwamhi Esq for the applicants and M.O Omohwo Esq of counsel to the judgment creditor respondent ;
In his order Justice Kamyal says that it is hereby
IN THE COURT OF APPEAL
Holden at Jos Division on the 7th Day of March, 2014 before their Lorddships :
Tijjani Abdullahi Justice of Appeal Court ,Justice Chioma Nwosu Iheme and Justice Ibrahim Shata Bdliya on Appeal No .CA/J/101/2013 when Bokkos Local Government Council filed application to appeal the Judgment of Hon. Justice Cristy L.Dabup hereinafter referred to as lower court the respondents who were the Plaintiffs sued in representative capacity the appellant who was the defendant,claiming as follows :
A declaration that the family of Maram Mavolo is the legal and customary owner of all that piece of land lying and situated at kawal ,Trangol ,behind Bokkos LGA and Bokkos Microfinance .
B, A perpetual injunction restraining the defendant either by itself his agents ,privies or assigns from trespassing ,further trespassing or in any way interfering with the rights of the plaintiff over the property lying and situated at Kawai ,Trangol behind Bokkos LGA Secretariat ,same having not legally acquired from the plaintiff .
C.The sum of #3,000,000.00 general damages .
The Judge said the Plaintiffs inherited the deputed land in 2002 from their father Maram Mavolo who also inherited same from his great grandfather .
According to judgment ,Sometimes in 1982 the defendant trespassed into the plaintiff land and built its Local Government Secretariat thereon .At the time the trespass occurred the land was subject to litigation at upper area court Pankshin which culminated in an appeal to the customary court of Appeal Jos where the matter was sent back for retrial .
“A careful perusal of the previous proceedings (Exhibit D2 ) in relation to the present suit clearly bares out the peculiarities of each case .The submission of the defence at paragraphs 3.4 and 3.5 appear to be misconceived and misguided in that a careful and proper reading of the names of parties and the plaintiffs claims reveal otherwise ,so also the subject of litigation .The court is disposed to agreeing with the plaintiff counsel that the defence of red Judicata “, judgment creditor .
The President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention Youth Conference, NBCYC, Pastor Enunuaye Onajite has congratulated youths of the Nigerian Baptist Convention on the occasion of the annual Youth Week celebration.
In a congratulatory message sent to the media, Onajite said that 2022 Youth Week celebration is unique because it is the last to be witnessed by youths of the Nigerian Baptist Convention before the 50th anniversary coming up in August, 2022.
He said that in this perverse generation, what the world needs is the “Bread of Life” (John 6:22-40) which is the theme for the year.
He encouraged all youths across the Convention, Conferences, Associations, and Church Fellowships to fully participate in all the activities scheduled for the week for their spiritual and physical growth.
Onajite admonished youths of the Convention to be prepared to take the Bread of Life to the world that is in desperate need of the word of God.
He said “On behalf of the leadership of the Nigerian Baptist Convention Youth Conference, I congratulate all our youths on the celebration of the 2022 Baptist Youth Week.
“The Annual celebration has become one of the ways to commune with God, exhibit our leadership qualities and strengthen the inter and intra relationship between the Youths and the Churches and among the youths.
“This year, we are looking at the ‘Bread of Life’ (John 6:22-40). This theme could not have come at a better time than now when the famous generation X and Z have shifted focus from God and His words. It is time for us to go back to the foundation of our faith which is the word of God.”
Onajite said that it was impossible to defeat the devil without being deeply rooted in the word of God.
He wished all youths a happy Youth Week. The 2022 Baptist Youth Week will be held between Sunday, June 5 – 11, 2022.
President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention Youth Conference, NBCYC, Pastor Enunuaye Onajite has condemned in strongest terms, the massacre of innocent worshippers at the St Francis Catholic Church, Owa-luwa, Owo, Ondo state yesterday, Sunday.
He described the attack as unprovoked and an attack not just on Christians across Nigeria but on their faith.
Onajite said that the government has failed to provide security for the citizens hence, the need for citizens to take their security into their own hands.
He said that the archaic security architecture in the country is not working and that is why the crime rate is increasing daily.
The youth leader in a statement he personally signed and issued today, Monday, expressed frustration of Nigerians on the state of the nation.
He called for a national security summit that would lead to training of young Christians to defend the Church whenever the need arises.
He said “From the look of things, we have resigned to fate following the incidences of unabated attacks against the Church in Nigeria. I am calling on the leadership from the Convention to our Churches to as a matter of urgency call for a security summit where the awareness and consciousness of the security of the present day Church would be a subject of discussion and plan strategically the best way to start training our young people to be able to defend the Churches when the need arises.
“We should remember the Nehemiah experience of working with one hand and holding a weapon with another hand. God has not saved us to die like chickens on a daily basis because of share ignorance wherein the enemies are taking serious advantage of. We say no to this carnage bedeviling the church.
“The constant kidnapping and paying of ransome has to come to an end. Jesus already paid for our ransome with his blood, what is happening to us today is only negligence, we can choose to avoid it. The time to rise is now.”
He added that no part of the country is safe. “We don’t have anywhere in this nation that’s not under siege. We are surrounded by vipers of all sort that at every provocation you see reactions that results in lost of lives and properties. Must we continue like this? We say NO. We need to start buying guns and tools that can detect and track dangerous adventure around our Churches”, he maintained.
The former Governor of Ekiti State has tipped the former Governor of Anambra state Peter Obi as the most qualified candidate for the position of president in 2023 general election.
Fayose stressed that among the aspirants from all the political parties currently parading themselves for the position of president of Nigeria,non can be equate with the trained economic, Peter Obi.
He however expressed the fear that with the noise of the Igbo’s in the South East Nigeria to settled for the position of presidency of the country, they refused to do the needful by equipping themselves with PVC and vote for their preferred candidate.
He further said they should not expect to stay at the confine of their respective houses, why the seat of president is giving to them on platter of Gold ,they should work , fight for it like the other sections of the country have been doing.
He expressed the fear that the nonchallant attitude of the Igbo’s if not address in the coming general election,it may jeorpardize their much awaited chance of the zone becoming president of Nigeria .
He advised them to wake up and Get their PVC ready, to Vote God given candidate in the person of Peter Obi who is the most credible candidate among those aspirants parading themselves for the position of president come 2023.
I love Igbos but I have to tell them the truth because I love them.
It is now a law to transmit votes electronically, that means rigging of elections has been reduced drastically.
Igbos are only tribe that have 99% of voters in the South East and second highest voters in other regions in Nigeria.
In the South West, after Yoruba votes, Igbo votes come second. Lagos has the highest number of voters in Nigeria and Igbos are competing with Yorubas in voting power in Lagos.
In the South South, we have indigenous Igbos in the South South and all the major cities in the South South are occupied by Igbos. Go to Port Harcourt you will understand what I mean.
In the North Central, go to Jos and all the state capital in the North Central, Igbos are the second largest population after the indigenous people.
In the North West, go to Kano and Kaduna and you will know that Igbos are the second largest population after indigenous people.
In the North East, go to Maidugri and all the state capitals, Igbos are the second largest tribe after the indigenous people.
Go to federal capital territory Abuja, Igbos are the largest population in Abuja today.
If Igbos truly want to determine who will rule this country today, they will but they only sit back and lament without any action.
Peter Obi is the most qualified candidate to rule this country but Igbos are not with their voters card.
A Security experts turned politians Solomon Nandy Chendan has emerged Governorship candidate in plateau State under the platform of African Democratic Congress (ADC).
As he promised to salvage the state from the current insecurity, economic and other numerous problems facing the state occasioned by APC,led government.
He further promised to tackle the problems of unemployment where our teeming youths are roaming the street with no job, I will reduce the level of poverty in the state to the barest minimum.
Hon.Solomon made the promise during his address ,after unanimous decision to officially affirmed him by the delegates from the 17 local government area of the state held at Kalwa House on Saturday 4th June,2022.
He further stressed that as the governor of the state , contrary to what others are doing,I promise to be servant leader if I am voted as Governor of the state in the forthcoming Election.
He said the vision and mission of campaign team is to encourage oneness and improve on welfare of citizenry .
Chendan emphasized that in one of solid agenda to people of Plateau state was transforming and repositioning the state as one of commercial hubs of Nigeria .
He noted that was burnt out of desire compassion of his commitment for leadership as security experts guard and safeguard lives and properties of citizens .
Nandy stressed that if given this mandate he want to ensure that peace reign in Plateau and restore back the loss glory of the state where Muslims and Christians will come as one .
According to him,Plateau state belongs to all of us ,is not about me ,neither about Caleb Mutfwang ,APC ,PDP but is our projects for Plateau is your state is my state so we must work hard to improve the economic well-being of our people .
He further add that time has come to address numerous challenges facing us by putting it behind to forge ahead and Plateau must rise again and shine .
Solomon solicited the cooperation of voters to vote wisely for him as his votes will achieve success .
He assured of going to be servant that will have listening ears to the plight of Plateau people especially herders /farmers clashes with the use of modern gadgets .
The Chairman of African Democratic Congress ,ADC , Hon Sam Pam Gyang also presented 24 candidates for the Plateau State House of Assembly ,3 senatorial and 7 house of representatives as flag bearer of ADC in Plateau .
He appreciated the party loyal men and women who stood for the party in it trial moment ,but stressed that they are going to be more stronger and united to win the race .
Gyang in his speech described the party as the most popular and acceptable in the history of grassroots mobilizer in all the senatorial districts .
He disclosed that the affirmation was done in agreement reach with stakeholders which was adopted before INEC officials .
Sam Gyang called on Plateau electorate to vote for the party that goes with people oriented program and projects that can impact on lives of the citizens .
Not fewer than 250 person currently battling for their lives at one of the hospitals in Kano state , northern Nigeria for inhaling infected chemical cylinder that got leaked.
The affected persons according to report are currently in one of the hospital in the Kano metropolis battling to stay alive as at the time of filing this report, unconscious.
The doctor can’t say for now if they will make it alive or not,but their condition to say the least is critical.
You can recalled few days back, Russia was pointing accussing fingers on the United States of America (USA) of Funding Bio Chemical Weapon in Zaria, Lagos and Abuja.
Those infected by the virus are reported to have been unconscious, laying lifeless in the hospital.
Ahead of the All Progressive Congress (APC) presidential primary ,the committee set up to screened the aspirants that are qualified to participate in the party presidential primary slated 6th&7th of June,2022 has summited it screening report.
As the out come of the screening which surface online shows that some of the party’s political big wigs couldn’t make it through the screening as they are said to be disqualified and can’t participate in the party presidential primary.
Those disqualified according to the online report are as followed:
1. Robert A. Boroffice Disqualified
2. Uju Ken-Ohanenye Disqualified
3. Tunde Bakare Disqualified
4. Bola Tinubu Disqualified
5. Ahmad Rufai Sani Disqualified
6. Rotimi Amaechi Disqualified
7. Godswill Akpabio Disqualified
8. Rochas Okorocha Disqualified
9. Tein Jack-Rich Disqualified
10. Ikeobasi Mokelu Disqualified
However,the names of the lucky ones who makes it to the primary are as follows:
The 13 cleared out of 23 APC presidential candidates that were screened recently include:
Ahead of the All Progressive Congress (APC) presidential primary ,the committee set up to screened the aspirants that are qualified to participate in the party presidential primary slated 6th&7th of June,2022 has summited it screening report.
As the out come of the screening which surface online shows that some of the party’s political big wigs couldn’t make it through the screening as they are said to be disqualified and can’t participate in the party presidential primary.
Those disqualified according to the online report are as followed:
1. Robert A. Boroffice Disqualified
2. Uju Ken-Ohanenye Disqualified
3. Tunde Bakare Disqualified
4. Bola Tinubu Disqualified
5. Ahmad Rufai Sani Disqualified
6. Rotimi Amaechi Disqualified
7. Godswill Akpabio Disqualified
8. Rochas Okorocha Disqualified
9. Tein Jack-Rich Disqualified
10. Ikeobasi Mokelu Disqualified
However,the names of the lucky ones who makes it to the primary are as follows:
The 13 cleared out of 23 APC presidential candidates that were screened recently include:
Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency Election Tribunal sitting in Bukuru ,Jos south LG of plateau has reached it climax as parties is to file their final written address for adoption.
The matter which was adjourned till today 3rd June,2022, for contination of hearing and presentation of more witnesses ,by the 1st&2 respondent, People Democratic party (PDP) and Musa Agah respectively .
According to the counsel for the 1st & 2nd respondent,E.G Pwajok told the tribunal that having the respondent analysis the intricacies of the matter, and called five witnesses so far, will arrived at the conclusion that we will not call any more witness as we are satisfied with the five we have provided so far,and to save the tribunal precious time,and stressed that the respondent is satisfied with the five witnesses that testified.
As against this background ,my Lord, will apply to close our case for the 3rd respondent, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to open it case.
In another similar development, the 3rd respondent on the matter, INEC, represented by it counsel Olawale Olatunde ,told the tribunal that they are not calling any witness, and apply to close his case.
The three man panel of the Tribunal led by it chairman, Justice Hope Ozoh directed the Parties in the matter to file their final written address in line with electoral Act, while the date for the adoption of the shall be communicated to the Parties in due course.
It would be recall that Mohammad Gwani of PRP is challenging the election result declared by the 3rd respondent, INEC, which produced Musa Agah of People Democratic party (PDP) winner.
Member representing Jos North /Bassa Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon.Musa Agah ,has called on his supporters to maintain peace no matter any provocation.
As he reiterated his on waving confident to triumph at the on going election tribunal instituted by the People Redeemtion Party PRP, challenging his victory.
The former member of plateau state house of Assembly make the appeal today 2rd June,2022 in an interview with our correspondence at the state High Court election tribunal sitting in Bukuru ,Jos south LG of plateau state.
He said he never loose sleep over the election tribunal challenging his mandate over the House of Representatives bye Election which declared him winner.
He stressed that his supporters are peace loving people who have never involve in anything that will threaten the peace of the state, they have been peaceful people and they will continue to maintain that position no matter any temptation of provocation.
He further add that his mandate of 26th Feb,2022 is not by accident ,but God’s designed, I am not perturbed because God who gives me the mandate is not sleeping non slumber ,I know he will do it again.
He called on his supporters to always maintained decorum when ever they come to court to avoid being flouting the laid down rules of the court and been looked at lawless.
It would be recalled that Mohammad Gwani of People’s Redemption Party(PRP) is challenging the 26th February,2022 ,Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency bye election which declared Hon. Musa Agah winner.
Governor Simon Bako Lalong has directed contractor handling the state High Court Complex Project to step up work with the view of completion for commissioning.
Lalong give the directive when he inspected some projects in Jos to know the level of work done for them to be ready for Commissioning in few months from now.
Lalong who visited the new High Court Headquarters Complex in Jos expressed satisfaction with the level of the work and its quality.
The facility which has been structurally completed and currently being furnished is expected to be commissioned soon.
The Governor who was accompanied by his Deputy Prof. Sonni Tyoden, Secretary to Government of the State ,Prof. Danladi Atu, Chief of Staff Noel Donjur and some members of the State Executive Council, said he was happy that the project will soon be finished and put to use which will greatly enhance Judicial Services.
Chief Judge of Plateau State, Justice David Mann and other top Judicial Officers were present during the visit and expressed delight that the new complex is at the final stage of completion.
The Governor also visited the Plateau Multi Court Door House which has been completed and also awaiting furnishing.
The Governor also inspected the British-American Flyover construction site where he equally expressed delight on the pace and quality of work.
He said the project which is key to the economic development of the State will bring a lot of relief to motorists who use the road to States in North East and other parts of the country.
Commissioner for Works Pam Bot-Mang told the Governor that the work is going on as scheduled and the contractor, Craneburg Construction Company is doing its best to adhere to the terms of the agreement.
He further said some of the service lines have been relocated while work is going on to ensure that the disruption caused is addressed to ease the challenges faced by the citizens.
Representative of the contractor Craneburg Construction Company Engr. Dani assured the Governor that they will do their best to deliver on schedule and with the best quality.
Jos North/Bassa Election Tribunal sitting at State High Court , Bukuru, Jos south LG , Plateau state has adjourned sitting till Friday 4th June,2022, for contination of defense.
As the defence witness of the 1st Respondent Hon. Musa Agah, and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), 2nd respondent, has confirmed to the National and State Houses of Assembly tribunal that there we voting at polling units in favour of the PDP.
The witness DW2 Mr. Kiyani Joel, led by defense counsel Edward Pwajok SAN, further adopted his statements on oath, further identified himself as PDP’s polling agent at Tudun Wada/Kabong ward.
Muhammad Adam Alkali, and his Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), are in the tribunal challenging the electoral umpire, INEC ,declaration and returned of Hon. Musa Agah, as winner of the 26th February, bye-election into the Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency, at the House of Representatives.
The petitioners counsel, Yakubu Ruba SAN, while cross-examinng the PDP, witness asked whether, he was aware of high court judgements that said PDP have no structures to nominate any candidate for an election.
“I am not aware of exhibits P9a to P9d, (judgements and court ruling),” he said.
He further told the Tribunal that there were differences, of accreditations on the results sheets and that of the BIVAS.
“In exhbits P2 the total number of accredited voters is 255, in exhibit P4a the total number of accredited voters is 257,” he said.
The defense witness said: “Yes there is difference and there is over voting. The results has not be canceled, it was counted.” He maintained.
Another defense witness Mr. Joel Philip, maintained that he was one of PDP’s agents at Ali Kazaure collation center, further told the tribunal that results of three polling units were canceled.
“I dont know why the results were canceled,” he said. “I don’t know why INEC collation officer put dash, dash, on the results sheets.
Another defense witness DW4 Pam Davou who incidentally a legal practitioner ,and PDP’s Collation Agents for Jos North LGA, told the tribunal that he recieved the results of Tudun Wada/Kabong and that of Naraguta ‘B’, on the 27th February, 2022, but INEC declaration results was dated 26th February, 2022 .
“Exhibit P8, (INEC form C8 results declaration) is dated 26th February, 2022,” he testified.
On the High Court of Appeal judgments, dissolving the executive structures of PDP in Plateau State, the witness told the tribunal that he only heard of it on the news.
“Exhibits P9A to D, are duly issued by competent courts of authority. They are CTCs of Judgments,” he further testified.
The Jos North/Bassa Bye election Tribunal involving Mohammad Adamu Gwani (PRP) Petitioner and Musa Agah of People’s Democratic party (PDP) respondent sitting in plateau state High Court ,Bukuru Division in Jos south LG, has today 1st June,2022 come to climax as the PRP, closed it case after calling Seven Witnesses including the Independent Electoral Commission INEC.
As Mohammad Gwani the Petitioner in all the witnesses called , proof beyond reasonable doubled that Jos North /Bassa bye Election conducted to filled the vacates position created by the death of Haruna Maitala on ghastly motor accident along Jos Abuja road on his way from Abuja to Jos were not free,fair but characterized with irregularities.
Shehu Baba who is witness Pw6, a staff of INEC, gives his address as federal low cost Jos , plateau state, said he had been with the commission for the past 30 years, as he identify exhibit P3-8 which is the election results of Jos North/Bassa bye Election held February,2022 in the state.
In quick reaction, the counsel to the 1st and 2nd respondent,S . Oyawole opposed the competent of the witness ,PW6 to testify on the matter.
He cited some authority and the Constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria to back his argument, that the statement of the witness was filed after 21 days as against what the law permitted.
In his response,the petitioner’s counsel Yakubu Ruba SAN, said the court should not allow technicality to create harm to the Petitioner’s witness.
In his ruling on the admissibility of the documents, Justice Hope Ozoh said the court reserved it ruling for the final address while the documents were admitted provisionally.
In his cross examination by the 1st and 2nd Respondent, the PW6 who said he was not invited by the court to give evidence, further said he only come to sign some of the documents that was brought to the Court from INEC earlier unsigned.
He however told the court that he didn’t Participate in the Conducts of the bye election of Jos North/Bassa federal Constituency of February 26th 2022 in any way, directly or indirectly.
In similar development, another witness Pw7 ,Aliyu Sale who resides in Mistale in Jos North local government, adopted his statement on oath , stressed that he didn’t play any active part in the Conducts of the bye election , either signing results sheet,as polling agent of polling unit or operating Vibas mechine.
It was at this stage the petitioner, counsel, Yakubu Ruba (SAN), said he has to draw the curtains , and thank the tribunal for their understanding.
With the petitioner closing it case, the Respondent PDP, will open it defense tomorrow 2nd June,2022.
However,the Respondent Counsel S.Oyawole, has already intimated the tribunal of the respondent intend to call Eight witness.
As Christians across all denominations on the Plateau converged on the Rwang Pam Stadium Jos on Wednesday 1st June 2022 for a solemn assembly to pray and offer supplications to God for the peace, progress and stability of the State and Nigeria at large.
While addressing the gathering organised by Christuan Denominational leaders in conjuction with the Plateau State Chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Governor Lalong said the solemn assembly is coming at the right time when the peace and progress of Nigeria and Plateau State is more than ever before being challenged.
He said “Looking at the level of wickedness and manifestation of evil that is threatening our peaceful coexistence and the safety of lives and properties, the Call to Prayers and Repentance is a collective one that emphasizes soul-searching by everyone. This is because the challenges we face today cannot be said to be the fault of a few persons only. Similarly, the efforts to restore the fortunes of our State and country cannot be carried out by a few persons alone”.
Lalong said in order to build a better Plateau and a greater Nigeria, citizens must shun all acts that are capable of threatening humanity which is God’s creation. He regretted that many times, people allow ethnicity, religion, denominational differences, politics, pride, money, greed and selfishness to take control of their lives to the point that they treat people as if they were not created by the Almighty God.
He called on all Christians and indeed the entire citizens of Plateau State irrespective of religious or other differences to do their part in sustaining the achievements that have recorded in creating an atmosphere for peace, dialogue, forgiveness, and reconciliation during the last seven years of his administration.
On the 2023 General Elections, he said “As we move deeper into the political spectrum, I wish to advise our citizens to use the moment to work together for a better Plateau. This is the time to pray to God and actively participate for the emergence of the right set of leaders that will take over the affairs of our State and country in 2023. Let us do away with politics of hatred, bitterness, violence, character assassination and fake news. We should not allow desperate politicians to use religion, ethnicity and other antics to divide us. We must never forget to Think and Act Plateau”.
The Governor emphasised that at the end of the day, those who win or lose shall continue to remain brothers and sisters irrespective of their political parties or other peculiarities. This he said should encourage those seeking political offices to tell the people what they intend to do and allow the electorate to decide through the ballot box.
In a sermon, ECWA President and Chairman of the Forum of Christian Denominational Heads Plateau State Rev. Stephen Panya Baba said Plateau is a land blessed by God in all ramifications with great people and abundant resources that are second to none in Nigeria.
He said Plateau has remained the hope of salvation for the North and other parts of Nigeria having pioneered and continously promoted the work of evangelism and spread of the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ to the unsaved.
Although he noted that the State and its people have been under attack by forces of evil who have killed and destroyed properties of innocent citizens, the wonderful heritage bestowed on Plateau by God will never be taken away if the people return to God and continue to obey the Lord, love one another, and seek to do His will at all times.
COCIN President Rev. Dr. Amos Mohzho said the Church on the Plateau is united to address the spiritual, social, political and economic fortunes of not only its members, but of the entire citizens.
Prayers of praise, thanksgiving and repentance were offered by different church leaders. In the same vein, the solemn assembly prayed for the unity of the Church on the Plateau and Nigeria; Evangelism and Missions; 2023 elections and politics; peace and security of Plateau State and Nigeria; as well as the economic prosperity of the State.
Rev Emmanuel Olorunmagba has clinched House of Representatives ticket under the platform of National Rescue Movement, NRM, beating Hon Tayo Ibidun, former aide to a one time Kogi State governor and Comrade Olusola Daniel.
The keenly contested primary election which held in Lokoja, Kogi state capital saw a peaceful conduct and process with a large turnout of party officials, delegates, supporters and well-wishers.
The Process was also carried out in the presence of officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, the electoral Umpire saddled with the responsibility of overseeing a peaceful conduct of Nigeria’s political process.
After the primary election which was adjudged free, fair and credible, various candidates emerged for the different elective offices in the state.In the Kabba/Bunu Ijumu Federal Constituency House of Representatives election, Hon Mohammed Ndako Idris, the NRM Kogi West Electoral Committee Chairman declared that Olorunmagba polled 39 votes while Tayo got 27 votes with Olusola trailing behind with 9 votes.
Hence, Rev Emmanuel Olorunmagba was declared winner and the flag-bearer of National Rescue Movement NRM in the forthcoming February 25, 2023 National Assembly election.
All the candidates that emerged for various positions are:
SENATE
Kogi East Senatorial zone:
Hon. Isaias Davies Ijele
Kogi Central:
Hon. Musa Awalu
Kogi West:
Hon Bala Abdulgafar Dirisu
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Lokoja/Koto Federal Constituency:
Hon.Godwin Wambebe
Kabba-Bunu/Ijumu Federal Constituency:
Rev Emmanuel Olorunmagba
Yagba East/Yagba west/Mopamuro Federal Constituency:
Hon. Segun Olorunleke
Ankpa/Omala/Olamaboro Federal Constituency:
Hon Agnes Agada
Idah/Ofu/Ibaji/Igalamela Odolu Federal Constituency:
Governor Simon Bako Lalong of plateau state has felicitated with Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Ahmed Idris Wase on the occasion of his 58th birthday.
Lalong said the Deputy Speaker has used his office to facilitate the passage of very important laws which have impacted the growth of the nation and in particular Plateau State.
In a congratulatory message dated 1st June,2022, signed by his Director of press and Public Affairs Makut Macham and made available to this medium, Governor Lalong described Rt. Hon. Wase as a consumate politician whose passion for the development and progress of his people is always paramount.
The Governor also commended the leadership of the Deputy Speaker in galvanising the efforts of the Plateau caucus at the National Assembly towards ensuring that issues concerning the State are given due Legislative attention.
And further praised him for attracting projects and programmes of the Federal Government to Plateau State as well as carrying out many people oriented Constituency Projects which have benefited his constituents and citizens of the entire State.
While wishing him many more years of God’s blessings and protection, Lalong urged Rt. Hon. Wase to remain committed to the advancement of democracy, good governance and justice in Nigeria, as well as continue to support the initiatives for peaceful coexistence and security in Plateau State and the nation at large.
The Chairman Jos North/Bassa bye-Election Tribunal sitting in Plateau State High Court Bukuru , Jos South LG, has raised alarm over independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) refusal to release vital documents that will assist the petitioner to prosecute his matter.
As he complained betterly that his finding has revealed that it’s in the character of the Commission in Plateau state to hold back documents in her custody whenever it is needed to establish matter under litigation.
The chairman of the three man panel Justice Hope Ozoh made the lamentation on Tuesday 31st May,2022 ,at the resumption of Federal House of Representatives bye-Election tribunal between Musa Agah of People’s Democratic party PDP, defendant, the candidates of People Redeemtion Party (PRP) , petitioner and INEC as 3rd respondent.
The chairman said election tribunal which is different from the regular court matter is time bound and has expired date ,the electoral umpire , INEC suppose to be aware that those documents will be requested for,and it’s expected he made them available before now .
The matter was expected to have resumed full hearing yesterday,30th May,2022 ,was stalled because the counsel to the petitioner, Yakubu .H.Ruba told the court that since February,2022 ,he has applied to INEC,to make available some documents numbering 74 ,to aid the petitioner in prosecuting it case.
My Lord the petitioner counsel add that the commission did not make any of the requested documents available to us not even when we have paid them the sum of 1.2 million naira for logistics.
Justice Hope Ozoh then adjourned the matter till today 31st May,2022 and order INEC through it counsel Olawale Olatunde to make the documents available to the petitioner before today’s sitting 31st May,2022.
At the resumption of hearing today, Yakubu Ruba SAN, announced to the court that out of the numbers of documents requested for by the petitioner, which is 74 ,the 3rd respondent is able to bring only 12 ,left with 64.
The Senior Advocates of Nigeria further add that even with the insignificant numbers,the documents are not certified true copies , meaning they are not signed.
The counsel to the 3rd respondent INEC, Oluwole Olatunde try to justify the commission action by giving a flamsy excuse that the head of the Commission who suppose to make the documents available to the petitioner,is bereaved and he has to travel out of state.
Barrister Oluwole Olatunde further add that the 12 uncertified documents were given to him this morning through the counsel of the commission.
Justice Hope Ozoh, however advised the petitioner to make do with 12 documents that are before him now because I didn’t foreseen the possibility of the electoral body, Making available more documents.
However,the petitioner has present not fewer than 4 witnesses today 31th May,2022.
One of the witnesses is a star witness, Rabiu Lawal ,who is the chairman of the party in the state told Hon. Justice Hope Ozoh led three-man Panel that the process that saw the emergence of Hon. Musa Agah Aviah as PDP candidate for the Bye-Election Jos North Bassa Federal Constituency held on February 26, 2022 was invalidated by the court.
The witness who testified as PW2 and led in evidence in-chief by Yakubu Ruba SAN spoke through the documents he adopted in line with paragraph 9 of his witness statement on oath as evidence in the petition filed by Hon. Adams Alkali (and his party, the PRP), challenging the declaration of Hon. Musa Agah Aviah in the Bye-Election. The documents which were Certified True Documents (CTC), already admitted in evidence by the tribunal and marked as exhibit 9A to 9D were three separate judgments and a ruling all invalidating the PDP process that saw the emergence of Agah as its flag bearer for the said Bye-Election.
During cross examination by S. Oyawole, Counsel for PDP and Agah or 1s and 2nd Respondent, PW2 who is also the Chairman of PRP (2nd Petitioner), told the tribunal that every political party has its own constitution and guidelines for the conduct of their parties Primary elections. He further noted that as a member of PRP, he was conversant with the activities of his party owing to executive order he received from the National Headquarters of the party.
In response to further questioning, PW2 told the tribunal that the documents before it speak for themselves. Other witnesses who testified before the tribunal were PW3 (Musa Jibrin Yusuf), PW4 (Buhari Ibrahim Shehu) and PW5 (Muhammad Tanko Shittu also indicated in his statement of oath as AAA).
The matter was adjourned till tomorrow, June 01, 2022 for continuation of hearing.
Group under the auspices of Grassroot Mobilization of All Progressives Congress,(APC) in Plateau state, had Unanimously endorse Hon. Ishaya Itse For the Position of Deputy Governor of the Party.
Hon. Ishaya Itse a Frontline Politician,Philanthropist on the Plateau and has impacted positively on the lives of the less privileged,Students and Women through scholarships and grants.
The endorsement which was signed by the Chairman of the group,Hon. Henry Patrick and Secretary,Hon. Azi Moses Madaki,
called on all APC stakeholders in the state to join hands with and support Hon. Ishaya Itse to Deputise Hon. Nantawe Yilwada for good Governance,Equity and fairness.
The group further said, he will use his prowess and wealth of experience to lead the party into victory comes 2023.
Hon. Itse contested for the state Chairman of the All Progressives Congress in the state and is still contributing his quota to the growth of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at His Jos Jarawa Ward,Jos North LGA, Plateau state and the Country at large.
A political scientist and community leader the Group said they will not relent on their oars by lobbying all and Sundry to support the j course.
And stressed if given the Chance, Plateau state will continue to witness transformation,Human Capital Development and entrenchment of Peace as well as Economic Growth.
The chairman Kanam LG,Dayyabu Garga has give his words to work assiduously to deliver member representing Pankshin, Kanke and Kanam Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives in 2023 General Election.
The Executive chairman of the local government,who doubled as the (Galadiman Jhar Of Jhar Chiefdom)made the promise when he received the Honourable member Rt. Hon. Yusuf Babayo Adamu Gagdi, (Dan Majen Jhar Of Jhar Chiefdom) during his thank you tour of honorable Yusuf Gadi over his election as flag bearer of APC for Pankshin, Kanke and Kanam Federal Constituency in the forthcoming 2023, General Election.
On his entourage were the Honourable Member who was along with the Executive Chairman Of Pankshin LGC, Executive Chairman Of Kanke LGC, and the APC flag bearer of Plateau Central Zone, Hon. Diket Plang and State House of Assembly flag bearers of Pankshin, Kanke and Kanam Local Goverment Councils, Yusuf Gagdi said the essence of this thank you tour is “we came to thank our people for giving us the mandate and we will try to come and identify ourselves with them”
Gagdi described Dayyabu Garga as a leader with spirit of sportsmanship and a true lover of the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong for accepting his directive to deliver the APC candidates who won the primary election.
In his response the Executive Chairman Of Kanam LGC, Hon. (Dr). Dayyabu Yusuf Garga, (Galadiman Jhar) welcomed them and appreciated the guests for coming and assured the flag bearer that no need to Come to Kanam LGC because already he has thanked the people of Kanam on his behalf of him and all APC flag bearers of Plateau Central and he assured the Honourable Member Yusuf Gagdi, Diket Plang and State Assembly members that Kanam will produce massive votes of in the next general election.
Dayyabu Garga in his speech direct his all his Elected Councillors, Supervisory Councillors, Special Advicers, Senior Special Assistants, Special Assistants to be the Campaign team of this movement after done with the Presidential election we will down to deliver the APC from bottom to top.
The Plateau State National Houses of Assembly Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Bukuru,Jos South LG has Monday 30th May,2022 ordered the State Resident Electoral Commissioner, of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Malam Halilu Pai, to within 24-hour release, all documents requested by Muhammad Adam Alkali.
Muhammad Alkali and his People’s Redemption Party (PRP), has through their Counsel Yakubu H. Ruba SAN, has complained betterly the REC has refused to issue them , petitioner the Certified True Copies (CTC), of the documents they sought since February 2022.
Mahammad Alkali, has petitioned the Tribunal challenging the declaration of Hon. Musa Agah, of the People’s Democratic Party, as the winner of the bye-election for Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency, held of the 26th February, 2022, INEC.
According to Ruba SAN, his client has applied and paid the sum of N1.2m to commission INEC ,Office requesting for the Certified True Copies, of the accredited BIVAS used during the Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency bye-election.
He he further told the tribunal that they have made similar appilcation to the INEC Headquarters and within 3 days, the Certified documents were released to them and lamented why it’s hard for the state INEC to replicate same.
Ruba SAN, sought for an order of the tribunal to compelled the State REC, to release the documents or the REC should appear to tell the tribunal whey they have not released the documents.
But the INEC counsel, Oluwole Olatunde, told the tribunal that the documents are ready, but that officers to certified them are not on seat.
The tribunal chairman Justice, Hope O. Ozoh, frowned at the Commission counsel’s excuses which he said are not valids, however ruled that the documents be release to the petitioners or the REC commissioner will be summon by the tribunal.
“The Resident Electoral Commissioner Plateau State, should oblige the documents sought by the petitioners, on or before Tuesday 31st May,2022 or the REC must appear to tell the tribunal why they have not release the documents,” he ordered.
Meanwhile, Mrs. Onomie Okpopuna, an ICT staff INEC Headquarters Abuja, has tendered 20-page Certified True Copies of documants raised from the INEC server, indicating results accreditation generated through BIVAS machine.
Onomie who is PW1 in the matter,was soepined, however testified that the, “documents were generated by computers.”
The tribunal has adjourned seating till Tuesday, 31th May, 2022 for continuation of hearing and taken of more witnesses.
The immediate past clerk of the house of Representatives hon. Patrick Giwa said with his experience as clerk of the lower chamber,law makin is not Child business and it required maturity with persons with experience in law making business
Its is on this premises I am offering myself for the service because I have been their as the clerk , know all the intricacies in the law making which is the reason I bringing myself forward for the job.
Hon.Patrick who has just won the people Democratic party (PDP) primaries to represent Owan-West Federal Constituency of Edo state speak exclusively with journalists after emerging winner at the primary.
Lookout for the exclusive interview with Patrick Giwa.
The committee drafted to plateau state and over see the conduct of the All Progressive Congress (APC) primary has decried the high percentage of illiteracy among the delegates which has slow down the process of voting.
As he further said that good percentage of the delegates can neither read ,write and identify their candidate on the ballot paper.
The committee chairman stated this in his speech after the declaration of the Northern Senatorial Zone Primary Election held at the Land Field ,Jos South LG 29th May,2022.
He advised the winner of the northern senatorial Zone Primary Ambassador Chris Giwa to set up adult education to improve the level of illiteracy in the zone.
He stressed that the Election would have be more faster if the delegates were educated and they can express themselves both in written and orally, stressed that until something is done fast, it will threaten the nation democracy.
Ambassador Chris Giwa scored 213 votes to emerged the winner of APC northern senatorial zone primary of the state while his closet contestant Mafeng Gwalson, the current seating Chairman of Riyom LG scored 150 votes.
In their separate speech, the two aspirants thank their supporters for standing by them throughout the contest.
It would be recalled that the 3rd aspirant lumuba Dah Adah withdrawn from the contest less than three hours to the election.
The former House of Representatives said he is withdrawing from the race because the results of the election has already be determined by the power that be in the corridor of power.
He further said it will be wast of resources to continue with the election ,but advised his supporters to maintain peace as everything is being handled.
The former House of Representatives Member , honorable Lulumba Dah Adeh has withdrawned his participation in the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) primary Election few hours to the election.
Hon. Lulumba Dah Adeh is vying for the senatorial seat to represent Northern Senatorial Zone of plateau state at the Senate.
The former Rep. Member and Senior Legislative Aid to the Deputy Speaker Ahmed Idris make his intention to withdrawn from the primary Election billed to hold on 28th May,2022 in a press briefing dated 28th May,2022 , personally signed by him and made available to this medium.
The letter which has it caption : Withdrawal From APC Plateau Northern Senatorial Zone Primary Election ,copied to the Governor Simon Lalong, Deputy Speaker of House of Representatives Idris Ahmed, commissioner of police plateau state command,Dss and other relevant authorities , read thus:
“I write to inform you that I have withdrawned from the APC plateau Northern Senatorial district primary Election “.
“The letter further read that the discision was taken after a review of prevailing situation and extensive consultation with stakeholders.”
He further said having consult with his immediate caucus on the happening in the APC primary Election generally ,after deeper and thorough review , in view of the prevailing circumstances surrounding the the party primary Election generally,we have come to the conclusion that it will be to our best interest to withdraw from the execise.
On what will be the feelings of his supporters,he described it as very unfortunate , though difficult as the decision ,I believe my supporters will come to terms with it.
And stressed that it’s needless to go into the election which it final purpose is already determined.
It would be recalled that during the party Governorship Election,not fewer than five aspirants of the party stepped down because they insinuated that the whole execise is a scam.
While some staged walk out when the discovered the primary Election is fraud .
Comrade Mohammed Tanko Shittu an aspirant under the platform of People Redeemtion Party ,is optimistic that he will not only clinched the seat to represent the good people of Jos North-North Constituency in the plateau state house of Assembly, but his party PRP, will spring up suprises to win the majority of seats in the House.
A journalist turned politians Shittu Tanko is currently vying for the seat of state House of Assembly to represent Jos North North Constituency under the platform of PRP is however sure that his aspiration will come to reality come 2023 general election.
The aspirant who is currently the correspondence of “Blue Print Newspaper in Plateau State, said,
“Majority of electorates, have impressed on us, to vie for the seat of Jos North-North Constituency. I hed to their clarion calls and I will provide far-reaching consultative representatuon to make the difference.
“Our aspiration will by the amazing grace of God, not only come to success at the end of the party primary election, but we are optimistic that victory is ours even at the 2023 general elections,” he said.
According to Shittu, the last bye-election into Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency, has proven that the PRP is not only a party to beat, but that majority of constituents are for it.
“The PRP being people oriented political party, is waxing stronger in Plateau State, and we are optimistic that our candidates in both Governorship, and House of Representatives will emerged victorious in the forthcoming 2023 general elections.
“We are getting well prepared to also clinched majority of seats into the House of Assembly,” he enthused.
Comrade Shittu, urged peace loving People of Plateau State, to discard any politician coming their ways, canvassing in the name of ethnicity or religion.
“We should canvassed issues based politics, but not on ethnic or religious cards,” he urged.
Plateau State candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Barr. Caleb Mutfwang said he will bring on board all members of the PDP and Plateau people for the task of restoring the dignity and unity of Plateau state
Mutfwang disclosed this yesterday after his declaration as the Candidate of the PDP for 2023 general election in Plateau State.
“Our great party which I am privilege to be the flag bearer is saddled with responsibility of restoring the dignity of Plateau State.i am happy to inform you that I am prepared to take charge.
” This is anchored on my experience in leadership as former local government chairman, my years in private practice and the resource of untiring party faithful, men and women endowed with special skills sets that will form the bedrock of our rebuilding process.”
Mutfwang described the outcome of the party primaries as a win to all aspirants and who participated in the election and appealed them to join forces in the PDP and deliver during the general election.
“We are all winners and there is no looser. This is our mandate and we shall work together to restore our dignity and reclaim our heritage.
“Without controversy, the enormity of industry, time, labour and resources can only be replenished by God and Almighty. I therefore, pray that God opens a book of remembrance for all our teaming men and Women on the Plateau.”
Mutfwang said the Plateau has witnessed unprecedented misgovernance, retrogression, underdevelopment and loss of confidence in the Plateau spirit.
Dr. Nentanwe Yilwatda has been declared winner of the All Progressive Congress (APC) Governorship Primary Election in plateau state.
The Election held at Langsfield, Rayfield Jos, plateau state on Friday having pulled total votes of 803 to beat the other three aspirants.
According to the Chairman of the electoral Committee, Hon. Habu Ajiya, Nine Aspirants were in the race but five Aspirants later sent their letters of withdrawal from the contest. They are; Sunday Garba Biggs, Dr. Sarpiya Danyaro, Sen. Hezekiah Dimka, Dr. Patrick Dakum and Arch. Fitka.
The chairman further said Four of the Aspirants participated in the election and they are, Garba Pwul SAN, Prof. Sunny Tyoden, Dr. Nentanwe Yilwatda and Hon. Victor David Dimka.
The scores of the aspirants are as followed, Garba Pwul (SAN). 2, Prof. Sunny Tyoden 25, Hon. Victor David Dimka 7.
The Governorship Primaries of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) in Plateau State is currently rocked by crisis as group are insinuating that the whole process lack credibility .
According to an agent whose name is not know at the time of filing this report, alleged that the power that be has already decided the results of the election,as the exercise is a mere smoke screen.
It look the intervention of the security agent comprising the police, civil defense to calm nerves.
Similarly,our report was at St Luke’s primary school venue for the state house of Assembly,the entrance in the venue of the exercise was under lock and key with some security men at the gate disallowed our Reporter entry into the venue.
According to one of them,
“We did not need journalists here”
“You can phone our oga to clear you”.he said.
Although voting is currently in progress.
gnewsreporter will continue to up date you live from the venue of the primaries.
As the APC primary Election is about to commence,it had just been announced that one of the frontline aspirant Sunday Biggs has dropped his ambition for plateau Governorship race.
His withdrawal was announced few minutes ago as voting was about to commence.
With the withdrawal of Biggs who has gone round the whole of the local government in the state for consultation,come as surprise to many.
However,at the time of this reporter the reason for the former protocol to the governor’s action is yet to be know.
This medium promise to up date you as more facts unfolds.
Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has today, Wednesday May 25th, 2022 declared curfew in eight local government of the state as he addressed the people of Anambra State.
The imposition of the curfew dated 25th May ,2022 is contained in a press statement signed by the commissioner of police of the state,CPS Christian Aburime ,and and made available to this medium online in Jos, Plateau State capital.
Below is the full text of his address:
*Peace and Security in Anambra As Our Collective Responsibility*
Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR
Governor, Anambra State
Being Press Statement by Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR (Governor of Anambra State) at a News conference: Awka, Wednesday, 25th May, 2022
Umu nnem, Ndi Anambra!
You employed me to lead the process of building a livable and prosperous homeland. After swearing-in on the 17th March, 2022, I worked for 8 hours and 45 minutes that day and have kept working hard every day to make you proud. A lot is ongoing, and we will report to you in due course. However, we recognized from the first minute that restoring peace and security will be foundational to our larger agenda as a people. We devoted several paragraphs in our inaugural speech to underscore the grave security challenges we inherited (with the deadly criminal gangs largely in occupation of 8 local governments). You may recall that I was attacked by so called “unknown gunmen” while addressing youths at a rally in March 2021 leaving three policemen dead, and indeed hardly any candidate could campaign freely in the seven local governments of the south senatorial zone in 2021. I knew the grave situation, and determined to confront it. I met with the state security council for three and half hours on the first day and there was the consensus to deploy both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches.
While the security agencies have been doing their best with limited resources, we are convinced that sustainable peace and security cannot be achieved without the cooperation and solidarity of the people. Consequently, we went to work to mobilize our people and address the wider socio-economic and legacy issues fueling agitations and insecurity.
We consulted and collaborated with the South East Joint Body of Bishops and traditional rulers; issuing joint statements, with the Joint body of bishops organizing prayers sessions in the entire South East on 4th April, 2022, with the goal of ending the Sit-at-home and ensuring an enduring peace and security in the South East;
We organized Anambra Peace and Security Dialogue, with the leadership of the Christian denominations, town unions, traditional rulers, youth organizations, women, market, and transport unions, as well as political leaders and non-indigenes on XX with a Communique calling for an end to the Sit- at home—and peace and security in the South East on 2nd April, 2022;
We offered the Olive branch to all the armed youths in the forests to come out, surrender their guns and with the commitment that our government would help to retrain and empower them to contribute positively to our development. Our government has, in our proposed revised budget, provided handsomely for youth empowerment.
The official leadership of IPOB also repeatedly issued statements dissociating itself from the senseless and destructive Sit- at home on Mondays etc as well as the kidnappings and criminal actions of gangs in the state and the south east;
We set up the Truth, Justice and Peace Committee, with the goal of getting to the remote and immediate causes of the agitation and criminality, with a view to proffering systematic and lasting solutions;
We have severally again met with town union leaders and traditional rulers; landlords etc, all in the mobilization of the people for lasting peace and security;
True to our commitment to engage with ALL state and non-state actors relevant to the search for lasting peace and security, we visited Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, and he reiterated that he never authorized the senseless Sit at Home, and absolved his organization, IPOB, from the crass criminality especially the barbaric enforcement of the Sit at home and the kidnappings and spilling of blood. Mazi Kanu expressed his willingness to personally address the press to charge his followers to keep the peace. Subsequently, his lawyer issued an official statement confirming this position and his associate also addressed the media in the same vein;
We have also had Town Hall meetings with Ndi Anambra in Lagos and Abuja, and our people are united in their condemnation of the criminality going on in the state and environs, and demonstrated their commitment to join hands with us in solving it.
The list of the public engagements is long (with even a longer list of backroom plans and actions).
Despite the above, the criminal gangs are unrelenting in their desperation to maintain their very lucrative criminal enterprise and expand their other agenda of domination. When the security agencies rooted them out of two of their numerous camps, their reprisals were to burn down the secretariats of two local governments and attack police stations, police and soldiers. Routinely they kidnap for ransom, rape, and murder their victims as well as burn houses and properties. They relish in shooting soft targets, including recently a poor woman frying akara in front of her house on a Monday. Over the past one week, Ndi Anambra and indeed the nation have been treated to the gory stories of the kidnapping and subsequent beheading of Hon Okechukwu Okoye (member of the State House of Assembly) and his aide, Cyril Chiegboka (both from my community, Isuofia) as well as the brutal murder Mrs Harirat Jubril from Adamawa state and her four children and three other northerners. Anambra people have been in shock. This is not who we are. Our deepest condolences are with the families of the various victims. We are working round the clock with the security agencies and the perpetrators must be brought to book.
Let us be very clear. These criminals causing mayhem in Anambra, albeit of disparate groups and gangs, are Igbos (dominantly from other South East states) whose real objective is lucrative criminality and foisting their idolatrous religion on the region. Unfortunately, every criminal gang (including cult groups) claims to be a “liberation movement”, making it difficult to differentiate between any genuine agitators from criminals. Unfortunately also, the criminals now dominate the space. Anambra is the prime target because that is the most lucrative location for kidnapping for ransom in the South East. With their immense propaganda machine funded largely by their sponsors abroad, they have tried everything to indoctrinate the people with all kinds of false emotive narratives, and divert attention from their real objectives. They claim to be “fighting for the people”, and yet randomly kill the same people, destroying their livelihood, and stopping their children from going to school. What has agitation to do with kidnappings including kidnapping of priests of God, invasion of churches and tabernacles including desecration of the Alters of God? Why is it that everywhere they gather and in every camp they operate, there is a Deity/idol to which they routinely offer blood in sacrifice? From accounts of those kidnapped and later freed the stench of dead bodies in the camps cry up to heaven. We see videos of them and their idol worship; we note their threats to priests and bishops, including threatening to take over some churches?
The truth is that this tiny minority (certainly far less than 0.1% of us), is bent upon challenging the foundation of the things that make us who we are:
Enterprise: We are known for our enterprise but these people are bent on killing our businesses by the forceful Sit at home; kidnapping for ransom; forceful taxation of communities, businesses, and individuals; etc;
Christianity: The people of the South East, especially Anambra, are predominantly Christians. But with this gang, idolatry is back with vengeance. They forcefully try to convert people, especially the young ones to idolatry by initiating them into cults, swearing oaths to their Deities, etc with the promise of invincibility. Consequently, these youths join them as members and informants.
Desecration of our culture: Spilling of the blood of the innocent is considered an abomination by our culture and by our Christian religion. We understand that they kill and harvest human organs for rituals and human sacrifice in their so called camps.
With their new religion of idolatry and deadly weapons which they use to kill at random, they have tried to create a culture of fear and silence. More recently, the people have begun to question their propaganda, motive and means and they know that they have lost the sympathy of the people. That explains why they desperately tried to ignite a national inter-ethnic crisis by killing some innocent northerners who have lived peacefully in our state for decades to divert attention from their criminality and then seek to re-brand themselves as “defenders of the people”. They have failed, and will continue to fail. Millions of our people live in the North and other parts of Nigeria, and Anambra people are known for their uncommon hospitality. In most homes in Anambra, non-indigenes live happily as tenants or as landlords, pursuing their legitimate businesses and this won’t change. We pride ourselves as the Light of the Nation, and Anambra will continue to be a land of opportunity for every Nigerian as well as non-Nigerians. We will continue to work hard with security agencies to ensure security of life and property in our state.
Umu nnem, Ndi Anambra!
The hour has come for us to step up our game, and take back our state. The tiny but vicious gangs that have invaded our state and terrorize us are mostly in eight local governments in Anambra and three neighboring local governments in Imo State. They are in our forests, communities, and houses owned by individuals. They don’t come from the air, and hence are not “unknown” gunmen. They are known. You know them, but are either too scared to speak up or out of indifference. But for how long will you be silent while our people continue to be killed in the most cruel and barbaric manner? It is because we have remained ambivalent, opting to sit on the fence rather than take a stand against an obvious evil, that has made a minor sore to fester so cancerously. The hour has now come, and we must rise up to take our destiny in our hands. Everyone, indeed, everyone has a role to play. While we continue to commit Anambra unto the hands of God, we as a people must rise up to clean and cleanse our land. The security agencies will continue to do their part, but we the people, must proclaim that Enough is Enough and demonstrate full ownership. Consequently, as complementary measures to the efforts of the security agencies, our government has decided on the following immediate steps:
Once again, we are releasing several telephone numbers for the public to report any criminality or suspicious conducts. These phone numbers are managed in my office (in strictest confidentiality). Call us, or text (SMS or WhatsApp), and we will respond expeditiously. The phone numbers are:
09017280990
07039896429
09167514891
09076237441
09168041120
08093175528
08124153139
In addition to the N10 million cash reward we placed on those who gruesomely murdered Hon Okechukwu Okoye and his aide, we are also offering a cash reward of AT LEAST One Million (N1,000,000) to anyone who provides useful information leading to the arrest of any of the leaders or members of these criminal gangs including those who support them financially or in kind, and all those enforcing the illegal Sit-at-Home order, or anyone involved in the kidnapping, murder, and arson, or access to the camps where the criminals operate from. The bounty will depend upon the profile of the criminal: their leaders will attract higher amounts. Similar bounty will be paid to anyone who gives information about anyone or location where hard drugs (especially “Mkpulu mmili”) are manufactured in the state. The State Government hereby assures any informant of confidentiality in this process and would not disclose your identities or contact.
With effect from tomorrow, Friday, 26th May, 2022, a 6pm to 6am curfew is hereby placed on motorcycles (okada), tricycles (keke), and shuttle buses in Aguata, Ihiala, Ekwusigo, Nnewi North, Nnewi South, Ogbaru, Orumba North and Orumba South Local Governments until further notice. Until further notice also, motorcycles, keke and shuttle buses are banned from operating in these local governments on Mondays until the Sit-at-Home completely stops. The youths of every community in the zone are hereby enjoined to assist the security agencies in the implementation of this policy and are mandated to seize any such motorcycle or tricycle on the spot. Local Vigilantes should report such motorcycles or tricycles (keke) immediately, and they will be confiscated by government and the owner prosecuted. The Okada, Keke, and shuttle bus union leaders must take responsibility to report their members who are involved in criminal activities. We shall review this after two weeks, and if members of these unions continue to be involved in criminal activities, the government will have no choice but to either disband the Unions and/or ban them out rightly in the state.
No part of Anambra State (house, bush or forest) shall be used as camps for these criminals. Anyone with a gun in a camp is considered a criminal in Anambra State, and the government and people will work with security agencies to flush them out. The State Government shall pursuant to its powers under the Land Use Act revoke and acquire any land found to be harboring these criminals, for public purpose. Henceforth, every community is required to provide information on any part of their land occupied by these criminals as camps. If the community fails to do so, the government will take over such land.
All communities are hereby charged to take over their communities completely and through the leadership of their Town Unions and Traditional Rulers give weekly security reports (submitted every Friday) to the State Government on the state of security in their communities. The cooperation of the youths in that regard is now imperative. I charge the vigilantes of each community to rise to the occasion and contend with these criminals in your locality whether they are in your bush or the houses in your community. The State Government expects the report of any progress made in this regard and shall support and reward you accordingly.
Any buildings found to be harboring these kidnappers and murderers who have laid siege on our State will, as provided by Criminal Code (Amendment No.3) Law 2013, be forfeited to the State Government. To that extent, all landlords are hereby directed to proceed on “Operation Know Your Tenant” by keeping appropriate records of their tenants and report anyone suspected of being involved in criminal activities. Each community leadership must keep full register of all tenants in their communities, their occupation, etc and keep an eye on their activities. The State Government shall as an emergency measure, disband the leadership of any community which fails to report criminal activities in their communities or immediately respond to the requests contained in this address.
All market leaders and stakeholders are hereby charged to join the communities in taking back their territory and monitor the activities in their markets. They are all required to return weekly security reports to the State Government.
Everybody who either in person or through telephone calls demands cash support or ransom from anyone in furtherance of any criminal activities or groups should immediately be reported to the government via the telephone lines provided.
All transporters, i.e, bus drivers, shuttle drivers, tricycle (keke) and motorcycle (okada) riders must immediately report any suspicious passengers. Because it has come to the knowledge of the State Government that over 80% of transport operators use fake plate numbers and identities, all transport operators must henceforth re-register their vehicles, tricycles and motorcycles with their valid means of identification and their biometrics captured. This exercise shall immediately be commenced and anyone who defaults in doing that after four weeks from today would be treated as a suspect and adequate measures taken against him or her.
All hotels are directed to obtain the means of identification of their guests and keep an inventory of all guests in their hotels. The management of the hotels should immediately report any suspicious persons or group of persons checking into or converging in their hotels. Immediate sanctions would attend any dereliction in that regard, including possibly shutting down or demolition of such hotels.
All fuel stations are hereby directed to, within 4 weeks from today, place surveillance cameras in their stations and keep the records generated by those cameras in order to assist the State Government, when required, in tracking these criminals who inevitably fuel their vehicles at fuel stations.
Finally, let me urge our people to remain calm. This season shall pass. The God of Anambra assures that we shall overcome the forces of darkness. Indeed, this tough beginning foretells of a more glorious future. We thank all the stakeholders in the Anambra project, and particularly thank the security agencies for their determination and sacrifice. We enjoin our religious leaders to continue to lift up the state in prayers and to also mobilize our people as they fight evil in our land. Together, we shall take back our state and make it the true Light of the Nation.
The vice president of Federal Republic of Nigeria and the presidential aspirant under the All Progressive Congress (APC), professor Yemi Osinbajo has said his meeting with the stakeholders of the party,and the delegates is fruitful as it availed them discuss wide range of issues ranging from Security, Economic, Health and other issues.
As the interface with this critical Party
stakeholders,and the delegates is very helpful as we were able to understand ourselves, which is very helpful and very robust engagement with this group of people,and they were very happy.
Vice President Yemi Osinbajo who is in Jos to interface with the party stakeholders, revealed this during an interview with journalists in Jos plateau state ahead 2023, general election.
He stressed that in the causes of the interactive section which was held in close door for over 30-40 minutes , the presidential aspirant said many wide range of issues where raised, to proffer solution.
He agreed that the government of APC, has failed the country woofully in all facet of live endeavor said if given the opportunity to serve,he will straighten the current economic problems, provision of health care system and bring education back to it feets.
He said it’s acceptable fact that APC has taken the nation far back 20 years , but agreed that in every challenges, their must
be solution, which he said the national Inter stand from nanma.
The visit of the presidential aspirant was greeted with mammoth crowed including those who traveled fron their various local government ,and where at the new government house the venue of the program as early as 9am.
Presidential Aspirant under the All Progressive Congress (APC),and former minister of solid minerals Dr. Kayode Fayem had condenmed the illegal minerals exploration going on in Wase local government of plateau state, and it surrounding without corresponding development in the community in particular and Plateau State as a whole.
Fayemi frowned at the Nigeria constitution which gives the government absolute power to the federal government on solid minerals exploration irrespective of where they are discovered ,the section of constitution have leave the state and communities where this commodity are found vulurable and impoverish with little or nothing to show for God gift natural resources deposed in their domains.
The governor of Ekiti state Dr Kayode Fayemi, currently vying for presidential position in the forthcoming 2023 general election, was in Jos to meet with the stakeholders of the ruling APC in the state ahead delegates Elections of the party coming up soon.
He said when he became the president,l will give consideration to the states where solid minerals are found to have a say in the exploration of their God gift endowment and allow the dividend to reflect in the state or communities.
He condenmed the recent operating constitution where the solid minerals is in exclusive list which gives the federal government to have exclusive rights over
the control of the minerals deposit irrespective of the area it’s discovered, promised that under his watch as president of the federal republic of Nigeria,I will ensure that the law is reviewed to accommodate the yearning of the weeping state in the current Exclusive practice.
And recalled that when he was minister of solid minerals ,I ensured that states with minerals deposit, created their own solid minerals development cooperation , which plateau state was one of them.
And added that to ensure smooth take off of the program,his administration set up special purpose vehicle , signed the necessary documents for the affected States.
During the period under review,I fought with Chinese expatriates illegally exploring minerals deposit in Wase local government of Plateau State under the company name “Compani Zurak”.
I got some of them arrested , took them to Abuja where they were detailed for onwards trial.
Fayemi however lamented that some notable People in the state ,under the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) colluded with these Foreigners to cause economic damage to the state and the country at large.
And added that with these natural resources the LG of Wase is blessed with, nothing to show for it ,as the place is deviod of development with no good roads, cottage hospital, potable water, schools and other essential amenities that makes lives Worth living.
Promised that such dehumanizing constitution will not allow to continue under my watch as president of the country.
He decried the inequality in Nigeria where the rich is getting richer, and the poor are getting poorer which the chairman governor’s form said is very bad for the country which is one of the reasons for insecurity an other crimes in the country.
He said unless the fundamental causes of crime and criminality are address, Nigeria as a nation may just be prosponing the evil day.
He reiterated the need to bridge the gap between the have and the have not ,and improve the need of the vulurable poor in our society, which will go along way in addressing the issues of crimes and criminality which is synonymous to insecurity.
He said with his knowledge he has garner over the years,and doctorate in security studies which is priority issues,the Nigeria should be rest assured that when he became the president ,he will change the narrative for good,but these can only work by technical expertise ,as God have given me the capacity ,competent , commitment, integrity and international exposure.
Fayemi make it clear to the party stakeholders in attendant,and the delegates that he is not saying he must be the presidential candidate of the party by hook or crook.
I am in the state to bring to the table what I have in stock for the Nigeria ,I am only pleading to you and recognize what I am bringing to table,by way of experience , knowledge , capacity and by way of understanding the Nigeria predicament and proffer solution that work.
“I feel that you owned the power ,as the party stakeholders, you have the authority ,if you don’t invest it in me ,I can speak from now till tomorrow and it will amount to”Long Grammar “of no use.”
Hon.Patrick Giwa has emerged the People’s Democratic party (PDP)flag bearer in Owan-West primaries in Edo state to represent the Constituency in the House of Representatives.
Patrick emerged the winner of the keenly contested primaries on the 22nd May ,2022 in the state ahead 2023 general election .
Patrick Giwa who is the immediate past Clark of the House of Representatives retired in 2020,hailed form Uzebba in Owan-West LG of Edo state.
He was however called by his Constituency to contest for the position considering his enormious effort in influencing some vitals projects to his Constituency when he holds sway as Clark of the house.
The victory of Hon.patrick today at the primary election is primary for the good people of Owan-West Constituency who want to vote for people oriented projects and development,one of the delegates maintained.
One of the people of the Constituency who spoke with this medium on condition of anonymity , said “we are tired of the deceit of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) who has bring nothing to the people of Nigeria ,and Edo state in particular ,than hardship.”
He complained that under the APC led government he can no longer send his children to school, even to eat three square meal daily is a big problems.
And further said APC is a party of deceit who tell the people of Nigeria a lot of lies to get to power, when they got there,they become vampire practically socking the blood of the people of Nigeria because of hunger,lack of availability of essential basic amenities.
And however thank Almighty God for giving them the like of Hon. Giwa to the rescue the Constituency,and charged the electorates to overwhelmingly vote him in 2023 general election because he will charge the Narratives of Owan-West Constituency history for the better
The Special Task Force Operation Safe Haven has graduated another set of trained 122 vigilantes youths in the Southern Kaduna on 21st May,2022 to assist the security agencies to ensure security of hinterland communities in Sanga Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
Delivering his remarks, the Special Guest of Honour, Commander Operation Safe Haven, Major General Ibrahim Ali charged the youth to take the lead in ensuring timely security information get to the security agencies for prompt action.
Represented by the Deputy Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, Deputy Commissioner of Police Mohammed Rabiu, the commander urged the youth to always collaborate with their community leaders to fish out criminal elements from the societies. He charged the trained Vigilantes to be good ambassadors of their communities and discharge their duty effectively devoid of sentiment. “You must embibe the tenant of equality, fairness and neutrality in discharging your duty.” he averred.
General Ali further charged the community leaders to support, monitor the activities of the vigilantes and check their excess.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Commander Forward Operating Base Sanga Kaduna state, Major Mohammed Galadima said the essence of the training was to create security awareness among the youth whom he described as vanguard of peaceful coexistence and development in the society.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Chieftaincy Affairs, Kaduna State, Mallam Abba Abubakar, the depute Governor Kaduna state said the state has fashioned out measures towards ensuring security of lives and properties in Southern kaduna communities. He commended Operation SAFE HAVEN for the initiative to engage the youth in the security affairs of their communities. Mallam Abba disclosed that Kaduna state will leave no stone unturned towards supporting initiatives towards lasting peace in the state.
Also speaking, the Chairman Sanga Local Government, Hon Bisalla Mallam while congratulating the trainees urged them never to betray the trust imposed on them.
Highlight of the event was the taking of oath by the trainees and presentation of award to those who distinguished themselves during the training. Cultural display and colourful match pass parade in honour of the Special Guest of Honour was also observed.
The Plateau State Governor , Simon Bako Lalong had advised the Berom Nation to work towards preserving it culture to avoid it being extinct that are today threatening some of our cultural heritage.
An advised the Socio Cultural group to constantly use the platform to engage and advise his people how important it will benefit them as organisation , and in dividual for them to be Involve in active politics.
Governor Lalong gives the advice at the 2022 Nzem Berom Cultural Festival Celebration held on Friday 20th May,2022 at the Rwang Pam Township Stadium Jos,plateau State.
Governor Lalong said the theme of this year “Nzem Berom” 2022 Cultural Festival tagged “Celebrating Berom In Politics” is very apt particularly now the political activities towards 2023 General Election is on top gear,is imperative to use this opportunity to call on the Berom nation to continue to participate in the political discourse in Plateau State and also mobilise the citizens to actively participate in politics.
We must teach the younger generation politics of service anchored on the right values emanating from our cultures and traditions that will foster honesty, accountability, tolerance, love and service to humanity,these are all attributes that the Berom man and woman are known for.
He appealed to the Berom nation and indeed the entire socio-cultural groups in Plateau State to do all within their power to ensure that there is no room for criminals who apart from causing havoc and destruction, seek to sow the seeds of hatred and division among the people. As diverse as the 53 ethnic groups in Plateau State may be, we have a long standing reputation for love, hospitality, harmony and tolerance.
Further advised them not to allow anyone use religion, politics or ethnicity to create division and destabilise our State.
And add that in the past 7 years, our Rescue Administration has committed so much resources and time to boosting security, building peace and encouraging reconciliation and forgiveness.
The result has been wonderful as more people who had left Plateau State or were afraid of coming into the State now do so with rest of mind.
Lalong gives the assurances that his administration we continue to pursue peace and enhance the capacity of the security forces to deal with criminals that attack our people without any cause. Working with the traditional institutions and Community Development Associations such as BECO, we shall always empower vigilante and neighbourhood watch groups to assist in gathering intelligence and exposing criminals who seek to terrorize our people. There will never be a safe haven for criminals in Plateau State under my watch.
He stressed that as part of his government commitment to fairness, justice and pursuit of inclusion and harmony, I recently approved the creation of creation of 268 Districts and Village Areas as well as 2 Chiefdoms. I also restored 3 others (2nd Class) as well as approved the grading of 5 others on 3rd Class Status. I am happy to say that all the 3 restored are in Berom land while 2 of the graded ones are also in Berom land. This is in addition to many new Districts and Village Areas that have been created across the Berom nation.
And urged the plateau citizens to see this development as part of the efforts by the Rescue Administration to increase inclusivity, unity, peace, harmony and development. This gesture of Government should not in any way be misconstrued or politicised for creating acrimony, division and disaffection. Government will not tolerate any act that misrepresents its intention and promotes oppression, hatred and disharmony.
Lalong further said is not unmainful that not all the wishes of the various groups have been met in this phase of the approved Districts, Chiefdoms and Village Areas, there is no need to be despondent or get bitter because this is an ongoing process that will be revisited in the nearest future where any perceived shortcoming can be addressed. Nobody should begin to incite people or generate imaginary trouble.
However thank the Berom nation for their support to his administration, and assured that his administration shall continue to carry out projects and programmes that will improve the living standards of the people.
“We have demonstrated this by completing many inherited projects such as the General Hospital and Trauma Centre in Riyom abandoned since 2005 as well as initiated new ones. Many have been completed and others at the verge of completion. Among them are various Legacy Projects that consist of World Class Schools and Hospitals throughout Berom land. With your support, we shall achieve our dream for a better Plateau.”
He used the celebration to congratulate His Royal Majesty the Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Jacob Gyang Buba, the Berom Traditional Council, Berom Educational and Cultural Organisation (BECO), the organisers of this year’s festival and the entire sons and daughters of Plateau State for staging another fantastic event. It goes without saying that Plateau State is indeed blessed in all ramifications.
And pay tributes to great political actors from the Berom land that have played and are still playing very crucial roles in the development of Plateau State and Nigeria.
“Some of them include Da D.B. Zang, Da Patrick Dokotri, Ngo Sarah Dokotri, Ngo Hannatu Chollom, Da Bature Dangyang,
Da P.D. Pwajok, Hon. Edward Pwajok, SAN Da Toma Jang Davou, Da John Wash Pam, Da Anthony Bingel, Ngo Mary Princewell, Da Michael Bot-Mang, Da Jonah David Jang, Col. David Dungs, Da Gyang Dantong, Senator I.D. Gyang, Hon. Simon Mwadkon, Senator Davou D.B Zang, Ngo Naomi Jugu, Da Barnabas Dusu, Da Jonah Madugu, Da P.D. Gyang and the Chairman of our great party (APC) Da Rufus Bature among others. “
Ahead 2023 presidential delegates Election, Plateau state has endorsed the immediate minister of transport,Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi as their sole presidential candidate.
This to reciprocate the good gesture of Amaechi for his numerous humantian and assistance to the people of plateau state for the registration of APC in the state, and financial assistance when they were in dare need of it , during the troublelent period.
Governor Bako Lalong stated this in his welcome address during the visit of the former Governor of River State and immediate past minister of transport Hon.Rotimi Amaechi on Thursday 19th May 2022 held at Victoria Gowon Conference Hall New Government House Little Rayfiled , Jos, plateau State.
Amaechi who is presidential Aspirant for 2023 General Election ,was in plateau to meet with the state delegates and solicit for their votes ahead the forthcoming APC primaries Elections.
Governor Lalong assured Amaechi that he doesn’t have anything to fear as regards to garnering votes in the state as they have agreed within them that their votes will not be casted for any other Aspirant expect Amaechi for his support to the people of plateau during trying time.
Lalong said like the popular saying that one good turn deserves another, because Rotimi Amaechi came to the rescue of the people of plateau when they needed assistance, it’s time for the people of the state to pay back to avoid being an ingrate full of ingratitude.
Going memory lane,the governor remember how the presidential Aspirant footed the bills of the registration of APC as political party in the in the three North Central zones of the country with plateau among,he also revealed that some of the presidential approval to the state projects,was facilitated by Amaechi even when the state were conspicuously represented at the federal cabinet.
Governor Lalong remained the delegates that Amaechi becoming the next president of Nigeria will be a great advantage to the state because is going to open widows of development to the state because the relationship between the state and the president has already been established.
He charged the presidential Aspirant to ensure he gives the plateau state railway projects expendious attention when he become the president of Federal Republic of Nigeria.
In his speech, Amaechi told the delegates that he was in the State to seek their support and mandate to fly the flag of the party in 2023 because he has the competence and capacity to tackle the challenges of the nation.
He take the delegates to his records of service as two-term Speaker and Governor of Rivers State, Former Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum, Former Minister of Transport and former Chairman, Conference of Speakers in Nigeria.
He said his relationship with Plateau State runs deep as he has worked with major stakeholders of the State over the years and promoted the interests of the State particularly during the administration of Governor Simon Bako Lalong with whom he shares close friendship.
Amaechi assured the people of Plateau State that the security and development issues of the State will be given priority when he becomes President of Nigeria.
In a session conducted by the Speaker Plateau State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Yakubu Sanda, Majority leader of the House Hon. Naanlong Daniel moved a motion that the delegates adopt Rt. Hon. Amaechi as the aspirant to be supported by Plateau delegation. Hon. Baba Hassan seconded the motion which was unanimously carried.
Ahead 2023 General Election,the opposition party, the people Democratic party (PDP) has debunked the insinuation that the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) is the only party with credible candidates that can change the political , social economic mess the party under the leadership of Mohammadu Buhari led government has committed during his tenure as president.
He said there is no credible candidates in the ruling APC, contrary to the party bogus claimed that those left in the failed party ,who has crumbled the economic of Nigeria and other facets of the country, are looters of the public funds and impositions of candidates.
The chairman of People Democratic party (PDP) in Jos North local government of plateau state, Hon.Aminu Abdullahi stated this in an exclusive interview with journalists in Jos, plateau state recently.
He lamented how the APC, led government has bastardized the socio economic of Nigeria since they assumed power in 2015 till date.
“Since the arrival of APC government in 2015 till date ,so many things in the government went wrong,many hitherto on going projects initiated by PDP government by the last administration where deliberately abandoned, those are people oriented projects which started during the people Democratic party (PDP) government led by David Jonah Jonah Jang, with the coming APC,many abandoned projects littered all over the state in particular,and Nigeria as a whole.
He gives an instance of road projects in some communities in the state which connected gengere,Rikkos and other plateau North which started during the PDP administration , till this moment the projects is yet to be completed ,it has been abandoned by the APC government in the state led by Governor Bako Lalong, which has brought untold hardship to the people residing in the area and it’s environs with health complications occasion from the inhaling of dust from the abandoned road by APC government.
He said the People Democratic Party (PDP), has achieved a lot not only in Jos North but the entire Plateau and Nigeria in general.
“When you go round the whole state , Jos North in particular ,you will see for yourself the achievement of PDP administration ,the party started all the projects , but when APC came on board,they abandoned laundable projects even when it has direct bearing to the lives of common man.”
“Those projects are not hear say,you can feel them,and you can see them for yourself without no too much explainations”.
He stressed that the PDP Senator representing Jos North constituency in the National Assembly I.D Gyang has embarked and completed many projects in the Constituency which are visible for every body to see.
And further add that the Senator has built schools cut across the Constituencies, seek bolehole for many communities that were having challenges of portable drinking water, linked many communities to national grid and provide electricity to many hitherto without electricity ,clinic and people oriented projects across the Constituencies.
He add that the only PDP member in the state house of Assembly and a woman representing Jos North West ,Hon. Esther Dusu has also make the people of his Constituency to feel the impart of her representation in the Assembly within the shortest period she held sway in the house ,as she has provided her Constituent with people oriented projects.
Alhaji Aminu highlighted the failures of the Buhari led APC as he said the leadership of the party under Buhari is full with many deficiencies,set back , right from top to bottom, stressed that since the party assumed office in 2015 ,some of the enssential goods like egg, Garri and other food stuffs skyrocket above the reach of average Nigerians.
When the party came into power in 2015,the exchange rate was between 95-98 to America Dollar , but seven years of APC government , a Dollar is almost 700 naira to 1 dollar.
The Buhari APC government came on board with mindset of borrowing with no motives behind the borrowing, today Nigeria is one of the most indebted country in the world,so when you talk of progress,in what way, but they are claiming that they are progressing,but they are progressing to oppress the people of Nigeria.
He decried the absence of farm lmpliment like fertilizer even when the raining season for farming season is at hand .
” The Federal government said everybody should go to the farm , today everybody is crying ,no fertilizer for farming as the price of the commodity is now between 15,000 naira per bag.”
Aminu compared the period to the administration of PDP, during the period, administration ensured the price of the commodity is strictly monitored and any body find selling the commodity in an open market ,the long arm of the law will caught up with them as against the happening now under APC
He faulted the non-challant attitude of president Buhari who has not for one day go out to see for himself what the people of Nigeria are going through.
I am not even sure that president Buhari know what the people of Nigeria are going through under his government,he just seat at the presidential villia while lies are been told to him.
And debunked the insinuation that the vice president Professor Yemi Osinbajo is the most credible candidates for the next president of the country and said on the contrary Osinbajo is one of the country leader that has misappropriated the country money under the quess of the so called market money.
“If he can’t be able to handle the small responsibility given to him to over see the disbursement of funds for poor market women let alone Nigeria as a whole.”
“They are there to loot public funds,impose people on others”
On the recent face off in the party , Alhaji Abdullahi said those members causing disaffection within the party are those whose their second name are impunity.
They are those who don’t want things to be done in the lay down rules and guidelines enshrined in country constitution and the party constitution.
He said the party is for everybody irrespective of tribes, religion,and ethnic linage.
The Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has approved the creation of 268 Districts and Village Areas as well as 2 Chiefdoms. He also restored 3 others (2nd Class) as well as approved the grading of 5 others on 3rd Class Status.
The details released by the Secretary to the Government of the State Prof. Danladi Atu indicate that the newly created Chiefdoms are Lamba Chiefdom in Wase Local Government (3rd class) and Menkaat Chiefdom in Shendam Local Government (3rd class).
Those restored are: Da-Gwom Rwei, Barkin Ladi LGA (2nd class); Da-Gwom Rwei (Gyel) Jos South LGA (2nd class); and Da-Gwom Rwei (Riyom) Riyom LGA (2nd class).
Those that have been graded are: Gwom Rwei Kabong, Jos North LGA (3rd class); Gwom Rwei Zawan, Jos South LGA (3rd class); Ponzhi Bwarat, Langtang North LGA (3rd class); Ponzhi Gani (Sa) 3rd class; and Ponzhi Tumwat, Langtang North LGA (3rd class).
The breakdown of the 268 Districts per Local Government Areas are as follows:
1. Barkin Ladi 17
2. Bassa 19
3. Bokkos 17
4. Jos East 10
5. Jos North 15
6. Jos South 14
7. Kanam 20
8. Kanke 11
9. Langtang North 16
10. Langtang South 7
11. Mangu 22
12. Mikang 10
13. Pankshin 23
14. Qua’an Pan 16
15. Riyom 12
16. Shendam 22
17. Wase 17
The Governor also approved the grading of old existing District Heads to Senior District Heads.
The approval for the Chiefdoms and Districts by the Governor follows the review of the Report on the Creation of Chiefdoms, Districts and Village Areas in Plateau State constituted on 20th October 2020 headed by Chief D.G. Fompun.
Details of the names of the new Districts and Village Areas will be released by the office of the Secretary to the Government of the State.
The Governor urges the citizens to see this development as part of the efforts by his Rescue Administration to increase inclusivity, unity, peace, harmony and development.
He advises against politicisation of the action and warns against any attempt by some persons to use it for creating acrimony division and disaffection.
The Berom Traditional Council has send stained warming to all the politians vying for various positions in the state in the forthcoming 2023 General Election,to conduct themselves with decorum and don’t use the platform of Ezem Berom Celebration festival coming up 20th May 2022 as campaign Venue .
The the warning is contained in a press statement dated 18th May 2023 ,and signed by the organizing committee of the cultural organization and made available to this medium in Jos,plateau State capital.
According to the released signed by the organising committee, the Cultural body stated thus: Berom Traditional Council and the Nzem Berom Central Planning Committee welcomes all invited guests to its 2022 festival of arts and culture holding Friday 20 May.
Being a non partisan activity, politicians and aspirants are to note that open campaigning and flagging of banners of whatever nature at the venue will not be allowed.
The statement further advised by the Media and Publicity Committee on behalf of the Central Planning Committee politicians to reign in their supporters not to give any political coloration to the event.
An equivocator Reverend Father Bishop Kukah,has again reiterated his call for the ending of a Nation Nigeria to people the ample opportunity to go and development themselves.
This is because of the uncertainty that has beclouded the country with no one never been as unsure of Nigeria future as I am now………
The Bishop was writing to bring to fore the level of the people of Nigeria preparedness compared to other nations of the world immediately after independent in 1960.
He stressed that after independence, in order to build a great nation, each country went to work,but in Nigeria, after independence, our people went to pray and fast.
So, while we were praying, Malaysia came here and took our palm seedlings and build a great factory of it.
While we were praying, Singapore went into investment in technology.
While we were praying, India went into ICT.
While we were praying, China went to massive industrialization.
While we were shouting Allah Alakuba! UAE went into massive infrastructural development.
While we were binding and casting Lucifer, Japan went into technological development.
While we were speaking in tongues, Denmark went into education of her citizens.
While we were mounting big speakers in our places of worship, USA was mounting man on the moon.
After our prayers, God, being a wise God decided to reward us according to our labour.
Since those that went into industrialization, technology, infrastructural development, ICT, education etc had been rewarded accordingly. It’s only wise God rewards us with our efforts in prayers.
That’s why today, Nigerian pastors are competing in building the biggest churches. That’s why there are more prayer houses and worship places than hospitals and schools. That’s why people rush to prayer houses for medical and business solutions instead of hospitals.
That’s why we don’t do business proposals before jumping into business since we are going to back it up with prayers. And when such collapse, we blame devil.
That’s why it’s a sin to say anything negative about pastors and imams.
That’s why our pastors don’t consider the opinion of engineers while building and blame devil when the building collapsed.
That’s why faith in God replaces building pillars and when it collapsed we blame it on Lucifer.
That’s why our pastors are making sure they plant church branches instead of schools in every street in Nigeria.
That’s why we always wait for God to do that which ability to accomplish He has already handed over to us.
That’s why we want our teachers to labour on earth and come to heaven for their rewards.
Nigeria is a prayer loving, God fearing nation. Religion has taken the place of technology, infrastructure, education and all.
When we are traveling, we ignore all the necessary road requirements, servicing of our vehicles and pray. And, once we pray, we can put a half fit vehicle on the road and blame our step mother or mother in law if anything goes wrong.
That’s why there are more people dying on our roads than wild life animals in the wilderness.
Because, we pray and fast and leave everything to God when God has given us all we need to survive and build a nation…….
As All Progressive Congress (APC) plateau state chapter commenced it screening of candidates for the state house of Assembly ahead the party primaries, most of the candidates who has so far scaled through the much awaited screening said they are very hopeful to clinched the position .
Nandi Zipporah vying for the state house of Assembly to represent Pankshin South Constituency launded the screening, said is very fast the way and manner is being handled.
Miss Zipporah said she is very hopeful of victory in the state primaries because she sees herself as the best candidates for the position of house Assembly to represent the constituency.
She promised to provide the people of her constituents with people oriented projects hitherto lacking in the areas.
Similarly,
Jerry Dalyop Gwom who is vying for Bariki Ladi state constituency, said he is hopeful that he will be victorious in the contest because of deeply participation in youth activism.
And called on the delegates to vote the right person , because I know I am the right person for the position.
Elizabeth Izang who is also running for the position of state house of Assembly said he is the best in the position and promised to change the narrative of his constituency for the better if given the mandate.
While Ramat Adam ,Jos North-North Constituency in the state house of Assembly promised to change the liveihold of the women folk in his constituency who is not been carried along in the schemes things because of their sex.
And promised to provide the Constituency with people oriented projects.
Hon.Temkat Peter said he was happy with the screening so done by the screening committee, and stressed that he is hopeful that he will be favour by the primaries result.
Only the APC state house of Assembly aspirants where screened at the party state Secretariat , while the National Assembly and Governorship candidate were to be screened in Abuja.
The presidential aspirant under People Democratic party (PDP) in plateau state is in serious trouble with the pen profession in the state as he walked the journalists out of the venue.
The Former vice president who is currently vying for president was in Jos to meet the party stakeholders and delegates of the party ahead It delegates election coming up soonest.
Atiku who was billed to be in the state by 11 a:m fainally arrived at the party Secretariat about some minutes after 2 pm with most of his campaign teams looking very hostile with the journalists who have been waiting for his coming since 11 in the morning when they heard the news of his visit.
Immediately the Adamawa born former Vice president was ushered to the venue, he stood up with air of authority, and publicly announced to the patiently waiting watch dog of the society , journalists that he only come to see the stakeholders of the Party and delegates ,not the journalists who he emphantically said are not important to him at this point , he maintained.
The former Senator representing Ningi constituency in Bauchi State reiterated the statement of the presidential aspirant that he didn’t need journalists,as they are not important to him becoming president or any other political position.
At this point his hostile looking security agencies started brandishing their guns telling the broadcast media to dismantle their tripods , Camera and ordered journalists to move out of the venue or have themself to blame.
As the pushing was going on with the security agencies some of the micro phone belonging to some media houses where damage and become impotent , can’t work again.
The surprised action of Atiku to the journalists has cleared why the former president Olusengun Obasanjo is always against his candidature that he is arrogant, full of himself,and not a reliable leader Nigeria can put their hope on.
If PDP who is trying to come back to power in 2023 should have the like of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar in his political fold, l am sorry to say is going to smear another political doom for PDP, said one of the aggrieved members.
The Governor of Sokoto state,and the Presidential aspirant under the People Democratic party (PDP) in 2023 General Election Aminu Twanbuwal promised to fight insecurity currently bedeviling the country to a stand still .
As he said the recent security bridge in Sokoto following the inhuman killing of Deborah Yakubu student of Shehu Shagari College of Education, Sokoto for blastphemy is very unfortunate and condenmed in strong terms and described those behind the dastardly act as non adherence to the Holy Koran and not of Muslims faith.
The former speaker of the house of Representatives was speaking at the People Democratic party (PDP), Secretariat opposite Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) office in plateau state during his visit to declared his intention to run for president .
Governor Aminu Tambuwal represented by his DG campaign Tunde Ogbeha apologized for the inability of the presidential aspirant to be present in person, which is due to security bridge in Sokoto following the killing of miss Daborah Yakubu , student of Shehu Shagari College of Education , Sokoto for alleged blastphemy.
He further said hi Excellency been a caring leadership that hold the lives and properties of citizens in high esteem irrespective of tribal , religious and enthic colouration have to stay behind to monitor the development and give further directives to security agencies to put the uprising under control to avoid breakdown of law and order in the state and it environs.
Obgeha added that he choose to accept the DG campaign position to the governor for his presidential ambition because I know him to be man of integrity and intellect to led this country and Chang the narrative.
Tambuwal is a detribalised Nigeria with high level of religious telorant , that has friends of different faith across the country.
He outlined the personal credentials of the former speaker of the house of Representatives to include, heading sway as the member house of Representatives for Twelve years , one time speaker of the house of Representatives and managed the legislature very well ,as lawyer he also has the experience of judiciary.
He regretted the unfortunate event that is happening in Sokoto which is the first time this ugly tend is happening since almost 8 years of assuming office as the governor of Sokoto state, which can’t be far away from unseen hands of enemy of the state who want to truncate the peace the state have been enjoying for the past Seven of the Governor in office,and stressed that it’s not right to attribute the happening to religion.
He said aside the aspirant tackling the issues of insecurity that has been challenging to the country for the past decades,he has other programs that we hope to unfold in due course.
And reiterated that with the intimidating credentials and qualities of the presidential aspirant,I am sure you will not allow this opportunity to elude the country as he remains the best candidate for the position.
He called on the delegates to vote Tambuwal during the delegates election , because the Governor and myself the DG campaign has sacrifice for the chapter of PDP in the state during their dark moment,and this is the time for pay back.
The recent news that not fewer than three thousand supporters of People’s Democratic party in Lantang North LG of plateau state has decamped to APC, have been revealed.
As the deposed chairman of the local government barrister Zulfa Rimven hand pick some groups of gullible citizens of the community and lure them with the sum of five thousand naira each to denounced the party that they are now members of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC)
According to our source who disclosed to this medium on condition of anonymity said he was in the farm when one of his friends called him to come to the venue of the event immediately or loose from the distributed five thousand naira by the desperate desposed chairman .
He further narrated that on getting to the venue,he was handed with APC,T shirt and five thousand naira.
“I collected the money my brother, because it’s government money and our money, and I need the money to add and purchase fertilizer as you know this is farming season ,I am a farmer.”
The fake decampee advice the desposed Langtang North Chairman to stop playing on the intelligent of Tarok nation as the local government is PDP,with the blood of the founding fathers of the party Chief Solomon Dashep Lar, Is running in their vain ,and should not in his widest dream expect them to decamp to the ruling APC who has brought sorrow and sadness to Nigerians, and Tarok nation in particular.
It could be recalled that the appeal court sitting in Jos,plateau state notified the kangaroo LG election conducted by the Plateau State independent electoral commission (PLASIEC) that the election that brought barrister Zulfa into office in the first place is viod because there was no vacancy in the seat of chairman during the time under review.
Just few days ago,the chairman of the LG, Ubandom Joshua Laven raised an alarm that the deposed local government chairman Zulfa is at the verge of borrowing 200million naira , using the local government as collateral.
It will also recalled that Zulfa is a member of governor Lalong Legacy Group who recent bought nomination form for Bako Lalong to contest the senatorial seat to represent southern zone of plateau state.
The Plateau State High Court in Jos,plateau has remanded 8 persons for kidnapping, terrorism, and possession of illegal firearms at the Jos Correctional Service centre on Six (6) count charges on criminal conspiracy, mischief committed, collaboration, and culpable homicide.
As the Nigeria Police, Plateau Command anti-terrorism squad on Friday 13th May,2022 arraigned the following accused persons; Yau Idris, 2 Adamu Buba, 3 Abubakar Buba, 4 Yusuf Ibrahim,5, Isa Useni,6 Abdulkadir Sani,7 Abdullahi Adamu, and Yahaya Inusa on charge bordering on 6 counts.
The Prosecution counsel, Insp. F.M.Alex, OC legal of Plateau state Command said they were arraigned by the Nigeria Police Force for kidnapping, terrorism, and possession of illegal firearms on a six-count charge .
Meanwhile, only count charge 4 was for Yau Idris, who is the leader of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, and the 3rd defendant Abubakar Buba the Youth leader in Bassa LGA, and others on a 5 count charge of charges respectively.
The Presiding Judge, Justice I.I.Kunda ordered that the 8 defendants be remanded at the Jos Correctional facility on a six-count charge and all count charges respectively leveled against them by the police.
He ordered that the 8 of them be remanded till 15 of February 2022 at the center pending their accelerated trial at the Plateau High Court 3, Jos.
“You would recall that the 8 of them, including some that are still at large during the time of the arraignment, were arraigned and each defendant was read his own charge by the court clerk, Peter Adams on criminal conspiracy punishable under section 59 of the Plateau penal code about midnight 1a:m on 11th March 2021 ,April and November 2021 after committing the dastardly crime of attacking Jebbu Bassa LGA in Irigwe land and kidnapping of Gloria and killing of Bernard Akoh after collection of the ransom of 200 and 1.7 million Naira from the two families.
The charge read that they were armed with AK47 Raffles and invaded Gloria Nicodemus resident in Gyaro of Gyel community of Jos South LGA of Plateau state.
They were handed over to the police before they were charged to State High Court by the Federal Government (Nigeria Police Force).
He further read, that culpable homicide is punishable under sections 158 A&B,58, and 189 of the Plateau state penal code with the killing in Irigwe on 11th April 2021.
According to the count, the mischief committed was in collaboration with their traditional rulers, and the Youth leader of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders who donated AK47 Raffles to be used for the invasion and raided, killed, burnt houses, grabbed lands, and used witchcraft charms to invade Irigwe land.
However, the fourth count charge on Yau Idris and Abubakar Buba the community leaders continued to wreak havoc which is punishable under terrorism.
However ,the 8 accused persons where order to be remanded in Jos correctional prison by the presiding Judge Justice I. Kunda , the matter was adjourned till 15th June,2022 for the contination of hearing.
Justice Kunda directed the prosecuting counsel M. Alex(miss)to ensure the completion of the investigation relating to the case on or before the next adjourned date for speeding heading of the matter as the court will not entertain flimsy application for an adjournment when the hearing commence.
The Chairman of Lantang North local government of plateau state Ubandoma Joshua Laven has raised an alarm of the secret plan by the former local government of Lantang North ,barrister Zulfa Rimven to secure 200 million naira loan using the local government as surty.
As the appeal court sitting in the state few days ago declared the office of the chairman of Langtang North occupied by barrister Zulfa Rimven as illegal which was mischievously taken from the rightful and legally occupant hon.Ubandoma Laven through kangaroo organised local government election by the Plateau State Independence Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) that smuggled the deposed chairman Zulfa into power.
The chairman’s alarm is contained in a press statement signed by Mr Dogo Nanzing for the chairman of the local government Hon.Ubandoma Laven and made available to journalists in Jos .
ln the press statement the deposed former chairman of Langtang North Zulfa Rimven is being described as “impostor”parading himself as the chairman of the local government , while the court has declared his position as the chairman of the council illegal, fraudster, and an Impostor.
The statement read thus,it has come to the notice of the Executive Chairman of Langtang North Local Government council Hon.Joshua Ubandoma Laven that one Mr. Zulfa Rimven has applied for a loan of two hundred million ( 200,000,000) naira on behalf of Langtang North Local Government.
The loan which has gotten the approval of the Langtang North Legislative arm and the Plateau State Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Is meant to make the imposter rich to the detriment of poor tarok taxpayers who will be tasked to refund the loan.
The Executive Chairman Hon. Ubandoma Joshua Laven wishes to warn the management of Zenith Bank, Guarantee Trust Bank ( GTB), and Union Bank not to approve such loans or enter into any business deals on behalf of Langtang North Local Government Council with the said Mr. Zulfa Rimven as there are several court rulings ordering him to vacate office and stop parading himself as the Chairman of Langtang North Local Government.
It is on record that the said Mr. Zulfa is not the Chairman of Langtang North Local Government Council, the Federal Court of Appeal Jos division has on Friday, May 6th, 2022 upheld a high court judgment which returned Hon. Ubandoma Joshua Laven to complete his tenure in office as the Executive Chairman of Langtang North Local Government Council.
It is disheartening that where salaries of local government staff and teachers have not been paid for 4months, the imposter wants to further impoverish the poor staff and pensioners.
The people of Langtang North whose mandate is being robbed must be warned of the fraudulent activities of the imposter chairman and to assure that the elected
However asked the banks or any financial institutions not to issue a 200 million naira loan to the detriment of the Local Government Council.
Hon. Ubandom Laven will not fold his arm and watch our common heritage being looted by the impostor.He maintained.
The African Democratic Congress(ADC) Zamfara State chapter,has contacted it’s party’s congresses ahead the party primaries which will paved political way for the fourthcoming general elections in 2023.
The immediate past chairman of the party ,plateau state chapter, currently the Central Zonal Organising secretary of the party was delegated to the state to conduct the Congresses Alhaji Ibrahim Sabiu Musa, revealed this to journalists .
Ambassador Sabiu who hold the enviable title of Galadima Ginin of Jos, said following the reshufflement of the positions of the party Excos, which make him the Organising Secretary of the Central Zone, mandated him to travel to the state and oversee the conduct of the party Congresses.
He further add that the Wards, themselves in very peaceful manner as they all conducted themselves in respectable manner.
The zonal Organising secretary Ibrahim Sabiu, said the party is spur to give the All Progressive Congress (APC)and the People Democratic party (PDP)a good political fight in the 2023 General Election considering the influx of decampees from other party to ADC.
The Zonal Organising Secretary decried the whooping amount of money the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) and the PDP is selling their form for aspirants of the various parties.
He called on the Nigeria to shine their eyes and vote for ADC which is the masses party that have credible candidates that will change the economic,and other hardship the ruling All Progressive Congress APC,has visited to Nigerians.
The Governorship aspirant for 2023 general election in plateau state, Kafas Ropshik ,a.k.a Kafiano said his coming out to contest for the 1st seat of plateau state is not by accident,but designed by God Almighty as I have religiously seek the face of God before my final decision to vye for the position of Governor of the state.
And add that as an entrepreneur and business man without blemish have never involved myself into politics or joined any political party.
The automobile business mogul,and philanthropist Kafas Ropshik stated this at People Democratic party (PDP) Secretariat during declaration of intention to run for the position of Governor of the state recently.
He said he choose to run for the governor position under PDP, platform after due consultation and careful investigation, understanding,and arrived at the conclusion that the party remain one of the most credible amongst the numerous political platforms parading themselves in the state.
He lamented that despite the abundant human and natural resources that are bound in the state, nothing to show for it largely due to bad leadership.
Kafas promised that when given the opportunity to serve as the governor of the state,he will turn the state into economic hubs of Nigeria that will surpassed that of Lagos State in South West, and Port Harcourt in the South-South Nigeria.
He further stressed that the decision to contest for the position is the hardest decision he ever made in his entire life, I arrived at the conclusion to come and rescue my people of plateau state from economic hardship, medical failure,and total absent of basic social amenities which has made live not Worth living for average citizens of the state.
He decried the wasting of the state potentials because of bad leadership who lack focus ,forth sight on how to create wealth for the state, only to starch their “babariga ” rush to Abuja, every month for subvention which did not add value to the
live of average plateauian.
He said PDP need a leader that can be rely on, stressed that plateau under his watch,the erroreous believe that the state is Civil service State will be change and maintained that plateau shouldn’t be reduced to civil state, because the state has all what it takes to transform to China and other develop countries in the world.
Ropshik praised the state, said plateau is the best state amongst the 36 state of the federation,promised when become governor of the state,he will not expended money on contractors on road and other constructions in the state ,I will make maximum use of our local contractors from the state ministry of works , make use of our local material like betum in road construction.
“Wase local government has the capacity of generating millions of naira daily, further and stressed that every credible leader must have the mindset for wealth creation.
And promised under his government,as the Governor of plateau state by God’s grace come 2023,he is going to change the narrative.
On the insecurity currently ravaging the state,and Nigeria in general, Kafas said every plateau person most first and foremost be giving sense of belonging,our traditional institution most be given the pride of place because they are those directly connected to the grassroot who can easily identify their subjects .
And called for confident building on foreign investors which is the sure way for them to come and invest in the state and increase the state Internal Generated Revenue (IGR).
He said his government will focus on youths empowerment, jobs creation, skills acquisition and widows empowerment.
Called on political leaders who have over stay their welcome in the political arena to honorably religuish power to the young one in the like of myself as claimed that age is not a determining factor for leadership.
However ,called on the delegates to put the aspirants side by side for assessment and judge in accordance to followership and avoid voting the wrong person that they will end up regretting.
In his response,the state chairman of PDP, Hon. Chris Hassan Said the party will give all the party aspirants level play ground to operate,as equal opportunity with be giving to all be aspirants.
The All Progressive Congress (APC) southern zone of plateau state has adopted the current governor of plateau state ,and the chairman of Northern Governors Forum , Simon Bako Lalong as the party sole candidate for senator, ahead the party’s primaries.
The decision was approved and rectified by the party stakeholders in the Southern senatorial Zone of the state.
The decision to adopt only the candidature of governor Lalong as the party sole candidate for Southern zone senatorial seat was moved by plateau state house of Assembly member, hon.Na’along Daniel ,who doubled as the Majority Leader in the chamber, seconded by Sa’ad Ballo.
Group under the auspices of the “Lalong Legacy Group “, which has the member representing Pankshin,Kanam and Kanke Constituency in the House of Representatives ,Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gadi as it chairman has purchased nomination and expression form for governor Lalong begging him to accept the offer to contest for senatorial seat in Senate to representing the good people of plateau southern Zone.
The event which is held at the Shendam Mini stadium in plateau Southern Zone 7th May,2022, with all the party stakeholders of the party in attendance.
The chairman of the party in plateau state , Hon.Rufus Bature, quoting copiously from one of the Sheakpearia play “Julius Caesar” worn governor lalong not to be carried away by the praises being showered on him by political jesters , but to be mindful of many whose main mission is to betrayed him,as the time to betrayed by closed associate is now, urged him to beware of these categories of people.
In his acceptance speech Governor Lalong said since he contested for the state house of Assembly in 1999* and won,I have developed my relationship with the people of southern zone , which I cannot afford to turn back on them now.
He said the reason why” Legacy Group” prevailed on me to Contest for senatorial seat couldn’t be far from my years of experiences as member house of Assembly ,and susbequently speaker in plateau House of assembly.
Governor Lalong who is the chairman conference of speakers in Nigeria, chairman conference of former speakers in Nigeria and the chairman Northern Governor Forum stressed that the people of the state know my capabilities considering my past experience.
“I would have love to concentrate on the last lapses of delivery the dividend of democracy to the people of plateau state,but the call for me to come and contest for senatorial seat representing Southern Zone at the National Assembly,is still all about the people.”
“Anything that have to do with the people, take over my personal interest”.
Governor Lalong promised to work hard within his best and represent the zone in particular and Nigeria at large, this he said the party APC,has demostrated through the current seating member representing the Constituency,Prof .Nora Dadu’ut.
Governor Lalong called on the aspirants to play the politics with decorum that only one candidate will eventually win the seat which doesn’t make him winner but an opportunity to try next time,he maintained.
He called on the aggrieved member of APC ,to sheath their sword and forgive one another in the interest of our party , particularly now the party will be going through another transition to another.
Governor Lalong called on the youths irrespective of polical divide,to shun political thuggery during and after electioneering period so as the party will sustain what we have achieved over the years.
“The youths should resist any politians who will want to use them in political violence,”.
He further stressed that election is not do or die affairs ,is not war , while service to the people is not desperation or war, rather than resulting to intimidation,harrassment and violence ,let us convince the electorates as only peace and security can enthroned development.
He sympathize with the senator representing Southern zone constituency in the National Assembly over the recent attack on his convoy by yet to identify hoodlums when she went to commission what the governor referred to as laudable constituency project zin Namu.
And urged the security agencies in the state to do more with the view to unravel those behind the dastardly act ,and bring them to Justice.
The governor lauded the growing of the party in the state , despite the constant propaganda of opposition party , People Democratic party (PDP),the people know the impact of the party in their lives, promised that as against the background,the people of plateau , will continue to cast their votes for APC.
Governor Lalong appealed for the stakeholders of the party to be focus as we approach 2023 General Election,”let our personal ambitions not jeopardize the collective interest of the masses ,this is the time to demostrate true loyalty to our party(APC).
Governor Lalong commended Mr.President Mohammadu Buhari for his uncommon love for the state ,and given me personal support .
And assured the Southern Zone to work assiduously and put the Southern Zone in particular and plateau state on national globe when given the mandate to serve at the red chamber.
The former Anambra state governor Peter Obi has decried the total collapse of Nigeria nation under the government of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) led by president Mohammadu Buhari.
As he said there is no longer cheering news in Nigeria occasion by ruling party ,but bad news raging from armed banditry, kidnapping, terrorism and other vices that has put the country in headline of bad news.
Peter Obi was in plateau state to declared his intention to contest for the president of Nigeria 2023 ,stated this at the People Democratic Party (PDP) Secretariat in Jos, plateau state capital.
Peter said is pathetic that the situation of insecurity in plateau state has degenerated to the level that no company are no longer willing to come and cite their company in the state because of fear of insecurity, and the same is all over the country.
He further said all these are because of abyssal failure of leadership who could not uphold the oath they sworn during swearing into office, and stressed that no country will not go through what Nigeria as a nation is going through now when half of the country population are leaving in object poverty ,and can hardly eat square meal a day.
Obi further stressed that under APC government ,the schools are under lock and key with the youths no longer have hope as a result of AU ssu strike, businesses are collapsing , called for serious, committed leader that can change the narrative .
During president Obasanjo,he make frantic efforts to ensure that all our debts were settled and some written off ,but lamented that the case is different in this APC government who continue borrowing for consumption without planning for tomorrow.
He condenmed lack of government visions to empower the youths instead, using more than half of the country’s revenue in debts servicing while Nigerians are living in object poverty.
And reiterated that when he become the president of Nigeria, his government will address the poverty currently ravaging the entire Nigeria because its the bane of criminality and insecurity, when you can provide the basic necessities for yourself,the thought of crime will not cross your mind.
Under my watch as president of Federal Republic Nigeria , I will make sure that the sharing of oil revenue will be a thing of the past which is synonymous to eating our tomorrow .
Obi accurately gives statistics of many countries in the world that are not privilege of having crude oil, but they have comparative advantage in other things which they export to remain economically viable and boost their revenues and currently doing excellently well in every facet of development.
Peter Obi who was governor of Anambra state, South -East Nigeria , one of the economic hubs of Nigeria left in the coffer of the state the sum of 72 billion naira in 2011 without owning civil servants salaries, gratuities , pensions and any other debts for his predecessor to contained with after leaving office.
He promised to cash on the enormous potentials the country is blessed with to replicate the good governance bequited to Anambra state when he held sway as governor.
The academic per excellent , business mogul and administrator , advice the delegates that is not mindful of the fact that they will be facing financial inducement during the delegates election, charged them to collect the money which he said rightly belong to them because is the fund stolen from the government coffers and do the right thing that will guaranted the future of their children,and generation yet on born ,he maintained.
The New Nigeria People’s Party, NNPP, Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Rev Emmanuel Olorunmagba has resigned from the party.
The NNPP ‘publicity engine room’ disclosed this in a resignation letter addressed to the National Executive Committee, NEC, of the party citing hijacking of the party structure by the Kwakwansiya Movement and her sister group, The National Movement, TNM,as reasons for his resignation.
Olorunmagba said that the current leadership of the party consists of over ninety percent of the new entrants into the party which led to disposessing of over ninety percent of the former leaders.
He added that almost all the structures he brought to NNPP, especially those he mobilised to continue to be committed sacrificially by working together in the building of the party using their resources in addition to their time and energy investment have been dismantled.
“I am not also left out of the dispossession, as I have also been stripped of the position I was functioning as the Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the party, through which I have not only re-strategized the publicity arm of the party, but has also introduced trailblazing innovations to the party like new members’ e-registration portal, aspirants’ e-registration portal, NNPP TV, provision for interactivity with the masses through the party website and social media visitors and other other innovations.” He said.
The letter reads in part:
“I hereby officially resign as a member of New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).
“This becomes necessary as it is obvious beyond any shadow of doubt that my services are no longer needed in the New Nigeria People’s Party, NNPP, as a result of the coming of the Kwakwansiya Movement and her sister organization, The National Movement, TNM, into NNPP.”
“It is worthy of note that there would not have been the kind of complaint witnessed, if the sudden change of leadership had been through democratic system as it supposed to have been, rather than the forceful imposition that was adopted to the amazement of the then existing leaders and members of NNPP.
On his efforts to remain in the party despite the challenges, Olorunmagba said “It would be recalled that when the issues started, I constructively made a complaint. Rather than doing something about it, my leader that I also complained to responded negatively which further aggravated the pain and made me to keep quiet and continue to observe to avoid another of such reaction from my leader that I so much hold in high esteem.
“The only positive response I got as a result of my initial complaint was a promise from another leader who was one of the only three leaders retained in the 39-man National Working Committee of the new NNPP that the Kwakwansiya through TNM captured 36 positions. The said leader’s promise is now obvious cannot be fulfilled. Yet, I still made further verbal complaints, but the situation is still the same.”
The former NNPP Publicity Secretary said that he had tried as much as he could to just drag on in NNPP, provided that the people that look unto him were carried along and there would be little opportunity for him to still contribute his quota through the party in rescuing our beloved nation, but from time to time, he kept experiencing disturbing circumstances that affected his mind and wearied him, suggestive of someone that is just being merely tolerated in an organization. And that the thought of those he brought into the party now in disarray has become a heavy burden to him.
“We keep witnessing continuous invasion, targeting total highjack. Thus, rendering the initial leaders redundant and so useless in the party. It is of note that the most unbearable is watching those who look up to me completely alienated in a party they have laboured in with the hope of better future and I have determined not to be an onlooker in the move to rescue Nigeria this 2023 as I have always given my best for my dear country. In fact, since I joined politics I have never been rendered so redundant like this. I was always having the opportunity to contribute my quota politically even when I was in PDP, that was a ruling party that had consistently produced Presidents and still having Governors, Senators, Honourable Members of House of Representatives, House of Assembly and other political positions. Hence, I can no longer continue in NNPP.
He stressed that he has removed his phone number from the party’s social media accounts and from the interactivity of the party website that he managed with his team and that he would only transfer the website of the party to the ICT Consultant that was asked to take over the website, provided the party leadership do the needful as contained in the memo he submitted to the party through the National Secretary when he was asked to hand over the website to the ICT Consultant engaged by the party.
Olorunmagba maintained that despite his resignation from NNPP, he would still continue to do his best to maintain personal relationship with those he had met in NNPP and if the party leadership needs his attention for anything for now, provided that it would not interfere with his next responsibility, he would be available.
He appreciated the past and present leadership of the party for the opportunity to serve.
Justice Ibrahim Ali of the Appeal Court in jos ,Plateau State ,on Friday 6th May,2022 has again affirmed the judgment of Justice Ishaku I.Kunda of court (3) that the appeal filed by the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission lack merit .
The Judge also dismissed the appeal filed by the People Democratic Party ,PDP , challenging the exclusion of the party by Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission ,PLASIEC, for lacking in merit .
The state electoral umpire PLASIEC has excluded PDP, one of the biggest opposition party in the state from participating in the local government Elections held in the state in 2021, on the ground that the party didn’t have legally constituted Executive Exco as the Sen. Suleiman Adokwe led congress was described illegal and cannot stand the test of time .
The judge didn’t award cost to any party ,that any election conducted was null and void so the court hereby affirmed the judgment of the lower court .
He said the appellate filed a suit challenging Hon. Joshua Ubandoma Laven tenure of 3 years in office as chairman, which had not expired before the conduct of Local Government Election in 2021 .
The judge affirmed that the tenure of the embattled chairman, Ubandoma Laven Joshua didn’t expire as at the time PLASIEC conducted kangaroo elections that usher in illegal Chairman of Barr.Zulfa to occupied the seat of Langtang North LGA .
The reasons for the Appeal was that PDP was challenging its exclusion from participation in the LGs elections sometimes in October, 2021 .
However, the PDP not satisfied with the PLASIEC action, headed for court , filed a suit at the State High Court which was strike out by Honourable Justice Ishaku Kunda , that informed it decision to Appeal the case .
The suit by the aggrieved party, PDP, was dismissed by the court, which means it lacking in merit, and cannot stand the test of time,that the decision of the High court to have strike out the case is right in all it ramifications.
Therefore the Appeal Court held that PLASIEC was correct to have stop the PDP from participation in the LGs elections .
In similar development ,PLASIEC through the state government being the aggrieved party on the judgment of Justice Ishaku Kunda declared that the tenure of Hon Joshua Ubandoma Laven is yet to expire as the Constitution that brought him into office as chairman of Lantang North z LG, expressly spelt out (3) years tenure for local government chairmen in Nigeria,seek the clearance before the Appeal Court and its dismissed the appellate appeal.
“You would recalled that Justice Ishaku Kunda order that the seat of Chairman Langtang North LGA has never been vacant as at the time PLASIEC order for fresh election into the seat “, he said.
The Counsel to the appellate ,Barr S.G Odey commended the court for the industry and record of appeal file before the Court .
Barr.Nantok Dashuwar of the respondent also applauded the court for the perfect judgment .
However ,counsel to Hon. Ubandoma ,Barr Nancwat Durven appreciated the court for delivery landslide judgment which gave an ordinary man on the streets that sense of belonging, that there is still hope in the judiciary .
Durven said today the judgment mark a turning point to the common man that not everyone can do whatever he or she feels and go away with it .
In an exclusive interview with the embattled chairman of Langtang North LG ,Hon. Ubandoma Laven, commended the judiciary which he described as the last hope of the common man, for the landslide judgement that upheld the judgement of the High court that earlier uphold his victory that the state electoral umpire , Plateau State Independence Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) err in law by truncating his tenure as the Chairman of Lantang North LG , when his tenure is till running.
He further add that as a young boy who served dedicatedly one of the founding
father of democracy in Nigeria,and plateau state in particular,Late Chief Solomon Lar,I always deemed it necessary to come to the resident of his Late master and mentor to brief the press whenever he secured victory in quest to right the injustice which the late Sage stand for during his live and die for, because I believe the spirit is always hovering around the compound.
Ubandoma further stressed that in 2019 when he was sworn in as chairman Lantang North LG ,was exactly six years to mark his memoral ,and today I have been given victory at the appeal court few days to his memoral lecture which is a pointer that his spirit has not depart from me still directing my movement,he stated.
Hon. Laven who has defeated the Plateau State government in court for more than six times uninterrupted, attributed his victory to the people of plateau state ,the Constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria ,and the rule of law.
He said ,it shows that nobody is above the law and the Constitution , irrespective of your position in government and the society, stressed that his case will be use as reference case for any subsequent cases in the judicial palace.
He commended the press for standing by the truth throughout the case,and said if not because of journalists watchful eyes ,it would have been hard to know what would had happened considering, the fact that there are many invested interest involved in the matter.
Hon.Laven reiterated that he owned the state journalists a lot, not because they opinionated and subjective in their reportage to favour him, but to be vigilant to see that the right thing is being done, besides, governor lalong and other defendant in the matter were also reported by the journalists.
I must say kudos to the press for standing on the part of true throughout the period the case lasted ,he emphasize.
And lamented the action of Governor Bako lalong who is a lawyer and suppose to hold the rule of law to the letter,add that if the law is easy to subvert , Governor David Jonah Jang had all what it takes as the chief Executive of the state to stop him,Bako Lalong to become the governor of the state.
“Because the rule of law is not a respecters of anybody, irrespective of tribes,religious and ethicity but follow the lay down rules and procedures,it doesn’t mean whether we are from different political party,we must critise each other constructively for virile governance which is the beauty of democracy”.
“I was voted into office to serve (3) years in office as chairman of Langtang LG,what suppose to remove me from office is dead and anything that is contrary to the oath I swore to uphold, but not by unilaterally removed from office because you don’t like my face,or belong to another political party.”
“We most not belong to the same party,you constructively critise me as the local government chairman,I also do the same to you which is the beauty of democracy”.
He however reiterated that what is happening in Tarok Land is not about me Ubandoma,is about late Chief Solomon Dashep Lar who is the founding fathers of PDP on plateau and Tarok Land in particular.
So there is no how any other party can defeat the People Democratic Party (PDP)in Tarok Land no matter how hard they tried ,he boasted.
Governor Simon Bako Lalong on Thursday 5th May 2022 marked his 59th birthday with a low-key celebration which saw only his close family members, few Government officials and aides attending the event at his Rayfield residence in Jos.
The Governor cancelled all elaborate celebrations to honour two young professional golfers he has mentored over the years and have won gold medals for the State including during the last National Sports Festival in Edo State.
The two young men who are very close to the Governor in the game of golf were killed in an accident while returning from a golf kitty at the Rhino Golf Course in Jos shortly after the Sallah.
Governor Lalong said he was devastated by the tragic death of the young men who have contributed a lot to the game in Plateau and Nigeria as well as become models for others youths. He prayed for the repose of their souls and God’s comfort for their families.
While thanking his family, Government officials and others who came to felicitate with him, Governor Lalong explained that each day, he continously expresses gratitude to God for giving him good health, wisdom, favour and good relationship with people who have been his source of strength.
He particularly thanked his wife Mrs. Regina Lalong for believing in him, advising, and encouraging him while holding the family strongly during his busy engagements in the service of the State and the nation.
He also thanked members of his government as well as the entire citizens of Plateau State who have given him all the support to work for the peace, progress and development of the State, saying that with peace, there is no limit to achieving positive results.
He promised to continue to serve the State and humanity as he derives pleasure in impacting lives as well as making the most of every opportunity to serve with humility, patience and courage.
Deputy Governor Prof. Sonni Tyoden eulogised the Governor and said his leadership has promoted harmony, peace and massive infrastructural development at all levels.
He testified to the good heart of the Governor saying his decisions are always anchored in the interest of the citizens.
Tyoden prayed God to continue grant him success, good health and opportunities to serve the people.
Head of Service of Plateau State Engr. Sunday Chong Hyat, Commissioner for Information and Communication Dan Manjang, Permannet Secretary Government House Mary Afan, Special Adviser on Political Affairs Samuel Kwamkur and other speakers described Governor Lalong as a gift to the State and Nigeria, praying God to enable him finish his tenure in peace and with his head high.
They expressed optimism that with the achievements recorded under his tenure, a higher calling awaits him at the National level.
Responding on behalf of the family, younger brother to the Governor Mr. Fred Bako said they were elated with God’s favour on their brother and highly appreciate the love and support shown to him and the entire family.
Deputy Chaplain of the Government House Chapel Rev. Dewan offered special prayers for the Governor and his family as well as for the peace and progress of Plateau State.
Meanwhile, messages of goodwill have continued to pour in from various organisations and individuals.
In a congratulatory letter to the Governor, ITF Director General Sir. Joseph Ari said the ITF was proud to be associated with the monumental achievements of the Governor in Plateau State and in his capacity as the Chairman of the Northern Governors Forum.
Sir Joseph Ari said the passion for peace, infrastructural development and human capital development has helped the Governor to restore the lost glory of Plateau State and make it one of the most viable and attractive states in Nigeria.
The People Democratic Party (PDP) plateau state chapter has cried Hoax over unsubstantiated allegations against the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) in the state.
This is as the opposition party claimed that the Party is aware of a plan by our detractors within and agents of the ruling All Progress Congress using every available means at it’s disposal to mislead, frustrate and discourage our teaming members by peddling all unimaginable lies, rumors available to them to achieve their objective.
The force and unsubstantiated claim by PDP, is contained in press statement dated 5th May,2022, signed by the state Legal Adviser to the party Binchen Jantur Esq and made available to journalists online , claimed that APC is making desperate move to truncate the primaries of the party that is coming soon.
Accorting to the release which read in part, said the party is not unware that Some lies are manifesting itselves in the forms of unfounded petitions to the National Secretariat with the aim of having the State Chapter of the Party dissolve and a Caretaker Committee put in place.
The main objective of the APC agents is to mislead the PDP teaming supporters using fictitious non existing Court cases having realized that the Plateau people have roundly rejected the APC which is an alien party on the Plateau and its colossal failure in governance.
Our teaming supporters, ASPIRANTS and stakeholders, should note that as it stands today we make bold to state that PDP has a strong unshakable foundation on the Plateau,gthere is no legal encumbrance whatsoever and our dream of 2023 is unstoppable.
It may interest you to note as follows;
Justice S. P Gang’s Judgement which nullified the Gwott Yakubu Chocho led Caretaker Committee has no adverse effect on the Party in Plateau State Chapter. This Judgement has since been complied with as fresh Congress (election) was conducted and a new Executive Committee already in place.
You will recall that there were bye elections in Pankshin South State Constituency and Bassa/ Jos North Federal Constituency which was recently conducted by Independent National Electoral Commission ( INEC) the Wards, Local Government Area Chapters and of course the State Executive Committee produced the candidate of the Party. In fact the candidate of the Party won Bassa/ Jos North Federal Constituency and has been sworn in, as Honourable Member of the House of Representatives. The Party is before the Tribunal seeking to reclaim the stolen mandate from the APC in respect of Pankshin South election.
Instructively no one challenged the Legality of the State Executive Committee before the Said bye elections.
The INEC which conducted the bye elections with PDP as one of the contestants is Estopped from denying the legitimacy of the Plateau State Chapter of PDP Executive Committee in 2023 general Election. Pursuant to its statutory role, INEC monitored the Party’s Primaries and did not issue any negative reports
The aggrieved persons, APC agents misreading our teaming supporters are also Estopped from challenging the legitimacy of the State Executive Committee having not raised any objection to the participation of the State Executive Committee before and during the Primaries for the bye elections. Those are now Pre election matters which can not be raised after the election of 2023.
By virtue of the Amended electoral Act 2022, the Congress for the 2020 are pre- election matters and the Supreme Court in the recent case of PDP Vs Chief Joseph Ugulegbo & 63 Ors delivered on the 12/4/22 decided that the 2020 Congress in Imo State just like Plateau State are both pre election and intra party matters, No court has jurisdiction to entertain Intra party matters. By virtue of the Amended electoral Act 2022. Only ASPIRANTS who contested the said Congress in 2021 can validly challenge the said Congress in court. No other person can challenge the said Congress.
However it is too late for such ASPIRANTS to challenge same having slept on their rights if any when they stood by and watched the conduct of the said bye elections in 2022.
The judgement delivered by Justice I I Kunda in the case of PDP V’s Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) is predicated on the judgement of Justice S. P Gang, this Judgement is restricted to the Local Government Area council election and that is why INEC did not averts its mind to Justice Kunda’s Judgement in the conduct of the 2022 bye elections in Plateau State. Going forward INEC can not somersault and exclude the Party PDP from contesting the 2023 elections having recognized the Party and its executives.
By virtue of the Electoral Act 2022, only PDP ASPIRANTS to the various offices to be contested for in May 2023 can challenge the conduct of the Primaries to be contested in May 2022 or any later date and the only issue they raise is on the conduct of the Primaries not any Congress conducted in 2021 or any earlier date.
The decision of Justice I. Kunda contained in his judgement did not contain any Declaratory Order expressly nullify the State Executive Committee of PDP in Plateau State. It should be noted that PDP filed an action against PLASIEC and sought a Declaratory relief. There was no Counter Claim by PLASIEC, that is to say PLASIEC did not ask the Court to nullify the Caretaker Committee of the PDP or the elected Executive Committee of Chris Adukuchilli Hassan. The findings of Justice I.I. Kunda is what is known as Obiter Dicta , that is ‘by the way’ mere comments made in passing judgement and they have no binding effect. There was no pleadings before the court asking for the nullification of the state executive committee of Plateau State.
However, on this issue, the Party has since appealed against and without prejudice to the outcome of the appeal.
The above reasoning is the position of the Law and that is the reason why INEC which has custody of the State Executive Committee list did not take cognizance of Justice Kunda’s judgement.
Justice A. I. Ashom’s judgement delivered on the 24/6/21 and his ruling of 24/2/22 are very clear and unambiguous. The ruling clarified the judgement and that is to the effect that there was no ambiguity in the judgement as the judgement is strictly on Jos East LGA. There is no adverse effect or complications to the Party whatsoever since the Party in compliance with the judgement has conducted Congress in Jos East LGA and the Exco are fully sworn in.
The Complaint on the Extension of Sen. Tunde Ogbeha’s Caretaker Committee beyond 90 days and its implications on the State Congress without prejudice to the Legality of the Powers of the National Working Committee to extend the tenure of Sen. Tunde Ogbeha’s Caretaker Committee. It is the National Executive Committee that conducts congresses from the Wards to the National Level. In fact it is only the NWC/ NEC that appoints the Screening , Electoral and Appeal Committee members. The congresses of 2021 were done by the NWC and not the Sen. Tunde Ogbeha’s CTC, the Screening committee members were appointed by the NWC and also the Electoral Committees reported to the NEC not to Sen. Tunde Ogbeha’s Caretaker Committee.
So the issue of the Legality or otherwise of the Extension of Caretaker Committee can only arise on matters that the CTC handles such as running Local affairs of the Party in the state including finances, Rallies, Reconciliatory, meetings and not issues beyond their jurisdiction.
All statutory notices for Congresses are issued by the Working Committee and not by Sen. Tunde Ogbeha’s Caretaker Committee. It is instructive to note that even the letters written to PLASIEC by the National Working Committee were disregarded by PLASIEC, but INEC did not receive any communication from the Caretaker Committee but the National Headquarters.
In furtherance of the mischief against the Party, a petition dated 19/4/22 was written to the National Chairman of the Party through the National Legal Advisers, the National Organising Secretary and North Central Vice Chairman.
From the petition we noticed as follows;
1 Hon Ishaya Nankap , Benjamin Fumsa , Ibrahim David, Henry Dinget and Yohanna Gabriel are a collection of agents of APC masquerading as PDP members who are not registered in their respective Wards. None of the above named persons is familiar to the PDP family in their respective Wards on the Plateau.
In fact the Solicitors engaged on behalf of these faceless individuals are familiar as representing and litigating actively for All Progress Congress on the Plateau. They have been litigating and doing the bidding of APC government in Plateau State. They are instructively on the payroll of Governor Lalong especially M . Z Zemkas Esq. is Lalongs kit and kin from Shendam.
The petitioners irresponsibly neglected or out of ignorance or cowardice did not copy their petition to the state chapter of PDP in flagrant violation of the principle of fair hearing. The petitioners have absolute disrespect for the National Working Committee of the Party by not adhering to due process. They did not first complain to the State Chapter of the Party, nor to the Zonal headquarters of the Party, but chose to petition straight to the Secretariat and this has exposed their intended mischief and malice.
The Petitioners have also out of disrespect found fault with the the decision of the National Headquarters of the Party when it extended the tenure of the Sen. Tunde Ogbeha’s Caretaker Committee that it was done in error, challenging the powers of the National Working Committee as bestowed on it by the Party’s Constitution. Further more, the petitioners grobe in the dark ignoring the fact that no court of law had declared the extension as illegal for the Petitioners to urge the party through their petition that the State Executive Committee be rendered invalid and that the decision of the National Working Committee was in error.
This will be setting a very dangerous precedent to respond to these faceless and moles masquerading as members of the Party . These people should be called to order and sanctioned for lying against the National Working Committee as this in breach of the Party’s Constitution for bringing the party to disrepute if truly they are members of the Party.
The petitioners further falsely claimed that the Caretaker Committee conducted the Congress that brought in the Hon. Chris Hassan led Executive Committee. The party knows that it is the National Working Committee through the approval of the NEC that sets up the Screening and Electoral Committees Chaired by Prince Ishola Akomade who painstakingly conducted the state Congress and all these Committee reported their activities to the National Executive Committee of the Party and not to Sen. Tunde Ogbeha.
Finally the Petitioners and their sponsors lack the courage to show any judgement that has or can exclude the state chapter Executive Committee from participating in any party activities or any election. We are confident that the law is on our side and those agents peddling misleading petitions around with their sponsors in the ruling APC have failed this time around, our members, ASPIRANTS are urged to be focused and remained undeterred. PDP remains unshakable.
The son of the Former Ambassador of the federal republic of Nigeria and stakeholders of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) on the plateau , Alhaji Yahaya Kwande’s son Waziri Kwande has said that lack of Federal government projects in his constituency is what Spurs him to contest for the house of Representatives to bring people oriented projects hitherto lacking to the Constituency.
As Waziri currently vying for the position of Federal House of Representatives to represent the good people of Shandam Qua’apan federal constituency in the National Assembly, promised to change the narrative if given opportunity to serve.
Kwande who is vying under the platform of People Democratic party (PDP) stated this in an exclusive interview with journalists during the party screening ahead primaries at it Secretariat in Jos, plateau state.
He said I choose the PDP platform to contest because I am one of the old member of the party from on set 90s, to be precise ,which I ones contested under, unfortunately lost,and because it’s one of the credible party among those parading themselves , worse of them all, is the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) who has failed the people of Nigeria for over seven years they hold sway in office as president .
He stressed that I was in Abuja for over 10 years ,I can authoritatively tell you that my Constituency of Shandam and Qua’apan lack the presence of formidable virile representation for the past Seven years of APC government , stressed that they lack basic amenities raging from functional cottage hospital, potable drinking water,and above all ,good motorable road.
And add that he is not afraid of any aspirants from the other side of polical divide because the zone has a gentleman agreement which presently favours my zone considering that the other two zones has taken their turn of representation.
Assured his supporters to keep hope alive, as he will not disappoint them if given the mandate, promised to change the narrative.
In a similar development,G.Y Gotom a.k.a digital senator of the federal republic of Nigeria, decried the undescribable abysmal failure of All Progressive Congress (APC) in all facet of governance since the party assumed office in 2015.
He said the people of Nigeria and plateau in particular has not had it so bad under the government of APC, which is the reason I ,G.Y Gotom ,I am offering myself to contest for the position of senate in the central Zone to correct, and rebuild all the collapsed structure of governmence , occasioned by APC, failure.
He further decried how the APC, government at all levels,has use and dumped the citizens, and rendered them hopelss, promised that as digital senator of the federal republic of Nigeria,his government will be masses driving and power will be returned to the People because they are the rightful owner.
Gotom who is contesting for the position of senate in plateau central zone,under the platform of People Democratic party (PDP), said he is not mindful of the numbers of aspirants vying for the same position with him,under the ruling APC,the question is what was their performance during their administration.
Gotum advice them to parve way for the digital senator of the federal republic of Nigeria ,G.Y Gotom to change the narrative for good.
And stressed that he choose to contest under the platform of PDP, because is the only performing political Party presently in Nigeria, by extension African.
” Go to Abuja,you will see the developmental projects embarked on by the party , and add that APC,has not added single projects to what PDP has done after they forcefully pushed us out of power through deceit , blackmailing , and other satanic antics in 2015.”he maintained.”
The Muslims Ummah has frowned at the linking of the Muslims faith to the insecurity bedeviling the country as they vehemently condenmed the assumption which is wrong in all ramifications and inhuman
As he said Muslims have rich culture and tradition that is encapsulated on peaceful coexistence and has respect for human lives as true Muslims who held the holy book Koran closed to his heart.
One of the leaders of Muslims community in Jos ,the plateau state chapter, Alhaji Sani Mua’zu stated this in an interview with our correspondence in Jos during the Eid- Al- Fitr prayer celebration held at the Alikazare praying ground ,in Jos North local government of the state.
Alhaji Sani further said that Islamic religion preach peace, called on the Muslims in Nigeria in particular and the world as a whole that they should pray fervently to the Almighty Allah to expose those given the religion bad image and their neferiou activities brought to public glare.
And stressed that it’s time for true Muslims to educate his people about insecurity currently ravaging the country ,arm bandery, terrorism and Boko Haram,to stay away from them because they are not true Muslims.
“Today we denied and denounced this group of people because they are anti muslims and because their actions go contrary to Islamic culture,norm and we most denied them, and show that they are not part of us.”
On the significance of Eid -Al -Fitr celebration,Mansur Salihu Nakande who is the Makama Jos, said the spiritual attachment to the celebration is that the Muslims are expected to pray during and after the occasion, particularly on peaceful coexistence with Muslims and other non Muslims,and the insecurity the country is currently grapling with.
On his part,the Senior Special Assistant to the state governor Simon Bako lalong on Inter Party Affairs ,Alhaji Musa Bashir Sati , said the occasion is an opportunity to make supplications to Almighty Allah to forgive us our short comings in what ever way we might have err against him knowingly and unknowingly.
Alhaji Dasuki Nakade, former minister and Sani Mudi adviser to the governor on Islamic affairs said the enssence of the celebration of Eid-Al -Fitr is for guardiance as enshrined in the holy Koran as we are just coming from 30 days of fasting to sallah celebration.
Nakande stressed that the Muslims are expected to identify with the down trodden during and after the period,and share food with those who have nothing to eat according to koranic injunction.
And however called for the obedience to Almighty Allah,and those in authority.
In his Eid-Al-Fitr Sermon,the chief imam of Jos Sheikh Lawan Adam who lead the prayers, charged the Muslims Ummah to pray for peaceful Nigeria and the insecurity in the country.
And charged them to leave with non Muslims without any rancor.
As political events continue to unfold, I’m sincerely glad that my first piece which was factual reached alot of people and thankfully opened the eyes of many who are discerning.
However, I have read with great trembling and utter disappointment, the rejoinder written on my previous post about Gagdi’s plan to install the next Governor of Plateau State. The rejoinder which was written by one Shabul Mazadu, a hired merchant by the Gagdi media team confirmed the truthfulness of my piece by affirming that Gagdi has a candidate and is pledging fake loyalty to Governor Lalong to endorse his Governorship candidate. The writer instead of proving me wrong ignorantly affirmed that Gagdi had identified with a particular candidate and had gone further to threaten the Ngas nation to support his second term bid or risk losing the most exalted seat of the Governor. Shabul out of sheer and crass display of ignorance also affirmed that Gagdi formed the “Plateau Legacy Group” to further satisfy his ego and aim of singlehandedly producing the next Governor by ensuring that Governor Lalong endorses Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda.
In a nutshell, the writer spoke the mind of Gagdi and his Plateau Legacy Group by affirming all my assertions and trying to shamelessly justify them.
No doubt, as over ambitious as Gagdi is, he wants to please Governor Lalong by every means to;
1: Get the APC ticket for his second term bid.
2: Make Governor Lalong to endorse Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda so that he will have a smooth sail to become the speaker of the house of Representatives.
Obviously, Gagdi has grown wings and has come to the conclusion that he can do anything he wants since he has the Governor in his arms. Laughable is the fact that for whatever reason, Gagdi will not return for second term given the fact that the people of PKK have resolved not to vote Gagdi again even if he gets through his ways with the APC ticket. As time goes on, I shall be releasing pieces as to why the people of PKK will not vote Gagdi again but will rather vote him out.
Critical questions that all Plateau people and firstly, all Plateau APC faithful must ask and answer are;
1: When has Gagdi become so powerful that he thinks he can decide who flags the APC ticket and by extention, who becomes the Governor of Plateau State?
2: Will Gagdi succeed in luring and using Lalong to endorse his Governorship candidate which will automatically lead to imposition?
3: Should Gagdi succeed in installing his own as the flag bearer of the APC, will Plateau people fold their arms and watch his candidate win the secondary election or there will be another protest vote to correct the impression just like it was in 2015?
4: Will the APC and Governor Lalong make such a mistake of endorsing Gagdi’s Governorship candidate knowing fully well that it will cost the APC or they’ll give a level playing ground to all aspirants?
5: Will Gagdi through his Plateau Legacy Group that bought form for Lalong for Senate compell Governor Lalong to endorse their candidate after they endorse him?
6: If Gagdi eventually succeeds with his plans and become the speaker, what impression will this give about Plateau given how lousy Gagdi is?
These and many more trembling questions beakons on the people of Plateau State particularly the APC.
In Shabul’s response, he emphasised on why I did not put my name on the first piece instead of proving my assertions false. However, for clarity, my refusal to pen my name on my first piece was very deliberate because my goal was to sink the message into people’s mind without necessarily putting my name. I have however decided to to pen my name to satisfy the ego of Shabul and his cohorts.
Plateau state law students under the auspices of Association of all plateau state indigenes(PLALAWSA) of all plateau state indigenes studying Law in all recognize Universities around the world has decried the non payment of the body’s bursary allowances.
As they said Governor Lalong who is a beneficiary of the good gesture of the state government scheme during his time as student of Nigeria law school in 90s have fragrantly refuse to the bursary since 2016 till date.
The students lamentation is contained in a press statement jointly signed by the body J.R Tahdok Esq and made available to this medium in Jos, plateau state.
The body recalled how Gov. Simon Lalong younger brother (late) Mr. Tsenba Bako told me how Gov. Simon Lalong struggle and the role (He) late Tsenba Bako played in order to raise money so that Governor Lalong will go to Law school in Lagos.
“Late Tsenba had to sell his rice farm, just to raise money so that Gov. Simon Lalong will go to law school, and after benefitting from the bursary scheme, Gov. Simon Lalong have refused to pay His juniors; Believe me today, some people struggled, and are still struggling even after Law school, and our Governor who is a Lawyer, and a beneficiary of the said scheme, have turned a deaf ear to our cry.”
“I just saw on social media that Gov. Simon Lalong have picked his nomination form to contest for Senate in Southern zone of Plateau state, well, constitutionally he possess all the right to contest, but morally, Gov. Simon Lalong does not have the moral right and standing to come and look at poor families in the eye telling them to vote for him for Senate.”
He further stressed that for Lalong refusal to pay the law school bursary of 2016 set to date, is shameful that as a lawyer, didn’t not demonstrated any love or show kindness to the people of his profession.
Gov. Simon Lalong, do you know that Gov. Jonah Jang was the one who remodeled and increase the law school bursary? Gov. Jang is not a lawyer ooo,, I want you to think about this, ponder on it as a lawyer and reply me by paying the law school bursary.
Let’s not forget that the beneficiaries are now young lawyers who are finding life so difficult, His Excellency knows too well the plight of young lawyers in Nigeria, because His Excellency was once a young lawyer, so He knows better.
The Plateau State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party ( PDP ) has facilitated with to the Muslim faithfuls on the occasion of Eid -el- fitr celebration.
As the leadership of the party urge Muslims to continue with their act of kindness even after the holy month.
The statement is contained in a press release dated 2nd May,2022, made by it chairman Chris Hassan dated 2nd May,2022, signed by the party state Publicity Secretary John Akans in Jos, plateau state.
He said as we bid the holy month farewell, we must have a deep reflection on the teachings of Ramadan and abide by them.the holy month has taught us genuine love for all and perseverance.
Our prayer is that ,as we celebrate Eid fitr 2022, may God Almighty reposition our State and the country to its deserving status, and may we all overcome the current hardship which we are currently going through in this country under the failed apc.
Indeed the current maladministration is being supervised and led by the apc and this has resulted into disunity across tribes,religion and even ethnics differences. But the good news is that, there is hope in sight with PDP.
As we are all preparing for the forthcoming general election come 2023 ,it’s pertinent to continue preaching peace, unity and tolerance as this is the only panacea for our continued existence as a people . In the same vein in this critical time, no member of our great party the PDP should nosedive as we are all poised towards repositioning the State through the only viable platform ” The Peoples Democratic Party ( PDP ) ”
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has charged citizens to promote the culture of peace which is a panecea for development and also important to overcoming insecurity in the country.
As the governor stressed that no nation develope under the atmosphere of crisis and insecurity.
Governor Lalong was speaking at the annual Ngas Festival of Arts and Culture aka Pundung 2022 held at the Pankshin Mini Stadium.
He commended the Ngas nation for doing their best to maintain law and order within their domain, he warned that Government will continue to confront terrorists and other criminals and those who shield them.
Citing the recent incident in Namu, Qua’an Pan Local Government where some hoodlums tried to prevent the arrest of a suspected kidnap kingpin and resorted to destruction, the Governor said security agencies have been mandated to be ruthless with those who delight in creating chaos and sorrow for innocent citizens.
Lalong said from the dances, to cultural displays, and the array of food and artifacts showcased during the Pusdung Festival, he was reassured that the designation of Plateau State as the Home of Peace and Tourism remains very highly appropriate.
Accroding to him, the event has over time become an avenue where the Ngas people evaluate the progress of their people at home and in diaspora, as well as fashion out ways of doing more to impact the upcoming generation.
He assured the Ngas people that the Government will continue to carry out projects within their domain.
“Among other things, we have restored the Pankshin Water Treatment Plant which was moribund for many years and also completed the General Hospital in Kwall, abandoned for many years. Work has been ongoing at various Legacy Projects sites within Ngas land including Government College Pankshin which we intend to transform to a world class Technical School in our efforts to develop skills and train entrepreneurs” he said.
Speaking on the 2023 general elections, the Governor said:
“As we move deeper into the era of politics ahead of the 2023 general elections, I wish to appeal to our citizens particularly the political class to be careful with their utterances and shun all forms of desperation that is capable of disrupting the peace of the State. Let us play politics without bitterness and put the interest of the State and its people above individual aspirations”.
Special Guest at the event, Speaker House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila represented by Member Pankshin, Kanke, Kanam Yusuf Gagdi said the cultural festival is a veritable tool for unity, development and economic development which must be sustained and promoted beyond the shores of the country.
He promised the support of the House and that of Legislators from Plateau State towards ensuring that laws are passed to bring development to the State and Ngas land such as the recent upgrading of the Federal College of Education Pankshin into a Federal University of Education.
Commissioner for Culture and Tourism Mrs. Tamwakat Weli said the Lalong administration is very passionate about the promotion of cultural festivals which is a very important tool for the development of tourism and wealth creation.
Mrs. Weli also delivered the message of the Minister of Transport Rotimi Amaechi who was Chief launcher at the event and said the Transport Minister associates with the Ngas nation which is known for hardwork, unity and tolerance.
Chairman of the Ngas Development Association Nde Gonen Gofwen thanked the Governor and other guests for attending the event saying that the Ngas nation remains very committed to the peace, progress and development of the State and Nigeria at large.
Funds were raised for the expansion of the Ngas Skills Acquisition Centre into a standard Industrial Incubation Centre. Governor Lalong also decorated Miss Pusdung 2022.
Politics is generally referred to as the methodology and activities associated in running a government, every politician has his or her own methodology in running the government that is why there are no two politicians alike.
Politics has over the years created a platform for people of different religious as well as ethnic background to showcase their skills and methods of governing the people, some came and tried and were met with rejection, others came and were judged fair and some came and were rated extra ordinary and second to none. This is the story of Hon. Komsol Alphonsus Longgap. Member representing Shendam,Qua’an pan and Mikang in Federal level.his race in the political affair of the state and the country at large is amazing, and astonishing, his entry into the green chamber to represent the people of his constituency is still unbelievable to numerous, but of course the saying,” who God has blessed no man can curse” is the case of this gentle and humble man.
It’s less than 4 years but the method of his political career is second to none and incomparable to any seen.
In the area in which he has earmarked to change the narrative of politics has been significantly distinguished. The areas which include.
EDUCATIONAL SECTOR.
THE AGRICULTURAL SECTOR AS WELL AS,
WOMEN AND YOUTH EMPOWERMENT.
It is worthy of note that in all this sectors the indefatigable man has done tremendously well, leaving no stone unturned and making sure the narrative of not just the constituency he represents is changed but the entire political narrative of the state and the country at large. Today at the mention of the name Komsol Longgap every politician trembles in the southern zone and the state at large, not to forget this is just his first tenure in the green chamber, come to think of it, what if he is given a second chance? What if he is given a chance to represent his people at a higher level? The answer is just simple, he will transform in entirety the concept of politics as opposed to the narrative on ground.
Legislative business is a serious business and should be left for serious minded people. As a first timer the Hon. Member saw himself belonging to not less than 15 standing committees in the House. This did not come as a surprise but considering his methodology of governing his people. He has sponsored bills as well as reintroduced bills which he saw till the concluding phase of each. Coming back to delivering his mandate to his constituency the Hon. Member never relents in making sure he brings the dividends of democracy to the nuke and crannies of his people irrespective of tribe or religious differences. He has held several town hall meetings, he has had several engagements with traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth leaders as well as women representatives on different occasions.
He is a servant to the core, he is a very good listener and a humble gentle man.
In the area of EDUCATION. the Hon. Member has written his name in the sands of time, with the construction of modern and well equipped 2 and 3 classroom block in all the wards in his constituency, this public servant has also constructed 3 well furnished ICT centers across his constituency,still not tired, he has provided scholarships for his constituents too numerous to mention, he has consecutively for three years relieved parents in his constituency the burden of sponsoring their children for JAMB examinations for each child qualified for the exams. This method of politicking is strange to many people as they say. Not to forget the gigantic history that will never be forgotten , the establishment of federal polytechnic Shendam. Which the hon. Member reintroduced the bill.
Because of his love for education he purchased and distributed learning materials as well as tables and chairs for the not well to do schools in his constituency, this indeed is a unique method of politics not known to many. These are just to mention a few of his educational upliftment to the people of his constituency.
In the area of AGRICULTURE, Hon. Komsol has broken the record in the entire state in 2019 by been the first member to distribute free fertilizer to farmers as well as provide transportation for the farmers to transport their fertilizers back to their respective areas, this indeed is a rare kind of governance, it did not end here, he went further to lobby for soft loans for his constituents to enable them improve on their farming skills for bountiful harvest, it is a well known fact that the people of his constituency are predominantly farmers, and so the jubilation had no end. Still with his style of politics the Hon. Komsol has organised several empowerment programms for his constituents, who were trained on different farming skills as we as presented with farm implements to assist them in farming. He has distributed several farming equipment to his people, he has provided wide range of loans for interested farmers to access from his personal accounts just to boost the state of agriculture in his constituency, is this kind of politics common? Is this method of politics common? Not to forget this is just his first tenure, what if given another chance?
This is to mention a few of his developmental stride in the area of agriculture to his constituents.
In the area of EMPOWERMENT. The Hon. Komsol has set the record straight in taking youths off the street, he has given women and youth in his constituency a source of livelihood, he has empowered many by the trainings he organised in collaboration with registered organisations like NVRI, the national veterinary research institute, and the likes of others to train women and youth in his constituency in various aspects of farming and also providing cash for each participant to start up a business. The Hon. Member has also in his own wisdom empowered his constituents with motorcycles as well as tricycles to enable them source for a means of livelihood. The Hon member has also constructed roads in some rural communities to help in the smooth transportation of food produce to the wider world, indeed he has connected his constituents to the wider world, remember this is just his first tenure, what if he is given an opportunity to represent his people again , think of what more will be coming.
He has also helped in securing several loans for his constituents from the government as well as provided loans to his constituents from his personal income. This is indeed a different method of politics, what if given a second chance? Poverty will be reduced to it’s minimum level in his constituency.
The Hon. Komsol along the way went further to add security to his agenda in the course of his representation, this became paramount in the wake of security breach in his constituency, the Hon member has taken time to engage with security operatives, traditional rulers, religious leaders as well as youth leaders in a bid to looking for lasting solution to the security breach in the constituency. The Hon. Member has supported security agencies as well as personnel in the constituency with every support needed to curb crime. He has donated motorcycles to local vigilante groups in some communities, he has provided cash support in so many forums to assist security personnel carry out their duties without hindrance. What if given an opportunity to represent his people again? This method of politics has never been seen.
Today in the history of Shendam, Qua’anpan and Mikang Federal constituency, the name Komsol Alphonsus Longgap will not and cannot be forgotten in a hurry. Not because he is an Angel, but because his style of politics, his method of governing his people, his humility, his stewardship towards the needs and desires of his people is second to none and distinguished. The question now is? Are we going to throw away something good because of traditional or religious sentiments?? This is not to disqualify or discredit any political candidate but to state the fact that “THE REWARD FOR HARD WORK IS MORE WORK”.
Shendam, Qua’anpan and Mikang, do not allow sentiments cloud your sense of appraisal.
Let us do an appraisal and let hard work be rewarded with more work.
Ahead of the People Democratic party PDP, primaries in plateau state, the party has screened it aspirants and issued certificate of clearance to the successful aspirants.
Those who scaled through the screening process, which is part of the party layed down rules to know those qualified for the party primaries include,130, House of Assembly,23 Governorship and 72, National Assembly aspirants.
The chairman of the party in the state ,Hon.Chris Hassan disclosed this in an exclusive interview with our correspondence at the party Secretariat in Jos, plateau state capital.
The chairman said the numbers of aspirants vying for various positions of the party has never been this many , which is an obvious indication that there is confident that has been possed on the leadership of the party in the state, because they saw what we have done during the Jos North/Bassa constituency bye election .
He further stressed that when the leadership of political party provides a levelled play ground without supporting any particular aspirant ,as party man he works towards the success of the party in the election.
The chairman assured all the aspirants that they will be giving levelled play ground during the primaries devoid of no sentiments attached.
Hon.Hassan called on the PDP family to come out in their numbers , to elect the ad hoc delegates that will join the other delegates to constitute the electoral committees , preparatory to the party primaries.
The chairman said all these are still in process,and believed that soonest,it will be completed ,and start the process of constituting the electoral committees elected from each electoral wards and said that the party is more than ready for the conduct of the election.
He assured that the party will come out with the best process contrary to some pessimist ,l am assuring you that the party is going to provide a level play ground to all the aspirants vying under the party.
He advice the delegates to conduct themselves in PDP, manner , meaning you do it rancor free devoid of insult as Congress and convention suppose to be place where you make friends,and relate with one another.
And warned mischief makers to stay away from the exercise ,and those who are not members of the party.
He further revealed that the security have been briefed adequately, and they have assured us, INEC,is also going be part of it.
He advice those who may come out victorious at the contest , will carry the looser along and team up with the winners because the party is poised to win the general election.
The plateau state Governor Simon Bako Lalong has frowned at the attack on the Senator representing the southern zone of plateau state, Professor Nora Daduut , and the harmless journalists on her entourage who are carrying out their constitutional duties.
As the governor directed the security agencies in the state to go all out and fish out the hoodlums behind the dastardly act, and bring them to face the law.
The Governor expressed the outrage over an attack on Senator representing Plateau South District, Prof. Nora Dadu’ut and some journalists which occured on Thursday 28th April after the commissioning of an ICT HUB constructed by the Senator as part of her Constituency Project in Namu, Quan Pan Local Government Area.
The governor’s outrage is contained in a press statement dated 29th April,2022, signed by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor,Simon Makut Macham,and made available to this medium in Jos, plateau state.
He said the attack which was said to be unrelated to the commissioning of the project was alleged to have been orchestrated by hoodlums who were said to have been angered by the arrest of a suspected wanted kidnap kingpin by security agencies, and thus decided to vent their anger on passers- by, and innocent person they encountered.
According to the statement, this led to the burning of one of the security vehicles of the Senator, the damage of her official vehicle ,as well the complete burning down of the NUJ Press bus which conveyed some selected members of the Union to cover the event.
Governor Lalong while sympathising with the Senator and Members of the NUJ over the despicable act, directed security agencies to conduct thorough investigation into the matter and ensure that the culprits are fished out and brought to justice.
Lalong who praised the quick intervention of security forces who reinforced to contain the situation, restore calm and take charge of the general area, vowed that criminal elements will not be allowed to operate in any part of the State under his watch.
He however commended the Chairman of Quan Pan Local Government for the imposition of a dusk to dawn curfew on Namu town to enable security agencies to take charge of the situation to avoid further breakdown, and exploitation by those the governor described as crises merchants.
Governor lalong appealed to law abiding citizens of the area and the entire State, to be vigilant and also beware of the antics of criminals and their sponsors who are desperate in orchestrating trouble for selfish gains.
Member representing Langtang North and South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives ,Hon. Beni Lar had urged Nigeria and Plateau state in particular to vote out the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) from power in the forthcoming 2023 General Election, and put an end to the excruciating hardship the party has subjected the people to for the past Seven years it hold sway in government.
Called on the women to come out from their religious, traditional shell and participate in politics so as to change the narrative of bad government currently pervating Nigeria in general and plateau as a state occasioned by APC government.
Hon. Beni Lar who is contesting for the position of Federal House of Representatives to represent Lantang North and South,for the 5th uninterrupted times, stated this during an interview with group of journalists after her screening at the People Democratic party (PDP) Secretariat in Jos, plateau state.
The daughter of the first civilian governor of plateau state ,Chief Solomon Dashep Lar, said plateau people and Nigerians has tested the bitter peels the All Progressive Congress (APC) government have offered the country for the past Seven years,and thb
ey now know the difference between PDP government and the present ruling APC government, and urged them not to repeat the same mistakes that brought APC into power in 2015 which has bring the country too much pain and sorrow.
She advocated for continuity of lawmakers in the legislative business because it enhance efficiency, focus, confidence and more experience which can’t just been acquired in the four corner of the classroom, unfortunately , some go there for just one term,but unable to make it back for the second term which is working against Nigeria as a nation,and Plateau state in particular.
And however stressed that Hon. Maren is measuring up to become one of the lawmakers to be reckoned with in the lawmaking business which is one of my joy.
On the state of PDP readiness to wrestle power from the ruling PDP in plateau,”you can see from the present numbers of aspirants that beseech the party Secretariat who are here for screening contesting one position and the other.”
“This shows you clearly where the heart of the people are, people are tired of the incessant killings, kidnapping , banditry and hunger that has pervert the country occasioned by APC bad governance,the time for change is now.”
“If you don’t change the bad government of APC government now,you will ever live to regret it, Nigeria have known that the Buhari led government have failed the nation, as Lalong his son failed the people of plateau state.”
She called for more women participation in active politics to change the narrative,as she lamented that Nigeria has the least percentage of women in politics all over the world ,and advised them to shun traditional, religious and negative sentiments that are working against women participation in politics.
The former Governor of Lagos State , Bola Ahmed Tinubu has donated over One Thousand bags of rice and other iteams to the Muslims Umman in plateau state for Sallah Celebration.
As he challenged them to always pray for the emergence of good leaders at all levels, and other arms of government as the nation prepares for 2023 general elections.
Bola Tinubu who is vying for the position of president under the platform of the All progressives Congress APC,stated this while flagging off the distribution of Ramadan Foodstuffs to the Muslim ummah in the state.
Tinubu represented by Hon. Hassan Isa Maimadara stated this during the distribution of bags of rice and other iteams to the Muslims in the state to aid them in the Ramadan and celebrate of Sallah,said the period of Ramadan calls for Sober reflection ,dedication and charity.
While distributing the iteams to the beneficiaries across the seventeen local government areas of the state, urged them to make judicious use of the items.
Musa Alha ,secretary Jos elders forum, Sabo Isa youth and Hadiza Ibrahim Ndam women leader as well as Hannatu lawal Gyang , applauded the kind Gesture of Chief Bola Ahmed Tinubu and promise to make Good use of the items.
Other beneficiaries include; Religiou’s leaders, cultural groups, party officials,Women groups as well as a number of islamic organizations.
Member representing Langtang North and South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives ,Hon. Beni Lar had urged the Nigeria and Plateau state in particular to vote out the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) from power in the forthcoming 2023 General Election, and put an end to the excruciating hardship the party has subjected the people to for the past Seven years it hold sway in government.
Called on the women to come out from their religious, traditional shell and participate in politics so as to change the narrative of bad government currently pervating Nigeria in general and plateau as a state occasioned by APC government.
Hon. Beni Lar who is contesting for the position of Federal House of Representatives to represent Lantang North and South,for the 5th uninterrupted times, stated this during an interview with group of journalists after her screening at the People Democratic party (PDP) Secretariat in Jos, plateau state.
The daughter of the first civilian governor of plateau state ,Chief Solomon Dashep Lar, said the plateau people and Nigerians has tested the bitter peels the All Progressive Congress (APC) government have offered the country for the past Seven years,and they now know the difference between PDP government and the present ruling APC government, and urged them not to repeat the same mistakes that brought APC into power in 2015 which has bring the country too much pain and sorrow.
She advocated for continuity of lawmakers in the legislative business because it enhance efficiency, focus, confidence and more experience which can’t just been acquired in the four corner of the classroom, unfortunately , some go there for just one term,but unable to make it back for the second term which is working against Nigeria as a nation,and Plateau state in particular.And however stressed that Hon. Maren is measuring up to become one of the lawmakers to be reckoned with in the lawmaking business which is one of my joy.
On the state of PDP readiness to wrestle power from the ruling PDP in plateau,”you can see from the present numbers of aspirants that beseech the party Secretariat who are here for screening contesting one position and the other.”
“This shows you clearly where the heart of the people are, people are tired of the incessant killings, kidnapping , banditry and hunger that has pervert the country occasioned by APC bad governance,the time for change is now.”
“If you don’t change the bad government of APC now,you will ever live to regret it, Nigeria have known that the Buhari led government have failed the nation as Lalong his son failed the people of plateau state.”
She called for more women participation in active politics to change the narrative,as she lamented that Nigeria has the least percentage of women in politics all over the world ,and advised them to shun traditional, religious and negative sentiments that are working against women participation in politics.
The correspondence of Blue Print Newspaper, Alhaji Shittu Tanko has joined the numbers of aspirants to contest for 2023 general election for plateau state house of Assembly ticket to represent Jos North constituency.
As the journalist, Alhaji Tanko who purchased his form today 27th April,2022, under the platform of African Democratic Congress (ADC)at the party Secretariat along Bukuru Road in Jos , plateau state.
He said the reason while he decided to contest ,is largely due to pressure from his constituency who saw a lot of political potential on me,and believed that I can be a good representative to the constituency of Jos North.
He said when given the opportunity to serve,he will build on the achievement of his precedessor Alhaji Baba Hassan who has represented the constituency for more than four interrupted terms at the State House of Assembly.
“There are things that have been achieved in Jos North constituency under the workaholic member of Baba Hassan, but I must also point to the fact that a lot needed to be done in terms of social amenities in the constituency, I promise when elected, I will ensure that must of this things will be address under my watch.”
As journalist,I have written many articles and editorial about the ills bedeviling the state in general and Jos North in particular,so I know most of the problems of the people,if voted as member representing the constituency majority of these problems will not be new to me,he maintained.
Tanko stressed that he choose to vye for African Democratic Congress (ADC) platform because it appears to be the most credible political party who didn’t monetize he sale of it form like the APC, PDP and other parties, which gives room for the downtrodden to participate in the election.
However,not fewer than six aspirants picked the party form to contest for the state house of Assembly and federal house of Representatives.
Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, has described the N100 million presidential nomination fees of the All Progressive Congress as “dubious”, adding that it should be cancelled to save Nigeria’s democracy.
In a statement made available to THE WHISTLER on Thursday, he also called the opposition People’s Democratic party a whipping child with about N45 million price for its presidential form.
“The staggering sum of N100 million fixed by the APC NEC for its presidential nomination form has rightly sent shock waves of righteous indignation across the country.
“The vulgarity of this exercise lies not just in the abominable fee prescribed, but more in the party’s pretentious mantra of fighting corruption, using a well orchestrated and carefully oiled Hitler’s Goebel’s propagandist machinery of dubious pedigree.
“It is the more abhorrent when we realize that this is miles apart from (indeed more than double) the price fixed by the party’s whipping child, the opposition PDP, which has fixed its own at N40million (N5 million) for the nomination of interest; and N35 million for the nomination form,” he stated.
Taking a swipe at the APC, the learned silk said with the kind of money an aspirant is expected to pay, the party leadership is obviously introducing corruption into the democratic space by playing politics of the “mighty and wealthy.”
He said, “The problem with the tune, tone and template now set by the APC is that politics has become the exclusive preserve of the high, mighty and wealthy members of the society; and not for the poor. This has devalued democracy and institutional morals.
” The APC is now rapidly promoting plutocracy (government of the wealthy); gerontocracy (government of the oldest members of the society); and oligarchy (government of a select few). If president Buhari and the APC are genuinely interested in widening and deepening the political space, they should immediately call for a NEC and NWC meeting of the APC to rescind and cancel this obnoxious policy of deliberate exclusion of critical segments of their ruling party.
“The price tag constitutes direct and brazen discrimination against other pauperized Nigerian members of the APC party, especially the youths and women, contrary to section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution, which provides that ‘participation by the people in their government shall be ensured in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution”,” he stated.
Ozekhome also faulted the recently passed Electoral Act 2022, saying that some of its provisions have hugely monetized the electoral process.
“With the new amended Electoral Act of 2022 fixing N5 billion limit for presidential campaign as against the earlier N1billion under the 2010 Electoral Act, as amended, Nigeria’s politics and democracy have been completely moneticised with a swing towards anti-people capitalist merchantalism,” he stated.
Governor Simon Bako Lalong has visited the new Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TetFund) Arch. Sunny Echono in Abuja with an assurance that the Plateau State Government will continue to engage the Fund in addressing critical challenges of educational institutions in the State.
Governor lalong who was at the TetFund to formally congratulate Arch. Echono over his new appointment, said he was not surprised by his appointment having done excellently well as the Federal Ministry of Education where he retired as Permanent Secretary.
He recalled the relationship existing between Plateau State and TetFund where the Fund carried out major interventions at the Plateau State University Bokkos, Plateau Polytechnic, College of Education Gindiri as well as Federal Institutions such as the University of Jos, Federal College of Education Pankshin among others.
He further add that he is optimistic that the new Executive Secretary will carry on with the good works of his predecessor Prof. Elias Bogoro who did a lot to improve the standard of infrastructure in many State and Federal Tertiary institutions in the country particularly in Plateau State and the North.
He called on Arch. Echono to be focused and ignore distractions from some groups and individuals who are calling for the scrapping of TetFund, saying such calls are unreasonable and uncalled for, giving the tremendous work the Fund has done in changing the face of education in the country.
Lalong assured him that as Chairman of Northern Governors Forum, he will work with his colleagues to ensure that the Fund does not only achieve its objectives across the nation, but get quality interventions in the North which is lagging behind educationally.
Responding, Arch. Echono said he was delighted to receive Governor Lalong who is the Chairman of the Northern Governors Forum and Governor of the State where he spent his early school and working life and still considers it his first home.
He said he has received a lot of support from Governor Lalong over time and is happy that such collaboration will continue as he carries out his new assignment.
While assuring the Governor of the continues intervention of TetFund, Echono said the Fund is moving into other areas of intervention outside infrastructure by devoting resources to content development and supporting entrepreneurship education, as well as equipping education students with practical skills and knowledge to perform better.
He disclosed that President Buhari has already approved upward review of education tax from 2 to 2.5 percent which will enable the Fund cope with increasing demands by the old and new Tertiary institutions that are being established across the country.
Echono was also full of praise to Governor Lalong for his pursuit for peace and development which has restored Plateau to its pride of place as the Home of Peace and Tourism.
President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, Rev Dr Israel Akanji, has announced the 109th Annual Session of the Convention, urging members to join politics as the 2023 general elections draws closer.
The announcement was made at a press conference held in Lagos. He said that the convention would be held at the Baptist International Conference Centre (BICC), Lufuwape Town, Kilometre 53, Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, from April 23 to April 28, 2022.
He disclosed that the theme of the convention is “Entering into Newness with Praise and Thanksgiving (Ps. 100:4)” and will be hosted by the Oyo Baptist Conference.
Akanji noted that the programme would be attended by members of the Baptist family from all over Nigeria, Africa, United Kingdom, United States of America, Canada, and other parts of the world.
He said that the convention was being conducted to fellowship with God and with one another through worship and interactions, for spiritual renewal and recommitment as well as reporting of stewardship.
He said:
“One major reason for our annual convention is to call upon God in prayer. The Bible says: ‘Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain’ (Ps. 127:1).
“We believe that we need to pray for our country and our world generally.
“For our country, we need to pray specifically in the following areas, security situation of the country, economic development and growth, 2023 election and current state of university education in our country.
“We are constantly told that so much is being done on security, but the effect is definitely insufficient. Political will appears to be weak. We cannot but look up to God in prayer.
“We expect the Federal Government and ASUU, NASU and SSANU to quickly and respectfully resolve the ongoing crisis and come to agreement.
“It is expected that the government would fulfil promises made, but where it is unable to do so, to employ respectable means of renegotiation, so that our children will not continue to linger and suffer at home.”
Commenting on politics,
Akanji said that members were not only being encouraged to go and vote but to go and be voted for.
“We have been encouraging our members to participate in politics.
“In those days, we all know that the church was shy of not just publicity but from politics. They used to say politics is a dirty game, therefore, do not go into it and for many years many kept out of politics.
“But we have discovered that there is no way you can bring a change if you are not part of the system.
“We have been encouraging our members to participate in politics.
“In those days, we all know that the church was shy of not just publicity but from politics. They used to say politics is a dirty game, therefore, do not go into it and for many years many kept out of politics.
“But we have discovered that there is no way you can bring a change if you are not part of the system.
“Our rhetoric has changed about politics. When we see somebody going into politics now, we encourage and pray for the person.
“We encourage our people to also get registered, have their voter cards, so that they can vote. We have come to that level in this country”.
The Baptist leader added that members with political ambitions would be blessed, irrespective of their political affiliations during the convention.
“During our convention, a time will come when we will call all the people who have political ambition and we will pray for them.
“Whichever party you belong to, we don’t care which party, if you just know that God is calling you to help salvage this nation, come out.
“These are some practical ways and we will pray for them and we encourage our people to go and vote and encourage our people to serve as politicians.
“We have changed the language, we don’t speak negatively to them, we encourage them.
“Even though we don’t encourage them to go and sin, or do what is bad or join the corruption that is going on, yet we encourage them to go and participate.
“As at 1976, the President of the Baptist Convention in Liberia, William Tolbert, became the president of the country; in other words, a pastor became the president of Liberia.
“Even if there are pastors that are called upon to go into public life, into politics, we will pray for them and encourage them to go.
“We will not encourage them to continue preaching fully at that time, so that they will not humanly begin to preach their own political party.
“Martin Luther King Jr. was a Baptist pastor, his father was also a Baptist pastor.
“Baptist people especially, we are not supposed to be backward when it comes to politics and ensuring freedom for people,” he said.
Major highlights of the 109th Annual Session of the Convention include Opening Session and Youth Night on Saturday.
Convention Sunday Morning Worship would hold on Sunday and a special Convention Sunday Evening Worship. All members have been directed to wear white attire for the special praise and worship service.
On Monday, Men Missionary Union, Women Missionary Union and Baptist Students’ Fellowship would hold their programmes. Other programmes for the day include Showers of Blessing, Bible Study, Presentation of Reports and Evening Rally.
Meanwhile, Wednesday would witness Global Missions Board Hour, Presentation of Financial Reports, Social Ministries Anniversary and Appreciation Services.
On the final day of the 109th Annual Session of the Convention, Royal Ambassadors, Lydia, Girls Auxiliary and Sunbeam would display their parade skills to the delight of supervising leaders and Ministers of God; Showers of Blessing, Discussion of Reports, Resolution and Communique, and Awards and Recognition would take place. The programme would end with Closing Charge.
Baptists across the globe and Nigeria in particular were enjoined to attend this year’s session and where it is not possible to attend physically, they are urged to join the programmes through the Nigerian Baptist Convention owned New Frontiers Television, NFTV, and virtually via YouTube, Facebook and other online platforms.
The President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention Youth Conference, NBCYC, Pastor Enunuaye Onajite has felicitated with Christians world wide,and youths in particular for marking this year 2022 Easter celebration.
In a statement personally signed by him, he urged Christians to continue to be resilient in the face of adversity and hopelessness saying that victory is assured as exemplified by Jesus Christ.
He encouraged Baptist youths to attend the forthcoming Youth Night which will be held at Baptist International Conference Centre, BICC, Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Lufuwape, Ogun state on Saturday, April 23, 2022 with the theme “Youth Entering into Newness through Praise”.
He urged youths to pre-register for the event on http://www.nbcyc.org and ensure full participation in the programme and all 109th-in-Session programmes of the Nigerian Baptist Convention which will hold between Saturday 23 and Thursday 28, 2022 at BICC.
He said “The season is here to celebrate persecution, crucifixion, death and resurrection of the saviour of the world, our Lord Jesus Christ.
“The celebration is different because it is the hallmark of Christianity as our faith would have been in vain if Jesus had not resurrected.
“I urge all Christians across the globe and youths in particular especially, youths of Baptist extraction to celebrate modestly and use the period to seek God’s face.”
On the NBCYC Youth Night, Onajite said “2022 Youth Night is special and promises to be great. This year, we are praising God for His faithfulness over Baptist youths with Psalm 100.
He stated that “Our theme, Youth Entering into Newness through Praise was divinely given because Baptist youths would enter a newness of life in Christ Jesus through the programme.”
He added that special guests have been invited to minister at the programme. They include, the Director, Youth and Student Ministries, NBC, Rev Dr SAK Olaleye, Coordinator, Youth Ministry, NBC, Rev J.S IbukunOluwa, and Pastor, Praise Baptist Church, Sango-Ota, Rev Israel Ayuba.
Others are Rev Dr Julius Omomola, Pastor, New Heritage Baptist Church, Lagos, Pastor Peter Udin and a talented Jos-based gospel artist, Bro. Jay Nyam among others.
The chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in plateau state, ambassador Ibrahim Sabiu Musa has decried the Abysmal failure of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) in the state.
As he regretted conceding power to governor Lalong in 2015 , when the electoral umpire , Independent Electoral Commission, conspicuously omitted his party’s logo which automatically called for rerun of the election.
The chairman of ADC,in plateau state, who doubled as the secretary of the party chairmen forum in Nigeria ,Ambassador Sabiu Musa stated this in an exclusive interview with journalists in Jos, plateau state capital.
He further add that the reason why the party did not press further for rerun of the election at that material time, is for the peace of the state,and because the party, ADC, so much believed on the APC led government in the state that he is going to change the lives of an average plateau citizens.
He decried that Seven and Half years down the line ,the APC government have taken the state backward for another Twenty years devoid of developmental projects, which can best be described as wasted years, with nothing to show for it.
Sabiu stressed that he has traveled round almost all the states in Nigeria, and has seen the development going in some of these state as against that of plateau despite the enormous human and natural resources the state is endowed with.
And called on the people of plateau state ,that another General Election is around the corner,they should not vote with Sentiment and money bags politians who will come and impoverish them like the way APC did,but vote the party with credible individual that has the state and citizens at heart.
On the level of his party, ADC, preparedness for the forthcoming general elections, he said the party is much ready with credible aspirants that will match the ruling APC ,and any other political parties in the state at the polls.
“We just returned from Abuja to attend meeting geared towards 2023 general elections ,our Congress which supposed to have been held 16th April , was prosponed till 16th May,2022 to conform with INEC electoral rules, for all political parties to conduct it congresses Fifty days before the general elections”.
“As far as ADC is concern,we are very much ready,to confront any parties in the state come 2023.”he maintained.
On the astronomical increase of the level of insecurity the state,he said it’s worrisome , however, berated the state government and the security agencies for not doing enough in securing the lives and properties of the citizens of Plateau state , which they took an oath to protect , particularly governor Lalong on assumption of office.
The ADC chairman condenmed the recent attack on the convoy of the federal lawmaker in the state Hon. Musa Agah, by yet to be identified gunmen , which claimed the lives of three persons, called the governor and security agencies to provide more security for the state as human lives is sacred.
The member representing Jos North/Bassa federal constituency at house of Representatives Musa is reported to have escaped death by whiskers.
The member of the house of Representatives who won the conducted bye election under the platform of People Democratic Party (PDP) a month ago , following the demise of late Alh Haruna Maitala who died on ghastly motor accident along Jos, Abuja Road.
According to statement dated 19th April,2022, signed by one Davidson Malison and made available to this medium said he was on his to his constituency in Bassa when some persons suspected to be Fulanis militias ambushed him and his aides this night along Twin Hill Miango.
The Hon member was inside the car with his wife, two kids, personal assistant and driver and Hon Hwenke Tuhu in his own car.
They all escaped by whiskers ,but his car was battered and shattered with gunshot bullets.
Two others on a motorcycle who were ahead of them first encountered the ambush and have been confirmed killed
Sequel to his quest to contest for the position for House of Representatives , Representing Jos south and East in Federal House of Representatives,the chairman Jos south local government Ambassador Gideon Dandereng has inaugurated his campaign council.
The Campaign team which has its name “The Greater Movement Campaign Council”,has Coordinators for local governments, districts, and wards have been inaugurated to work towards the aspiration of Gideon Dandereng vying for member Jos South/Jos East Federal House of Representatives in the 2023 general election.
The inauguration of the campaign council is contained in a press statement dated 19th April,2022, signed by Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on media and Publicity to the Executive Chairman Jos south LG,Shamaki Gyang and made available to this medium.
Chairman of the campaign council Pam Danzos inaugurated the coordinators with the charge to work to actualise the aspiration.
Gideon Dandereng who is currently the chairman Jos South Local government Council is vying for member Federal House of Representatives.
To hit the ground running a campaign team led by Pam Danzos as Chairman and Daniel Izang as Director General inaugurated local government, district and ward coordinators for the federal constituency.
He said they are carefully selected based on their competencies and should work earnestly for the actualisation of Gideon Dandereng’s aspiration.
The aspirant Gideon Dandereng said his aspiration is borne out of the People’s wish and based on consultation and has accepted to run.
Some of the coordinators said they do not doubt the capacity and capability of Dandereng to give the constituency a good representation.
The Greater Movement has Pam Audu as coordinator Jos South and Yahana Izam for Jos East with other coordinators across all the districts and wards of the two separate local governments.
Any leaders that worth to be called one most be that leader whose focus is to always think what to live behind as legacy so that when he is no longer there will speak for him.
The leader that lack the credentials is not worth to be called one, and should be condenmed to the tash can of history.
The chairman of jos south local government, plateau state, amb.Gideon Dandereng stated this during the ground breaking laying foundation of the council’s chapel held at it Secretariat in Jos, plateau state.
The chairman said the foundation laying of the chapel we be solely finance from his pocket ,after then the management of the council can continue from there , which I am optimistic that finance will not be problem because the project has been captured in this year appropriation budget that is before the council’s legislature that would soon be pass .
The chairman further add that , when the chapel is completed , Jos south local government will be the first with chapel attached to it council’s Secretariat that is initiated and build during his tenure.
He stressed that the aim for initiating the idea for the project is to leave behind lasting legacy that ambassador Gideon Dandereng will ever been remember for when he eventually leave office as the chairman of jos south LG.
He further stressed that like the word of Sheakpear
in one of his book “Macbeth” “The World Is Empherial ,Is Like Putting Foot On The Sand ,And When The Wind Blew It Takes It Away.”
So its the good work you left behind that will serve as historical remembrance of your deeds here on earth.
He called on all the staff of the council that attendance to the chapel when completed is compulsory as no excuse will be entertained,as frangrant disobedient to the constituted authority ,is disobedient to God almighty who constituted the said authority.
The chairman thank the members of the staff for their support that he has never taken for granted ,and prayed God to reward them accordingly,and meet them in every point of their needs.
The service exhortation was done by Rev. David Smoot from Florida United States of America who said he couldn’t hide his love for the people of Jos South and Plateau State in general, having known the State for 31 years. He extolled the importance of constructing the chapel as it will signify the acceptance and presence of God in Jos South.
The Reverend also expressed his desire to be around to commission the project when it is finally completed.
The Human Capital Providers Association of Nigeria, HuCaPAN, has congratulated Christians for marking another Easter and urged Nigerians to use the period to reflect, pray and work for peace.
In a statement issued by the President of the Association in Lagos today, Dr. Olufemi Ogunlowo, said that the crucifixion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ which is at the centre of the Christian faith assures victory saying that the sufferings that Christ passed through brought deliverance from sins and redemption to mankind.
He urged Christians to faithfully practice Jesus’ teachings on love, hope and sacrifice.
He said, “The economy is in dire straits. This is partly so because of the insecurity in the country.
“The economy can only grow when there is peace and tranquility. Therefore, as stakeholders in the Nigerian project, we must pray for peace.
“Christ overcame the power of darkness, forces of evil and that of death. This teaches us resilience, patience and determination. We must be ready to do all that is necessary to bring peace to Nigeria”.
Ogunlowo called on the government to do more to tame the growing insecurity in Nigeria stressing that Nigeria is destined for greatness.
HuCaPAN is the umbrella Association of licensed Private Employment Agencies, PEAs, in Nigeria.
Following the grusome killings of innocent communities of Kanam and Wase Local Government Area of plateau state, Governor Bako Lalong on Friday 15th April 2022 , visited the two affect communities where not fewer than 100 persons were massacre by militias.
Lalong accompanied by his Deputy Prof. Sonni Tyoden, Secretary to Government Prof. Danladi Atu, Chief of Staff, members of his cabinet, as well as heads of security agencies including the General Officer Commanding 3 Armoured Division and Commander Operation Safe Haven, Commissioner of Police, said he was devastated by the senseless massacre of innocent villagers in the affected areas.
The Governor began his visit at the Palace of the Emir of Kanam, HRH Muhammdu Babangida Muazu where he condoled with him over the unfortunate development.
The Emir thanked the Governor for the visit and said that the people have been devastated over the mass killings which have no provocation or any justification because his people are peace loving and only pursuing their livelihoods, basically farming and trading.
He urged the government to do more by deploying security forces to the affected areas on a permanent basis as well as see to it that intelligence given to the security agencies is acted upon expeditiously.
The Governor later visited injured survivors recieving treatment at the Kanam General Hospital, Dengi where he sympathised with them and directed that all their medical expenses be settled by the Government.
Later at an interactive session with stakeholders at the Kanam Townhall Dengi, the Governor said he was in the area to get further briefing on the attacks and ascertain the situation of survivors.
He described the incident as regrettable and unfortunate, urging the people not to be dismayed as the Government is doing everything possible to arrest those behind the attacks and ensure that the sad incident does not occur again.
He said “those who committed this heinous crime may think that they have escaped but I can assure you that we will never allow them to go free no matter how long it takes. I am sure that God will also not allow them to go unpunished for taking the precious lives of others without reason”.
The Governor assured the people that the State is working with the Federal Government to find lasting solutions to insecurity on the Plateau, the North Central and entire Northern Region.
He disclosed that already, he has briefed President Muhammadu Buhari and appealed for a coordinated approach to tackling terrorist attacks in the North Central particularly at border areas and ungoverned spaces which have become operational bases for the terrorists who criss-cross communities causing damage to lives and properties.
Chairman of Kanam Local Government Hon. Dayyabu Garga described as horrific the killing of 106 people which he said has never been witnessed in the area known for its peace, abundant mineral and agricultural resources. He said they have remained traumatised and continue to deal with the unquantifiable losses and displacement of women and children.
Member representing Pankshin, Kanke, Kanam Federal Constituency Yusuf Gagdi also thanked the Governor and the security forces for rising to the occasion to dominate the attacked areas which is gradually restoring hope to the people.
He also thanked the Governor for his efforts to mobilise humanitarian support and relief materials from both the State and Federal Governments as well as non governmental organisations.
Other speakers also thanked the Governor for the visit, but emphasised the fact that because Plateau State shares borders with Bauchi, Taraba and Gombe States along vast forest areas, it makes them vulnerable to attacks by criminals who operate with impunity because of the lack of permanent presence of security forces.
When the Governor visited Wase Local Government, he met with stakeholders at the Local Government secretariat where he again commissetared with them over the unfortunate development and assured them that the Government is taking steps to ensure that the terrorists are arrested and the area is made safe again.
He said the Government will not allow criminals to terrorise the people and stop them from farming and going about their legitimate businesses.
Chairman of Wase Local Government Area Dr. Ado Abubakar Buba told the Governor that vigilante groups have continued to work with Operation Rainbow and other security agencies to gather intelligence and provide first line if action against the terrorists and other criminals.
He appealed to the Government to sustain recent clearance operations which has tremendously helped to restore confidence, urging for the diligent prosecution of arrested suspects.
Speaking on behalf of the heads of security agencies, GOC 3rd Armoured Division and Commander Operation Safe Haven Maj. Gen. Ali also sympathised with the people and assured them of further deployment of troops to the general area in addition to coordinated response to address cross border attacks across the frontline states.
In another development, Governor Bako Lalong has felicitate with Christians for marking another Easter and urged Nigerians to use the period sobre reflect on peace, love and hope for a better Nigeria.
Governor Lalong in a message to mark the event said the Crucifixion, Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ which is at the centre of the Christian faith guarantees victory because despite the agony Jesus passed through, his sufferings brought emancipation and redemption to mankind.
He urged Nigerians to embrace the lessons of Christ’s sacrifice and teachings which speak of resilience, love, patience and determination to overcome evil and provide better situation.
According to him, the current security situation in the country as well as other challenges the nation is passing through call for determination and collaboration among all Nigerians to work together to defeat the forces of evil who are bent on causing pain and agony to the innocent citizens.
Lalong said just like Jesus overcame death and liberated mankind, Nigeria will overcome the current phase of insecurity and destruction that is being perpetrated by criminals who place little value of human life.
The Governor also calls for more prayers and support for the leadership to be able to provide visionary and purposeful leadership for the nation in the coming years so as to enable Nigerians realise their dreams.
Lalong calls on the people to be security conscious and report any suspicious movement of persons or activity to the security agencies in order to forestall any breakdown of law and order.
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has congratulated Christians for marking another Easter and urged Nigerians to use the period and reflect on peace, love and hope for a better Nigeria.
Governor Lalong in a message to mark the event said the Crucifixion, Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ which is at the centre of the Christian faith guarantees victory because despite the agony Jesus passed through, his sufferings brought emancipation and redemption to mankind.
He urged Nigerians to embrace the lessons of Christ’s sacrifice and teachings which speak of resilience, love, patience and determination to overcome evil and provide better situation.
According to him, the current security situation in the country as well as other challenges the nation is passing through call for determination and collaboration among all Nigerians to work together to defeat the forces of evil who are bent on causing pain and agony to the innocent citizens.
Lalong said just like Jesus overcame death and liberated mankind, Nigeria will overcome the current phase of insecurity and destruction that is being perpetrated by criminals who place little value of human life.
The Governor also calls for more prayers and support for the leadership to be able to provide visionary and purposeful leadership for the nation in the coming years so as to enable Nigerians realise their dreams.
Lalong calls on the people to be security conscious and report any suspicious movement of persons or activity to the security agencies in order to forestall any breakdown of law and order.
Ahead 2023 General Election in plateau state ,not fewer than 200 aspirants has so far purchased nomination form to contest under the umbrella of People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
The breakdown numbers of aspirants vying for the various positions,over (90) aspirants has so far purchased nomination forms for the state House of Assembly, (17) for the seat of Governorship,as that of Senate and House of Representatives cannot be assertained for now because the forms are been sold in Abuja , the Headquarters of the Party.
Hon. Gwott Yakubu Chocho ,the state Organizing Secretary of PDP, in plateau state revealed this to journalists in an exclusive interview at the party’s Secretariat along Abrahim Taiwo Road ,Jos.
Hon. Chocho said following overwhelming numbers of the candidates that has purchased the nomination forms,and as party that adhered to all the democratic tenet of the party ,and by extension constitution,we advised aspirants to meet their delegates and with the view to canvass for their votes.
The state organising secretary of the party ,Hon. Chocho stressed that the party is opened to issues of contestants on the plateau,the aspirants contesting for the state house of Assembly are over ninety aspirants who have so far bought the party forms officially.
We bought (72) Seventy -Two forms from the national headquarters got finished, purchased another (30) Thirty which was exhausted and now another (30) Thirty we bought is at the vague of finishing.
He said the nomination forms for the National Assembly and that of Governorship is not soled at the state Secretariat, but at the headquarters of the party Secretariat in Abuja.
“Members of the party vying for National Assembly seats, and that of Governor have gone to the party’s Secretariat at Abuja to buy their respective forms, which I cannot tell you the exact number of aspirants for now, because the records are not here at the state office of the party,but I Know that every constituency in the state have nothing less than (3) Three aspirants, when you multiply this, you may get close to the statistics of the aspirants that has purchased the nomination forms for National Assembly.”
“For example in my immediate Local Government , that is Bariki Ladi, those who have purchased the nomination forms are not less than (4) Four , that’s Bariki Ladi Riyom Federal constituency,so how will it be in pankshin , Kanam and so on ,he maintained.
Honorable Yakubu Chocho further add that the aspirants for National Assembly and Governorship, forms were purchased at the party headquarters in Abuja.
He further add that contest for the position of the governor, which is key ,have not less than (17) Seventy aspirants who have purchased nomination forms for the position.
“As a democratic party, we keep addressing our aspirants that the party will give every aspirant equal opportunity and free hands, and they should go outside their and campaign to their delegates with the view of winning their heart and votes ,at the end ,the party will conduct open primaries ,and the aspirants we see the winner and loser ,with how many votes.
At the end the aspirants will close ranks together to meet our opponents at the general election polls.
The prayer of our great party, the People Democratic Party(PDP), the Organising secretary said ,is that Independence Electoral Commission (lNEC),which is the sole referee for the final contest, will be fair ,just and give plain ground to every candidate , whoever win the election should be declared winner,that will be the only thing that will bring peace to Nigeria and plateau state in particular.
He warned the electoral body, INEC, against declaring two different result which is one of the main problems that have been facing Nigeria Electoral system.
Stressed that when election are declared uniformly devoid of being doctored ,and to the satisfaction of the people, that is okay.
“If I loose ,I loose gallantly ,I will take it in good faith ,is not when my stronghold for election results are declared , when election is still on going ,and you don’t expect me to just fold my arm and keep quiet, definitely I must murmure
He commended the national election umpire for the recently conducted election in some parts of the country, including plateau state ,we can see transparency of INEC ,and we pray that it will improve on that , who ever lost and win, will not have the cost to complain.
He further commended the new INEC concept introduced by the commission (INEC Portal),l think we are happy , that is what the people have been yearning for.
“In the time past,I know there had been some mishapping in INEC,that this new innovation of the national electoral umpire will help in solving the problems.”
He advise the electoral body to recruit officers wealth of experience who have the knowledge of election, people with permanent address as against the use of NYSC members who is not having permanent addresses, and they don’t have any thing at stake regarding the election they can easily compromise during election.
And further suggested that they should use teachers and workers with permanent address and when they fail, their job should be terminated.
But when the services of NYSC are engaged ,you can just throw fifty thousand naira to them, they can easily compromise.
On the exclusion of PDP from the last LG Election in the state,chocho frowned at the decision of plateau state electoral commission (PLASEIC) for that action ,
“Plateau state is wrong to have excluded PDP from the election, INEC,is a federal institution and is not a state matter, plastic is a state matter , INEC is instituted to gavanise Elections Nation wide.”
“Plastic can never jeopardize federal might that is why will head for the court for interpretation.”
The challenges of the People Democratic Party (PDP),is internal which the party have the capacity to tackle,and pray that the party will Soon over come it.
Whether APC,can still return to power in 2023, the party organising secretary said, that is the choice of the people ,to either choose APC, PDP or any other party ,the power belong to the people that is why we say lNEC, who is the sole umpire should give every party free hands, if it’s penalty or off- side,let it remain that way ,the spectators will not grumble , when the contrary is done , definitely you will grumble.
However ,we prayed that the people of plateau state has decided they want a positive change that will bring peace.
He lamented that APC , brought an agenda , which is change “Dole”.
Even you the journalists, are you happy with the change , how much was the price of bag of rice during PDP, era ,what is the price today ,he questioned?
“ow much was the price of fertilizer during PDP”,
“That is why our party , PDP, is showcasing the best candidates that can change the narratives”,
“He reiterated PDP, determination to ensure it bring food to the table of common man in plateau state, and by extension Nigeria in general”,
“He berated APC for not listening to the cry of Nigeria masses, if we have not come to the realization that we have made mistake”.
The Governor of plateau state Simon Bako Lalong had vowed to confront those working against the restoration of peace on the Plateau.
Governor Lalong along with some of his top officials were in Miango, Bassa Local Government Area on Thursday, 14th April 2022 to meet with the stakeholders over the sporadic attacks in the area.
At the meeting attended by the Paramount ruler of Irigwe nation, HRH Bra Ngwe Rigwe Rev. Ronku Aka, community, youth and women representatives as well as political and religious leaders, Governor Lalong said his mission was to again condole with the people over the incessant killings and destruction of properties in the area which are a major setback to the progress of the entire state.
The Governor commended the Irigwe people for their resilience, patience and efforts to live in peace with their neighbours despite the losses they have incurred overtime from attacks by criminal elements.
The Governor praised them for their positive attitude towards peace building which led them to signing a peace pact with the Fulani with whom they have lived together peacefully for a long time, until criminal elements came in to fan embers of hate, destruction and crises.
He stressed that the Irigwe made the right decision to work together with the Fulani they know and have dwelt together peacefully over many years in order to isolate criminals who come in and try to exploit faultlines and cause chaos.
This he said will assist both sides identify criminal elements who use ethnicity, religion and other excuses as a cover to perpetrate evil while leaving many innocent people in pains and agony.
He urged them to resist the incitement and provocation by criminal elements both external and internal who seek to stop the development of the area and the prosperity of the State, assuring them that Government will follow them and ensure that they are dealt with rudelessly.
According to Lalong, those who have continued to peddle falsehood that his administration does not like the Irigwe people are mischievous persons who want to politicise insecurity in order to gain popularity through misinformation and fake news.
He reminded them that he has held several meetings with their leaders facilitated by the Peace Building Agency aimed at finding solutions to the recurring attacks in the area.
Lalong further regretted the loss of lives , properties ,and the displacement of people promising that the Government will assist those displaced to get their shelter back as well as continued to provide relief materials and support to those whose lives have been interrupted by the attacks.
In his remarks, the Bra Ngwe Irigwe HRH Rev. Ronku Aka expressed gratitude to Governor Lalong for his commitment to restoring peace in Irigwe land despite many setbacks experienced and attempt by some to discredit him.
He appealed to the Governor to use his veto powers as the number one citizen of the state and ensure that anyone who breaches the terms of the agreement is dealt with according to the law so as to serve as a deterrent to others because his people are tired of the unwarranted attacks and losses.
Chairman of Irigwe Development Association Mr. Robert Dodo in his presentation said the security forces have done their best but still operate reactively rather than proactively.
He argued the government to resolve the boundary adjustments within the area which is also a factor in the level of insecurity in the area.
Irigwe Youth Movement President Mr. Ezekiel Bini and the Woman leader Mrs. Caroline Gwendu asked for the quick passage of the Ranching Bill currently before Plateau State House of Assembly in order to deal with the issue of open grazing that is at the centre of the attacks and displacement in the area.
He also appealed to the Government to empower the vigilante groups so as to enable them provide first line of defence and intelligence against any attack.
The former Governor of plateau state Senator Chibi Dariye has been released from prison.
The senator has been pardon at the council of State meeting held at the presidential villa today 14th April,2023.
The ex presidents meeting which had Gen Yakubu Gowon,Gen Abdulsalam Abubakar, Dr Good luck Ebele Jonathan in attendance.
The former Governor of plateau state was sentence for corruption related offense by Economic and Financial Crime Commission (Efcc) when he held sway as governor of the state.
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has described as shocking and painful the death of the Statistician-General for the Federation, Dr. Simon Harry as great lost to the entire Nigeria nation.
Governor Lalong while reacting to the death of Dr. Harry, said his demise is a huge loss to the nation considering the fact that he was one of those who shaped the National Bureau for Statistics (NBS) and saw to its reform and transformation before he was appointed to head the Agency in August 2021 by President Muhammadu Buhari.
Governor Lalong who had visited the deceased in the hospital while he was undergoing medical treatment in Abuja, said the death of this illustrious son of Plateau State and a patriotic Nigerian was a sad development which creates a vacuum not only to his family, but the State and nation at large.
While commiserating with his immediate family, friends and associates, Governor Lalong said although his exit is sorrowful, there is solace by the records of service and excellence he left behind which are evident in his diligence, passion and honesty which paved the way for him to rise through the ranks and become the number one Statistician in Nigeria till his death.
He urged all to accept his death as the will of God and pray for the repose of his soul, while working hard to uphold his good legacies and ensuring that his positive contributions to the society are sustained.
Lalong also appreciated President Buhari for trusting the deceased with the responsibility of superintending over the nation’s foremost statistics agency.
In an effort to boost foreign earning for the state, the state government led by Simon Bako Lalong is set to start exporting flowers to Europe and America as New Central Bank of Nigeria’s(CBN)on non oil export Rt200 fx programme ,as it were in 70s and 80s to return the state to it past glory.
As he said Mining is still a very profitable engagement in the State with both commercial and artisanal mining opportunities. At the same time, we are working hard to return Plateau to the days of flower production for export just as it was witnessed in the 70s and 80s. We are also interested in making sure that there is huge production and export of exotic fruits which Plateau State is known for.
All that is needed is to galvanise and sensitise our citizens to key into these initiatives that will create opportunities for them in small scale enterprises,they need to understand the gains of using this platform to produce, package and add value to products that have high value for exports which will yield huge income for them and the State.
Governor Lalong made the promise in his goodwill message during the senstistization workshop on the Central Bank New Policy On Non Oil Export (RT200fx programmes held on 12th April ,2022 at crispan hotel in Jos, plateau.
Governor lalong represented by the commissioner for Special Duties Rehimia Werr said just of recent he was at Dubai with some few Governors from other States to the Annual Investment Summit in Dubai where we engaged foreign investors on the various opportunities that abound in Plateau State for businesses,i used the opportunity to tell them that Plateau has huge endowments that are ready to be exploited and used for the good of the investor and the citizens.
With this new RT200 FX Programme policy by the CBN, the nation stands to gain a lot in terms of expanding its foreign exchange earning capacity through other sectors that were previously not properly utilised. I am happy that Fidelity Bank has identified the potentials in Plateau State and decided to hold this sensitization workshop here.
He said this further demonstrates the growing cordial relationship between the Plateau State Government and the bank in many areas of mutual benefits,therefore congratulate the Management of Fidelity bank plc for continuously partnering the Government to expand windows of opportunities to its citizens as well as build a robust economy for the State.
“You would agree with me that this is a very ambitious but long overdue policy that is most needed at this time considering the fact that our economy has been dependent on oil for foreign exchange earnings over the years. The shortages of forex experienced also make this initiative most urgent”.
The governor further stressed that the implications have been very hard on both the economy and the citizens who have had to endure the shocks that come with disruptions in oil exports or the nation’s inability to meet it oil
export targets due to local or global challenges. We have witnessed a number of recessions in recent years due to COVID-19 and other global factors which negatively affected the citizens.
Lalong commended president Mohammadu Buhari for his determination of his administration to diversify the economy and create other windows for Nigeria to earn foreign exchange through agriculture, mining, services and others remains highly commendable ,so far, we can see how the diversification of the agricultural sector has enabled Nigeria to save a lot of foreign exchange from importing food commodities like rice.
We have established the one stop Investment Center (OSIC) as an investment facilitation mechanism with relevant government agencies in one location coordinated and streamlined to provide prompt, efficient and transparent services to investors. This Centre has the capacity to assist our people take advantage of this new CBN policy. In addition, I have directed the Plateau Small and Medium Enterprises Agency (PLASMIDA) to mobilise, train, and empower our people to key into the RT200 FX Programme.
However, the advent of oil diverted attention from solid minerals and other sources for foreign exchange earning in Nigeria including agriculture among others. I therefore hope that this new policy by the CBN will change that narrative and give the country another opportunity to redeem the past neglect. The economy will be better for it.
He pointed that mining is still a very profitable engagement in the State with both commercial and artisanal mining opportunities. At the same time, we are working hard to return Plateau to the days of flower production for export just as it was witnessed in the 70s and 80s. We are also interested in making sure that there is huge production and export of exotic fruits which Plateau State is known for.
And said that Plateau State is very much prepared for this programme because the Yakubu Gowon Airport Heipang has been designated by the Federal Government as an International Fresh Cargo Airport. The plan is to make the airport have the capacity of processing about 750,000 metric tons of fresh cargo annually. Also, we have purchased the Inland Container Terminal which is a stone throw from the Airport and very close to the railway line.
All these provide the infrastructure that will make it possible for the goods produced in Plateau State through the new CBN policy to be evacuated without any challenges. We hope that Fidelity Bank will play its role as a window for our people to access funds from the programme so that they can contribute to the export of commodities that will earn the nation foreign exchange.
Once again, I want to thank the Management of the CBN for coming up with the new policy as well as Fidelity Bank for buying into it and identifying the potentials and capabilities in Plateau which necessitated the hosting of this sensitization workshop,and assured that my administration will give all the necessary support for the policy to succeed.
Earlier in his welcome address ,the Executive Northern Directorate of Fidelity Bank plc Hassan Iman, reiterated the apex bank of Nigeria launching of the RT200 FX programme (Race to USS200 billion in FX Repatriation) following decisions reached at the banker’s committee meeting of February 10th 2022
He further said the robustness of the policy instruments present opportunities to your business as part of our commitment to the growth of your business which necessitated this sensitization workshop.
Hassan Said the Plateau state is choosen for the program because of it enormous contribution to the growth non oil export space in particular and agribusiness in general.
He stressed that the state is well endowed with not only solid minerals ,but agricultural commodities and human resources that can propel it to become one of the richest states in Nigeria.
The Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria , plateau state chapter has suspended it strike action embarked upon over one month ago.
This is after the committee to dialogue and negotiate on the demands of Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), plateau state branch on the demands related to the matter summited it final report.
The suspension of the strike was announced today 13th April,2022 by the union Chairman , Comrade Philip Longji held at the Plateau State Secretariat .
According to (Jusun) chairman Comrade Philip Longji, said the agreement to suspend the strike is reach after the following resolutions were taking by the negotiating committee.
The resolutions read thus:
Following the strike action embarked upon by judiciary staff union of Nigeria plateau state chapter on the 7th March,2022,and the Chief judge constituted a committee to dialogue and negotiate on the demands of the union,the following agreement were reached.
After careful deliberations the following were resolved:
a)On the disparity and discrepancy in salaries ,the committee was informed that it’s being handled.
b)Non implementation of staff promotion,the committee was informed this had already been implemented
C) On redeployment of staff of the ministry of finance,it was resolved that it will be gradual process depending on the capacity of the judiciary staff to take over from them, but this is to be concluded before the end of the 4th quarter of 2022.
The other resolutions reached by the negotiating committee include,
d) Non- conversation of officier ,the committee was informed that the process has commenced and will continue after the suspension of the strike action.
e) That the Domestic , outfit and security allowances is the same as peculiar allowance .
f)On the issue of peculiar allowance , (JUSUN) summited a “Table” agreed upon by the federal judiciary service commission with 100 percent financial implication.
The committee however directed the secretary to liaise and bring up and his Excellency.
This should be concluded before the end of May,2022.
The agreement was signed by the parties , the government, union and witnesses to both parties.
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