by Alexander Aleburu

JUPTI  Honours Governor Lalong Over Labour Friendly/Infrastructure

JUPTI Honours Governor Lalong Over Labour Friendly/Infrastructure
By,giwa alex, Jos
Union under the auspacies of Plateau Tertiary Workers Joint Union of Plateau State owned Tertiary Institutions (JUPTI) on Friday 5th February 2021 honoured Governor Simon Bako Lalong with an award for his consistency and passion towards workers welfare and development of education.
The Union which also inaugurated its new executives during the event held at the J.C
Dariye hall of the Plateau State Polytechnic Jos campus said it was very happy to recognise the efforts of the Lalong administration for promptly attending to welfare of workers particularly those in tertiary institutions.
While presenting the award to the Governor, immediate past Chairman of JUPTI Comrade Paul Dakogol said the workers are happy that Governor Lalong has kept his word on payment of salaries and other entitlements to staff as well as clearance of all arrears left behind by the past administration of Governor Jang.
He said the union also came to the conclusion to recognise the Governor for other Infrastructural developments in various tertiary, secondary and primary schools in the State which have enhanced academic pursuit and improvement in the quality of education in the State.
Governor Lalong while accepting the award said he was humbled and happy that the workers on their own assessments came to the conclusion to recognise his administration’s focus on developing education which is the fulcrum of progress for every society.
He said ” I am of the deep conviction that unless we educate our citizens and enable them acquire the capacity to deploy their talents for empowerment, we cannot go anywhere as a State. An uneducated citizenry is not only difficult to govern, but even harder to mobilise for impact.This explains why we have continued to give education the needed priority”.
He explained that apart from reviving the Plateau State University Bokkos which was virtually shut down and comatose when he came into office, his administration has been giving similar attention to other tertiary institutions owned by the State in terms of infrastructure, manpower and staff welfare. This according to him explains why the Lalong Legacy Projects are dominated by education and health institutions which are being developed to world-class standards.
Lalong charged the new Executives and members of JUPTI to use their unique and strategic positions to be a force for harmony and development of education in Plateau State. He advised them to always encourage dialogue rather than confrontation in resolving labour disputes in order to engender industrial harmony in the citadels of learning.
Rector of the Plateau State Polytechnic Mr. John Dawam applauded the Governor for the approval for the establishment of a Federal Polytechnic in Shendam, as well as the Karl Kumm University Vom and ANAN University of Accountancy, Kwall.
He said the development of infrastructure at the Plateau State Polytechnic is commendable but more should be done to enable the school cope with higher student number and deliver quality education.
Head of Service Mr
Izam Azi also received an award for his commitment to labour matters and facilitating dialogue between the Government and the labour movement in the State.
by Alexander Aleburu

Lalong Vows Inclusive Governance And Transparency As He Inauguration OGP Steering Committee

Lalong Vows Inclusive Governance And Transparency As He Inauguration OGP Steering Committee
Our Reporter
Plateau State Governor Simon Lalong has inaugurated the steering committee for the Open Government Partnership, a.k.a (OGP) .
The Group has hundreds of members comprising of Government non-governmental jurisdictions in 78 countries.

This follows the admission of the State last year into the global organisation that promotes good governance working with reformers inside and outside of government to transform how government serves its citizens.

Governor Lalong who was represented at the inauguration by Secretary to the Government of Plateau State Prof. Danladi Abok Atu explained that the State was delighted to join the OGP which is an organization that brings together governments and civil society leaders to create more transparent, inclusive, and participatory government.
He said his Government continues to embrace all initiatives to promote prudence, transparency, accountability and people driven-resource management in order to give value to the lives of its citizens.
The Governor said apart from implementing the Treasury Single Account, the Government has ensured that government resources are saved through the Efficiency Unit.
Others are the Project Monitoring and Result Delivery Unit (PMRDU), Bureau for Public Procurement, and compliance with State Fiscal Transparency, Accountability and Sustainability (SFTAS).
He said some of these qualities facilitated the admittance of Plateau State among the only two jurisdictions to be selected to join OGP in 2020. He reiterated his personal commitment to the rules and values of transparency, accountability and collaboration, conscious of the fact that the government is a product of collective citizens’ action.
“We hinged our participation in the OGP Local Programme on Five Thematic Areas that align with our Development Strategy, as follows: Citizens Engagement, Fiscal Transparency, Peace and Security, Gender and Open Contracting.
We believe that our membership of the OGP will further enhance transparency in governance while facilitating constructive citizens’ engagement that will in turn transform our public service and accelerate economic development” he said.
Commissioner for Special Duties, Inter-Governmental Affairs & NGOs Hon. Irimiya Jerry Werr said having received this OGP membership, it is now time for Plateau State to justify the trust of the international community and match words with action.
The Steering Committee which is a Multi Stakeholder Forum, made up of fourteen persons, comprising seven government officials and six members of the Plateau State Civil Society Organizations (CSO) Forum, with the Focal Person serving as the Secretary.
This Committee is co-chaired by Dr. John Jinung Co-Leader, Plateau State Civil Societies Forum while each of the five thematic areas has a Technical Working Group (TWG) co-chaired by the remaining members.
The membership of the Plateau State OGP Steering Committee is as follows:
Government Non-Governmental Partner Steering Committee Co-Chairs Hon. Irimiya Jerry Werr
Commissioner for Special Duties, Inter-Governmental Affairs & NGOs Dr. John Jinung
Co-Leader, Plateau State Civil Societies Forum
Fiscal Transparency Working Group Co-Chairs Hon. Sylvester Wallangko
Commissioner for Budget & Economic Planning Ms. Yop Rwang Pam
Reboot Design (Development Partners)
Gender Working Group Co-Chairs Mr. Haggai Gutap
Director-General, Plateau State Micro-Finance Dev Agency Mrs. Jessica Bankat
Country Women Association of Nigeria (COWAN)
Peace and Security Working Group Co-Chairs Mr. Joseph Lengman
Director-General, Plateau State Peace Building Agency Mr. Mugu Zaka Bako
Plateau Peace Practitioners Network.
Citizens Participation Working Group Co-Chairs Mr. David Dasser
Director-General, Plateau State Information & Communication Technology Development Agency Mr. Manji Wilson
European Centre for Electoral Support.
Open Contracting Working Group Co-Chairs Mr. Peter Dogo Yilkangha
Director-General, Plateau State Bureau for Public Procurement Prof. (Mrs) Patricia Lar
University of Jos
Point of Contact Persons (POC) Engr. David Jaafaru Wuyep
Chief Technical Advisor – PMRDO
Cmrd. Peter Gad Shamaki
Co-Leader, Plateau State Civil Societies Forum
The Terms of Reference of the Committee are as follows:
Drive the co-creation of the State OGP Action Plan 2021 – 2023;
Set up and manage Technical Working Groups for the Thematic Areas identified by the State;
Monitor the implementation of the Action Plan by the State Government for the fulfilment of the commitments made therein;
Engage with the OGP International Team for Independent Review Mechanism
Engage with the OGP National Office whenever necessary; and Carry out any other assignment directed to it for the promotion of the values of the OGP in the State.
by Alexander Aleburu

Governor Lalong Saddened By Death Of Chief Jethro Akun @ 76

Governor Lalong Saddened By Death Of Chief Jethro Akun @ 76
By,giwa alex ,Jos
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has expressed deep sadness over the death of elderstatesman Chief Jethro Akun MON, the Saf Mabol Ron Kulere who died at the age of 76.
The governor statement is contained in a press statement dated 4th February,2021, signed by the Director of press and public affairs to the governor, simon makut machan and made available to this medium in Jos, plateau state.
Governor Lalong in a statement described the death of Chief Akun as a great loss to his immediate family, the people of Bokkos LGA, Plateau State and the nation as a whole. He praised the contributions of the elder statesman in the governance of the State and the nation by actively participating in stakeholders engagement and making useful suggestions.
He described the late Chief Akun as an astute politician and administrator who contributed immensely to the political development of Plateau State and Nigeria, serving in different capacities with diligence, honesty and patriotism which earned him the national award of the Member, Order of the Niger (MON).
Lalong recalls that Chief Akun who served for two terms as a member of the Plateau State House of Assembly was also appointed Commissioner, serving variously in Ministries of Information and Communication as well as Youths and Sports.
Chief Akun according to the Governor was a key member of the APC who supported the Rescue Mission and did his best to ensure the success of the administration.
His passion for community development and empowerment saw him emerging as the President National Association of Microfinance Banks having spearhead and facilitated the establishment of the Daffo Mangai Community Bank in Bokkos LGA and many others across the nation.
The Governor also acknowledged the contributions of the late Chief Akun to the development of education in the course of his service to the nation where apart from establishing a private school, promoted community and faith-based efforts to establish various schools across the State. He later served as the Chairman of Council for the Federal College of Education Zaria and was elected Chairman, Committee of Governing Councils of Colleges of Education in Nigeria.
Lalong commisserated with the family of the deceased and prayed that God will grant his soul eternal rest.
by Alexander Aleburu

Northern Governors Call For Caution And Calm Over Eviction Of Fulanis

Northern Governors Call For Caution And Calm Over Eviction Of Fulanis.
By,giwa alex, Jos
The Northern Governors Forum says it is concerned by lingering reports that herdsmen belonging to a particular ethnic group are being targeted in some parts of the South East and South West leading to loss of lives and properties.
Chairman under the auspacies of the Northern Governors Forum,who doubled as the Governor of Plateau State Simon Bako Lalong recalls the recent intervention of the Nigerian Governors Forum led by its Chairman, Governor Kayode Fayemi who met with stakeholders in Akure, Ondo State to calm the tension and forge amicable resolution of the issues.
The Forum call for Calm is contained in a press release dated 4th February,2021 , signed by the Director of press and public affairs to the governor makut macham and made available to this medium in Jos, plateau state capital.
The forum said while such intervention was celebrated as a success to be sustained through further engagement between herdsmen and representatives of affected communities, emerging reports of attacks on herders and the gradual introduction of ethnic sentiments in the conflict is disturbing and should immediately be nipped in the bud before it gets out of hand.
The Northern Governors Forum concedes to the rights of Nigerians to reside wherever they so desire without any molestation or discrimination, it also emphasizes that criminal elements should not be used to tar any particular ethnic group for any crime as that will portend danger to peaceful coexistence and national unity.
Rather, such criminal elements should be exposed, isolated and made to face the law of the land without prejudice to their ethnic backgrounds as the motives or criminal actions cannot be said to be the position of their ethnic group.
In the face of the recent worrisome developments therefore, the Northern Governors Forum calls for calm and cautions Nigerians particularly those in the affected areas who might have been aggrieved or targeted to exercise restraint.
Nigeria is going through a lot and escalating such tensions would definitely not resolve any grievances but rather aggravate the situation to levels that could threaten national security.
Leaders across political, ethnic, religious and community lines should avoid utterances and actions that further fan the embers of distrust, hate, violence and retaliation which can easily escalate the situation and cause chaos.
Relevant Government officials, traditional rulers and opinion moulders must also rise up and speak with one voice by not only condemning crime no matter who is involved, but also sending the right signals to those who want to take the laws into their hands and trample on the Nigerian Constitution by attempting to deny others the rights to live and pursue their legitimate business in whatever place they choose to reside.
Security agencies must equally be firm and rise up to the occasion by protecting all law abiding citizens against threat to their lives and properties irrespective of their ethnic or other affiliations. They should also send clear and unambiguous message to those threatening the peace that they will act decisively to stop them from plunging the nation to anarchy.
The Northern Governors Forum further assures Nigerians of all ethnic, religious and political persuasions of their constitutional rights to pursue their legitimate businesses wherever they choose within the region and appeal to the people to resist any attempt to lure them into any act that can threaten the peace and tranquility of the region and the nation at large.
by Alexander Aleburu

God Is Answering The Prayers Of Plateau ——–Gov.Lalong

G

od Is Answering The Prayers Of Plateau ——–Gov.Lalong

By, giwa alex, Jos
Governor Bako Lalong of Plateau state says God has continued to answer the prayers of the people of Plateau State and other friends of the State across the world who have interceeded for the peace and progress of the Home of Peace and Tourism.
Lalong who was speaking at the 6th annual Plateau Prayer Day held at the Government House Chapel Rayfield Jos said the State is gradually leaving its past experience of instability which almost robbed it of the God given potentials.
He said “When we look back at where we are coming from particularly before our administration came on board, we have every reason to give thanks to God and continuously depend more on the Lord even at this critical time of our history”.
He thanked Christian and Muslim faithfuls in the State for not only praying consistently for Plateau State, but also participating in preaching love, unity, forgiveness and tolerance which has engendered tranquility that is the basis for any development.
Lalong said the choice of the theme for this year’s prayer day which is “By His Grace” is very apt because it captures the grace of God towards the people of Plateau State and Nigeria who have had to contend with difficult challenges occasioned by COVID-19 and other issues.
Governor Lalong emphasized on the determination of his Government to do its best in providing purposeful leadership that inspires confidence, supports peaceful coexistence, delivers basic services and infrastructure as well leave behind lasting legacies for generations yet to come.
Guests speaker Rev. Yakubu Pam, Chairman Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission who spoke on the topic “By His Grace” said the grace of God gives hope, joy and patience to wait for the manifestation of His power among people.
He admonished the people of Plateau State not to take the grace of God for granted by returning to the past experience of bitterness, intolerance, violance and incitement which undermined the progress of the State.
As this year’s Prayer Day coincides with the 45th anniversary of the State, he urged them to continue to support and pray for Governor Lalong and all other officials of the State as well as the President for God’s divine wisdom to do more in taking Plateau State and Nigeria to higher heights.
Chairman Christian Association of Nigeria Rev. Fr. Polycarb Lubo appreciated the Governor for setting aside the 3rd of every February as Prayer Day for the State, saying this has demonstrated that the Government and its people depend on God for direction.
Speaker of the Plateau House of Assembly, Nuhu Abok Ayuba, Chief Judge Gyang Dakwak, Commissioner of Police Edward Egbuka and Long Gamai of Shendam Miskoom Martin Shaldas III all appluaded the Prayer meeting and said the event was another sign of hope for the State.
by Alexander Aleburu

Governor Lalong Revalidates  APC Membership, Inspects Projects.

Governor Lalong Revalidates APC Membership, Inspects Projects.

Our Reporter, Jos
Governor Simon Bako Lalong of Plateau State on Thursday 4th February 2020 revalidated his membership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at his polling unit in Ajikamai, Shendam LGA of Plateau State.
The Governor’s revalidation membership as member of APC is contained in a released dated 4th February ,2021 signed by the Director of press and public affairs to the governor makut macham and made available to this medium in Jos, plateau state capital.
Governor Lalong who registered alongside his wife Mrs. Regina Lalong and daughter Stephanie decribed the process as another great opportunity for members of the party to demonstrate their faith and love for the party and also bring in more members into their fold.
Speaking with journalists after registering, the Governor described the process as smooth and seamless which will encourage many eligible people to register.
Lalong said “we want our members to use this opportunity to bring in more people into the party because the APC is the people’s choice and the biggest party in Nigeria. Our vision and programmes are changing Nigeria and Plateau State for the better and I am very sure more people are going to join us”.
He appealed to the stakeholders and party officials to conduct the exercise with all sincerity and in accordance with the guidelines issued by the national headquarters of the party.
He warned against attempts to manipulate the exercise saying that the party has put in place the strategies for multi-level vetting to ensure that only a credible register is generated.
State APC caretaker Committee Chairman Chief Letep Dabang said the party has trained officials that will go into all parts of the State to carry out the exercise.
Governor Lalong later inspected ongoing projects. These include the Ajikamai township roads completed with asphalt, the N’yak – Gangnum road linking Lantang South from the farm training centre, as well as the Yelwa- Shendam road.
He addressed a large turn out of cheering crowds who appreciated the Governor for providing water, electricity and fixing the roads they have been yearning for over the years.
He said contractors have been substantially funded and are expected to complete the projects within record time as his administration is determined to complete all the projects it initiated along with many it inherited.
The Governor and his delegation later visited the Long Gamai of Shendam Miskoom Martin Shaldas III to intimidate him on their mission to Shendam and seek his blessings for a successful exercise.
by Alexander Aleburu

Hon.Beni Lar’s Children Outside Wedlock Case,Court Discharge Accuse As Matter Moves To Federal High Court.

Hon.Beni Lar’s Children Outside Wedlock Case,Court Discharge Accuse As Matter Moves To Federal High Court.
By, giwa alex, Jos
The Magistrate Court sitting at Kasuwa Mama Jos, Plateau state capital has strucked out the matter of having children outside Wedlock by Hon.Beni Lar , member Representing Langtang federal constituency at the federal house of representatives .
As the Court discharged the accussed person one Mr Ponfa Zanfa who have pend closed to three weeks in police custody over social media comment on the pertaner of the two children Hon Beni Lar are parading as her children.
The matter which was first mentioned on the 27th January,2021, today 4th February,2021 Come up for ruling on application before the court for bail of the accused person mr Ponfa Zangfa.
The case files which is written Ponfa Zanfa Vs Commissioner of police ,the prosecuting counsel barrister Emma tell the court he is no longer interested in prosecuting the case because it will amount to double trial of one case in two bdifferent court with the same subject matter.
Barrister Emma said my Lord the reason to discontinue the case is because the same matter has been filed at the federal high court,as continue with the trial will be tantamount to double trial of on case with the same subject matter.
In his quick reaction, counsel to the accussed,Pirfa Ndam accussed the the prosecuting counsel barrister Emma of his ploy to continue remanding his client in police custody and urged the court to release his client since the prosecutor is no longer interested with the case for now at the Magistrate Court.
After careful listen to both parties,the judge agreed that the decision of the prosecutor to move the case to the Federal High Court is his right to choice which he can not contest with him,and however discharged the accussed person.
In an interview with the counsel to the accussed, barrister Pirfa Ndam shortly after the court,he said it is an affront on my client as they didn’t just want to prosecute him,but also want to persecute him.
He lamented that the accussed person have spend close to three weeks in correctional center,today you can now see that the polical draculas behind the whole stagger are bent on keeping him in detention forever which informed given frivolous excuses of jurisdiction.
He said they are not deterred as they most see the case to the end as we will see that Justice is seem to be done in the matter.
“The accussed person have been discharged, whoever that is behind the matter will sooner or later ,the long arm of the law will catch up with them.”
Pirfa decried the personalities that are behind the prosecution of the accussed person,who has enjoyed the polical good will of the people in the constituency, by enjoyed the votes of the people.
“The people tolled day and night to ensure they are politically were they are day, this is the way they could pay us back and things have turned out to be.
The barrister vowed that as youths and masses, we are going to resist any form of dracona politians in any where including our constituency to over ride us.
He further add that we are going to look up to a leadership who have the interest of their subjects at heart and not leaders who goes ahead to do what he/she want with no regard to their subjects.
On the charge brought against his client,he said,they said is a Charge of “Defamation” which the accussed just asked a mere question which till this moment answer have not been provided.
The accussed lawyer condemned a situation where merely posting something on Facebook book page could amount to cabre crime which is a pointer that those behind it are up to something that will sooner or later revealed itself.
When journalist insisted knowing that thing that was posted on the Facebook that led to his arraignment,he said the accussed person innocently asked a question when Beni Lar flanked with two children she cliamed where hers.
He wrote that in 2007 when Beni Lar was voted as member,she was a single Lady and how come is she having those children and who is their father, this is the bone of contention they are currently persecuting the innocent man for.He maintained.
Beni Lar is the daughter of the first civilian governor of Plateau state Solomon Dasep Lar who has rode on the good will of his father Solomon Lar who is bringing referred to as the best performed governor Plateau state has ever produced .
Currently she is spending three term as member of house of representative .
Hon.Beni Lar’s Children Outside Wedlock Case,Court Discharge Accuse As Matter Moves To Federal High Court.

By, giwa alex, Jos
The Magistrate Court sitting at Kasuwa Mama Jos, Plateau state capital has strucked out the matter of having children outside Wedlock by Hon.Beni Lar , member Representing Langtang federal constituency at the federal house of representatives .
As the Court discharged the accussed person one Mr Ponfa Zanfa who have pend closed to three weeks in police custody over social media comment on the pertaner of the two children Hon Beni Lar are parading as her children.
The matter which was first mentioned on the 27th January,2021, today 4th February,2021 Come up for ruling on application before the court for bail of the accused person mr Ponfa Zangfa.
The case files which is written Ponfa Zanfa Vs Commissioner of police ,the prosecuting counsel barrister Emma tell the court he is no longer interested in prosecuting the case because it will amount to double trial of one case in two bdifferent court with the same subject matter.
Barrister Emma said my Lord the reason to discontinue the case is because the same matter has been filed at the federal high court,as continue with the trial will be tantamount to double trial of on case with the same subject matter.
In his quick reaction, counsel to the accussed,Pirfa Ndam accussed the the prosecuting counsel barrister Emma of his ploy to continue remanding his client in police custody and urged the court to release his client since the prosecutor is no longer interested with the case for now at the Magistrate Court.
After careful listen to both parties,the judge agreed that the decision of the prosecutor to move the case to the Federal High Court is his right to choice which he can not contest with him,and however discharged the accussed person.
In an interview with the counsel to the accussed, barrister Pirfa Ndam shortly after the court,he said it is an affront on my client as they didn’t just want to prosecute him,but also want to persecute him.
He lamented that the accussed person have spend close to three weeks in correctional center,today you can now see that the polical draculas behind the whole stagger are bent on keeping him in detention forever which informed given frivolous excuses of jurisdiction.
He said they are not deterred as they most see the case to the end as we will see that Justice is seem to be done in the matter.
“The accussed person have been discharged, whoever that is behind the matter will sooner or later ,the long arm of the law will catch up with them.”
Pirfa decried the personalities that are behind the prosecution of the accussed person,who has enjoyed the polical good will of the people in the constituency, by enjoyed the votes of the people.
“The people tolled day and night to ensure they are politically were they are day, this is the way they could pay us back and things have turned out to be.
The barrister vowed that as youths and masses, we are going to resist any form of dracona politians in any where including our constituency to over ride us.
He further add that we are going to look up to a leadership who have the interest of their subjects at heart and not leaders who goes ahead to do what he/she want with no regard to their subjects.
On the charge brought against his client,he said,they said is a Charge of “Defamation” which the accussed just asked a mere question which till this moment answer have not been provided.
The accussed lawyer condemned a situation where merely posting something on Facebook book page could amount to cabre crime which is a pointer that those behind it are up to something that will sooner or later revealed itself.
When journalist insisted knowing that thing that was posted on the Facebook that led to his arraignment,he said the accussed person innocently asked a question when Beni Lar flanked with two children she cliamed where hers.
He wrote that in 2007 when Beni Lar was voted as member,she was a single Lady and how come is she having those children and who is their father, this is the bone of contention they are currently persecuting the innocent man for.He maintained.
Beni Lar is the daughter of the first civilian governor of Plateau state Solomon Dasep Lar who has rode on the good will of his father Solomon Lar who is bringing referred to as the best performed governor Plateau state has ever produced .
Currently she is spending three term as member of house of representative .
by Alexander Aleburu

Governor Lalong Meets Former Plateau Legislators 

Governor Lalong Meets Former Plateau Legislators
Our R

eporter

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong says former members of the legislature have a great role to play in profering solutions towards addressing the challenges of the nation and promoting natonal unity.

Governor Lalong said this while addressing the meeting of former members of the Plateau State House of Assembly at the Government House Rayfield Jos Tuesday 2nd February 2021.

Lalong said the Forum of former legislators is necessary to harness their experiences and knowledge in handling some of the challenges that the State and nation is contending with.

He said “as former members of the legislative arm of Government, we have to come together and discuss the progress of Plateau State. This is the moment for us to work across party lines which is a common practice in the floor of the house especially when it affects critical issues. We can also practice this even if we are no longer legislators”.

The Governor said the former members of the legislature should always put the interest of the State above any other consideration as they champion the consolidation of peace and progress in Plateau State.

He called for synergy between past and serving legislators at both the State and Federal levels across party lines in the interest of State, citing the example the newly established Federal Polytechnic Shendam whose bill was initially spearheaded by Hon. Johnbull Shakarau, a former member of the Plateau State house of Assembly who later went to the House of Representatives and collaborated with other elected representatives to champion the cause.

Acting Chairman of the Forum Hon. Maimako Bello congratulated Governor Lalong for his achievements especially his doggedness for the establishment of the Federal Polytechnic Shendam, thanks to the support of President Muhammadu Buhari who has continued to give the Governor a listening ear by acceding to many of his demands.

Hon. Maimako Bello said the former legislators appreciate the Governor as he has paid attention to their welfare by settling their outstanding entitlements and reaching out to them at personal levels.

Other members also commended the Governor for his vision of completing inherited projects and also implementing new ones throughout the State.

by Alexander Aleburu

Governors Mourn Late Tony Momoh.

Governors Mourn Late Tony Momoh.

Our Reporter
The Northern Governors Forum has commiserated with the people of Auchi Kingdom, Government and people of Edo State and the Nigerian media industry over the demise of Prince Tony Momoh who passed on at the age of 81.
In a statement, Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Plateau State Simon Bako Lalong said the death of Prince Tony Momoh is a great loss to the nation considering the impact he made in various aspects of Nigeria’s polity.
Lalong said Prince Momoh was a man of many parts who started as a teacher before making his mark as one of Nigeria’s versatile journalist, administrator, politician and lawyer.
He said the former Minister of Information and Culture was a giant in the Nigerian Media industry and played a great role in promoting freedom of the press as well as the opening up the media space which eventually culminated in deregulation that saw the emergence of many media outlets.
Governor Lalong also described him as a political strategist and mobiliser who at various times coalesced with politicians from across the country to push for improvement in the political process and governance in general. His emergence as the Chairman of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) and the role he played in the subsequent formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) according to the Governor accords him a special place in Nigerian’s political history.
Lalong also commended his leadership and achievements as Pro-Chancellor & Chairman of Council, University of Jos where he led a leap in the academic performance and general development of the institution which is now a leading University in Nigeria and Africa.
While praying God to grant his soul eternal rest, Governor Lalong asked his family to be consoled with his testimony of honesty, hardwork and patriotism.
by Alexander Aleburu

Maje Reacts To Alleged Non Performance, Zero Projects In His Constituency.

Maje Reacts To Alleged Non Performance, Zero Projects In His Constituency.
By,giwa alex,Jos
The Deputy Speaker Federal House of Representative ,Rt.Hon. Ahmed Idris Maje Wase has said ,his constituency had received more federal government present under All Progressives Congress ,APC ,than any of the administration since the return of democracy in Nigeria .
Speaking to our correspondent on phone while responding to allegations of non performance , abandonment and neglect to his constituent ,Wase debunked that the allegations is baseless and lack credibility .
He said ,the development taken place in Wase federal constituency is something else ,”I have proving to all my distractors in Wase wrong with the overwhelming support and projects going on “,he stressed.
Hon. Maje Wase explained that as a middle political leader ,I have done enough by introducing meaningful projects and programs in North-Central to stimulate growth and development to attract investors which is still ongoing .
He disclosed that the allegations is coming from the opposition whom they lack what to confront me with is to blackmail my integrity so they resorted cheap propaganda of reducing themselves to mear thugs and gester
Wase refuted that he never flag-off Angwan Rimi road construction but he introduced many ongoing roads network in Plateau state which is close to completion in the state .
Rt Hon Ahmed Maje who embarked on two streets road construction in Bashar district tarred with is now in the eyes Of Storm, As Constituency allegedly accused of him of neglect and non Performance for almost 12 years in office .
The member Representing Wase Constituency in the House of Representative in plateau State,Rt Hon Ahmed Idris Wase is correctly in the eyes of the Storm as his Constituency Wase accused him of total neglect and abyssal failure as a representative.
Speaking to the opposition leader Dahiru Dauda says ,to my understanding and the information available to us ,the Member representing us could only start 2 streets ,also road in Duwei ,Kumbur ,Salwai to Wase all terred and primary school renovation in Kadarko district .
Dauda explained further that ,As the people of Wase accused the Deputy Speaker Idris Wase of total negligence and abandonment of his constituency inspict of the overwhelming support accorded him to represent them at the lower chamber in the National Assembly.
However,Ahmed is the fourth time member representing Wase the most vulnerable and rural Communities in Plateau state yearning for road networks to link them with national grid and other development connecting the other Communities.
Beside ,complaints the people have raised concern over the recent flag-off road construction at Angwan Rimi Area of Jos North Local Government of the state where they alleged neglect his constituency devoid of road network .
It was gathered that the APC ,and the opposition party in Wase are complaining bitterly that they have been sideline and abandoned by their member Ahmed Wase for not considering some of the road network connecting Wase and the surrounding Communities like Wase to Lamba Wakkat district, including Wase the Council’s headquarter.
It’s also alleged the only project Hon maje attracted to the community was that of Jarmai through Bashar to Taraba state which the member says,over 75 billions projects if completed would touch the lives of wase posively .
We are in dire need of economic to our electorates who have been supporting his reelection bid over the years.
They added that the road construction from Bashar to Wase became abandoned project under the Deputy Speaker’s watch.
Our correspondence investigation revealed that when Rt Hon Yakubu Dogara was the leader of the House of Representative, representing Tafawa Gbogoro constituency in Bauchi state,the people of Plateau state enjoyed road network linking the two states , plateau and Bauchi state.
And Rt .Hon Yusuf Gagdi is a first timer yet his projects and people oriented projects has impacted positively
The Constituent stressed that the whole development is now in limbo under the watch of Rt Hon Ahmed Idris maje as the Constituent vowed to vote out the APC out of power especially the unproductive leadership of Rt Hon Ahmed Wase.
by Alexander Aleburu

Pwul To Build On Jang And Dariye Legacy If Votes Gov. Of Plateau State

Pwul To Build On Jang And Dariye Legacy If Votes Gov. Of Plateau State

By, giwa alex, Jos

Chief Garba Pwul Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN),the Sarduna of Mwaghavul and Makama Kana,has promised to build on the development of Jonah David Jang and his compatriot Chief Joshua Dariye in Plateau state if given the opportunity to serve as governor of the state in 2023.
Promised to build on the great achievements of these two great plateau sons which started way back 1999 when they hold sway separately in power as the governors of the state.
The Turakin Mangu ,Garba Pwul stated this in an interview with group of journalist in Jos, Plateau state capital.
The legal luminary said , although some group of well wishes had approached me to offer myself to contest for the position of governor of plateau state in 2023,after a careful consideration ,I decided to yield to their call to contest for the number one seat of the state come 2023 by “His Grace”,he maintained.
On what he wish to offer the people of Plateau state if given the opportunity to serve,the Chanchanta 2023 said ” I will make plateau state the most peaceful state by extension Nigeria as whole,make it the center of tourism attraction with all the bad image and insecurity will be completely erase and become the center of attention where everybody will be yearning to visit because of the peculiar nature of the state.
He also added that when given the opportunity to serve as the governor of the state,he is going to give the state its pride in term of agriculture because of it uniqueness as a result of it temperate wether which make it possible for every crops to grown in the state.
He however stressed that the state which is hitherto a citadel of education has been renegated to the background as the state is now wallowing at bottom of the ladder of educational rating occasion by what can obviously been believed to be the bad government policies.
“Under my watch as a governor,I will return education to its rightful position , which he said if all these are achieved all other things will fall in place.
Pwul who said he has practice as a lawyer for 39 years, added that he knows the nook and crannies of the state, including their problems which give him upper hands over his peers.
“I have handled virtually different cases all over the world, everybody knows me because if you are not know, you can’t been trusted he maintained.
Pwul said the reasons behind his philanthropist gesture is burn out of the conviction that all hands should be on deck and be ready to sacrifice when it’s necessary.
“Over the years,I have done many pro-bono cases like those who don’t have the means, widows ,ophans and so on.”
” Looking at the propensity of the security men in the state,
using the tax payers money to fight against tax payers like the case of Rigi Bala I decided to handle it pro-bono to serve as a lesson to our security personnels to learn and respect the santity of live especially those whose tax payers money is to pay their salaries.”
He however stressed that the judiciary under his supervision as the Governor of the state,he will ensure that judiciary is allowed to operate without undue interference as their welfare shall be the top most in may Government agenda.
by Alexander Aleburu

Governor Lalong Applauds President Buhari Over Establishment Of Federal Polytechnic Shendam.

Governor Lalong Applauds President Buhari Over Establishment Of Federal Polytechnic Shendam.

By,giwa alex, Jos
Governor Simon Bako Lalong has applauded President Muhammadu Buhari for his approval of the establishment of Federal Polytechnic Shendam, describing it as cheering news for citizens of the State and a catalyst for the development of the State and the nation.
Governor Lalong’s is contained in a release dated 1st February,2021 , signed by the Director of press and Public Affairs to the governor,Simon Makut Mancham and made available to Journalist in Jos, Plateau state capital.
Governor Lalong who received a letter from the Federal Ministry of Education conveying the approval of President Buhari for the establishment of the Polytechnic, said the gesture shows the love that the President has for Plateau State and the desire to ensure the technological development of the State and nation at large.
Lalong said “the establishment of Federal Polytechnic Shendam comes at a time when we are redefining education in Plateau State and focusing on technical education to give our youths skills that can help them use their talents to create jobs and solve day-to-day problems of the society.
“We are excited that this new institution will connect seamlessly with the new Technical Schools we are building in Pankshin, Shendam and the upgrade of the Technical School in Bukuru, all meant to move our students away from education that leaves them stranded after graduation”.
He expressed delight that approval has also been given for the release of N2 Billion naira through the TETFund for the provision of core facilities towards the take-off of the school within the shortest possible time.
And promised that the Plateau State Government will play its part by giving all necessary support for the commencement of the institution, assuring the host community will also be mobilised for support and collaboration.
He also thanked the leadership and members of the National Assembly especially those representing Plateau State who pushed for the passage of the bill for the establishment of the Polytechnic. Others are the Minister of Education Mallam Adamu Adamu, Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Education Arc. Sonny Echono, and all those who in various ways supported the establishment of the Polytechnic.
It will be recalled that Governor Lalong recently visited President Muhammadu Buhari to appeal to him for intervention over various issues concerning Plateau State including funding for the reconstruction of the Jos Main Market.
by Alexander Aleburu

Lalong Interface With APC National Registration Committee For Plateau State, Optimistic Of  More Members For The Party.

Lalong Interface With APC National Registration Committee For Plateau State, Optimistic Of More Members For The Party.

By, giwa alex, Jos
The APC National registration and revalidation Committee for Plateau State has visited Governor Simon Bako Lalong to brief him on the preparations for conducting the exercise in the State.
Chairman of the Committee Hon. Musa Mahmood said the Committee is committed to conducting the exercise within the guidelines issued by the party and will supervise the conduct in all the local governments to ensure that the registration and revalidation is credible and hitch-free.
The visit of the committee is contained in a release dated 1st February,2021, signed by the Director of press and Public Affairs to the governor Makut Mancham and made available to news men in jos, plateau state capital.
He commended the Governor and the State Caretaker Working Committee for being proactive and carrying out sensitization among members of the party, a situation that will enhance the smooth conduct of the exercise.
Governor Lalong welcomed the Committee to Plateau and assured that the APC family in the State was ready for the exercise as the members are eager to revalidate their membership and also welcome new members into their fold in order to ensure that the party continues to grow from strength to strength.
Lalong said “this is the time to demonstrate true loyalty and commitment to the party and to increase the fortunes of the APC going forward.
“There is not going to be manipulation and intimidation in this exercise as those who are found to be pursuing any agenda outside that of the party will not be allowed to succeed. We want more members and this is the time to open our doors and welcome everybody that wants to join the largest party in Nigeria”.
The Governor also assured that more members will join the party because of the performance of the APC led administration which has put the interests of Plateau people above parochial interests.
This he explained was why apart from initiating various people oriented projects, his administration chose to complete inherited and abandoned projects rather than abandon them like in previous governments did with their predecessors.
He said just like the example set by the President, he will be going to his polling unit in Ajikamai, Shendam LGA to register, urging all government appointees to mobilise their people to also register and revalidate their membership, saying that anything short will cast doubt about their loyalty to the party.
by Alexander Aleburu

Gov. Lalong Vows  To Sign Death Warrant For Convicted Kidnappers,As He Swear In President Of Customary Court Of Appeal And 5 Judges.

G

ov. Lalong Vows To Sign Death Warrant For Convicted Kidnappers,As He Swear In President Of Customary Court Of Appeal And 5 Judges.

By,giwa alex, Jos
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has vowed to sign the death warrant for anyone convicted for kidnapping in the State.
Governor Lalong threat is contained in a statement dated
29th January,2021 signed by the Governor’s Director of Press and Public Affairs,Makut Machan and made available to this medium in Jos, Plateau state.
Governor Lalong stated this on Friday 29th January 2021 when he swore in the substantive President of the Customary Court of Appeal Bar. Sati Patrick Dapit and five judges of the State high court and Customary Court of Appeal at the Government House Rayfield Jos.
At the event witnessed by the President Court of Appeal Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, Lalong who described as worrisome the incidences of kidnapping and other violent crimes in the State frowned at the situation where suspected kidnappers who are arrested are not prosecuted as and when due and in some cases released without charge.
He said “This situation perhaps emboldens the continuous onslaught on the citizens by kidnappers. While we are addressing the issue with the police relating to arrest, investigation and prosecution, I want to appeal to our Judges to be very firm in trying such Cases when brought before them as Kidnapping is fast becoming an Industry with no one immune from the menace.
As Governor, I have promised to sign the Death Warrant in respect of anyone convicted of kidnapping which is giving our people sleepless nights, driving away prospective Investors and further impoverishing our people. Many of them are forced to pay ransoms to secure the release of loved ones which is making people afraid to pursue their legitimate businesses including farming”.
To the new Judges, the Governor charged them to be faithful to their oath of office and consider their appointments as a call to serve God and humanity which should make them work faithfully and diligently.
“I advise you to be mindful of the attempts to compromise your integrity and impartiality by people who will approach you with tempting proposals of all sorts.
As those who have the rare privilege to determine the fate of people that appear before you, be careful not to abuse this precious trust.
In as much as you have this privilege, you should also realise that you are not above reproach and can be held responsible for your actions by both man and God.
Therefore, I advise you to strive to write your name in Gold by abiding to the ethos of your professional calling at all times during your career” he said.
Lalong also used the opportunity to debunk the insinuation that his administration is not paying attention to the judiciary, a claim that he said is unfounded as his government has done so much for the judicial arm since coming to office despite the paucity of funds.
Lalong listed some of the interventions to the judiciary to include: Construction of the new High Court Headquarters Complex; settlement of inherited 2 years arrears of Judge’s entitlements for 2013 and 2014; approval for training of Judicial Officers, particularly Judges within and outside the Country; approval for the Judiciary to recruit over 200 Staff including relevant support Staff; establishment of the State Account Allocation Committee (SAAC) which lays the ground work for the implementation of financial autonomy; as well as payment of all accrued arrears of housing allowances of superior Court Judges, on account of which some Judges took the State Government to court among others.
This he said vindicates him and as such, the insinuations out there suggesting that he does not care about the welfare of Judges or is denying them their entitlements are incorrect and should be discountenanced.
As a member of the revered Legal Profession, the Governor re-assured the judiciary of his personal commitment to the welfare and well-being of Judges and all Judicial Staff despite the major challenge of lean financial resources of the State worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic recession.
Responding on behalf of the new judges sworn in, the President, Customary Court of appeal Justice Sati Patrick Dapit said they will do their best to live up to the oath of their office and the ethics of the legal profession for the interest of the society.
The judges were later presented with their official cars.
The new judges sworn in are the new Judges namely, Hon. Justices Naankwat Dawat Shaseet; Buetnaan Mandy Dongban Bassi, (Plateau State High Court) Pauline Nanlep Njar, Edwin Sati Munlang, and Georgina Dashe (Customary Court of Appeal).
by Alexander Aleburu

APC Registration: Governor Lalong Warns Against Manipulation,As Stakeholders Meet Strategies.

APC Registration: Governor Lalong Warns Against Manipulation,As Stakeholders Meet Strategies.

Our Reporter
Ahead of the commencement of the APC registration exercise in Plateau State ,Governor Simon Bako Lalong has charged stakeholders of the party to mobilise members at all levels and ensure that new persons are attracted into the party.
Governor Lalong’s directives is contained in a press statement dated 28th january,2021 signed by the Governor’s Director of press and Public Affairs Makut Mancham and made available to journalist in Jos, Plateau state.
Governor Lalong stated this during a stakeholders meeting of the party held on Wednesday 27th January 2021 in Jos and presided over by the State Chairman Chief Letep Dabang.
Lalong charged the stakeholders participate actively in the exercise by ensuring that existing members and new members are encouraged into the party so as to bolster the party’s position in the State.
The Governor warned against shutting out any existing or intending member from registering and the manipulation or hijack of the process by political interests, saying that this will only draw the party back and those who are found perpetrating such acts shall be made to face the party’s disciplinary procedures.
Lalong stressed that the party needs to consolidate on the gains it has made over the years by drawing in more people during the exercise, and warned against allowing individual interests and ambitions to interfere with the process whose guidelines have been clearly set out by the national leadership of the party.
The Governor also urged the members to be wary of propaganda by the opposition who are bent on discrediting the good works and achievements of the party in order to discourage existing and new members from participating in the registration exercise.
He said as members of the APC, it is their collective responsibility to project the achievements of the government wherever they find themselves.
“As we set out to revalidate and register more members into our party, we should realise that it is our works that will speak for us and that our opponents will naturally stage their propaganda to try to dissuade people from registering. The people of Plateau State know where we took over from the PDP and the difference we have made. There is substantial peace and more visitors and investors are coming into the State” he maintained.
Chairman of the party , Chief Letep Dabang said the stakeholders meeting was primarily to strategize on how to conduct a hitch free registration exercise in Plateau State. He said the party structures across the State have been put on alert as pre-sensitization had started even before the guidelines were issued from the national headquarters.
He read out the guidelines set by the national headquarters of the party and disclosed that the committees to conduct the exercise in the State is being drawn out with the participation of all stakeholders urging them to show good conduct and lead by example to deny opponents any window of distraction.
Stakeholders who attended the meeting included National and State Assembly members, State Working Committee members, Local Government Chairmen, Members of the State Executive Council, Local Government Party Chairmen, and Federal Appointees.
by Alexander Aleburu

Plateau Exco Approves 3 Billion Bond For Projects,Moves To Create Cooperative Society Agency. 

Plateau Exco Approves 3 Billion Bond For Projects,Moves To Create Cooperative Society Agency.
By,giwa alex, Jos
The Plateau State Executive Council has approved the sourcing of a 3 billion naira bond from the capital market to finance some capital projects.
This was one of the decisions taken during its maiden meeting for 2021 presided over by Governor Simon Bako Lalong at the Exco chambers of the New Government House Little Rayfield Jos.
The Governor’s decision is contained in a release dated 27th January,2021, signed by the Governor’s Director of Press and Public Affairs, and made available to this medium in Jos, plateau state capital.
The Commissioner for Information and Communication Mr. Dan Manjang, Commissioner for Finance Dr. Mrs. Regina Soemlat, and the Commissioner for Commerce and Industry Mr. Abe Aku gave highlights of the decisions taken at Council at a news briefing.
Commissioner for Information and communication Mr. Dan Manjang said Exco approved the bond as part of its drive to ensure that some of its ongoing projects are completed while other critical ones are introduced.
He said the shortfall in internally generated revenue and federal account allocation accruing to the State due to COVID-19 has necessitated the sourcing of alternative funds to execute critical projects.
Finance Commissioner Dr. Mrs. Regina Soemlat said the 3billion bond is part of the 30 billion naira earlier sourced for the Lalong Legacy projects which after rescoping stood at about 27 billion naira.
According to her, all funds needed to complete the legacy projects are available and work is going on in all the sites steadily.
Commissioner for Commerce and Industry Mr. Abe Aku said the Council approved the establishment of the Plateau State Cooperative Society Agency to register, regulate and monitor the operations of all cooperatives in the State and also strethen their contributions to economic development of the State.
He said a bill will be forwarded to the State House of Assembly which when passed will encourage people of the State to form coperatives to enable them access funds from various Federal Government interventions as well as international development and donor agencies.
On the Corona virus pandemic, the Commissioner for Information Dan Manjang said Council raised concerns over the increase in number of deaths which as at today stands at 53 and directed more testing and enforcement of protocols throughout the state.
The Council also frowned at the destruction of street lights in the capital city by motorists and directed that those who are involved should be arrested and made to pay for replacement.
by Alexander Aleburu

Governors Welcome Appointment Of New Service Chiefs.

Governors Welcome Appointment Of New Service Chiefs.
By, giwa alex, Jos
The Governors under the auspacies of Northern Governors Forum has welcomed the appointment of new Service Chiefs by President Muhammadu Buhari and also commended the outgone Service Chiefs for giving their best in the service of the nation.
The Chairman of the Forum who doubled as the Governor of Plateau State ,Simon Bako Lalong in a statement commended the President for taking the decision and asked the new Service Chiefs to put in their best not only to meet the expectations of the Commander-in-Chief, but also that of Nigerians who have high expectations for enhanced security and safety of lives and properties.
The Forum message is contained in a release signed by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the chairman of the body,Makut Mancham and made available to this medium in Jos, plateau state capital.
He charged them to build on the successes of their predecessors and also learn from their challenges in order to address the lingering problems of terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes that the nation has been battling to contain.
Lalong assured the Service Chiefs of the support and collaboration of the Northern Governors Forum in addressing insecurity in the region and the nation as a whole in order to enable the citizens pursue their legitimate businesses without any hindrance.
He appealed to Nigerians to support and pray for the new Service Chiefs as they provide leadership for the patriotic officers and men of the Armed Forces to put up a final onslaught against protracted security challenges.
Governor Lalong also thanked the former Service Chiefs for their courage, sacrifices and commitment to protecting Nigeria’s territotial integrity and dealing with internal threats during their stewardship, and wished them well in their future endeavours.
by Alexander Aleburu

President Buhari Finally Drop Service Chiefs ,Appoints New Ones.

President Buhari Finally Drop Service Chiefs ,Appoints New Ones.
By,Our Reporter
President Muhammadu Buhari has finally agreed to change the nation service chiefs after much pressure and complain occassioned by

their abysmal performance in fighting the Boko Haram insurgent holding the country to ransome for more than a decade now.

As the the president has reluctantly accepted the resignation of the Service Chiefs, and their retirement from service.
President Buhari’s acceptance of the resignation of the Service Chiefs ,and subsequent retirement is contained in a press statement dated 26th January,2021, signed by the Special Adviser to president on Media and Publicity,Femi Adesina and made available to this medium online in Jos, plateau state.
According to the pres statement, those involved are the Chief of Defence Staff, General Abayomi Olonisakin; Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Tukur Buratai; Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok Ekwe Ibas; and Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar.
President Buhari thanks the outgoing Service Chiefs for what he calls their “overwhelming achievements in our efforts at bringing enduring peace to our dear country,” wishing them well in their future endeavours.
The new Service Chiefs are: Major-General Leo Irabor, Chief of Defence Staff; Major-General I. Attahiru, Chief of Army Staff; Rear Admiral A.Z Gambo, Chief of Naval Staff; and Air-Vice Marshal I.O Amao, Chief of Air Staff.
The President congratulates the new Service Chiefs, and urges them to be loyal and dedicated in the discharge of their responsibilities.
It would be recalled that Nigerians had been calling for the Service Chiefs on the ground that have over stayed their welcome and performed below what are required of them in the fight of insurgency in the north east of the country.
But president Buhari had in several occasions ingnored the call of the people of Nigeria to change the nor performing Army Chiefs even when it’s ovious that they are no longer relevant in the fight of Boko Haram in the North East ,and raising cases of insecurity in the country.
by Alexander Aleburu

Much Ado About TETFUND Projects At Plateau State University Bokkos.

M

uch Ado About TETFUND Projects At Plateau State University Bokkos.

By Makut Simon Macham
Recently when the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) Plateau State University Bokkos Chapter, declared a strike just when students were preparing to resume after spending months at home due to the national ASUU strike, many parents, students and concerned citizens were taken aback by this unfortunate development.
Of course the lecturers had their grievances which informed their decision to embark on the strike action as enunciated by the Chairman of ASUU in the institution, Dr. Bentse Pamson who briefed newsmen in Jos.
The lecturers according to Pamson were unhappy over insecurity within the University environment which has resulted in threat to lives and properties of staff and students; delay in the reconstitution of the Governing Council for the University; lack of payment of earned academic allowances totaling over N215 million; underfunding of the institution with only a monthly subvention of about N90m which is grossly inadequate as against about N200 million it expects; inadequate manpower as well as lack of funds for training and capacity building.
Perhaps, one of the reasons given for the strike which has generated so many comments in the social media and elsewhere was when the ASUU Chairman said “For instance, if you come to the University, you will not discover any capital project being funded by the State Government except the ones being undertaken under TetFund. This is totally strange and unacceptable”.
For many, particularly those who are looking for reasons to crucify the Plateau State Government under the leadership of Governor Simon Lalong for non-performance, this accusation has been exploited to its limits.
However, for those who want to be objective, read in between the lines, and look beyond political sentiments or playing to the gallery, the assertion by ASUU was not only unfortunate, but disingenuous.
The Governor who was personally at the University to inspect ongoing and completed projects was equally surprised by the position of the lecturers and expressed his disappointment during an interaction with the Management of the institution.
Lalong who has always conceded to the right of labour unions to seek better welfare of their members, said some of the concerns raised by the ASUU such as the appointment of a Governing Council for the Institution and the need for more funding and enhanced security for the institution were not out of place and in fact already being addressed.
What he could not come to terms with was why the lecturers will embark on strike simply because TetFund is carrying out many projects in the school.
Some of the projects inspected by the Governor during the visit include the new Senate Building, Faculties of Law, Environmental Sciences, Health Sciences, Social sciences, Advancement and Linkages building, Staff offices and classrooms complex, E-Library and assorted volumes of books in the central library building, 600- capacity Lecture theatre, School of postgraduate Studies building complex, University Health Centre building and medical equipment, Street light project, Wire fencing of female hostel and PLASU Security System/ CCTV cameras project, sports complex among others.
While interacting with the University management, the Governor said, “I am very happy with the tremendous transformation of the University which is as a result of the joint partnership between the State and Federal Governments through TetFund.
However, I am at a loss as to what the ASUU is imputing or wants to achieve by insinuating that the State Government has not done projects at the Plateau State University. This is preposterous and difficult to understand. How can you say the proprietor of a University does not have any capital projects in it? “
He said “it is very unfortunate for people to play politics with everything including education. I was part of the founding of this institution when I was Speaker. Everyone including members of PLASU-ASUU will remember that when I came into office as Governor, the University was shut down and they were not going to work.
We did everything possible to reopen the school and today, it has blossomed and is fast growing. It has been described as a success by those who oversee tertiary education in the country considering that it started on a virgin site without inheriting any infrastructure like some of its counterparts in some States.
It is therefore very sad and untrue for this insinuation to come from people who should know better. This is nothing but pure mischief. Are lecturers in PLASU unhappy that the school is getting Tetfund intervention?
Which State will reject such assistance when the Governments at all levels including the Federal Government which directly oversees Tetfund are crying over lack of funds due to COVID-19 and the economic recession?”
He went down memory lane to remind the lecturers about the status of the Plateau State University before his coming into office in 2015. It is common knowledge that before the advent of the Lalong Rescue Administration, the University was in a state of coma having been neglected for years by the immediate past administration of Governor David Jang for reasons many citizens of the State are yet to be fathom. Many have not forgotten how students who were already offered admission into the various courses of the university at different levels and had started lectures were stranded and had to start scampering all over the place to seek admissions into other Universities. Accreditation of courses was therefore not obtained as ongoing processes were aborted and abandoned while the lecturers and other staff were idle and redundant.
But with the coming of the Lalong administration, the vision of the founding fathers of PLASU was revived with full vigour and determination. Lalong who was Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly when the idea was conceived and did everything possible to pass the law establishing the University, vowed never to allow this dream suffocate again under his watch as Governor.
Apart from the fact that the Plateau State Government over time has invested huge sums of money to develop classroom infrastructure, offices, laboratories, hostels and staff housing in the University, the Lalong administration has since coming into office carried out various projects such as the construction of roads and street lights within the University campus to facilitate smooth academic activities. This is in addition to releasing about 300 million naira which facilitated the accreditation of 14 programmes in the University.
It is to the credit of Governor Lalong that the first ever Convocation Ceremony of the University was held in 2017 because of his concerted efforts in reviving the institution. Because of COVID-19, the 3rd, 4th & 5th combined Convocation Ceremony of the University was held virtually in August 2020 to enable the graduands participate in the NYSC.
In addition, through concerted efforts, three new faculties have been approved including Law, Health Sciences and Environmental Science with the fourth, Agriculture soon to be introduced. While the State Government also approved funds for the remodeling of multi-purpose hall to serve as Law Auditorium, work on the construction of Teaching Hospital for the new faculty of health sciences is ongoing in Shendam, all funded by the State Government.
To hear the ASUU bemoan the fact that Tetfund is executing many projects in the institution and advance it as one of the reasons for its strike has indeed surprised many. The fact that the State Governor has been able to use his influence and goodwill to lobby and attract Tetfund projects including the Special High Impact Intervention Projects which only go to six Universities in the country annually should call for commendation and not condemnation.
Just what difference does it really make if the structures are constructed by Tetfund, State Government, Corporate Organisations, Donor agencies, Parent Teacher Association, or even Community Development Associations? If one may ask further, besides the primary objective of pursuing and protecting welfare issues of members, in modern times of constructive unionism, unions are seen as part of the progressives engaged in advocacy, lobby and attracting partnership, infrastructural developments etc, in their domains for the common good. How much of this in a young and fledgling institution like PLASU?
After all, ASUU has severally been credited for being the brain behind the establishment of Tetfund to do exactly what it is doing at the Plateau State University. What then is the fuss about?
Or, will the students reject to sit in the facilities to learn or will the lecturers and non-teaching staff suffer any losses when they sit in the offices to work? Even if the Tetfund changes its mind later, it is unfathomable that they will uproot the structures and take them to other States or to a federal facility. There is certainly no justification for the hue and cry that this allegation has generated. Indeed, it is a storm in a tea cup which to concerned citizens is politically meant to ridicule the State Government and paint it in bad light.
Gladly enough, this does not seem to have been achieved despite the twisting of facts by political interests that have latched on it to make a feast in the social media.
Members of the public may not be aware that since Plateau State started implementing the Treasury Single Account, Tertiary Institutions including PLASU have been exempted from the scheme as they retain 100 percent of their internally generated revenue to fund their activities. This does not happen with Federal Universities who adhere strictly to the TSA system. Despite this, the State Government gives monthly subvention to the University as well as pays all its staff salaries and emoluments promptly and up to date.
At a time when the State treasury is suffering lack of funds as a result of drop in IGR and Federal Allocation worsened by the corona virus pandemic, there is no point in vilifying the Government for some of the shortcomings as enumerated by PLASU-ASUU who are very well aware of other commitments of the Government such as the implementation of the new minimum wage which has started in Plateau State among others. Simply put, in the face of concerned parents, the public and stakeholders, the timing and some reasons advanced for the strike action are not strategic enough to attract public sympathy at all.
The good news is that Governor Lalong, who is labour friendly and has a listening ear with unequalled passion for education does not want students to suffer any longer. He has set up a 7-man committee to address the issue raised by the PLASU-ASUU with a view to resolving them. Already, consultations have commenced and there is every hope that they will resolve the matters sooner than later.
While that is going on, the Governor is unrepentant about attracting more Tetfund projects to the University as he insists that the State Government is entitled to draw from the Tetfund just like other States, Federal Universities, Polytechnics, Colleges of Education and other institutions. After all, Tetfund monies belong to the Federal and State Governments, being commonwealth funds in the form of tax on every Nigerian citizen from north, south, east and west, aggregated in a common pool and shared equitably.
While appreciating PLASU-ASUU’s patriotic zeal, as bastion of intellectualism in the ivory tower, this is perhaps the best moment for deeper reflection and exercise of restraint in criticism in order to set the right examples that will not erode subsequent goodwill from the State in its future quest for more intervention by well-meaning entities such as Tetfund.
Governor Lalong remains determined not to rest until PLASU attains its potentials and glory, which is very much on course and all hands, including the union(s) must be on deck.
by Alexander Aleburu

Governor Lalong Sets Up 7-Man Committee On PLASU Staff Matters

Governor Lalong Sets Up 7-Man Committee On PLASU Staff Matters
By, Our Reporter.
Following his recent visit to the Plateau State University Bokkos to inspect projects and engage the management of the institution, Governor Simon Lalong has Constituted a 7-Man Committee to look into the welfare of staff of the University.
The set -up 7-man committee is contained in a press statement dated 22nd January,2021 , signed by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the governor Makut Mancham and made available to this medium in Jos, plateau state.
According to an approval conveyed by the Secretary to the Plateau State Government Prof. Danladi Atu, the 7-man committee is to address issues recently raised by the local Chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and also look into other union issues.
The committee’s report which is expected to be submitted in three weeks will facilitate the resolution of some of the issues raised by ASUU Chapter of the University which they gave as reasons for embarking on strike.
It will be recalled that during the Governor’s visit, the student union leaders and other staff of the University prevailed on him to intervene and ensure that academic activities resume.
Members of the Committee include the State Head of Service, Mr. Izam A. Azi mni as Chairman and Mr. Isaac Maran, Permanent Secretary, Establishment, Office of the Head of Service as Secretary.
Other members of the committee are; Professor Yohana Daniel Izam, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Mr. Lawrence Kerekum Longsen, Bursar of the University, the Commissioner of Higher Education, Hon. Kak’mena Goteng Audu, the poineer Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor John W. Wade mni and Hon. Ezekiel Pabuet, ALGON Chairman, Plateau State chapter.
by Alexander Aleburu

Governor Lalong Felicitates With Long Gamai @68

Governor Lalong Felicitates With Long Gamai @68
By,Our Reporter
Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau State has sent warm felicitations to the Long Gamai of Shendam, His Royal Highness Miskoom Martin Shaldas III on the occasion of his 68th birthday.
Governor Bako Lalong felicitation is contained in a press release dated 21st January,2021,signed by the Director of press and public affairs to the governor Simon Makut Mancham and made available to journalist in Jos, Plateau state.
Governor Lalong in a message rejoiced with the Royal Father for witnessing another year, praying God to continue to grant him good health, peace and protection.
Lalong praised the Long Gamai who is the Vice Chairman of the Plateau State Council of Traditonal Rulers and Emirs for his leadership qualities that have brought development to his subjects and the entire State.
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He said the first class ruler has been a pillar of support for the consolidation of peace and harmonious relations in Plateau State as well as an advocate for the promotion of entrepreneurship, productivity and youth empowerment in Plateau State.
Lalong appreciated the Long Gamai for his readiness all the times to offer counsel and guidance to Government on key issues through the traditional council and other channels, particularly at difficult times.
The Governor said the Royal Father has in recent times demonstrated great leadership by mobilising, advocating and enlightening the public on issues such as COVID-19 and Community Policing which are matters that the Government is handling with all seriousness.
by Alexander Aleburu

Governor Lalong Secures Licence For Rapid Enrollment Of Plateau Citizens To National Database.

Governor Lalong Secures Licence For Rapid Enrollment Of Plateau Citizens To National Database.
Our Reporter
Following the challenges faced by citizens of Plateau State in enrolling for the National Identity Number (NIN) as a result of few enrolment centres, Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has secured the licensing of Plateau State as a service provider for the enrolment of Nigerians residing in the State.
This is contained in a press statement dated 23rd january 2021 , signed by the Director of press and public affairs to governor Lalong and made available to news men in jos, plateau state capital.
The approval which was conveyed to the Governor by the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy through the Director General of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Engr. Aliyu Aziz, indicates that the Plateau State Government can now participate in the registration of citizens of the State into the national identity database in line with the provisions of the NIMC Act and other guidelines issued.
Reacting to the development, Governor Lalong said he was excited that the State secured the approval which will not only reduce the hardship faced by citizens in obtaining the NIN number due to the few centres available in the State, but will also help the State ensure that all its citizens are captured into the national identity ecosystem.
The Governor said “now that Plateau State has been granted the licence to provide data capture and enrolment services for the issuance of the National Identity Number, we are going to ensure that we create centres in all the 17 Local Government Areas and other strategic towns in order to ensure seamless, quick and efficient enrollment of all our citizens and other Nigerians residing in the State”.
He therefore directed the Commissioner for Science and Technology to immediately work with the Plateau State Information & Communication Technology Development Agency (PICTDA) to further liaise with NIMC towards finalizing arrangements and acquiring the necessary equipment for the successful implementation of the programme.
Lalong also mandated them to ensure that arrangement for suitable facilities are made and training of requisite manpower is done in record time in order to guarantee excellence enrollment of eligible persons within the State into the Nigerian Digital Ecosystem.
Governor Lalong therefore uses the opportunity to appeal to the citizens of Plateau State to exercise more patience while the process in completed and the facilities put on ground for the commencement of the enrollment services throughout the State. He also wants them to cooperate with the officials during the exercise and provide accurate data to avoid complications afterwards.
The licence granted to Plateau State is for one year and is subject to renewal upon satisfactory performance during the period.
by Alexander Aleburu

Naira Rains At I.D Gyang Peace , Unity And Reconciliation Football Tournament .

Naira Rains At I.D Gyang Peace , Unity And Reconciliation Football Tournament.

By,giwa alex, Jos
Naira rained at the Plateau North Peace , Unity And Reconciliation Football Tournament organised by Senator I.D Gyang, member Representing Plateau North/Bassa Federal Constituency at the National Assembly.
As the Deputy Speaker of the House of representative at the the National Assembly , Idris Ahmed Wase pledged a handsome financial rewards for the club who come 1st ,2nd and 3rd , valuable player and best goal keeper in that other.
The former Nigeria skipper and the son of the day at the occasion, Ahmed Musa announced a mouth watering financial gift of 3million ,2million 1milion in that order for any of the participating team who distinguished itself at the tournament.
This pledge was made during I.D Gyang Peace, Unity And Reconciliation Football Tournament which was held on Saturday 23rd January,2021 at the Rwang Pam Township Stadium, Jos, plateau state capital.
Musa said any team who win the cup in the tournament will be given the sum of 3million, while the second run off and third position get 2million, and 1million in that order.
On his part, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ahmed Idris maje on the other hand , promised to dole out 1million,.7million and .5million respectively to any of the participating club who distinguished itself at the peace football tournament.
In addition ,Maje promised to rewards the best goal keeper and the most valuable player to go home with the sum of hundred thousand Naira each as the Case may be.
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representative Ahmed Wase commended the leadership vision of Senator I.D Gyang for organizing the tournament with the view of fostering peace in the local council by extension, plateau State as a whole.
And promised to partner with Ahmed Musa the former super Eagle Skipper to ensure that the same peace tournament is replicated at the National level to help to foster peace in all Nigeria.
Idris said this is very imperative because if there is peace in Plateau state ,its a pointer that all Nigeria as a whole will in peace.
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representative Idris Wase who is the guest of honor at the occasion further stressed that since the action of the member or members as the case may be is geared towards service to humanity,I will be ready to support the initiative,he maintained.
The former Captain of super Eagle of Nigeria, Who is the brain behind the peace football tournament, and the son of the day at the occasion, Ahmed Musa use the fora to appeal to the governor of Plateau State Simon Bako Lalong to complete the state New Stadium which will give the Youths in the state the opportunity to display their God given potentials.
Ahmed Musa further called on the State Government under the leadership of Bako Lalong to make land available forhim to build sport institute like the one he built in Kano and kaduna.The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representative promised to relay the skipper’s message to his Excellency the governor of Plateau State, Bako Lalong.
by Alexander Aleburu

Diversity, Plurality Need Not To Be Liability Expect Where Its Mismanaged——–Senator I.D Gyang.

Diversity, Plurality Needs Not To Be Liability Expect Where Its Mismanaged——–Senator I.D Gyang.

By,giwa alex, Jos
The Senator representing plateau North/Bassa Federal constituency at the National Assembly , Senator I.D Gyang said diversity and Plurality needs not be a liability expect where it’s mismanaged.
As senator Gyang said through constructive engagement ,not only profit making venture turned ethnic and religious diversity Into asset and in the process transform Plateau North ,by extension Plateau as a whole to become the model of recovery in overcoming adversity , animosity and hate.
Senator I .D Gyang stated this as part of his opening welcome remarks during football tournament organized by the Senator , tagged”Plateau North Peace , Unity and reconciliation Football Tournament “held at the Rwang Pam Township Stadium in Jos , Plateau State.
Gyang said the vision that give birth to the tournament is embedded in his campaign manifesto of prioritize the building of peace and the return of harmonious Coexistences to Plateau North ,a constituency that has been fractured by discord , acrimony, animosity and become an axis for violence.
He maintained that the tournament is a platform to showcase talents hitherto unnoticed and ungotten for want of opportunity.
And added that this discovery will facilitate their grooming and development to prepare and equip them to become future stars in professional football both locally and internationally.
The Senator however stressed that this is to keep with the long established facts of history which records this city of Jos,indeed Plateau North as the birth place and rise of many football legends in Nigeria.
He further add that Plateau state will just belong to Nigeria’s football history ,we want to belong to its future and the way to that future is want we are doing now giving the stars if the future opportunity to come to limelight which is the reason we tagged this tournament , which is a novel and unprecedented in the history of Plateau North and by the “Grace of God”be sustained.
The Senator thanked the dignitaries who despite their busy schedule make out time to attend the event which is a pointer that they has the Peace of Jos North , and by extension Plateau State as whole at heart.
The dignitaries who attended the occasion includes,the former governor of plateau state,and senator representing Plateau North/Bassa constituency at the National Assembly, Senator Jonah Jang, Deputy Speaker of the HOS Rt Hon Ahmed Idris Wase,Musa Bagos and member of the State House of Assembly.
Others are the skipper Ahmed Musa , captain of Nigeria National team the super eagle who the Senator described as role model to the young aspiring football players and stars of the future.
by Alexander Aleburu

Senator Jonah Jang Urges Lalong To Complete The State New Stadium.

Senator Jonah Jang Urges Lalong To Complete The State New Stadium.

By,giwa alex, Jos
The immediate past governor of Plateau state,and Senator in the 8th Assembly representing Plateau North / Bassa Federal Constituency at the National Assembly , Senator Jonah David Jonah Jang has send a strong message to the state governor Simon Bako Lalong to expedite action and complete the new stadium which he governor Jang started during his tenure.
As the completion of the stadium ,and putting to adequate utilization ,will help to engage the youths who are at the vague of been suffocated by the action and policies of the government, and distract the youths from crime and criminality.
Jang stated this at the opening ceremony of Plateau North Peace, Unity and Reconciliation Football Tournament held at the township stadium in Jos, Plateau state capital,23rd January,2020.
The former Governor who is the chairman of the occasion said the completion of the stadium and the resumption of full porting activities,will help to engage the youths in the Local council and by extension Plateau in general.
Senator Jang commended I.D Gyang whom he described as visionary leader , which is expected of him ,not the one whose policies and programs are geared towards extermination of the youths , better still strangulate the youths who are most vulnerable in this case.
Jang who shower accolades on I.D Gyang ,said he is very proud of him considering the landmark achievement he has achieved as he holds sway as Senator, Said he didn’t regret stepping down for the Senator considering his achievement which is very impressive so far.
The chairman called on the state government Simon Bako Lalong,to expedite action towards completing the New Jos stadium which my administration started.Which he said when completed will help to engaged the Youths in the State and reduce crimes and and criminality associated with the youths in the state.
He called the Government at all level to queue into PDP Senator Initiatives in the State and engage the youths,and avoid policies and programs that are capable of strangulating the Youths like massive unemployment that has rendered the future of youths in the state,by extension Nigeria bleak.
He called on Government at all levels to take another look at unemployment rates in the country with the view of addressing it”It is time bomb waiting to explode any moment that may not be two pleasant for the people in government ,he maintained.
He showed accolade on initiator of the program Senator I.D Gyang and his vision capable of encouraging grassroots football.He however, described Ahmed Musa as good ambassador of Plateau State ,as he has distinguished himself throughout his playing lnternation foot ball.
by Alexander Aleburu

Plateau State : Extra Judicial Killing, Court adjourns Matter For Hearing To 2nd ,18th Feb 

Plateau State : Extra Judicial Killing, Court adjourns Matter For Hearing To 2nd ,18th Feb
By,giwa alex,jos
A High Court sitting in Jos,Plateau State capital has adjourned the alledged case of extra judicial killing of late Rinji Peter Bala a 300 Level Student of the University of Jos to,2nd and 18th of February, 2021 on health ground .
The trial judge ,justice David G . Mann who was absence during the Thursday 21st January, 2021 when the matter scheduled to come up for continuation of hearing on a suit No ,PLD/JII79C/1920 .
“You would recalled that the matter first came up for mentioned on the 9th October, 2020 were sgt. Ruya Auta was arraigned before justice David Mann on two count charge of murder of late Rinji Peter Bala a university undergraduate in Plateau state”.
Sgt. Ruya Auta who is alleged to have killed the student was attached police personnel with the military Special Task Force (STF) is alledged to have commit the offence May ,2020,
Speaking to our correspondent at the state High ,counsel to the plaintiff ,Barr.Garba Pwol SAN,represented by Nantok Dashuwar said the has been granted fiat order by the Plateau State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Christiantus Ahmadu for speedious hearing on the which is been handled by G.S.Pwoll pro-bono .
However, Pwoll said the adjournment was due to ill health of the sitting judge ,Justice David Mann which stall the hearing .
Meanwhile, the defense counsel to sgt Ruya Auta Barr. J.A. Aduku has washed his hands off from the case as he has said he is no longer interested to continue as the defense counsel.
Its was gathered that the late Rinji Peter Bala was arrested around Utonko road in
Hwolshe ,Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau state and was taken to Zaria stadium were he was alleged to had been murder by the suspect ,Sgt Ruya Auta .
by Alexander Aleburu

Fulanis Urges Federal Govt To Declare State Of Emergency In Ondo And Oyo States.

Fulanis

Urges Federal Govt To Declare State Of Emergency In Ondo And Oyo States.

By,giwa alex,Jos
The Fulanis in Nigeria under the auspacies of Fulanis Youths have vowed not to embark on reprisals attack on Yoruba’s leaving in the northern parts of Nigeria but warned the south West Governors to refrain from taken the laws into their hands by issuing out ultimatum threat on all Fulanis residents in their communities datelines to leave .
The National President Jon Jam a Fulani’s socio cultural association of the West Africa ,Alh Saidu Adamu Maikano has warned all Southwest Governors’ Forum and Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, that no amount of threats and ultimatum will given to Fulanis will make them vacate their states .
Alh Maikano Adamu made this disclosure at Polo round about in Jos North LGA of Plateau state while speaking to journalists over the datelines issued to herders in South-West Nigeria by the Governor of Oyo and Ondo states.
He called on the Federal government of Nigeria not to fold its arms and allow a few individuals turn this country into areas of conflict.
According to him, Governor Akeredolu should be aware of the country diversity ,in my community we have Yoruba as neighbour so let not do something that is capable of creating tension and division amongst us .
Maikano explained further that no tribes in Nigeria has the monopoly of violence, but advice Fulani’s youth not to embark on reprisal attack on any Yoruba’s because he is taken all necessary measure to prevent any conflict.
He said the action of the two governors issuing Fulani’s threat called for state of emergency in the affected states ,to serve as a warning that no one should force any tribes to vacate any parts of Nigeria in line with the constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria .
Maikano condemned in its totality the way and manner a sitting governor can make such a public statement capable of provoking and causing crisis in Ondo ,Oyo states .
Meanwhile,the actions been taken by Governor Akeredolu who talked tough on the activities of the criminal elements in the state said security reports and briefings from victims of kidnap cases pointed in one direction traceable to some bad elements masquerading as herdsmen in the State.
The Governor address the leadership of the Hausa/Fulani and Ebira Communities in the state held at the Cocoa Conference Hall of the Governor’s office, Alagabaka, Akure on Monday, January 18, 2021.
The meeting was also attended by the Commissioner of Police, Mr Bolaji Salami and the state commandant of the Amotekun Corps, Mr Tunji Adeleye.
Arakunrin Akeredolu decried the activities of the criminal elements, adding that they have turned forest reserves in the state and across the Southwest into hideouts for keeping victims of kidnapping, negotiating for ransom and carrying out other criminal activities.
“As the Chief Law and Security Officer of the State, it is my constitutional obligation to do everything lawful to protect the lives and property of all residents of the State.
This meeting, therefore, is convened to address the issues of insecurity with the ultimate aim of attaining the goal of a safe environment.
“ Recent security trends attest that these times require all hands to be on the deck as the difficulties we face are dire. The challenges are quite enormous but we are determined to confront them head-on
“We decided that all the criminal elements who hide under various guises to aid the destruction of farmlands as well as perpetrate other violent crimes such as kidnapping, drug peddling and other nefarious activities, must be stamped out of our dear State.
“I wish to reassure the residents that the State Security Council, under my leadership, shall not relent in tackling these challenges as pragmatically possible. We shall remove all threats in no distant future.
“We have cases of several attacks on our people by these mindless elements. You will recall the gruesome murder of one of the members of the Ondo State Traditional Council who was caught in the web of the devious plans of these workers of evil on his way back to his domain.
“While we were still grieving, other kidnap attempts were made on the lives of road users across the State, especially along our boundaries and hinterland.” He said.
The Governor also ordered that all Forest Reserves in the State are to be vacated by herdsmen within the next 7 days with effect from , Monday 18th January, 2021.
He further placed a ban on night-grazing and movement of cattle within cities and highway in the state, while also outlawing under-aged grazing of cattle.
“In its usual magnanimity, our administration will give a grace period of seven days for those who wish to carry on with their cattle-rearing business to register with appropriate authorities.
“Our resolution to guarantee the safety of lives and property within the State shall remain utmost as security agencies have been directed to enforce the ban.”
Fulani’s Urges Federal Govt To Declare State Of Emergency In Ondo And Oyo States.
By,giwa alex,Jos
The Fulanis in Nigeria under the auspacies of Fulanis Youths have vowed not to embark on reprisals attack on Yoruba’s leaving in the northern parts of Nigeria but warned the south West Governors to refrain from taken the laws into their hands by issuing out ultimatum threat on all Fulanis residents in their communities datelines to leave .
The National President Jon Jam a Fulani’s socio cultural association of the West Africa ,Alh Saidu Adamu Maikano has warned all Southwest Governors’ Forum and Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, that no amount of threats and ultimatum will given to Fulanis will make them vacate their states .
Alh Maikano Adamu made this disclosure at Polo round about in Jos North LGA of Plateau state while speaking to journalists over the datelines issued to herders in South-West Nigeria by the Governor of Oyo and Ondo states.
He called on the Federal government of Nigeria not to fold its arms and allow a few individuals turn this country into areas of conflict.
According to him, Governor Akeredolu should be aware of the country diversity ,in my community we have Yoruba as neighbour so let not do something that is capable of creating tension and division amongst us .
Maikano explained further that no tribes in Nigeria has the monopoly of violence, but advice Fulani’s youth not to embark on reprisal attack on any Yoruba’s because he is taken all necessary measure to prevent any conflict.
He said the action of the two governors issuing Fulani’s threat called for state of emergency in the affected states ,to serve as a warning that no one should force any tribes to vacate any parts of Nigeria in line with the constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria .
Maikano condemned in its totality the way and manner a sitting governor can make such a public statement capable of provoking and causing crisis in Ondo ,Oyo states .
Meanwhile,the actions been taken by Governor Akeredolu who talked tough on the activities of the criminal elements in the state said security reports and briefings from victims of kidnap cases pointed in one direction traceable to some bad elements masquerading as herdsmen in the State.
The Governor address the leadership of the Hausa/Fulani and Ebira Communities in the state held at the Cocoa Conference Hall of the Governor’s office, Alagabaka, Akure on Monday, January 18, 2021.
The meeting was also attended by the Commissioner of Police, Mr Bolaji Salami and the state commandant of the Amotekun Corps, Mr Tunji Adeleye.
Arakunrin Akeredolu decried the activities of the criminal elements, adding that they have turned forest reserves in the state and across the Southwest into hideouts for keeping victims of kidnapping, negotiating for ransom and carrying out other criminal activities.
“As the Chief Law and Security Officer of the State, it is my constitutional obligation to do everything lawful to protect the lives and property of all residents of the State.
This meeting, therefore, is convened to address the issues of insecurity with the ultimate aim of attaining the goal of a safe environment.
“ Recent security trends attest that these times require all hands to be on the deck as the difficulties we face are dire. The challenges are quite enormous but we are determined to confront them head-on
“We decided that all the criminal elements who hide under various guises to aid the destruction of farmlands as well as perpetrate other violent crimes such as kidnapping, drug peddling and other nefarious activities, must be stamped out of our dear State.
“I wish to reassure the residents that the State Security Council, under my leadership, shall not relent in tackling these challenges as pragmatically possible. We shall remove all threats in no distant future.
“We have cases of several attacks on our people by these mindless elements. You will recall the gruesome murder of one of the members of the Ondo State Traditional Council who was caught in the web of the devious plans of these workers of evil on his way back to his domain.
“While we were still grieving, other kidnap attempts were made on the lives of road users across the State, especially along our boundaries and hinterland.” He said.
The Governor also ordered that all Forest Reserves in the State are to be vacated by herdsmen within the next 7 days with effect from , Monday 18th January, 2021.
He further placed a ban on night-grazing and movement of cattle within cities and highway in the state, while also outlawing under-aged grazing of cattle.
“In its usual magnanimity, our administration will give a grace period of seven days for those who wish to carry on with their cattle-rearing business to register with appropriate authorities.
“Our resolution to guarantee the safety of lives and property within the State shall remain utmost as security agencies have been directed to enforce the ban.”
by Alexander Aleburu

Bishop Mathew Kukah’s Open Letter To Sardauna Of Sokoto .

Bishop Mathew Kukah’s Open Letter To Sardauna Of Sokoto.
Our Reporter, Jos
I am not sure I know how to address you especially now that the formal Ranka ya dade is of no use to you since you are now in eternity.
However, because this is a very special year, I had decided to write two letters, one to you and the other to Sir Tafawa Balewa. I thought I should start with you for obvious reasons.
These letters are my formal way of having an imaginary conversation with both of you.
In a way, I want to give you a report of what you left behind, what your immediate successors have done with your investment and how they shared our inheritance to the descendants.
In a way, I feel like a grand child reporting his uncle to his grand father, so please be patient with me. I think this is necessary because if we continue this way, I am sure your memories will be a distant whisper in the ears of your great grand children.
What is more, your name is now a mere meal ticket for many. I also fear that some of the values you lived and died for are heading into oblivion. Apart from your autobiography, it took a white scholar and lover of northern Nigeria, Professor John Paden to write your authoritative biography. One would think that by now, those who claim your name would have endowed a Chair of Sardauna Studies in one of the northern Universities. But they are preoccupied with other more important pursuits it seems.
A second reason for this letter is the fact that I am now a citizen of your home state of Sokoto where I now serve as the Bishop of the Catholic community. You will be glad to know that Sokoto is still a very peaceful place to live in. From the point of view of progress and development, I am afraid that you will probably not get lost in many of the towns and communities.
I have visited Rabah where you were born and I have also seen your house here in Sokoto. It is impossible for me to believe but it reminds me of the modesty of one of my heroes and your contemporary, Julius Nyerere of Tanzania whose personal house sits in a street corner in Dar es Salaam.
Since there are no Christians or Muslims in the presence of God, I am sure both of you might have met.
For us, growing up as children in my little and very remote village, Sokoto registered in our memories only because your great stature served as a beacon that pulled the city nearer to us.
Yet, looking back, how could I have imagined that I would not only visit Sokoto, but also become a citizen of this state? I deliberately drove to Rabah just to have a feel of where you grew up and where your father had served as a District Head.
Fifty years have gone past since you and your brave wife were brutally murdered in cold blood. Perhaps, had she merely pleaded or run into hiding, even her murderers would probably have thought otherwise.
However, in a rare combination of the deeper instincts of genuine love, passion and total commitment, she gave herself in defense of what she loved most when it mattered most.
In that warm embrace into which you both clung, with she serving as a shield, you were both dispatched into eternity in one moment. I hope both of you are happy in paradise now.
I was old enough to have known you, but I did not ever get the opportunity to even see you. Like millions of other young children and teenagers across Northern Nigeria, we heard about you and only had images of you in our minds.
So much myth was built around you and Mallam Aminu Kano. For our young minds, your name elicited awe but that of Aminu Kano excited us. We fell in love with Aminu Kano’s name rather quickly because even early in life, we had always lived in fear of the Native Authority people as the ugly face of the oppression of taxation.
We recall how much sorrow their visits often left behind especially in the homes of some of our poorer uncles in the villages when they came to collect their haraji. When we heard that Aminu Kano was against haraji, we loved him because haraji threatened our school fees.
Your place in history is assured, but there are still areas of controversies about your legacy. We have heard and read that you were a man who loved the north and its people, irrespective of their religion. The praise singers have left us plaudits, paens, myths and apocryphal material about your greatness. This is not the place to debate your actions.
You laid a foundation to ensure that none of your children faced an uncertain future. Today however, many of your children have become orphans because the region has become a huge orphanage.
Our children fill the streets begging for food, their elder brothers who have some education have no jobs and nowhere to turn to, their parents have no work and those who have worked are dying with no pension.
Farming has become a hazardous preoccupation. You will weep if you see where we are now. Selfishness has consumed us and the army has deserted the battlefield because there is no one to lead them. There is neither direction nor destination and most people have lost the will to fight for any cause.
At a time when there was no technology and no structures, you developed them from scratch. You built such institutions as the Ahmadu Bello University, Institute of Administration, Kaduna Polytechnic, Colleges of Education, Government Secondary Schools, etc. You set up the Northern Nigerian Development Corporation, Northern Nigeria Investment Limited, Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Broadcasting Corporation of Nigeria, New Nigerian Newspapers, Textiles Factories such as Kaduna Textile Mills, Zamfara Textiles, Cement Company of Northern Nigeria, Northern Oil Processing Mill, Sword Branch Bottling Company, Nigerian Breweries Ltd, Hamdala Hotel, Kano Ground nut pyramids, Central Hotel, Bank of the North, Northern Nigeria Radio Corporation and many others etc.
With this legacy, should every son and daughter of northern Nigeria not walk like a prince or princess? Yet, today, all these institutions have been killed and buried by your successors who refused to develop a professional style of managing these great institutions.
They were seen as extensions of a feudal system and today, rather than administer them, your successors presided over their funerals. What is left now are their carcasses.
Today, we look back at all the ideals that guided you. Despite its shortcomings, you were determined to ensure that the North did not lag behind. To do this, you undertook to navigate a very difficult and treacherous terrain without a clear compass.
You tried to wield together a medley of peoples with conflicting and challenging histories, cultures, aspirations and so on. To make it worse, the people did not as yet possess such weapons for the construction of a modern state as technology and education. Yet, your programme of Yaki Da Jahilci helped many poor farmers gain some levels of literacy.
The north is in turmoil now and the reasons are many. The turmoil is the result of the sickness that afflicted the nation after you and other great nationalists were brutally murdered. We gradually slid into a civil war. We now have 36 States and the old north now has 19 States.
You will be pleased to know that almost all the Governors were born around the time of your death. They are therefore young and promising. Please pray for them so that they can extricate themselves from retrogressive mistakes of their fathers and create a more open society where everyone can have a sense of belonging.
Unlike their fathers and uncles, they have University education and they have studied and worked in a more plural environment. Indeed, our Governor in Sokoto was born just a few days before you died and he was the Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives with the help and support of Southerners.
This is different from your time when the relationships were more combative and rather acrimonious. You will be surprise to note that those you referred to as the scallywags in Lagos, those who booed at you in the wake of the debate over self government in 1956 were largely responsible for garnering support for General Buhari, a son of Daura who is now our President. So, please, pray for us to have more open and tolerant society.
Your heart must be bleeding at the sight of what has become of the north today. Boko Haram, a criminal band of murderers took hold of the north and turned it into a wasteland. Thousands of lives have been lost and today, millions of our people are in refugee camps.
Thousands of innocent women, women and children have lost their lives. A great swath of the north is now a refugee camp of desolation and pain. Thousands of our girls have been killed, raped and forced into marriages. Over two hundred young girls in a village called Chibok have been in captivity and their fates are unknown.
It is over 600 days now and we have no news. Northerners are merely looking up at the federal government and refusing to take full charge of what is clearly and mostly our battle or the result of our negligence and disunity.
When you look back now, I believe even you will realize that your controversial Conversion campaigns laid the foundation for mistrust in the house that you had built earlier. Since then, there has been increasing distrust among our people and the chasm has grown even deeper.
We have spilled so much blood around the north, you will be shocked to see how many unmarked graves there are.
Finally, I must let you get some rest, but let me give you a little gist. Your grand son, Hassan, is the Magajin Garin Sokoto now. I am not sure he can play Fives as you did because he looks bigger than you. You will be proud of him.
Also, the little brilliant boy who got As in his School Certificate examinations from Kabba and whom you gave a scholarship to ended up not in the northern civil service but he became a priest. You will be proud to know that he is now a Cardinal of the Catholic Church and could be Pope!
Please tell the Prime Minister to be patient because his own letter will come next week. For now, again, please pray for us. Ask God to rekindle the spirit of foresight and deep love for people that He endowed you and other men of your generation with.
Give my warm regards to Col. Pam and my mama, his wife, Elizabeth and all those great men and women who lost their lives with you. Tell her to please look for Justice Oputa.
Bishop Mathew Kukah’s Open Letter To Sardauna Of Sokoto.
Our Reporter, Jos
I am not sure I know how to address you especially now that the formal Ranka ya dade is of no use to you since you are now in eternity.
However, because this is a very special year, I had decided to write two letters, one to you and the other to Sir Tafawa Balewa. I thought I should start with you for obvious reasons.
These letters are my formal way of having an imaginary conversation with both of you.
In a way, I want to give you a report of what you left behind, what your immediate successors have done with your investment and how they shared our inheritance to the descendants.
In a way, I feel like a grand child reporting his uncle to his grand father, so please be patient with me. I think this is necessary because if we continue this way, I am sure your memories will be a distant whisper in the ears of your great grand children.
What is more, your name is now a mere meal ticket for many. I also fear that some of the values you lived and died for are heading into oblivion. Apart from your autobiography, it took a white scholar and lover of northern Nigeria, Professor John Paden to write your authoritative biography. One would think that by now, those who claim your name would have endowed a Chair of Sardauna Studies in one of the northern Universities. But they are preoccupied with other more important pursuits it seems.
A second reason for this letter is the fact that I am now a citizen of your home state of Sokoto where I now serve as the Bishop of the Catholic community. You will be glad to know that Sokoto is still a very peaceful place to live in. From the point of view of progress and development, I am afraid that you will probably not get lost in many of the towns and communities.
I have visited Rabah where you were born and I have also seen your house here in Sokoto. It is impossible for me to believe but it reminds me of the modesty of one of my heroes and your contemporary, Julius Nyerere of Tanzania whose personal house sits in a street corner in Dar es Salaam.
Since there are no Christians or Muslims in the presence of God, I am sure both of you might have met.
For us, growing up as children in my little and very remote village, Sokoto registered in our memories only because your great stature served as a beacon that pulled the city nearer to us.
Yet, looking back, how could I have imagined that I would not only visit Sokoto, but also become a citizen of this state? I deliberately drove to Rabah just to have a feel of where you grew up and where your father had served as a District Head.
Fifty years have gone past since you and your brave wife were brutally murdered in cold blood. Perhaps, had she merely pleaded or run into hiding, even her murderers would probably have thought otherwise.
However, in a rare combination of the deeper instincts of genuine love, passion and total commitment, she gave herself in defense of what she loved most when it mattered most.
In that warm embrace into which you both clung, with she serving as a shield, you were both dispatched into eternity in one moment. I hope both of you are happy in paradise now.
I was old enough to have known you, but I did not ever get the opportunity to even see you. Like millions of other young children and teenagers across Northern Nigeria, we heard about you and only had images of you in our minds.
So much myth was built around you and Mallam Aminu Kano. For our young minds, your name elicited awe but that of Aminu Kano excited us. We fell in love with Aminu Kano’s name rather quickly because even early in life, we had always lived in fear of the Native Authority people as the ugly face of the oppression of taxation.
We recall how much sorrow their visits often left behind especially in the homes of some of our poorer uncles in the villages when they came to collect their haraji. When we heard that Aminu Kano was against haraji, we loved him because haraji threatened our school fees.
Your place in history is assured, but there are still areas of controversies about your legacy. We have heard and read that you were a man who loved the north and its people, irrespective of their religion. The praise singers have left us plaudits, paens, myths and apocryphal material about your greatness. This is not the place to debate your actions.
You laid a foundation to ensure that none of your children faced an uncertain future. Today however, many of your children have become orphans because the region has become a huge orphanage.
Our children fill the streets begging for food, their elder brothers who have some education have no jobs and nowhere to turn to, their parents have no work and those who have worked are dying with no pension.
Farming has become a hazardous preoccupation. You will weep if you see where we are now. Selfishness has consumed us and the army has deserted the battlefield because there is no one to lead them. There is neither direction nor destination and most people have lost the will to fight for any cause.
At a time when there was no technology and no structures, you developed them from scratch. You built such institutions as the Ahmadu Bello University, Institute of Administration, Kaduna Polytechnic, Colleges of Education, Government Secondary Schools, etc. You set up the Northern Nigerian Development Corporation, Northern Nigeria Investment Limited, Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Broadcasting Corporation of Nigeria, New Nigerian Newspapers, Textiles Factories such as Kaduna Textile Mills, Zamfara Textiles, Cement Company of Northern Nigeria, Northern Oil Processing Mill, Sword Branch Bottling Company, Nigerian Breweries Ltd, Hamdala Hotel, Kano Ground nut pyramids, Central Hotel, Bank of the North, Northern Nigeria Radio Corporation and many others etc.
With this legacy, should every son and daughter of northern Nigeria not walk like a prince or princess? Yet, today, all these institutions have been killed and buried by your successors who refused to develop a professional style of managing these great institutions.
They were seen as extensions of a feudal system and today, rather than administer them, your successors presided over their funerals. What is left now are their carcasses.
Today, we look back at all the ideals that guided you. Despite its shortcomings, you were determined to ensure that the North did not lag behind. To do this, you undertook to navigate a very difficult and treacherous terrain without a clear compass.
You tried to wield together a medley of peoples with conflicting and challenging histories, cultures, aspirations and so on. To make it worse, the people did not as yet possess such weapons for the construction of a modern state as technology and education. Yet, your programme of Yaki Da Jahilci helped many poor farmers gain some levels of literacy.
The north is in turmoil now and the reasons are many. The turmoil is the result of the sickness that afflicted the nation after you and other great nationalists were brutally murdered. We gradually slid into a civil war. We now have 36 States and the old north now has 19 States.
You will be pleased to know that almost all the Governors were born around the time of your death. They are therefore young and promising. Please pray for them so that they can extricate themselves from retrogressive mistakes of their fathers and create a more open society where everyone can have a sense of belonging.
Unlike their fathers and uncles, they have University education and they have studied and worked in a more plural environment. Indeed, our Governor in Sokoto was born just a few days before you died and he was the Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives with the help and support of Southerners.
This is different from your time when the relationships were more combative and rather acrimonious. You will be surprise to note that those you referred to as the scallywags in Lagos, those who booed at you in the wake of the debate over self government in 1956 were largely responsible for garnering support for General Buhari, a son of Daura who is now our President. So, please, pray for us to have more open and tolerant society.
Your heart must be bleeding at the sight of what has become of the north today. Boko Haram, a criminal band of murderers took hold of the north and turned it into a wasteland. Thousands of lives have been lost and today, millions of our people are in refugee camps.
Thousands of innocent women, women and children have lost their lives. A great swath of the north is now a refugee camp of desolation and pain. Thousands of our girls have been killed, raped and forced into marriages. Over two hundred young girls in a village called Chibok have been in captivity and their fates are unknown.
It is over 600 days now and we have no news. Northerners are merely looking up at the federal government and refusing to take full charge of what is clearly and mostly our battle or the result of our negligence and disunity.
When you look back now, I believe even you will realize that your controversial Conversion campaigns laid the foundation for mistrust in the house that you had built earlier. Since then, there has been increasing distrust among our people and the chasm has grown even deeper.
We have spilled so much blood around the north, you will be shocked to see how many unmarked graves there are.
Finally, I must let you get some rest, but let me give you a little gist. Your grand son, Hassan, is the Magajin Garin Sokoto now. I am not sure he can play Fives as you did because he looks bigger than you. You will be proud of him.
Also, the little brilliant boy who got As in his School Certificate examinations from Kabba and whom you gave a scholarship to ended up not in the northern civil service but he became a priest. You will be proud to know that he is now a Cardinal of the Catholic Church and could be Pope!
Please tell the Prime Minister to be patient because his own letter will come next week. For now, again, please pray for us. Ask God to rekindle the spirit of foresight and deep love for people that He endowed you and other men of your generation with.
Give my warm regards to Col. Pam and my mama, his wife, Elizabeth and all those great men and women who lost their lives with you. Tell her to please look for Justice Oputa.
by Alexander Aleburu

Governors Mourn Mai Tangale/ Former Milad ,Kontagora.

Governors Mourn Mai Tangale/ Former Milad ,Kontagora.
By,giwa alex,jos
The Governors under the auspacies of Northern Governors Forum has commiserated with the Government and people of Gombe State over the death of the fifteenth Mai Tangle, Dr. Abdu Buba Maisheru II.
Governor Lalong’s condolence message dated 14th January,2021, signed by the Governor’s Director of Press and Public Affairs,Simon Mackut Mancham and made available to this medium in Jos the plateau state capital.
Lalong said the first class ruler was very instrumental to the development of his Chiefdom and Gombe State and also played a great role in the promotion of peace and unity in the State.
He said “as the Chairman of the Northern Christian Traditonal Rulers, late Dr. Masheru was a man of faith who advocated for godliness and championed inter-faith dialogue towards advocating for harmony in the north and the nation as a whole. The value he placed on education saw his subjects acquiring knowledge and contributing to Gombe State and the nation in various capacities”.
Similarly, the Northern Governors Forum has commiserated with the family of Col. Aminu Isa Kontagora, former Military Administrator of Benue and Kano States who died recently.
Governor Simon Lalong on behalf of the Forum described the death of the former military officer as a great loss to the nation.
He said the deceased contributed immensely to the development of the States he administered, the Nigerian Army and the country as a whole. Even in retirement, he continued to serve his community and the nation in various ways.
While urging members of his family to accept his demise as the will of God, he asked them to find solace in the good works of the deceased who lived a life of sacrifice and dedication for the betterment of humanity.
by Alexander Aleburu

Governor Lalong Urges Citizens To Encourage The Armed Forces 

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overnor Lalong Urges Citizens To Encourage The Armed Forces

By, giwa alex,Jos
The Governor of plateau state Simon Bako Lalong has encourage the citizens of the to support the Armed Forces in the state and extension Nigeria in general.
The Governors message is contained in a statement signed by the Director of press and public affairs to the governor Simon Makut Mancham and made available to news men in jos.
Addressing the event attended by top Government officials and security heads in the State, Governor Lalong praised members of the armed forces for their sacrifices in protecting the territorial integrity of the country and intervening in domestic security.
Lalong said the sacrifices of the fallen heroes must not be left to go in vain as they gave their all for the security and safety of the citizens.
He said “let us continue to support our armed forces who are still in active service through every means as they deserve our love. We should avoid condemning them over challenges that could arise in the cause of their duties. They are slefless and have done alot to restore security in many areas particularly in Plateau State. We are grateful for their contributions and continue to pray for their souls to rest in peace”.
Lalong assured that the State Government will continue to support members of the Nigerian legion and their families through empowerment and related programs.
He also appreciated all security agencies and their families who continue to collaborate with the State Government in consolidating the peace and security of Plateau State.
Prayers were also offered for the repose of the souls of those who died in the service of the nation.
The Governor later attended a reception at the Rhino Officers Mess of the Maxwell Khobe cantonment, Rukuba barracks.
by Alexander Aleburu

Governor Lalong Meets French Ambassador, Discusses Investment In Agriculture,Mineral Development And Education. 

Governor Lalong Meets French Ambassador, Discusses Investment In Agriculture,Mineral Development And Education.
By,giwa alex,Jos
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong was at the Embassy of France to Nigeria in Abuja on Tuesday 19th January 2021 to hold discussions with the Ambassador Jérôme Pasquier on the development of the mineral sector in Plateau State and other areas of investment.
Governor Lalong who was accompanied by the Commissioner for Mineral Development in the state,Jude Elias Dakur said he was at the French embassy to discuss the economic potentials of the State and explore areas of collaboration for investment and exchanges that will benefit people on both sides.
He said “Plateau State is famous for a variety of minerals which gave our State the name “Tin City” during the colonial days.
Even though some of these minerals were taken away without tangible benefits to our people, a lot of these endowments are still available with many yet to be exploited.
Some of the potentials of the State include metallic minerals namely: Tin, Columbite, Lead and Zinc; Non-metallic ones include Kaolin, Dimension stones and Granites, Gemstones like garnet, aqua marine among others. We also have mineral fuels like natural gas and coal”.
Lalong explained that his major concern since coming into office in 2015 has been to see how to utilize these potentials to improve the living standards of the people.
This he explained is why he was seeking collaboration with the French Government towards the development, exploitation and beneficiation of the State’s abundant mineral endowments to bridge the supply-demand gap, transfer of technology, diversification of the State income, job creation and poverty alleviation, as well as the reclamation of already devastated arable lands as a result of previous mining activities.
In specific terms, he sought support of the French Ambassador in facilitating grants, intervention funds, technical partnerships and investment linkages for the following minerals for which Plateau State is highly endowed.
They include:
i. Tin, Columbite and associated minerals
ii. Cutting and polishing of granites
iii. Lead and zinc beneficiation
iv. Copper and associated minerals.
Other areas of collaboration he said include education, culture and tourism, renewable energy, rural water supply, agriculture and much more, assuring that the State has various incentives that are attractive for business.
Ambassador Jerome Pasquier expressed delight on the Governor’s visit saying he had visited Plateau State last year where he held discussions with some State officials on various areas.
He assured that he will do his best to see that the necessary connection is created to assist Plateau State develop its mining potentials for the benefit of its citizens.
He assured the Governor that he was willing to not only involve Plateau State in many of his country’s development assistance programs, but will also facilitate investment connections and collaboration with investors who are willing to do business in Plateau State.
He said the French government is happy to support other peace initiatives such as the one being pursued by Governor Simon Lalong. Such determination he said will further entrench the fight against terrorism and criminality which is not just a Nigerian situation but a global concern.
by Alexander Aleburu

Governor Lalong Meets With Secretaries To Governments Of 19 Northern States.

Governor Lalong Meets With Secretaries To Governments Of 19 Northern States.

Our Reporter
Plateau State Governor and Chairman of the Northern Governors Forum on Monday 18th January 2021 received Secretaries to Governments of the 19 Northern States who paid him a courtesy visit at the new Government House, Little Rayfield Jos.
Secretary to the Government of Kaduna State Alhaji Balarabe Abbas Lawal who led the delegation said they were in the State for a meeting to review some of the pending issues of the Northern Governors Forum including reports that have been pending for many years.
According to him, the Secretaries who are meeting at the instance of the Governors will during the meeting look at reports on security, economic development,education, health, investment, youth employment and others which are critical to the progress of the region.
He said the issue of a Commercial Bank with controlling shares from the region which has been on table for a long time despite financial commitments by some member States needs to be resolved as soon as possible to ginger economic revival of the region.
He commended Governor Lalong for his proactive leadership style which has focused on key issues bothering the region.
Responding, Governor Lalong appreciated the support of the Secretaries to the various Northern States for their service and sacrifices to the growth of the region.
He said the Forum was looking forward to the outcome of the meeting which will form its agenda for the next meeting scheduled for the first quarter of this year.
On the fortunes of the New Nigerian Newspapers, the Governor disclosed that the Federal Government has finally approved the payment of all outstanding salaries of all the workers. This he said will enable a final decision to be taken on the future of one of the oldest newspaper in the country.
Lalong said “As Governors of the region, we are well aware of the challenges we face related to security, economy, education, health, agriculture, employment and infrastructure among others.
While we individually address these challenges within our various States, we also realise that working together will give us faster and better results. If we do not work in synergy and collaboration with one another, it will be difficult to tackle issues of insecurity which manifest in insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, violent clashes and attacks of innocent persons”.
The Governor also asked them to look into the issue of the almajiri phenomenon which the Forum has resolved to address once and for all.
by Alexander Aleburu

Governor Lalong Inspects Projects At Plateau State University Bokkos,Urges ASUU To Call Off Strike.

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overnor Lalong Inspects Projects At Plateau State University Bokkos,Urges ASUU To Call Off Strike.

By,Our Reporter
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has asked members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, Plateau State University Chapter to rescind its decision to embark on strike as the Government is working to address their grievances.
Governor Lalong who is Visitor to the University stated this on Monday 18th January 2021 when he visited the University to inspect various projects being implemented at the school.
Lalong said the University which has been closed following the COVID-19 pandemic was ready to re-open before the threat of strike by the local chapter of ASUU.
Projects inspected include the new Senate Building, Faculties of Law, Environmental Sciences, Health Sciences, Social sciences, Advancement and Linkages building, Staff offices and classrooms complex, E-Library and assorted volumes of books in the central library building, 600- capacity Lecture theatre, School of postgraduate Studies building complex, University Health Centre building and medical equipment, Street light project, Wire fencing of female hostel and PLASU Security System/ CCTV cameras project, sports complex among others.
Some of the projects have been completed and handed over while others are at various stages of completion.
The Governor who expressed satisfaction with the speed and quality of the projects debunked the insinuation that the projects were all implemented by Tetfund with the State Government not doing anything.
He said “it is very unfortunate for people to play politics with everything including education. How can you say that the proprietor of a University has no projects in it? I was part of the founding of this institution when I was Speaker. People will remember that when I came into office, the University was shut down. We did everything possible to reopen it and today, it has blossomed and is fast growing.
It is therefore very sad and untrue for this insinuation to come from people who should know better. This is nothing but pure mischief”.
Lalong said apart from investing huge sums of money to develop infrastructure in the University, his administration remains grateful to President Buhari who through Tetfund has also intervened by approving other projects that are very critical to the development of the school.
The State he said has been greatly favoured to benefit from the number of projects being carried out beacuse it met the criteria for drawing from the fund.
He said the funds from Tetfund are monies belonging to all States which have been pooled through sources allowed by the law for the benefit of the educational system and as such it was within the right of the Plateau State University to benefit.
Governor Lalong also assured that the new Governing Council of the University will soon be announced even as he appealed to the lecturers to call of their strike in the interest of students and their parents who have suffered the long closure of schools.
He challenged the University management, staff and students to do everything possible to make the environment compliant to COVID-19 protocols as the perpetual closure of the school will not augur well for the development of the State.
Vice Chancellor of the University Prof. Yohanna D. Izam who took the Visitor round the projects appreciated the efforts of the Lalong administration in reviving the institution which he said has accredited many courses and established three new faculties with many students successfully graduating.
He said some of the landmark projects and achievements of the University could not be unveiled during the last convocation which could not take place physically beacuse of COVID-19.
by Alexander Aleburu

Plateau State : Shehu Bala Usman Threatens To Sanction Schools Who Violates Covid-19 Protocol

Plateau State : Hon. Shehu Bala Usman Threatens To Sanction Schools Who Violates Covid-19 Protocol.

By,giwa alex, Jos
The Committee Chairman of Jos North Local Government of Plateau state, Hon.Shehu Bala Usman has threatened to weigh big stick and sanction any public or private schools who violated government directives on second waves Covid-19 Protocol.
As he said the state government has set up a high power committee to monitor and ensure all schools in the state comply to the government directives to mitigate the second wave of covid-19 pandemic ravaging the whole world.
Hon.Usman made this know in an interview with journalist today 19th January,2021after the Council’s stakeholders meeting held at the Local Government Secretariat in Jos North LG.
He said ” we have actually set-up committee for the enforcement of covid-19 protocol,and by tomorrow ,we shall be going round to monitor the level of compliance .
The chairman said the aim of the committee is to ensure that the schools in the state adhered to Covid-19 Protocol as directed by the federal and state government , threatened to sanction any school found wanting as they had been adequately briefed and talked to in that regard.
On the harassment and intimidation of the citizens of Jos North by the security agents using motorcycles and tricycle in some cases,the chairman said he is yet to receive report to that effect and promised to investigate the allegations and any security personnel found to be capable will made to face the wrath of the law.
He added that the reason for the Stakeholders meeting is to brainstorm on the forthcoming registration exercise of All Progressive Congress (APC)and using the meeting to enlighten the people to take the government directives seriously , watch your hands , sanitize your hands with hands sanitizer,wear your nose mask and above all maintain social distance as required by the experts.
The chairman stressed that the committee is also to intervailed in the area of hike in school fees by some shylock proprietors mostly in private schools in the state with the view of reducing it downward as this period called for sacrifice by all asundry.
“I think is one part the schools proprietors in the state must have to look at the hike of school fees with the view of reviewing it downward for average parents to pay, he maintained.”
by Alexander Aleburu

Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Has Denies Rumours Of Resumption.

Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Has Denies Rumours Of Resumption.

By,giwa alex,Jos
The Academic Management of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Bauchi has debunked the rumors making around that the institution has resumed academic session.
The debunked circular is contained in a press release dated 11th January,2021, signed by Fafima Inuwa Abdullahi on behalf of the registrar of the university and made available to this medium online.
The release further read ,the attention of the Management have been drawn to the circular going around that the institution has resumed for academic work.He state that the misleading circular did not emanate from the management of the university, as the senate has not met to deliberate on when , and date for resumption.However call on parent and students of the affected university to disregard the circular and the false information there in ,as the university senate will sit on the resumption date and communicate the students appropriately in due course.
by Alexander Aleburu

Plateau State : How Wase Militia Shehu Jatau Roasted One,Gundown 3, Survival Narrates. 

Plateau State : How Wase Militia Shehu Jatau Roasted One,Gundown 3,

Survival Narrates.

By,giwa alex,Jos

How Militia group terrorizing Tarok communities in Wase Local Government Area are alleged conspiracy and instigating inter-clans conflict in Plateau state .

In a suit filed by the Commissioner of Police ,Plateau State Command ,against Shehu Jatau and three others of his criminal cohort Tarok speaking natives leaving in Kurmi community of Taraba state .

The matter which came up for continuation of hearing on Monday 11th January, 2021, one of the survival of Shehu’s onslaught narrated his ordeal while in the custody of Shehu Jatau and his criminal cohort at Lamton village .

According to him ,Jinan Nimmyel , said when Shehu Jatau and his boys invaded their community with heavy weapons killing people indiscriminately, he try to escape the deadly attacks but they went after him , chased him to mike until they finally over power him and held him .

We ride on the bike three of us to padai community were I came face to face with three other members of our village who were under the custody of Shehu boys tide with robs .

He further add that before we pass through Lamton village which is our own settlement ,I saw four dead bodies laying lifeless and already the town has became a ghost town completely with the fear of militia group head by the day devil Shehu.

The witness who is testifying as PW1 said Padai village were they took us ,one Danlami Pon Jatau was already tide to tree top with raging fire burning him and he was screaming for help until he finally got roasted to dead .

It was alleged that the political saga between the Tarok speaking natives is gradually taken a fresh dimension as victims are crying out for government intervention.

Jinan Nimmyel in his explaination told the court that three of them were shot with gun on the order of Shehu boys who invade their homes sometimes in May 2019 killing and sacking the residents of the entire village .

The second witness ,PW2 ,Mr Nanzing Maisamari ,said as the youth leader of Kurmi community he always have disagreement with Shehu Jatau over his constant harassment and intimidating people and sometime he attacks neighboring villages and cart away their properties including killing them .

Why I’m in court today is to testify what happen between me and Shehu Jatau in Kurmi community because of his activities ,we kept advicing him and he refuses to listen to us and one day I was sleeping at home when I heard a knock on my door as I open it ,behold it was Shehu Jatau who instructed me to handover my phone to him which I did .

He (Shehu ) started scrolling numbers down to see those he claims I serve as an informants to them ,then he called me out for questioning by ordering his boys to take me to the nearest bush were I was flogs with wounds all over my back .

His boys tide my hands and legs together ,then ,he started abusing me calling me wicked person and threatened to kill me but God intervailed and decide to allow me to go for reasons best know to him and his boys

My Lord because of the constant threats of Shehu and his boys, I have abandon my family and wives but I can’t go back there ,he is terrorizing us and even security personnel are afraid to talk to him .

by Alexander Aleburu

Governor Lalong Receives Accolades On Healthcare.

Governor Lalong Receives Accolades On Healthcare.
By,giwa alex, Jos
Governor Bako Lalong of Plateau state has received accolade on healthcare from the Nati

onal President of the Nigerian Medical Association, Prof. Innocent Ujah on Monday 11th January 2021.

Executive Members of the body on a courtesy call to Governor Simon Bako Lalong where he scored the Governor high on development of healthcare in the State.

The accolade on governor Lalong dated 11th January,2021, signed by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the governor, Simon Makut Mancham and made available to our reporter in Jos , plateau state.

Prof. Ujah who has spent many years in Plateau State teaching and practicing medicine said the Rescue Administration of Governor Simon Lalong has done what is unique by not only focusing on healthcare infrastructure, but developing manpower.

He commended the Governor for initiating the construction of mega health facilities in the three senatorial districts as well as continuing with inherited work on others which have been moribund for many years.

Ujah said “We are very excited that you recently approved the employment of over 40 doctors and many other health personnel to boost the manpower of the sector.

This is inspite of the economic situation of the country and the State to be specific.

“It is also on record that your administration has procured medical equipment for health facilities across the State and ensured that the Plateau Contributory Health Insurance Scheme and the Plateau Primary Healthcare Development Agency were established.

“This demonstrates your passion for healthcare delivery,we commend you and ask that you do more”.

Prof. Ujah also appealed to the Governor to look into other areas such as the implementation of the CONMESS which is at 83 percent at the moment.

And solicited the support of the Government towards the development of the National NMA Headquarters in Abuja as well as the training of more medical doctors from Plateau State to fill the gap that has continued to widen with the exodus of doctors from the country.

Governor Lalong while responding said he was delighted to have the NMA visit him under the leadership of Prof. Ujah who though originally from Benue State, is now the son of Plateau as he has spent most part of his professional life in the State.

He congratulated the NMA leadership and assured them that the Rescue Administration was committed to providing qualitative and affordable healthcare to the citizens particularly at the grassroots level.

Governor Lalong further disclosed that apart from ensuring that health takes priority in the Lalong Legacy project, his administration also ensured that the abandoned hospitals in Riyom, Mabudi and Kanke and others are completed so as to give the people more access to healthcare.

The Governor further explained that his administration also worked for the establishment of the Faculty of health sciences at the Plateau State University Bokkos as a way of ensuring that more health personnel are trained to increase manpower.

He stressed that the construction of the new faculty has gone far as the teaching hospital is also being constructed in Shendam.

Lalong appreciated the medical professionals for sacrificing themselves in the fight against COVID-19 which has seen some of them infected and others losing their lives.

A minute silence was observed for those who lost their lives, even as he again called for more sensitization among members of the public advising them to take precaution in the face of the second wave of the pandemic.

He assured them that the State Government was doing everything possible to ensure that the Plateau Health Research team led by Prof. Noel Wannang comes up with home grown solution to COVID-19 and other diseases.

The three drugs developed by the team he said have passed pre-clinical stage and undergoing clinical trials before approval by relevant authorities.

The Governor also urgued the doctors to invest in the State by establishing medical services as the State if focusing on becoming Nigeria’s headquarters for medical tourism giving its unique weather and hospitality.

by Alexander Aleburu

Governors Felicitates With Senate President,Ahmad Lawan @62

Governors Felicitates With Senate President,Ahmad Lawan @62

By,giwa alex,Jos
Governors under the auspacies of Northern Governors Forum has rejoiced with President of the Senate, Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan, on his 62nd birthday.
The felicitation is contained in a released dated 11th January,2021, signed by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the chairman of the forum, who doubled as the governor of plateau state Simon Makut Macham and made available to this medium in Jos , Plateau state.
The Forum described Senator Lawan as an erudite legislator and scholar who has brought his experience to bear on the Nigerian parliament.
Lalong said since stepping into the National Assembly, Senator Lawan has remained consistent in pursuing the enactment of quality legislations and conduct of robust oversight that have gone a long way to strengthen the nation’s democracy.
He commended Senator Lawan for galvanising his colleagues at the 9th Senate and the National Assembly as a whole towards supporting the Buhari Administration in fulfilling its promises to Nigerians.
He further described the Senate President as a worthy partner in the development of the Northern Region, assuring him that the Northern Governors Forum will continue to work with him in addressing the challenges of the region.
He wished Senator Lawan God’s guidance, wisdom, protection, and good health.
by Alexander Aleburu

Trial Resumes on Shehu Jatau And 3 Others Over Wase LGA killings

Trial Resumes on Shehu Jatau,

And 3 Others Over Wase LGA killings

By, giwa alex,Jos
The Trial of Shehu Jatau and Three others on alleged criminal conspiracy ,culpable homicide and kidnapping has resumed continuation of hearing with two witnesses testified before Honourable Justice P.S.Gang on Monday 11th January,2021 at Plateau High Court 7 .
Justice Gang adjourned the case to the 18th February, 2021 for taken of more witnesses and taken of the application for bail presented before the court by the defense counsel .
The defendants counsel,Prof Sylvester told the court that he has a motion on notice before the court which is dated 10th December,2020 and filed on 11th December,2020 asking the honourable court to admit the accused persons bail which the application for bail is supported with an affidavit that was disposed by S.P.Panwal & co .
He said ,he is relying on the affidavit in support of his application also supported with attach is a written address to the application .
Secondly ,according to him ,in reactions to the counter affidavit of the plaintiff he also filed a further and better affidavit dated 4-01-2021 also attached on the further and better affidavit is a written address were he adopted the written address in the main application for that of further and better as their solution in this application .
Prof Sylvester urge the court to grant in clients bail application . formulated for determination ,however, it’s on the interest of justice to grant them bail .
He appealed to the court that the accused persons have been in detention for almost one year plus ,were they transfer them from STF back to police headquarters in the circumstances ,section 36(5) of the 1999 .
Prof Sylvester stressed that the accused persons pleaded innocent and they should be release on bail pending the determination of the suit and he promised to present credible evidence to sufficiently prove his prayers .
In his response to the application for bail the defense counsel to the plaintiff counsel ,Barr Edwind A. Inegbenoise presented 17 paragraphs dated 16th December,2020 and was filed along side a written address including counter affidavit to highlight guidelines for the application for bail in a case of Bamidi Vs State .
The second phase of the written address were the supreme court emphasized that the accused persons standing trial in the offense committed might commit another crime under section 177 of the Plateau state criminal justice provided that the offence is a capital offense .
Barr Edwin cited the case of Adamu Usman against Commissioner of Police that the accused persons should not be granted bail plea the court to dismiss the application owning to the gravity of the crime committed by the four accused persons.
One of the witness ,PW1 ,Mr Jinan Nimmyel a traditional worshipper who residence in Lamton of Kadarko district of Wase who escape dead through several wounds injuries inflicted on him by Shehu Jatau and Nanjul Isah the accused persons said he recognized the two accused as the ring leaders that were perpetuating the act of maiming, killing ,and murdering residents of the Communities in Wase and it environ.
He disclosed that Shehu Jatau and Nanjul Isah drove by Nanjul Isah at about 3pm of May,2019 raided their home in Lamton and killed 4 persons while he was chased by them close to Pegai community and he was over power by Shehu and his men.
He further add that he saw two members of Lamton and Shehu order us to be tide with robs and one other person now deceased ,late Bani was tide and they set him on fire while was crying and begging them until he finally died in pains .
The witness further testify that Shehu and Nanjul Isah shot at me and one Danlami who died instantly ,while they shot me at close range on my head,chest with several bullets that pears through my skull and I survive it through the help of foreign doctors who battle to safe my life at the Wase General Hospital.
by Alexander Aleburu

Governor Lalong,And Online Media Practitioners Of Nigeria Plateau State Felicitates With Dan Manjang @60

Governor Lalong,And Online Media Practitioners Of Nigeria Plateau state Felicitates With Dan Manjang @60
By,giwa alex,jos
Governor Simon Lalong has felicitated with his Commissioner for Information and Communication Hon. Dan Manjang for attaining the landmark age of 60 years.
Similarly,the Online Media Practitioners Association of Nigeria (OMPAN) plateau state chapter ,also Felicitated with the commissioner of information and communication in the state for attaining the age of 60 years.
The felicitation messages is contained in a released dated 10th January,2021, signed separately by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the governor Simon Makut Mancham and the chairman of OMPAN in Plateau state Yakubu Ventim and made available to this medium.
The Governor described Dan Manjang as a committed member of the Rescue Mission who has given his best in communicating the programmes and projects of the Government and also sanitizing the citizens towards greater participation in governance.
Lalong said Manjang is a media professional who has brought his experience, knowledge and versatility to bear in the service of Plateau State and Nigeria even at the face of all dunting challenges.
He urged him to continue to serve the State with more zeal, resilience and commitment particularly in engaging members of the public towards understanding and supporting the government to consolidate on peace, building, infrastructural development and sustainable economic rebirth.
The association of online Practitioners in the state Congratulated the commissioner of information and communication for his 60th birthday and called on him to work , cooperate with all the journalist in the state irrespective of political,tribal and religious affiliations.
The chairman stressed that is the only way the state can achieve meaningful development.
He wished him many more years of good health, peace and God’s protection.
by Alexander Aleburu

Congratulatory Messages Pouring On Shamdung Ayuba Over His  Re-election As NULGE National Auditor.

Congratulatory Messages Pouring On Shamdung Ayuba Over His Re-election As NULGE National Auditor.
By,giwa alex,Jos
The people of Plateau state has congratulated one of their own a staunch unionist and comrade per excellence,Com Shamdung Ayuba Jepla who again, has brazenly defeated five opponents from other parts of Nigeria to emerge as the National Auditor of the Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) for a second term.
The Congratulatory message is contained in a released dated 10th January,2021and made available to this medium in Jos, Plateau state capital.
This took place last week after the union’s National Delegates Conference held in Lagos South West of Nigeria on the keenly contested election which saw Com. Shamdung emerging victorious having defeated five other contestants.
The release stressed that Shamdung has cut his teeth in union activism in all state level from the local government, state and national levels, with considerate international labour and leadership experience.
The release further said the achievement of this great feat by our dear Plateau son, we say a very hearty congratulation! may you continue to work under divine inspiration and wisdom to deliver on the mandate you’ve been entrusted with and more responsibilities that await you.
Once more, congratulations, Shamdung Ayuba Jepla (SAJ)
by Alexander Aleburu

Comrade Ayuba Shamdung  Re-elected National Auditor Of NULGE. 

Comrade Ayuba Shamdung Re-elected National Auditor Of NULGE.
By,gi

wa alex, Jos

Comrade Ayuba Shamdung has been re-elected as the National Auditor of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) for another four years in office with a promise to promote grassroots development in Plateau state by extension Nigeria.

This is as the Plateau Central senatorial district eulogised ,the meritorious ,positive impact of Comrade Jepla in unionism in Nigeria and his visionary leadership can’t be ignore especially in this trial period of our nation .

The election, which climax the 7th Quadrennial National Delegates Conference of the union, held at the Haven Event Center, G.R.A, Ikeja, Lagos, on Wednesday 6th January, 2021, saw the emergence of other members of the executive that would pilot the affairs of the union for the next four years.

The organ which is the highest decision making body of the union was attended by the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Minister of Labour and productivity, Registrar of Trade Unions, National President of NLC, Comrade Ayuba Wabba mni, and National President of JUSUN, Comrade Marwan Mustapha.

The National President of NULGE, Comrade Ahmed Labbo, Ciroman Kotorkoshi and Sarkin Yakin Samawa led the National Officers, state Presidents and delegates across the Country during the conference which saw the emergence of Comrade Jepla the National Auditor of the body for another four years.

Speaking to news men shortly after the election, Comrade Ayuba Shamdung appreciated the support and prayers accorded him by the entire workers and people of Plateau State before and during the elections, assuring that they would all work as a team towards improve welfare package for Local Government workers across the Country.

Comrade Shamdung further assured that NULGE at the National level will not compromise the interest of Council workers and promised to put in his best in the overall interest of Local Government Employees.

He pleaded with the losers to be magnanimous in victory and embrace the outcome of the elections in good faith,
Its a victory for all through the conference ,hence the election was free, fair and transparent.

“The unity and understanding displayed by all and sundry shows the level of maturity of the Nigeria labour unions, ability to accept defeat and acceptance to work together for the benefit of NULGE. ”

“Congratulations to comrade Shamdung! As a visionary leader, may the Lord see him through and him wisdom take NULGE to the next level”.

He however urgued governor Lalong to immediately Pay the Salaries of Local Government and primary school workers in Plateau state and the other affected state in the federations amidst negotiations on the implementation of the new minimum wage.

by Alexander Aleburu

Governor Lalong Mourns Aig Dan Bature (Rtd) 

Governor Lalong Mourns Aig Dan Bature (Rtd)
By,giwa alex, Jos
Governor Simon Bako Lalong has morned says the sudden death of retired Assistant Inspector General of Police Mr. Dan Bature who died at the age of 58.
Governor Lalong mourning is contained in a press statement dated 10th January,2021, signed by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to Governor Lalong ,Simon Makut Macham and made available to this medium in Jos, Plateau state capital.
Lalong while commiserating with his family and the people of Plateau State said the nation has lost a committed and dutiful personality who served the country throughout his career in the Nigeria police force with dignity, courage and zeal.
He stressed that even in retirement, AIG Bature continued to serve the nation and Plateau State by offering his wealth of experience and also impacting his immediate community tremendously.
The Governor further praised the contributions of the late AIG Bature to the restoration of peace and security in Plateau State through his consistent engagement in peace building and capacity building for crime fighting.
“Lalong said the late police officer also did a lot to empower youths in his community and within the State as well as engaged in entrepreneurial activities that created employment opportunities for many youths and added value to the economy.
The governor us the statement and prayed God to grant the soul of the deceased eternal rest and comfort the family.
by Alexander Aleburu

Governor Lalong Felicitates With Hon.Dan Manjang @60

Governor Lalong Felicitates With Hon.Dan Manjang @60
By,giwa alex,Jos
Governor Simon Lalong has felicitated with Hon Dan Manjang who doubled as his Commissioner for Information and Communication for attaining the landmark age of 60 years.
Governor Lalong’s felicitation message is contained in a press statement dated 10th January,2021, signed by Director of Press and Public Affairs to the governor Simon Makut Macham and made available to this medium in Jos, Plateau State.
Governor described Dan Manjang as a committed member of the Rescue Mission who has given his best in communicating the programmes and projects of the Government and also sanitizing the citizens towards greater participation in governance.
“Lalong said Manjang is a media professional who has brought his experience, knowledge and versatility to bear in the service of Plateau State and Nigeria even at the face of challenges.”
He urged him to continue to serve the State with more zeal, resilience and commitment particularly in engaging members of the public towards understanding and supporting the government to consolidate on peace, building, infrastructural development and sustainable economic rebirth.
He also wished him many more years of good health, peace and God’s protection.
by Alexander Aleburu

Late Ada Yakubu Nyam Laid To Rest,As lzere Nation And Family Celebrates Hero.

Late Ada Yakubu Nyam Laid To Rest,As lzere Nation And Family Celebrates Hero.

By,giwa alex, Jos
The body of of Late Dn .Yakubu Nyam Afan has been laid to rest at family cemetery in Jos North local government of Plateau state at the age of 98 years old ,amid celebration by Izere nation and family members of a visionary Izere traditional combined with missionary service .
The Rev. in Charge of Baptist Church Lamingo Gwanfan ,Rev .Yakubu Akfi has described the Late Ada Deacon Yakubu Nyam Afan (a.k.a Aragon) as a pillar of humiliating and a man full of receptive in nature who sacrifice a lot to accommodate other children including members of the community .
He said the contributions of late Ada Yakubu Nyam to the body of evangelism can’t never be ignore ,so we are calling on children to emulate Baba quality of life style for promoting peaceful coexistence amongst the state and the nation .
Son to the deceased, Comrade James Arin Nyam who read the biography of late Ada Yakubu Nyam says ,life was breathed into a destiny child named Nyazi Afan Abok in 1922 in the family lineage of Atukop Afan Abok of Afukarnya clan in Gwanfan village in the present Gwanfan district in Jos North Local Government Area and Aka pindoh After of Durbi extraction in the present Jos East LGA all in Plateau state in North-Central Nigeria.
He had a younger sister from his mother womb beside his two older siblings born to a different father ,whom he shared a strong bond until they all shortlived him.
According to him ,born into a peasant background ,the late Ada Yakubu Nyam was not different from his parents ,therefore, as a young boy he was not privilege to enrolled for search for western education in the beginning like his contemporaries in other parts of the colonial enclave called Nigeria .
However, he was then trained to practice the Afizere traditional school where children were taught the rudiments of hardworking ,dedication and commitment through farming ,hunting and other means of generating income .
Nyam says ,our late father as Afizere traditional worshipper continue to practices their faith until God miracle touch his life style from polygamy to a change Christian faithful .
The late Ada Deacon Yakubu Nyam Afan left the following children ,Mrs Abi John Azi (daughter), Mrs Mary Aware Atang (Daughter) Mr OSHA Isaiah Nyam (son) Mr Azi Nyam (son) Mr Izang Nyam (son) Mrs Rhoda Adoh Izang (daughter) Hon Dr Philip Izang Nyam (son) Comrade James Nyam (son) Mrs Esther Atong Atsi (daughter) Mrs Anap Nyam (daughter ) with numerous grand children ,great grand children ,uncles ,cousin ,nephews ,nieces among several others .
Rev Akfi stressed that today Christian are playing lips service not worthy of emulation ,we should also realized that Christ came to free the world from this satanic worship of wickedness but we refuse to change our ways .
He tasked Christian faithful to demonstrate love and understanding in their daily conduct because God visit each and everyone in difference ways reading the scripture in Book of Psalm 39:4 were he urge the congregation to respect and live a legacy of Lord Jesus Christ teaching .
Rev Akfi cautioned Christian faithful not to discriminate one another by treating people equal before God because the manner in which some of our clergy and spiritual fathers are behaving doesn’t tally with the message of our Almighty God .
by Alexander Aleburu

17,000 Federal Govt NDE Project Flags- Off In Plateau State.

17,000 Federal Govt NDE Project Flags- Off In Plateau State.

By, giwa alex,jos

No fewer than 17,000 unemployed persons are to benefit from Plateau State chapter of the National Directorate of Employment, NDE, projects of 774, 000 Special Public Works (SPW) jobs of the federal Government intervention programme which commence on January 7 , 2021 at Township primary school in Jos North Local Government Area .

The Chairman, Selection Committee, Plateau State chapter ,Hon Rufus Bature in his opening remarks disclosed that the programme was designed for artisans to do public works for three months for N20,000 per month and that every LGAs would have her own committee.

The programme kick started with the distribution of working tools to the selected beneficiaries across the 17 LGAs for onward disbursement across wards and LGs in Plateau state .

Hon Rufus Bature added that he expects the programme to go on smoothly with the awareness campaign in the LGAs.

He said; “The programme will run from January to March 2021 which is pure dry season. So, we are ready. All the obstacles have been removed.”He maintained.

It’s was also gathered that only banks approved by the president would be used for the payment of the participants’ stipends and the six banks – Zenith, Access, Fidelity, FCMB, UBA, and Heritage bank enlisted for the programme have successfully opened a special accounts and captured the biometrics of successful applicants for the job.

According to him, the applicants will be paid through their bank accounts using their Bank Verification Numbers (BVN) to avoid fraud and double payment.

He explained further, that “As we go into the field, we need to make a few clarification. The reason this programme was delayed in the last few weeks was because as minister, who is in charge of the implementation and supervision of this programme, we got reports from all over the country that certain unscrupulous persons were generating alternative lists, different from the ones that was approved by the minister and which I directed the implementation in strict compliance with Mr president’s directives.

“The clear directive of Mr. President to me was that to ensure a fraud-free process, we should ensure that there is a clear audit trail of all payments made to all beneficiaries and as such we needed to engage selected banks who can share data with us and we needed to open special account for all participants in such a way that there will be an audit trail all payments made through these selected banks.”

The Minister of State for Labour and Productivity, Festus Keyamo, SAN, was represented by Linda Barau and State Director Mallam Ibrahim Ardo AbdulAzeek, who both spoke in separate points, saying there was no implementation committees anywhere contrary to reports.

He urged Nigerians to disregard such committees, saying the only committees for the programme, are the state selection committees, which he inaugurated to pick applicants.

He said; “However, what happened was that people began to generate separate lists across the country, using NDE officials at different levels and in clear disobedience of my directives, and in clear case of insubordination. So we had a problem of potential clash if we had started this programme few weeks ago. There would have been chaos because different people would have come up from different places claiming to be on the lists of the Special Public Works.

“We needed to streamline this process; we needed to have a clear authority in respect of the selection process and as such, we have done so now. I want to make it clear that as we go to the field, it is only those persons registered by the banks we selected and whose names were submitted by the state selection committees that will participate in the programme and those are the only people to be paid.

“Those who feel they have certain complaints should reach out to us in the ministry and my office. We will take care of them but we don’t want different authorities issuing different directives in respect of this programme.

“Now that we are set to start, I want to state clearly that it is only the state selection committees that I authorised as minister. Under the NDE Act; it is only the minister that can establish committees. No other person can establish committees.

Therefore, the existence of certain implementation committees is null and void and they will have nothing to do with this programme because I have not approved such implementation committees. No name was brought to me and I didn’t inaugurate such committees.

“The only committees I inaugurated was the state selection committees and those are the committees that are still in existence today and who will supervise this programme. This is the only way forward. That is why we have streamlined this programme so that we can move forward.

“This directive I have issued in line with Mr President’s directives, any official found flouting it will face strict disciplinary measures. It is a note of warning we are sounding to everybody who is charged with duty of implementing this programme. Both at the state and local government levels.”

by Alexander Aleburu

Governor Lalong Attends Thanksgiving Mass For Senator Nora Dadu’ut.

G

overnor Lalong Attends Thanksgiving Mass For Senator Nora Dadu’ut.

By,giwa alex, Jos
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong and his wife Mrs. Regina Lalong were among hundreds of guests that converged on St. Brendan Catholic Church Kwa in Quanpan Local Government Area for the Thanksgiving Mass in honour of Senator Nora Dadu’ut.
The Thanksgiving ceremony which was contained in a press statement dated 9th January,2021, signed by the Director of press and Public Affairs to Governor Lalong,Makut Macham and made available to this medium in Jos, Plateau state.
Governor Lalong described the election of Senator Nora as the will of God, urging her to do her best to impact the lives of the people of the zone particularly women and youths.
He said the State will give her every support to ensure that she succeeds at the red chambers,and called for unity among the constituents and the elected representatives of the State for the interest of the people.
The Catholic Bishop of Bauchi Hilary Dachelem said the emergence of Senator Dadu’ut was for the benefit of all people of the zone irrespective of their backgrounds, hence the need to support her.
The Clergy commended Governor Lalong for embracing all citizens of the State and urged him to do more in consolidating on completion of inherited projects and those initiated by him.
DG ITF Sir. Joseph Ari appreciated the people and the electorate for reposing their confidence in Prof. Nora saying she will represent all irrespective of political differences.
Prof. Dadu’ut appreciated Governor Lalong and the Plateau APC family for making her election possible promising to work for the interest of all.
by Alexander Aleburu

Plateau Club Crisis Turns Soar,As Court Evicts Properties Over 6.5 Million Debt. 

Plateau Club Crisis Turns Soar,As Court Evicts Properties Over 6.5 Million Debt.

The Plateau state club crisis has taken a dramatic turn as the has made good it threat to carry out the eviction order on the club .

The club which is said to have started operations has never been recorded to be emesched in any pronounced crisis until recently when what could have been resolved amicably among members gradually taken a political dimension as one of the members of the club dragged the it to court demanding the refunds of 6.5 million naira compensation.

Our reporter who was at the scene while the enforcement of court judgment took center stage on Thursday at about 9:30 lasted lasted 12noon when properties were evicted out of the club premises under with the present firce looking security men seen within the premises of the club to maintain any eventual breakdown of law and order.

According to the information available to this medium was that the clashed between the ruling APC Vs PDP who are all members of the club are struggling for dominant control of the Plateau club owning to individual contributions.

It was alleged that the Chairman of the PDP, Chris Hassan dragged the club to court and obtain a judgment and the present club exco reneged from an out-of-court settlement that landed the club into the present embracement the club found itself which led to it closing down activities.

However, business activities were paralyzed completely were entrance doors were under lock and shutdown with few concerned staff roaming around the club premises.

Meanwhile, efforts to speak to Members of the Board of Trustees and Management of the prestigious Plateau Club which had been on operation as far back as 1921 are said to be in confusion following the enforcement of court judgment on the Club on Thursday.

Members of the Enforcement Unit of the Plateau State High Court were seen carting away properties from the club including upholsteries, electrical appliances, refrigerators, and many other properties. At the end of the exercise, no single piece of furniture was left in the club. The staff of the club was seen groups discussing in low tones over the ugly development.

Our medium saw that the enforcement was in fulfillment of a court judgment granted in favors of the judgment Creditor/Applicant (Hon Chris Hassan, a former cabinet member in the Plateau State Government and currently, the Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, Plateau State Chapter) in a matter between him and the registered Trustees of Plateau Club or Judgment Debtors/Respondents.

Some of the properties yet to be unloaded as at the time our reporter was at the sence on situation report.

It is said that some years ago, Mr. Hassan borrowed the sum of close to N7million to the club aside from the monies he spent voluntarily and changed the face of the club while he was its President.


by Alexander Aleburu

Sen.I D Gyang Promotes Peace With Sporting Kits In Plateau State.

Sen.I D Gyang Promotes Peace With Sporting Kits In Plateau State.

By, giwa alex,Jos
The Senator Representing Plateau North ,Sen. I .D Gyang has distributed first Ever peace unity and reconciliation football tournament kits to 73 electoral wards towards promoting peaceful coexistence amongst the youth.
Senator Gyang made the distribution at his residence on Thursday in Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau state by appealing to the youth to shun any form of violence capable of promoting disunity in Plateau North district in particular and the state as a whole.
He reiterated his earlier promised to the local Organizing Committee ,LOC, and coaches at the wards level that this tournament has no room for any form of segregation be in political ,ethnic ,religious or whatever an inclusive and unifying tournament that is to enhance togetherness and promote harmony .
Sen. Istifanus Dalyop Gyang said formally kick starting of Plateau North tournament was gear toward encouraging unity in six (6) LGAs by ensuring that the people live together without any religious and tribal bias minds.
“The disbursement of the kits to the 73 electoral wards in Plateau north is aimed at engaging youth in sports and to fight idleness among our teaming unemployed youth,he said .”
Sen Gyang employed the youth to shun all forms of criminal elements capable of destroying their future by appealing to the youth to see themselves as vanguard of transformation .
So ,therefore, it is my delight to officially flag-off the distribution of kits that the tournament would improve on our current existing fragile peace in our various communities through this gesture .
by Alexander Aleburu

APC  Has Fail Nigeria, PDP Will Take over Governance In 2023———–Hon.Emmanuel Loman

APC Has Fail Nigeria, PDP Will Take over Governance In 2023———–Hon.Emmanuel Loman

By,giwa alex, Jos
The ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) is said to have failed Nigeria with their bad governance since the Party takeover the mantle of governance from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in 2015.
As the people Democratic Party (PDP) has now taken the bull by the horn to rescue power from the clueless ruling Party to save the country from total collapse because of their abysmal failure to deliver good government to the people of Nigeria .
The former Barkin Ladi local government chairman Emmanuel Loman give this assurance in an interview with journalist in Jos, Plateau state.
The former chairman of Barkin Ladi LG who is currently eyeing the House of Representative seat come 2023, said following the obvious abysmal performance of APC, with raising cases of insecurity and poverty all over the country including Plateau state, occasion by the bad policies of President Mohammadu Buhari led APC, PDP has put all the necessary political strategies in place to takeover power back from the clueless APC in 2023 at all level because they seem not to have solutions to Nigeria political, economic and other mirage of problems bedviling the country.
On the current industrial face-off between the Plateau state government and the local government workers in the state over minimum wage ,leading to the workers peaceful Protest, the former ALGON chairman condemned in strong term to what he described as dracona and undemocratic way the Bako Lalong led government adopted using the security to dispersed the peaceful protesters who are harmless but protesting within the armbit of the law to press home their demand for the implementation of the Thirty Thousand naira minimum wage signed into law by Mr President.
“It is very unfortunate ,I was one time an ALGON chairman in the state , during that period under review, similar thing happened over minimum wage,but we employed maturity in resolving the misunderstanding through court judgment without resulting to the use of security brutality and finger pointing.
“Yes l agreed that it will be very difficult for the state government to implement the Thirty Thousand Naira minimum wage considering the state survention which can’t accommodate the new minimum wage of Thirty Thousand.”
Loma faulted the government for quick to accept to pay the 30,000 naira minimum wage which he later renegade after second thought because they where trying to play politics with the issues which the honorable described as very unfortunate.
“It is rather very unfortunate,this is the same workers who voted him to become governor and you are now using security to disperse and intimidate them from engaging on peaceful demostration,it is very wrong ,are we fighting war,the workers have the right to demand what belong to them ,it’s the responsibility of the government to creat peaceful atmosphere ,and not to aggravate it”
Dr.Loman further added that the action of the government through the use of force on the peaceful Protesting local government workers, could generate to another thing.
He however called on governor Lalong to swallow his pride and stoop low to beg and apologize to the protesters for the wrong the government has done to them and resolve to peaceful resolutions.
Hon.loman who has indicated interest to contest for the Federal House Representative representing Barkin/Riyom in 2023, said he is motivated by his quest to serve humanity.
“I was at the local government as chairman,I know what is obtainable in Barkin Ladi and it environ because I was born and bread in the area.”
He added that aside been one time chairman of Barkin local government chairman,the zoning arrangements also appears to have given credence to my ambition.
” I was born at Barkin Ladi,served as the local government chairman,I have served my people well to the best of my ability,so the reason why they are pushing me forward to represent them at the National Assembly in 2023 is to replicate the same good representation during my tenure as chairman of the local government.”
“Many people have gone there, the present Senator I.D Gyang was there as Rep. member,the present member Makom was there,he equally did very well.”
“That is why when you see my logo is “Consolidation Assurance”that I will consolidate on the achievement recorded by others before me if I am given the opportunity with the assurance to my people and other stakeholders, that I shall do well.”
He promised to put his feet in a sand of time by performing well when given the opportunity by given the mandate.
He described the recent twin evils of kidnapping and armd banditry currently bedviling the nation Nigeria under the present APC government as very unfortunate.
Loma further add that the action of the president Buhari led APC government ,came with agenda which did not met for the good of the common man,but came with nexus.
“Today there is unrest ,hunger in the land, banditry and kidnapping has been the mean for people to survive.
” Mechinaries where imported to the state by extension Nigeria but today they are fighting back ,arms and ammunitions which where imported ,today found their way into wrong hand,today they are using it to torment innocent citizens.
The former ALGON leader blamed the APC leader under president Buhari for not been able to take responsibility in providing the people basic amenities.
“What I know is that Buhari is not even in charge as the president of Nigeria as he has been ceased by cabal”
“That is if president Buhari who Nigeria voted for in 2015 is actually still alive,this insinuation is very important because of the new turn of events in the country which makes us to believe that Buhari is not in charge”.
When Buhari came on board as president ,we complained the way he was making his appointment and we complained that the rate at he was going, he will put the country in problem, many didn’t believe us,but look at it today,all his appointment are all lopsided.
You have to be Fulani or Hausa as the case may be before they oblige you to handle position in a circular county like Nigeria,now he has suceeded in grabbing the security to himself,so when you talk ,you are arrested so you no longer have a say which is no longer democracy.
Hon.Loma called on the citizens of Nigeria to brace up and force the All Progressive Congress ( APC) government to do the right thing.
“We Nigeria has to wake up ,not just folding our arms and just doing anything,look at the #endsars which is not just endsars,is not about Police brutality is about hunger as the saying goes,”Hungry Man is Angry Man”.
by Alexander Aleburu

Governors Mourn Sheikh Ahmed Lemu. 

Governors Mourn Sheikh Ahmed Lemu.

By,giwa alex, Jos
Governors under the Northern Governors Forum has joined in sympathizing with the family of Late Sheikh Ahmed Lemu who died at the age of 91.
The condolences message is contained in a press statement dated 25th December,2020, signed by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to Plateau state governor Mackut Mancham and made available to our medium in Jos, plateau state capital.
Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Plateau State Simon Bako Lalong said the demise of the renowned Minna-based Islamic Scholar is a great loss to the nation.
Lalong described late Sheikh Ahmed Lemu as a renowned Islamic Scholar, intellectual, Author and Educationist who impacted the nation in many ways and mentored various persons that are making huge impact in the country.
He said the deceased apart from serving as the first Grand Khadi of Niger State, also made his mark as a moderate who fostered religious tolerance, cooperation and peaceful coexistence among people of diverse backgrounds.
His mediation efforts according to the Northern Governors Forum also assisted in reconciliation and peace building particularly when he was appointed as the Chairman of a Presidential Committee on Post-Election Violence in 2011.
His deep involvement in Islamic humanitarian activities as well as advocacy for the rights of women was also praised because he contributed to the improvement recorded in carrying more women along in the development of Nigeria, particularly the northern region.
While praying God to forgive his sins and grant him eternal rest, Lalong said the nation will miss his good works and selfless service.
He also prayed God to comfort the family and also ensure that his legacies are carried on.
by Alexander Aleburu

Alh.Abubarkar Salisu Yaro Put Smile On The Faces Of Persons Living With Disabilities

Alh.Abubarkar Salisu Yaro Put Smile On The Faces Of Persons Living With Disabilities

By, Our Reporter,Jos

Alh.Abubarkar Yaro a philanthropist has put smile on the faces of persons living with disabilities in Lungun
Makafi community in Majema adjacent Bauchi road in Jos North local government of plateau state.
The Community which had been housing group persons living with disabilities (visually impaired)since 1990,had been begging for the government and good spirited individuals attention to bring social amenities which is practically absence close to the people living with disabilities to know avail.
Hajia Ummulkhairi illiyas a social critique , marriage counselor , Educationist and conflict /Avp facilitator Said
These people living with disabilities we’re living in a transit camp of four classes, with dilapidated toilet facility without no basic social amenities.
Hajia illiyas said the conditions of the Majema Community in Plateau state has been in sorry state close to three decades (30 years) until recently Alh . Abubakar Come to the rescue of the community occupy by people leaving with disabilities.
Alh.Abubarkar a philanthropist , renovated the the convert which is almost broken down, refurbished the borehole which is without water for a long time,and building of new ones .
Abubakar renovated their building which is practically not inhabitable without toilet facilities and other social amenities that makes their live what while.
Apart from the broken windows, doors, the floor in which they sleep and the bad condition of the surounding that were in conflict with hygiene, couple with the mosquito that have filled center over the years is a thing of concerned to the right thinking members of the society.
Alh. Abubakar Salisu Yaro Maidankali, a young and a Philantrophist , peace advocate has change the live of the destitute which has been living in a pitiable condition before God directed the good gesture of Alh.Abubakar Yaro to rescue them.
Alh. Abubakar Yaro Maidankali in his response said is service to Almighty Allah that is why he engages in building and renovating Mosques, constructing drainages and most importantly planting Borehole and repairing those that were out of service or refusing to supply water.
The Philantrophist has over time engaged in training and retraining women, young Ladies and widows on various entrepreneurial skills to enable them stands on their own as self reliance.
Abubakar said the action will further build and boost our economy that is hitherto in shambles.
Alh Abubakar Yaro has been in constant engagement with communities and leadership of the communities for advocacy and to strengthen the relationship between his Organization, the Unity Foundation and the people in the visinity.
Abubakar Yaro who is not vying for a political office is only has the people at heart and trying to fulfill social and corporate responsibilities and above all, looking for rewards from his greater, Allah the Almighty and sustainer of the Universe.
Alh.Abubarkar who is the founder of the Unity Foundation said he will continue to work and serve the people to meet their yearnings and aspirations.
by Alexander Aleburu

Governor Lalong Signs 2021 Budget And 3 Other Critical Bills Into Law.

Governor Lalong Signs 2021 Budget And 3 Other Critical Bills Into Law.
By,giwa alex, jos
signed into law the 2021 Appropriation Bill of N147.53 billion naira passed by the State House of Assembly.

This consists of N90.19 billion as recurrent and N57.34 billion as capital expenditures.

And three other critical bills signed into law by Governor Lalong on Thursday 24th December,2020 includes Anti -kidnaping, Land grabbing and Cultism bills.
The Governor’s signing of the 2021 budget and other bills into law is contained in a press statement dated 24th December,2020, signed by Governor Lalong’s Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor Mackut Mancham and made available to this medium in Jos , Plateau state.
The Governor while signing the bill into law said the 2021 budget will focus on areas that will stimulate economic growth and recovery particularly as the year begins under a second wave of COVID-19 which has affected the economy adversely.
Governor Lalong said “With the successful passage of the 2021 budget within record time, we shall now settle down to implement the budget vigorously.
“As we face the second wave of COVID-19, we shall continue to appeal to our people to observe all protocols so that we do not have any reason to lock down again and further hurt the economy”.
Lalong further stressed that the Government will in the 2021 fiscal year support businesses that will hopefully grow and in turn pay taxes especially now that the State has signed into law the new tax law for development.
The Governor also signed into law the anti-kidnapping, anti-land grabbing, cultism and other anti-violence related matters bill also passed by the House of Assembly.
He said the law is long overdue because of the increase in kidnapping, land grabbing and other violent crimes within the State.
The Governor said “as a responsible Government, we cannot fold our arms to see people being terrorized by criminals who are clearly out to cause mayhem,this new law will deal with anyone caught in the act and I urge security agencies to be on their toes and ensure that culprits are apprehended and made to face the law”.
He called communities to rise up to the challenge by identifying and fishing out criminals within their domains and passing relevant information to security agencies to act.
The law provides death sentence for those convicted for kidnapping while those found guilty for cultism shall be jailed for a minimum of 7 years. Others involved in meting out violence on anyone risk spending up to 10 years in jail upon conviction.
While wishing the citizens of the State a merry Christmas, the Governor again appealed for adherence to Covid-19 protocols saying his experience in the past one week confirms the reality of the pandemic.
He recognised the patriotism, sactifice and diligence of front line medical personnel who continue to risk their lives in fighting the pandemic, asking them not to be deterred in saving lives.
by Alexander Aleburu

Governor Lalong Sues For Love,Unity At Christmas

Governor Lalong Sues For Love,Unity At Christmas

By,Our Reporter,Jos
As Christians celebrate Christmas to mark the birth of Jesus Christ, Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong says this year’s event calls for the demonstration of love, compassion and sacrifice which are key attributes of Jesus Christ.
Governor Lalong called for Love and Unity at this time of Christmas celebration is contained in a press statement dated 24th December,2020, signed by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the governor Simon Makut Mancham and made available to this medium in Jos , Plateau state capital.
Governor Lalong in a message said this year’s Christmas celebration comes at a time that appears difficult and challenging, but because of the love and mercies of God, there is no reason to despair and be despondent.
Governor Lalong said, “the world and indeed Plateau State has gone through tremendous challenges occasioned by the Corona virus pandemic which has significantly altered human interaction and impacted negatively on the economy.
This Lalong said has resulted in hardship to both Governments and citizens, nevertheless, we have collectively demonstrated resilience and hope. This should continue especially as we mark the birth of Jesus Christ who primarily came to give hope to mankind”.
The Governor therefore urged the Christian faithful not only be hopeful, but also use the period of Christmas to show love to one another as well as work for a more united, peaceful and tolerant society.
He further add said his administration will continue to give the needed leadership that will fast-track economic recovery and stimulate empowerment of youths, women and the entire citizenry.
While wishing the citizens a merry Christmas, Lalong again appealed to them to be careful and observe all COVID-19 protocols so as to curtail the impact of the pandemic which is on the rise due to the second wave.
by Alexander Aleburu

Governor Lalong Tests Negative To Covid-19

Governor Lalong Tests Negative To Covid-19

By, Our Reporter, Jos

Barely after One week the Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong tested positive to Corona virus, the Governor is now free of the disease after his latest test returned negative.
The Governor’s good news of test negative to coronavirus is contained in a press statement dated 24th December,2020, signed by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor , Simon Mackut Mancham and made available to this medium in Jos, Plateau State capital.
The Governor’s negative status was communicated to him on Wednesday 23rd December,2020,night.
Governor Lalong who has been on isolation since 17th December 2020 appreciated God for healing him of the virus and also thanked the people of Plateau State, his friends and associates all over the country for praying for him.
He reiterated his called on the citizens of Plateau State to take the pandemic very seriously by observing all protocols for prevention of infection and transmission.
On stigmatisation, the Governor said “having contacted the virus and undergone treatment myself, I wish to reiterate that Covid-19 is not a death sentence as early detection helps to address it and reduce chances of death.
“We should not stigmatise against anyone who tests positive or is suspected of having the disease. Rather, such people should serve as motivation for others to voluntarily test in order to improve the safety of all”.
Only yesterday, the Governor convened a stakholders meeting presided over by the Secretary to the Government of the State Prof. Danladi Atu where far reaching decisions were reached on combating the virus during the yuletide and beyond.
by Alexander Aleburu

Ahead Yuletide Celebration,  Governor Simon Lalong Meets Stakeholders On Security/ Covid-19 

A

head Yuletide Celebration, Governor Simon Lalong Meets Stakeholders On Security/ Covid-19

Head yuletide celebration the Plateau State Government has said that it does not intend to impose a lockdown in response to the second wave of COVID-19, but will ensure strict compliance to all protocols.
This was disclosed at a stakeholders meeting convened by Governor Simon Bako Lalong with Local Government Chairmen, traditonal rulers, religious leaders, community leaders and health experts to discuss how best to address the situation in line with the advisory of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19.
The Governor’s disclosure is contained in a press release dated the 23rd December,2020, signed by the Governor’s Director of Press and Public Affairs Simon Mackut Mancham and made available to this medium in Jos, Plateau State Capital.
The meeting convened by Governor Simon Bako Lalong was presided over by Secretary to the Government of Plateau State Prof. Danladi Atu who is the Coordinator of the State Taskforce on COVID-19.
During the meeting, Prof. Atu said the event was organised to draw the attention of the stakeholders to the urgency of the situation occasioned by the second wave of the pandemic particularly during the yuletide season.
He said the Governor has directed that strong measures must be taken to ensure that people are sensitised to observe all the COVID-19 protocols in order to curb the spread of the disease.
After exhaustive deliberations, the meeting adopted the following measures on COVID-19 pandemic,that all public gatherings including places of worship should cut down attendance to 50 percent of their capacity, all cultural festivals are henceforth banned,the use of facemasks should be enforced in all public places while social distancing, hand washing and other protocols are to be strictly adhered to,Covid-19 pandemic Testing should be enhanced in all Local Government areas while all sample collection Centres be publicised to encourage voluntary testing.
The press statement further read that the stakeholders should hold similar sensitization engagements with their members at the grassroots ,more sensitization should be carried out to avoid stigmatisation of those infected or suspected to have the disease and all recreational centres are to be closed until further notice.
On security, the Secretary to the Government Prof. Atu said security reports available to the Government indicate that some criminal elements are planning attacks on some communities in the State during the yuletide season.
He said the Governor mandated the meeting to foster a more community-driven response to intelligence and surveillance so as to assist security agencies with useful information to enable them respond to any threat of attack by criminals.
Atu said the State Government is working with the security agencies to be more proactive rather than reactive,and further add that the State has strengthened Operation Rainbow to ensure that it compliments the security effort.
After the discussion, the meeting resolved that,
Reinforce surveillance and intelligence gathering in all communities , security threats should be reported immediately using the appropriate channels ,Public transporters particularly commercial tricycle operators should be registered ,vigilante groups and community watch groups should be motivated.
Other security resolutions reached at the security meetings includes,all suspects arrested for crimes such as kidnapping, murder should be thoroughly investigated,motorcycles and tricycles are banned from operating on Friday 25th, Saturday 26th December 2020 and Friday1st January 2021 across the 17 Local Governments , all boundary routes into the State and within the Local Government areas should be monitored and check-points mounted to monitor movements and communities are encouraged to work together and compare notes on happenings around them.
by Alexander Aleburu

Engr Jethro Shikmang Threatens To Sanction  Heavy Duty  Vehicles Packing Illegally In Plateau State. 

Engr Jethro Shikmang Threatens To Sanction Heavy Duty Vehicles Packing Illegally In Plateau State.
By,giwa alex, Jos

The Vehicles Inspection Officer (VIO) in Jos Metropolitan development board in Plateau state Engineer Jethro Shikmang has send a strong warning to business men/women in the state who are into transportation of large goods to make an adequate provision for packing space of their lorries to avoid causing nuisance and disturbing the residents of the area.

As any business man/women arrested in relation to the said offence will not be speared,and will be met to face the wrath of the law, to serve as a deterrent for any would be violators of the Vehicles packing law and other laws in the state.
The Vehicles Inspection Officer in Plateau State engineer Jethro give this warning in an interview with our correspondence in his office along Kashim Ibrahim besides Rwang Pam Township Stadium in Jos, Plateau state capital.
Engr Jethro said l had not entered any agreement with any business man/woman what so ever in relation to packing and off-loading of trucks in anyway in the city center or elsewhere within the state since assuming office.
He give the assurance to deploy his boys to the streets prone with this illegal off-loading like Adetutu and Ojukwu Street currently generating issues as we are taken adequate measures to arrest the culprit and bring them before the law.
On the control of street hawking in the state that seems to have defiled solutions ,as traders are practically trading on the road where motor supposed to ply ,he said his responsibility did not extend to the area,but quick to point out that ” I could remember vividly Some time back when the M.D JMDB Kafas summoned the meeting of stakeholders where the issues of street hawking and indiscriminate erections of unauthorized business store were discussed.
Well,that is what I can tell you as it pertained to the problems of street hawking currently bedviling the state, because that did not fall under my jurisdiction.
The Vehicles Officer in the State said the proliferation of motor parks in nook and crannies of the state, his men are working assiduously to free the State of illegal motor parks that has gradually become a nightmire in the state,and assured that his boys who are always on the field will see that no illegal motor parks are allowed to operate Within the short possible time.
“Those reckless drivers who drives without recourse to the lives of other road users, passages and without valid driver’s license,he said they will no longer escape the long arm of the law and the agency shall go after them ,and make sure they face the full wrath of the law.
“That is while in VIO office here in JMDB we have a department of licensing , there is always license office attached to it,the reason is that any defaulters of expired driving documents,when arrested shall be force to update his/her documents right inside the premises of the VIO without any excuse of whatsoever before allowed to go with his/her vehicle.
He thanked the forth estate of the realm(journalists

) for been the true watch -dog of the society and bringing to the notice of the government that which we may not be aware of.

He however called on the drivers in the state and Nigeria at large to be careful in their driving expecially during this period of yuletide season. “Because is the person that is alive that will celebrate Christmas and be careful of the way they drive, avoid Over speeding and obey road signs.

by Alexander Aleburu

Governor Lalong Felicitates With Sir.Joe Ari @60

Governor Lalong Felicitates With Sir.Joe Ari @60
By, giwa alex,Jos
Governor Simon Lalong has felicitated with Director General of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) Sir Joseph Ari on his 60th birthday.
Governor Lalong felicitation dated 21st December,2020 , signed by Governor Bako Lalong Makut Macham and made available to this medium in Jos, plateau state
Governor Lalong in a statement, described Sir. Ari as an achiever who has utilised every opportunity that God has offered him over the years to make positive impact in the lives of many.
Lalong said Joseph Ari has passed through the difficulties of life and patiently surmounted many challenges to rise to positions of leadership both in the Plateau State and the country.
He said “his performance as Director General of the ITF does not surprise us because he exhibited dexterity, diligence and loyalty during while he held various offices within the State structure before joining the ITF and eventually being appointed to head the institution.
The statement further read that Ari has since turned around the fortunes of the organisation and repositioned it for higher job creation and manpower development”.
Lalong stressed that the Rescue Administration has continued to benefit from the partnership and collaboration with the ITF in fulfilling its mandate of economic empowerment through training thousands of youths and women in various vocations thereby reducing unemployment.
While wishing him more years of God’s protection, divine health and favour, Lalong urged Joseph Ari to continue using every opportunity to reach out to persons in need as he has done through the years.
by Alexander Aleburu

Governor Bako Lalong Shocked Over The Death Of Prof. Habu Galadima. 

Governor Bako Lalong Shocked Over The Death Of Prof. Habu Galadima.
By,giwa alex, Jos
The Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has expressed shock over news of the death of Director General National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) Prof. Habu Galadima.
Governor Lalong’s shock is contained in a press statement dated 20th December,2020, signed by the Governor Director of Press and Public Affairs Simon Makut Macham and made available to this medium in Jos, Plateau State capital.
Governor Lalong in a statement said the death of Prof. Galadima is a great loss to his immediate family, NIPSS, Plateau and Nasarawa States, the Nigerian academic community and the entire country.
He described the late Prof. Galadima as an astute scholar of international repute, administrator and professional who demonstrated uncommon commitment in carrying out every responsibility he was assigned.
Lalong further said, “since assuming office over one year ago, Prof. Galadima has injected a fresh impetus in the management of the nation’s apex policy and strategic institution by introducing new concepts that made research seamless even under the current COVID-19 pandemic.
He also did a lot to improve the physical infrastructure of the institution while strengthening the academic experience for all course participants and he will be greatly missed”.
He stressed that Prof. Galadima over the years contributed a lot to the educational development of Plateau State having studied and taught at the University of Jos for many years before his appointment as the DG of NIPSS.
Governor Lalong prayed God to grant his soul eternal rest and comfort his family.
by Alexander Aleburu

Prof.Mathew Sule Calls For Cross Cultural Marriages As Panacea For Peaceful Coexistences In Nigeria

Prof.Mathew Sule Calls For Cross Cultural Marriages As Panacea For Peaceful Coexistences In Nigeria

By,giwa alex,jos
The Chairman Plateau State Universal Basic Educational Board(SUBEB) Professor Mathew Sule has strongly advocated for Cross Cultural Marriages between couples which is a Panacea for the current disunity bedeviling Nigeria as a nation.

As couples from different cultural , religious and tribal background should be given free hand to expressed their true feelings to one another without any families interference that comminates onto marriage will help to address the tribal and religious conflicts currently steering the country on facing.
Professor Sule who is the present chairman of Plateau State Universal Basic Educational Board stated this in an interview with journalist during the wedding of his son Zemnaan Sule to his hearthrop Valentina Makut which is held at St.Monica Catholic Church in Jos, Plateau State Capital.
The educationalist ,Mathew Sule who said he is very elated to see that his son is of age to get married and be independent, advised him to be humble and always have it at the back of his mind that live is not always a “Bird of Roses”.
” I want him to always be humble, like myself I strived hard to get to my very position as a professor,my father was a peasant farmer and he tried to educate us with little out of nothing he earned from farming, so I didn’t forget my background”.
So my advice to the couples is for them to do things as one, and don’t allow any third party to come into their matrimonial affairs, and always be straight forward with one another which is the only way to sustained formidable Marriage.
He described the couples as a confirmation of perfect match which is the prayers of every parent to stay alive and witness the marriage of his children.
The Prof adviced those who may wish to embark on similar cross cultural marriage institution like Valentina and Zemnaan, Sule said although the couples are both from Plateau State,from different local government,I encourage them ,we have seen history that such marriages worked out very well.
” It’s is demostration of understanding of one another,and to have a tast of what is obtainable in another culture,and would help to promote peaceful coexistence and Unity currently facing the country.”
by Alexander Aleburu

Plateau LGAs To Pay 12.8 Millions To Newspaper Publisher 

Plateau LGAs To Pay 12.8 Million To

Newspaper Publisher

By,giwa alex,Jos

Justice P.S. Gang has entered judgment in favour of the Headline News Communication Ventures by ordering all the 17 Local Government councils to pay him the total sum of 12.8 millions congratulatory messages adverts of President Muhammadu Buhari,Plateau State Governor Simon Lalong and his Deputy Prof Sunny Tyoden in 2015 adverts.

The publisher of Headline Newspaper ,Mr Sunday S. Sule approached the State High Court demanding the affected LGs who are defendants in the matter to pay the sum of #16,150,000.00 cost of publication of the said congratulatory messages in the plaintiff Newspaper of Oct,2015 at the rate of #950,000.00 per LGAs each .

The writ of inderfended list brought in pursuant to order 23 of the High Court civil procedure rules 1987 of the Plateau state and practice direction .

The plaintiff claims was instituted by a counsel ,Barr S.S.Obende claims liquidated money demand as endorsed in the writ of summon and the application was supported by an affidavit deposed by the applicant himself.

According to the plaintiff claims, has remained unpaid by the defendants undertake the demand placed by the plaintiff as attached with exhibits and the 1st defendant is Local Government and chieftaincy affairs ,Association of All Local Government of Nigeria ,ALGON,Chairman Hon Stephen Jing &ors .

However, Justice P. S. Gang in his judgment excluded 1st,3rd,4th and 6th defendants when plaintiff seek for cost of 100,000.00 which the court decline.

by Alexander Aleburu

Governors Forum Excited Over The Release Of Abducted Katsina School Boys

Governors Forum Excited Over The Release Of Abducted Katsina School Boys

By,giwa alex,Jos
The Governors under the umbrella of Northern Governors Forum is excited over the release of the abducted students of Government Science School Kankara, Katsina State.
The Governors excitement is contained in a press release dated 18th December,2020, signed by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong who doubled as chairman of the Forum Mackut Mancham and made available to this medium in Jos, plateau state capital.
Governor Lalong while reacting to the development, commended President Muhammadu Buhari, Governor Aminu Masari, security agencies, community leaders and all stakeholders who contributed in making sure the school boys were released unharmed.
He said the release of the students will comfort and assuage the parents and the entire country which has been agonized since the children were kidnapped.
Lalong said with the release of the students, further measures must be put in place to ensure that this ugly incident does not occur again while thorough investigation should also carried out to ensure that those behind this condemnable act are made to face justice.
Meanwhile, the Forum has also reacted a statement ascribed to the APC Acting Deputy National Publicity Secretary Yekini Nabena alleging that intelligence reports link a Governor in one of the North Western States to rising cases of banditry, abductions and other violent crimes in the
zone.
The Forum urges security agencies to conduct a full scale investigation of the allegations as it maintains that the Forum has no tolerance for such conduct from any of its members.
The Forum says it has been working in unison and in conjunction with the Federal Government and security agencies to bring to an end all forms of insecurity and criminal activities in the region and the nation as a whole.
by Alexander Aleburu

Governors Felicitate With Niger State Governor Abubakar Sani Bello@53

Governors Felicitate With Niger State Governor Abubakar Sani Bello@53

By,giwa alex,Jos
Governors under the auspacies of Northern Governor’s Forum has facilitated with the Governor of Niger State Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello on the occasion of his 53rd birthday.
The Forum’s felicitation message is contained in a Press release dated 17th December,2020 , signed by the Director of Press to governor Lalong who doubled as the chairman of the Forum Makut Mancham and made available to this medium in Jos, Plateau state capital.
Simon Bako Lalong said the Forum joins the family, friends and associates of the Governor to appreciate God for sustaining him and giving him the wisdom to carry out the task of governance and service to the nation.
He said Governor Abubakar Sani Bello has demonstrated great passion for the development of Niger State and Nigeria in general by prioritising the progress of his people.
He said as Chairman of the North Central Governors Forum, the celebrant continues to articulate and canvass for a fair and better deal for the people of the geo-political zone especially towards enhanced security, agricultural development, infrastructure and education.
While wishing him many more years of God’s divine protection, wisdom and health, Lalong said the Forum will continue to work closely with Governor Bello as he dedicates himself to the service of Niger State, the Northern Region and Nigeria as a whole.
by Alexander Aleburu

Governor Lalong Tests Positive To Covid-19

Governor Lalong Tests Positive To Covid-19
By,giwa alex, Jos
Plateau State Governor Simon Lalong has been reported to have tested positive to COVID-19 following a test he and members of his family carried out.
The test result indicated that Governor Lalong’s test returned positive while all members of his family tested negative.
The news of the Governor tested positive of the virus is contained in press statement dated 17th December,2020 , signed by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the governor Makut Mancham, and made available to this medium in Jos , Plateau state capital.
Consequently, the Governor who is asymptomatic has gone into isolation while his close aides are being tested.
As a result, the Governor will henceforth work from home during the period of treatment.
All State matters requiring the Governor’s physical presence will be handled by the Deputy Governor.
The Governor uses the opportunity to urge all citizens of Plateau State to observe all COVID-19 protocols as the pandemic is still prevalent.
He advises citizens to apply all precautionary measures especially during the festive period by avoiding large gatherings, using facemasks, washing hands with soap and water and adhering to personal hygiene measures.
by Alexander Aleburu

Lalong Hate For Tarok Nation, Denies  Dr Velle Lohdip  CMD Plateau Hospital Management Board Seat.

Governor

Lalong Hate For Tarok Nation, Denies Dr Velle Lohdip CMD Plateau Hospital Management Board Seat.

By, giwa alex,Jos

The Youth Vanguard under the aegis of Ngwan Ishi Otarok in North -Central Nigeria ,Comrade Shedum Bingtim has expressed Lalong hatred for the Strike Nation as he said the administration of Governor Simon Bako Lalong is against the Tarok speaking natives by sidelining them over appointment of sons and daughters of Plateau Southern senatorial district .

The spokesman of the Tarok speaking natives raised an alarm in a press statement on Thursday lamented that since the administration came on board it has been playing anti Tarok policy .

You would recalled that in Plateau Hospital Management Board ,the Chief Medical Director ,Rtd, Dr Dakwak Dajom Yamma tenure expired early this month after undergoing his 3 months vacation leave resumed work on the 12th December, 2020 .

This medium gathered that the governor reappointed Dr Dakwak Yamma to still continue as the medical director even when his health status is questionable and the immediate qualified person is Dr Velle Lohdip Dadi was not given the opportunity.

However ,Dr Dakwak Yamma alleged refusing to hand over to the next most Senior in the board following his retirement leave and locked up the office including vital documents in his custody were not given out for office use .

Bingtim said the present government did the same thing when the Mrs JL Galams was due to be appointed as the next Accountant General of the Plateau state but she was frustrated and transferred to Plateau hospital where she was rendered redundant until she finally retired .

According to him, one of the Tarok son , the immediate past Minister of sports,Barr Solomon Dalung was kick out of office despite the overwhelming support accorded Lalong by the Tarok people in 2015 general polls which spark off hatred for them with other ethnic tribes in the state .

He disclosed that the reappointment of Dr Dakwak Yamma is consider as gross abuse of civil service rules ,because the Plateau Hospital Management Board is not political by appointment but is met for career doctors especially those with requisite qualification to manage the healthy sector to teeming populace in this period of outbreak of covid-19 ravaging the world .

We are calling on the Plateau state governor to appoint Dr Velle Lohdip Dadi who have the requisite experience that was tested and trusted to take over as the next most senior medical director in the spirit of one Plateau .

Shedum Bingtim cautioned that once a civil servant is embarking on retirement leave ,what is expected is for him,or her to hand over CMAC but in the case of Dr Dakwak Yamma that tradition was truncated completely .

He pointed out that ,Dr Juryit of the Plateau primary Health Care Board tenure didn’t end when Lalong brought his kinsman Dr Livenus Miamkwap as the director with all the condemnation across the Plateau state.

The Tarok youth are staging a peaceful protest calling on governor to put tribal agenda aside and appoint Dr Velle Lohdip Dadi for unity and development of Plateau state as a democrat .

by Alexander Aleburu

Governors Felicitates With President Mohammadu Buhari@78

Governors Felicitates With President Mohammadu Buhari@78
By,giwa alex, Jos
The Governors under aegis of Northern Governors Forum has joined other Nigerians and the family of President Muhammadu Buhari to Felicitates with him as he marks his 78th birthday.
In a congratulatory message issued by the Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Plateau State Simon Bako Lalong, the Forum said it rejoices with the President on another occasion of his birthday and wishes him many more years of good health, joy and God’s protection.
The felicitation message which is contained in a press statement dated 17th December,2020, signed by the Director of press and public affairs to governor Lalong who doubled as the chairman of the forum, Mackut Mancham and made available to this medium in Jos, Plateau state.
Lalong said members of the Forum have continued to enjoy the support of the President in serving the nation as well as meeting the aspirations of their people.
He noted that the President’s undeniable commitment to the transformation of Nigeria through the various change initiatives has yielded positive results in various sectors including critical infrastructure, anti-corruption, agriculture, human capital development among others.
The Governor assured the President that the Forum will continue to give him all the necessary support and encouragement to enable him carry out his vision of building a more prosperous, peaceful and self-sufficient country.

He also called for more prayers for the President as he deals with the many challenges facing the nation.
by Alexander Aleburu

Buhari Reopens Nigeria Borders,As The Country Economy At The Verge Of Collapse.  

By,Our Reporter

Following the Nigeria economy at the verge of collapse, president Mohammedu Buhari has approved the reopening

of the country land borders closed for running to two year now.

President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday approved the recommendation of a committee for the reopening of four land borders with immediate effect, while others will be reopened in due course.

The Minister of Finance Budget and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed, who disclosed this after a virtual meeting, said restriction on the importation of some commodities, like rice and other products would continue.

The borders opened for now include Seme and Mfun borders in the Southwest, Ilela and Maigatari borders in the Northwest.

Recall that In August,2019 President Muhammadu Buhari ordered closure of Nigeria’s land border with Benin, preventing the import of goods. The move significantly affected trade in foodstuffs, which had already been affected by various past import restrictions.

This move was part of an effort to tackle smuggling and associated corruption, but also to spur the domestic agricultural industry. On October 14, Nigeria ordered closed all of Nigeria’s borders with Benin, as well as those with all other countries, for the same reasons.

With the market for smuggled food now restricted, domestic food prices—already high—have gone up and the economy of neighboring Benin—a staging area for smuggling into Nigeria—has been devastated.

Imports into Nigeria are to come through sea ports, where customs duties can be imposed more easily than at land borders. Nigeria’s vital oil exports are not affected.

by Alexander Aleburu

Plateau Communities Accuses Governor Bako Lalong Of Total Neglect.

Plateau Communities Accuses Governor Bako Lalong Of Total Neglect.By, giwa alex,JosThe ward head of Jenta Adamu , Da Kabala Bako Gode has decried the absence of federal and state government in the area providing social amenities to the residents were they are predominantly civil servants either working for the state or staff of federal government with no accessible road network ,drinking water and police outpost attach considering the high rate of occultism ,raping going on .Kabala expressed displeasure with the manner the three communities have been experiencing constant motor accidents killing people without the intervention from the government .According to him, ” as a communities we are always mourning our loved ones because the road is no longer save, and people are trapped, kill while government neglected them completely on the scheme of thing ” .He disclosed that with the rising cases of insecurity Jenta Adamu road network had been abandon so when criminal elements are being chase, they always escape due to bad nature of roads linking residents .Gode lamented that Jenta Adamu is attach to federal road but government refused vehemently to focus her attention and you can see hoodlums hijacking our communities by terrorizing our people all the time .He appealed to Plateau state government to as a matter of urgency create alternative routes or parks for heavy vehicles and by restricting their movement in the morning until midnight to help reduce constant accidents around the polo round about which is at the heart of the city.Kabala Gode noted that ,Jenta Adamu ,Kabong and Angwan-Suya Communities in Jos -North local government Area of the state are blaming governor Bako Lalong administration for total neglect , despite the votes the governor garner in the affected wards that brings him into Power .He maintained that ,we have nothing to show for the votes we cast for him during the governorship election as the Communities still lacking virtually all basic amenities raging from potable drinking water, accessible motorable roads , devoid of government owned primary and secondary schools as the Case my be.The head of the Communities stated this today 14th December,2020 in an interview with journalist during a peace rally organized by the Youths of the Communities to draw the attention of the government to the incessant accidents occasioned by trucks plying the area around Polo round about which has consumed lives and rendered many Incapacitated.The chief said with the incessant lost of lives in the affected affected road, occasioned by trucks drivers who claimed to have failed break,and the call to the government of the state to regulate the activities of trailers plying the road during busy hours at the city center causing Carnage ,fell on the deft ear as the heavy trucks continued to commit havoc unabated.The Community leader called on governor Lalong to come to their aid as his neglect are beginning to make the Communities regret if they have make mistake by voting him into power as the Governor.On the insecurity bedviling the Communities, occassioned by rampant cases of cultism,the Chief said the activities of the boys in rampage killing themselves,in the name of cultism is condemnable but quick to state that the government is also share part of the blame, as the Communities lacked functional police out post and other security out Post to help to assist in the arrest of the insecurity situation.He stressed that the insecurity in the affected Communities is further compounded largely due to the bad nature of the roads which is not accessible because of the bad roads as its easy for the criminals and the occult elements group to escape through the pathway before the arrival of the security agents.He blamed Governor Lalong for blinding his eyes against the Communities that gives him enormous votes which enable him to win 2015 and 2019 general election.He reiterated his appeals to the government of Plateau state led by Governor Bako Lalong to at least provide the Communities with motorable road and other basic amenities , that will make the Communities inhabitant worth while.
by Alexander Aleburu

Shehu Jatau ,And 3 Others Arraigned On 8 Counts Charges Includes Murder ,Rape 

Shehu Jatau ,And 3 Others Arraigned On 8 Counts Charges Includes Murder ,Rape

By,giwa alex,Jos
The Nigeria Police Command has arraigned four (4) notorious gangs terrorizing the Tarok Community of Kadarko District of Wase Local Government Council in Plateau state leading to the death of several innocent citizens .
The ring leader Shehu Jatau with his accomplished were arraigned before justice P.S. Gang of the Plateau High Court sitting in Jos ,Division for 8 counts charge of culpable homicide.
The four accused persons ,Shehu Jatau ,Nanjul Timothy ,Ponjul Nimmak and Lohfa Jimam were arraigned over the following offenses of culpable homicide, Murder, Treason, Armed Robbery, Rape, Stealing, Manslaughter, forgery, belonging to member of an unlawful society .
“You would recall that the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) pledged to collaborate with the Nigerian Army Resource Centre (NARC) to find practical solutions to insecurity confronting the country”.
However ,owning to the incessant attacks, killing and rapping of women by a militia gang leader, Shehu Jatau, and five of his accomplices at a hotel in the central area of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja the army handed him over to the Plateau State Police command for onward prosecution of his involvement in crimes and criminality.
Jatau and his militia gang members were in court and the clerk read all the 8 counts charge for them individually and they all pleaded not guilty to the charges .
According to them ,”he army said that their preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects were involved in a recent Plateau State crisis and then escape to Abuja were they resort to “kidnapping, extortion and unleashing unprecedented carnage on residents .”
They adding that the troops also rescued seven kidnapped victims from bandits in the Birnin Gwari area of Kaduna State.
They accused persons were arrested in possession of dangerous weapons of Ak47,Calashing ,GPMG,safe loaded machine guns were they attempted killing Nimmyel Jimam who survived with several gunshots sometimes on 30th October, 2019 .
They accused persons engage on unlawful possession of fire arms and ammunitions wrecking havoc to vulnerable communities of Wase LGA .
The prosecution counsel ,Barr E.A.Inegbenoise told the court that the four accused persons should be remanded in correctional centre pending the determination of the suit brought against them.
The matter which came up today 16th December,2020 for mention with Prof Sylvester Shikyil as the defense counsel to Shehu Jatau and 3 of his accomplishes in the criminal offenses.
Prof Sylvester didn’t objected to the plead of application for adjournment of the suit which Justice P.S.Gang adjourned to 11th January, 2020 for continuation of hearing .
The plaintiff counsel ,Barr Edwind A. Inegbenoise concluded arrangement to present witnesses to come testify and the defendant counsel Prof Sylvester told the court that they were just served by plaintiff counsel with statement of counter affidavit
by Alexander Aleburu

Governor Lalong  Appoints Emmanuel Jurte Acting Provost,College Of Education Gindiri.

G

overnor Lalong Appoints Emmanuel Jurte Acting Provost,College Of Education Gindiri.

By,giwa alex,Jos
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has approved the appointment of Mr. Emmanuel Jurte as Acting Provost of the College of Education Gindiri, following the expiration of the tenure of the Sole Administrator, Monsignor Prof. Cletus Tanimu Gotan.
Governor Lalong’s approval is contained in a press statement dated 15th December,2020, signed by the Director of press and Public Affairs to the governor Mackut Macham and made available to this medium in Jos, plateau state capital.
The Acting Provost is to oversee the affairs of the Institution pending the conclusion of the process for the appointment of a substantive Provost and other principal officers which is already in process.
Until his appointment Mr. Jurte was the Dean, School of Social Sciences and
Chairman, Committee of Deans of the College.
Meanwhile, Governor Lalong has expressed appreciation to Monsignor Prof. Cletus Tanimu Gotan for his commitment, dedication and sacrifices during his stewardship which greatly assisted in repositioning the institution.
He said the clergyman deployed his vast academic and administrative knowledge in addressing some of the challenges of the College which culminated in holding the 28th-33rd Combined Convocation of the institution in 2019.
The Governor also commended him for also ensuring the accreditation of more courses at the institution as well as enhancing teaching and learning.
by Alexander Aleburu

Plateau Youths Has Take Their Plights To House Of Assembly Over Incessant Accident.

Plateau Youths Has Take Their Plights To House Of Assembly Over Incessant Accident.

By,giwa alex, Jos
The Youths under the aegise of Jenta Adamu Youths Forum has taken their cry to the Plateau State House Of Assembly Over the incessant killings and miming of road users along Jenta Adamu Polo and Gada-Biu axis in Jos-North local Government of Plateau state.
As the entire Central Youth Council of the Forum comprising Jenta Adamu ,Kabong and Angwan-Suya Communities of Jos- North LGA has Come together to embarked on this peaceful rally to draw the attention of the law makers in the state ,and by extension Governor Lalong to our plight where member of our Communities and other road users are being killed on daily basis by heavy duty trucks plying the City center.
The Youth plight is contained in letter of rejoinder address to the speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly,Abok Ayuba,which has it subject as”Killing Of Our People By Heavy Duty Vehicle Along Polo”dated 14th December,2020 at Polo round about.
The youths in their numbers weighing placard with different incriptions like enough killings of our people by heavy duty trucks,the government should ban the heavy Duty trucks from plying the City center,and the government should regulates the time when these trucks should be plying the City center and other nerves fray comment.
The Youth leader led by it chairman Theophilus Kadiri justified the peaceful rally because last week December,2020 there was a multiple Accident cases where a heavy-duty vehicle rammed into smaller vehicles as a result of brake failure, crushed tricycle and smaller vehicles and many occupance with various degrees of wounds, sorrow , sadness and traumatized State.
The situation which they said if not checked could easily take more loves ones and prosperities,and stressed that the time to stop the Carnage been perpetrated by these heavy duty vehicles is now.
They however recommend that government should create more alternative road network, from the City to avoid plying the already discongested city center,to regulate the time these heavy-duty vehicles ply the City center, government should expand polo round about and increase the dualization of other finder road and the restrictions of heavy duty truck to specific roads.
Other suggestions made by the youth to curb the incessant hazard caused by the heavy-duty,is implementation of toll-gate which if done, would aid regulating such destructive elements.
The Forum however ,present the copy of the Communique to the Member Representing Jos -North local government at state House of Assembly Esther Dusu for onward delivery to the speaker,Abok Ayuba.
In her response,the Hon.Member at the state House of Assembly Esther Dusu thanks the youth for not taking law in their hands but followed due process in sending across their messages to the appropriate Government quarters for attention.
She further add that the peaceful rally by the youths is an a synergy between the youths of her constituency which she is much happy about.
She stressed that she initiated similar bill sometimes back which later could not scale through the legislative process,and today’s peaceful rally indicate that the bill is people’s oriented one, which need to be reintroduce.
Hon.Dusu announced to the Youths that the hon.speaker of the state House of Assembly has send me to tell you that the bill which I initiated some time ago on the floor of the house aimed to stop the plying of vehicular movement on Jos city center which could not scale through the first introduction, should be reintroduce for reconsideration for debate.
She promised to take the letter of the Communique to the speaker of the house Abok Ayuba .
by Alexander Aleburu

NCEVECC Charge Plateau Citizens On Attitudinal Reorientation

NCEVECC Charge Plateau Citizens On Attitudinal Reorientation.By,giwa alex, Jos

The National Community Ethics and Values Compliance Corps (NCEVECC),plateau state command has charged the citizens of Plateau State to have attitudinal behavioral change on the environment they resides for better plateau state in particular and Nigeria as a whole.

The commandant National Community Ethics and Value Environmental Compliance Plateau state command Steven Dachung give the charge during the passing out of the new cadets of the newly formed Non- Governmental Organization held at the Rwang Pam Township Stadium in Jos the Plateau state capital.
Dachung said the National Community Ethics and Values Environmental Compliance Corps which is the initiated by the Former Minister of Ethics and Values a.k.a mama Ethics during president Goodluck Jonathan administration,and one time presidential aspirants Dr. Sarah Jubrin is to help and reorientate the general public the need for Ethics and Values in wherever we find ourselves.
He said it’sNon-governmental Organization duely registered with corporate affairs Commission saddled with the sole responsibility of collaborating with other established organizations to help achieve their stipulated mandates by checking Compliance with National Ethics, Values maintainance and discipline through hard work , special skills and professionalism.The commandant further add that the passing out of the agency’s cadet today 12th December,2020 ,was earlier slated for the beginning of the year 2020, was however distrupted with covid-19 pandemic which ravished the entire world including Nigeria.He called on the people of Plateau state,and Nigerians in general to imbibe Ethics and Values reorientation in their daily lives styles and put the country at heart so as will can bequittes better Society to our children and the next generations after us.The minister of women affairs represented by Mohammed jafaru urged the people of the state to embrace the program with open hands with a view to imbibe behavioral change on the Nigeria citizens.The Minister who decried the gradual eroding of values in our society ,said the introduction of the program is apt which if properly implemented would go a long way influencing our behavioral pattern positively.Those who graced the occasion includes the minister of women affairs, Dame Pauline Tallen,represented by Mohammed jafaru,representatives of the Police,custom, operation Rainbow,correctional Center and others.
by Alexander Aleburu

Katsina Abduction: Masari shuts all public schools. 

Katsina Abduction: Masari shuts all public schools.

By, Our Reporter

The Governor of Katsina State, Aminu Masari, on Saturday, ordered the immediate closure of all boarding secondary schools in the state following the abduction of many students by gunmen in Kankara Local Government Area.

The governor gave the directive while visiting the council area where gunmen abducted an unspecified number of students of the Government Science Secondary School, Kankara, on Friday.

“The situation goes beyond one’s thinking. It’s a sad moment for Katsina, I am assuring parents of the missing students we will do anything humanly possible to rescue the children, it’s our responsibility to protect lives and properties.

“As I am speaking to you now, the soldiers are in the bush engaging the militants in a fire fight, I plead with you to exercise patience, we will rescue the children and I also ordered for the closure of all schools to save the children,” the governor said.

The governor further assured that both governments at federal and state levels were doing their best to bring an end to banditry and other debilitating criminal activities in the state. He said the government is very firm in its resolve to be ruthless in any engagement with the militants.

Recalled, the gunmen attacked the Government school in Kankara and abducted many students.

Residents said the gunmen had earlier attacked Kankara town, injuring many residents but were later repelled by the security forces.

Residents said the militants, in large numbers, on motorbikes, invaded the school’s premises around 11: 00 p.m. Friday night, shooting to scare and kill.

They, thereafter, went away with many students.

Masari

by Alexander Aleburu

Sam Nda-lsaiah’s Death A Monumental Loss To Nigeria—–Northern Governors 

Sam Nda-lsaiah’s Death A Monumental Loss To Nigeria—–Northern Governors
By,giwa alex,Jos
The northern Governors under the auspacies of the Northern Governors Forum, has described the death of the Founder of Leadership Newspaper Sam Nda-lsaiah as a monumental loss to Nigeria at the prime age of 58 years old.

The Forum’s condolence message message is contained in a Press released dated 12th December,2020,signed by the Director of press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau state and Chairman of the northern Governors Forum Makut Macham and made available to this medium in Jos, Plateau state capital.
Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Plateau State Bako Lalong in a statement said the development is a monumental loss to Nigeria and the Northern Region.
Lalong said “this is a very sad development for the country as we have lost one of the most vibrant and courageous media entrepreneurs in Nigeria.
Sam was a visionary man who believed in the unity, peace and progress of Nigeria. He did so through his writings and contributions reflected his passion for a strong democratic culture”.
Governor Lalong also eulogised the late Sam who was a successful businessman and never afraid to dream big and venture into various fields. His big dreams led to the birth and nurturing of the Leadership Newspapers that has grown to become one of the leading newspapers in the Northern Region as well as the country at large.
Lalong said the deceased will be greatly missed for his patriotism, selflessness and courage in the service of Nigeria, as well as continue to be remembered for his great legacies of hardwork and mentorship which has inspired many youths to dream big and realise their ambitions.
While praying God to grant him eternal rest and comfort his family, friends and associates, Lalong urged the Management and Staff of Leadership newspapers and other businesses founded by the late Sam Nda-Isaiah to remain diligent as they keep his dreams and legacies alive.
by Alexander Aleburu

Nigeria ls ln A Parlous Situation, As Nobody Is In Charge.

Soyinka tags 2019 polls most depressing, says his generation has failed Nigerians

Laurette, Prof. Wole Soyinka, has declared that Nigeria is in a parlous situation as nobody is in charge.

By Ripples Nigeria

Nobel Laurette, Prof. Wole Soyinka, has declared that Nigeria is in a parlous situation as nobody is in charge.

He added that the year 2020 has been the most challenging year as a result of the many problems facing the nation.

Soyinka who made the comments on Wednesday at the Booksellers, venue of the presentation of his new book, ‘Chronicles of the happiest people on earth,’ a book with over 500 pages, stated that the situation in Nigeria was worse as a result of the imperial nature of its leadership.

Speaking further during the book presentation, Soyinka said that the situation in the country had reached a point where you are not very sure of where you are going and where you will end.

Soyinka also stated that the present situation in the country is not the way a nation should be and not the way the citizens should exist.

READ ALSO: Soyinka says he’s forgiven Gowon, reveals those he can’t forgive

He said; “With the turbulence that characterises year 2020, and as activities wind down, the mood has been repugnant and very negative. I don’t want to sound pessimistic but this is one of the most pessimistic years I have known in this nation and it wasn’t just because of COVID-19, no. Natural disasters had happened elsewhere but how have you managed to take such in their strides?

“Was calamity as a result of human negligence or as a result of malignant activities when people find themselves under the control of other beings which I am afraid what most Nigerians find themselves in, it is like you don’t know from where the blow would descend. That is not the way a nation should be and that is not the way the citizens should exist.

“Situation has reached a point where you are not very sure of where you are going and where you will end it. As I had said before, you don’t believe, in many instances, that anybody is in charge. That, really, it’s a parlous condition for any nation… So, I am afraid it has not been a very good year for me generally,” Soyinka added.

by Alexander Aleburu

Northern Governors Felicitates With Gen.T.Y Danjuma @83

Northern Governors Felicitates With Gen.T.Y

Danjuma @83

By,giwa alex,Jos
The Northern Governors Forum has Felicitated with the Former Minister of Defence
Gen. T.Y. Danjuma as he marks his 83rd birthday.
Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Plateau State Simon Bako Lalong in a message described Gen. Danjuma as one of Nigeria’s finest soldier, philanthropist and statesman who has done a lot to promote the unity, peace and development of Nigeria.
The felicitation message is contained in a press statement dated 9th, December,2020, signed by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor Lalong Makut Macham and made available to this medium in Jos, Plateau State capital.
He said Gen. Theophilus Danjuma throughout his military career demonstrated professionalism, gallantry and patriotism in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity in the various responsibilities he handled.
The Governor also said the celebrant has impacted the lives of many citizens through his business mentoring initiatives and philanthropy that has enabled many younger people to start businesses and acquire education which has helped them to stand on their own.
Lalong also commended Gen. Danjuma for his unwavering faith in Nigeria and his consistency in offering wise counsel to various levels of governance and his support to organizations and institutions towards building a united, prosperous and peaceful country.
While wishing him more years of good health and God’s protection, the Governor said the Northern Governors Forum will continue to draw from his wealth of experience in areas including security and human development to address the challenges of the region.
by Alexander Aleburu

Nigeria Super Eagles Captain, Ahmed Musa Buys Another Massive Mansion In Dubia.

Nigeria Super Eagles Captain, Ahmed Musa Buys Another Massive Mansion In Dubia Worth $1 Million
Football StarsDec 2, 2020Read original.

By,Our Reporter

 
Super Eagles Captain Ahmed Musa is a man of affluence. The Jos-born footballer is currently without a club side after he was let go by the Saudi Arabian team, Al Nassr. However, that wouldn’t stop him from having the best of assets. 
Musa has just bought a new villa house in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates worth over a million dollars recently.
According to SPORTING LIFE, they gathered that the Eagles skipper has continued to prepare himself for life after football through massive investments in properties and other investments.
 
Tofe Towobola, a professional business investor for football players who brokered the purchase of the villa (house) on behalf of Musa said that ” this purchase is good for the image of Nigerians in Dubai and worldwide. There is too much negative news out there about Nigerians, but we can’t let the less than one percent of the bad ones spoil the image of the hard-working Nigerians who also want to invest and explore new opportunities worldwide like Ahmed Musa.
“As Captain of the new Super Eagles, Musa has set the financial standard for young and upcoming players who will surely like to emulate him. He has invested heavily in Nigeria which is important and now he is securing himself more with foreign investments.
read also: I started my football career as a goalkeeper – Ahmed Musa
 
“It is undisclosed how many properties Musa has bought in Dubai but what is sure is that he is surely spreading his hard-earned income into major properties in Nigeria and abroad”, Tofe disclosed to SPORTINGLIFE from his base in England yesterday.
Confirming the purchase of his house in Dubai, the 27-year-old stated that he wants to have the properties ahead of his exit from football. “That is what matters to me, what matters is life after football,” 
And this is coming barely a month after he spent a staggering $2.759 million on scholarships for 100 students at Skyline University. Ahmed Musa. His philanthropic gestures also saw him distribute food items and money to people in Plateau and Kano during the Ramadan season. 
 
The 2013 Africa Cup of Nations winner also joined a host of others who provided palliatives for people during coronavirus lockdown earlier this year.  Musa broke into the country’s senior national team in 2010, and three years later, he joined the list of Nigerian stars who have lifted the AFCON title. 
MUST-READ: Fresh Revelations Emerged Over The Reason Ahmed Musa Divorced His Wife | They Are Shocking.
Nigerian Captain who has just left his Saudi Arabia club, Al Nassr caused some uproar in 2017 when he divorced his former wife, Jamila.
3 years after,  more revelations have emerged on why Super Eagles player, Ahmed Musa, divorced his wife Jamila.
The former Leicester City forward ended his marriage during, after he was arrested for allegedly beating his wife in their home in England.
READ ALSO PAINFUL! Former Nigerian Captain, John Obi Mikel Cried After Fans Did This Unbelievable Thing To Him | They Must Be Punished
Family sources have now revealed that the former CSKA Moscow forward and his estranged wife, Jamila, mutually parted ways following irreconcilable differences.
The source said the decision was reached by the two parties after efforts to reconcile them failed. The source added that the player’s decision to marry a second wife was permitted by Islam but was vehemently rejected by Jamila.

by Alexander Aleburu

Musa Bagos,Speakers Among Recipients Of Prowess University Honorary Doctorate Degree.

Musa Bagos,Speakers Among Recipients Of Prowess University Honorary Doctorate Degree.
By,giwa alex, Jos
Musa Bagos Member Representing Jos South/East in the Federal Constituency of Plateau State is amongst those selected to be bestowed with the Honorary Doctorate Degree by Prowess University of America for his hard work and positive legislative business in Federal House of Representatives and Nigeria as a whole.
The Honorary award ceremony which slated later this year is to be held in Abuja in the Federal Capital Territory with venue to be communicated.
Other to be honored includes the executive governor of Adamawa state Ahmadu Fitiri,Yobe state Deputy Governor,ldi Barde.
Bauchi State House of Assembly’s Speaker and his Nasarawa State counterpart, Rt.Hon.Abubakar Y.Suleiman and Hon.Balarabe Abdullahi Bauchi are the only speakers in Nigeria for this honour.
Others are Majority Leader of Nasarawa State House of Assembly Hon. Umar Tanko Tunga, Bauchi State, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Abdulrazak Nuhu Zaki ,Kano State Commissioner for Works,Idiris Garba are among the winners of this year’s edition of the Prowess University’s honorary doctorate.
Others that have distinguished themselves in their leadership positions for this global recognition includes

the Managing Director of KNUPDA, Arc.Suleiman Abdulwahab Ahmad,Kabir Usman Babba Kaita,former Comptroller of Nigerian Customs Service and Sheik Yusuf Sambo Sambo Rigachikun, a renowned Islamic scholar in Northern Nigeria.

The chairman of Mantatali Nig Limited,Alhaji Abba Sheriff Modu who doubles as winner of Leadtimes Africa Businessman of year Award will bag the honorary award of this famous institution in Abuja.
Others include the Executive chairman of Gwale LGA of Kano State,Khalid Ishaq ; Executive Chairman of Abaji Area Council,FCT,Abuja, Abdulrahaman Ajiya;and Hon.Chindo Gona of Bassa LGA of Plateau State.
Two supervisory councillors of both AMAC and Abaji Area Councils will also bag Special Leadtimes Africa magazine’s award during the ceremony.
The honorary award which is an annual event would honor the Iyaloja of Kano State, Nigeria and National Women Leader of Movement For Actualisation of TINUBU 2023 Presidency,Hajia Fatima Saghir.
In a release by Professor Prince Eze Nwauba who doubles as African Representative of Prowess University and Director of the Institute of Arts Management and Professional Studies(IAMPS) stated said all the awardees have been selected strictly on merit in their chosen professional calling
“All of them have impacted positively on the lives of their people with outstanding leadership qualities of global recognition.
These selected personalities for the honorary award represent global excellence in service delivery for their people hence their nomination,’ the statement added.
According to the Professor Nwuaba,”some of these honorary doctorate awardees will also be inducted as fellow of chartered institute of Arts Professional( CIAP),
USA”.
It would be recalled that the last event was held in Accra,Ghana with over twenty outstanding Nigerians conferred with different categories of honorary doctorate award including the Nigerian Chief of Army Staff Lt.General Tukur Yusuf Buratai who won the prestigious African Prize for Transparency, Selfless Service and Accountability in Leadership in the 2018 edition in Ghana.
by Alexander Aleburu

#EndSARS: Buhari Warns Against Violent Protests, Commends Army For Restoring Law And Order.

#EndSARS: Buhari warns Against Violent Protests, Commends Army For Restoring Law And Order

President Buhari

December 07, 2020

President Muhammadu Buhari Monday in Abuja warned that any act of hooliganism hiding behind lawful and peaceful protests will be dealt with decisively to ensure peace and stability in the country.

A press release signed by Presidential Spokesman, Femi Adesina said while virtually declaring open the Chief of Army Staff’s Annual Conference 2020, President Buhari commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their efforts at swiftly restoring law and order in various states during the large-scale criminality that ensued in the wake of the #ENDSARS protest reiterating Government’s commitment to the rights of citizens to embark on peaceful protests responsibly and in accordance with the laws of the land, the President recounted that the #ENDSARS protests were sadly hijacked by hooligans to cause wanton damage to lives and property in many cities across the country.

The President described the Year 2020 as a very challenging one, citing the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and its negative impact on almost every aspect of national life.

”Despite this, I am pleased to note that the Army remained resolute in the discharge of its Constitutional roles and in keeping the wealth and welfare of our soldiers a priority.

”The Army’s support of Civil Authorities in the management of the COVID – 19 Pandemic is a case in point.

”Also, the peaceful elections conducted in Edo and Ondo States would not have been achieved without the high level of professionalism displayed by all security agencies, including the Army,” he said at the conference themed “Human Capacity Development in Sustaining Professionalism and Responsiveness of the Nigerian Army in the Discharge of its Constitutional Roles.”

The President commended the Army for its unwavering commitment towards curtailing the activities of insurgents, armed bandits, kidnappers, cattle rustlers and other violent criminals through ongoing exercises and operations in different parts of the country.

Notably, he said the Exercise SAHEL SANITY launched a few months ago in the North West states to rid the Katsina-Zamfara corridor of marauding bandits had recorded commendable progress.

”I have also been briefed about the tremendous successes that have been achieved by troops during the ongoing Operation FIRE BALL in the North East.

”I charge you all to sustain these efforts until the full restoration of peace and security in the nation is achieved,” the President told members of the armed forces at the conference which provides an avenue for the leadership of the Army to re-assess its preparedness and operational readiness in carrying out its Constitutional roles.

President Buhari also used the occasion to pay tribute to men and women in uniform who have paid the supreme sacrifice in the defence and security of the nation, commiserating with their families, comrades and friends.

”As we pray for the repose of their souls, we must strengthen our collective resolve to address those issues that will make every part of our country a safe and secure place to live and carry out our normal business,” he said.

He pledged that his administration will not relent in its efforts to take adequate care of families of fallen heroes who had paid the supreme sacrifice in the fight against insurgency and other forms of crimes across the country.

At the conference, the President launched the Housing scheme for Next of Kin of personnel of the Nigerian Army killed in action.

”It is in line with this that the Army as part of its welfare initiative and in line with the Federal Government’s housing programme is undertaking the Housing Scheme for families and next of kin of troops that were killed in action in the fight against insurgency and other criminalities in the country.

”I believe this initiative will act as a huge morale booster to the troops on the frontlines as well as project the Army in good light.

”On our part, I assure you that this administration will continue to do all within available resources to provide for your operational and welfare needs,” he said.

President Buhari said he had been briefed that some of the major capabilities procured for the Army will soon be inducted into the various theatres of operations, urging personnel ‘‘to make judicious use of these capabilities, even as we await the arrival of others currently pending shipment to the country.’’

On the choice of the theme of the annual conference, President Buhari noted that it is only through human capacity development that any institution can attain the level of professionalism needed to effectively and efficiently carry out its Constitutional roles.

The President, therefore, congratulated the Army on holding this Conference at the magnificent edifice housing the Army’s Cyber Warfare Command with its state-of-the-art Cyberwarfare Operations Centre, adding that this shows that the Army is alive to the changing nature of warfare which is gradually moving into the cyber domain.

”By the same token, I commend the visionary leadership that has worked assiduously to emplace this vital capability that will fill an existing gap in our nation’s security and defence architecture.

”This and other numerous infrastructural projects that have been embarked upon in recent times by the leadership of the Army has shown good utilization of scarce national resources,” he said.

Earlier, the Minister of Defence, Maj. Gen. Bashir Salihi Magashi appreciated the President for always approving funds for operations of the military in the country, assuring that all resources will be judiciously utilised.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, noted that the Nigerian Army was well poised to confront all security challenges, which includes cyber threatening.

by Alexander Aleburu

Bauchi State Speaker, Commissioners And Others Bag Honorary Award.

Bauchi State Speaker, Commissioners And Others Bag

Honorary Award.

By,giwa alex, Jos
Bauchi State House of Assembly’s Speaker, Rt.Hon.Abubakar Suleiman and Bauchi state Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Hon.Abdulrazak Nuhu Zaki has been given honorary award .
The honorary doctorate which will be held in Abuja the nation’s capital, saw the following personalities in the government as beneficiary.
They are Kano State Commissioner for Works,Hon.Idiris Garba R/Rimi and Adamawa State Commissioner for Rural Infrastructure, Hon.Abdullahi Adamu Purambe were among the winners of this year’s edition of the Prowess University’s honorary doctorate which will take place in Abuja later this month.
Other eminent personalities in leadership positions listed for the honor include the managing Director of KNUPDA, Arc.Suleiman Abdulwahab Ahmad,Kabir Usman Babba Kaita,former Comptroller of Nigerian Customs Service and Sheik Yusuf Sambo Sambo Rigachikun, a renowned Islamic scholar in Northern Nigeria.
Other persons who also in the award list includes, chairman of Mantatali Nig Limited,Alhaji Abba Sheriff Modu who doubles as winner of Leadtimes Africa Businessman of year Award will bag a honorary doctor of philosophy in Business Administration during the ceremony.
Others include the Executive chairman of Gwale LGA of Kano State, Hon.Khalid Ishaq Diso and the Executive Chairman of Abaji Area Council,FCT,Abuja, Hon.Abdulrahaman Ajiya. Hon.Zamwawosayi Musa Tanko,Hon Tukura Sunday,Supervisory Councilor in charge of Education, all of Abaji Area Council as well as the Supervisory Councillor, Agriculture in AMAC,Hon.Yunusa D.Sarki, are listed for Leadtimes Africa Award for Integrity, Transparency and Accountability in Service for distinguishing in the councils for quality service delivery. The honorary award which is an annual event would honor the Iyaloja of Kano State, Nigeria and National Women Leader of Movement For Actualisation of TINUBU 2023 Presidency,Hajia Fatima Saghir and Hon Chindo Gona,executive Chairman of Bassa LGA of Plateau State, Nigeria.
In a release by Professor Prince Eze Nwauba who doubles as African Representative of Prowess University and Director of the Institute of Arts Management and Professional Studies(IAMPS) stated thus:
”All the awardees have been selected strictly on merit in their chosen professional calling’ “All of them have impacted positively on the lives of their people with outstanding leadership qualities of global recognition”, the statement added.
The statement further add that”some of these honorary doctorate awardees will also be inducted as fellow of chartered institute of Arts Professional( CIAP),
USA”.
It would be recalled that the last event was held in Accra,Ghana with over twenty outstanding Nigerians conferred with different categories of honorary doctorate award including the Nigerian Chief of Army Staff Lt.General Tukur Yusuf Buratai who won the prestigious African Prize for Transparency, Selfless Service and Accountability in Leadership in the 2018 edition in Ghana.
The venue of the event which was initially slated to hold in Kano is now to be held in Abuja for some reasons.
by Alexander Aleburu

Hon. Haruna Maitala congratulates female Senator-Elect, Prof Nora Daduut

Hon. Haruna Maitala congratulates female Senator-Elect, Prof Nora Daduut
By,giwa alex,Jos
The Hon. Member representing Jos North/Bassa federal constituency in the National Assembly, Haruna Maitala (Turakin Jere) extends his warmest congratulations to Prof. Nora Daduut on her historic victory at the polls as the second female Senator-elect to represent the good and loving people of Plateau South Senatorial District in the Red Chamber.
Maitala’s congratulatory message is contained in press statement issued 6th December,2020, signed by the Honorable media consultant Joseph Adudu and made available to this medium in Jos, Plateau state capital.
Maitala said the wide margin of the election result is an attestation of her wide acceptability which has been well spoken of by majority of the people of the Zone and outside it.
The Hon member also believes that the overwhelming victory is an affirmation of confidence and trust hinged on her avowed commitment, discipline and accountability in her previous undertakings.
He further said he is confident that in her new challenging position as a Senator of the Federal Republic, she would excel and succeed in laying a solid foundation for the women folk by ensuring genuine and adequate representation as well as joining hands with other stakeholders to finding effective solutions to existential problems in the Southern Zone in particular, Plateau State and the country at large.
Hon. Maitala also extended his congratulatory message to the APC family in the state for building a solid platform by keeping to the ideals, principles and philosophy of the party which is evident in the actualization of the policy thrust of the rescue administration in the state led by the captain of the rescue team, Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong.
As a result, the APC has won the confidence of the electorates and attracted new comers into its folds.
He however wish Prof Daduut tortuous assignment ,good health and uncommon wisdom as she embark on this national assignment.
by Alexander Aleburu

Governor Lalong Distorts History For Referring To Nora Datuu’t As First Female Plateau Senator——–Hon.Bitrus Kaze.

Governor Lalong Distorts History For Referring To Nora Datuu’t As First Female Plateau Senator——–Hon.Bitrus Kaze.

By,giwa alex, Jos
Governor Bako Lalong is said to have distored history for referring the elected APC candidate on the just concluded Senatorial bye election in Plateau Southern Zone Nora Daduu’t as the first female senator ever produced by the State from inception of the creation of the state.
Hon.Bitrus Kaze ,the former member of the House of Representative and candidate for the position of chairman of the People Democratic Party(PDP)in Plateau state,stated this in a pieces that has gone viral in the online medium which is avail to this medium.

According to the Former Honorable M

ember of the National House of Representative,said l read the erroneous gist that Prof Nora Daduu’t is the first Senator-elect on the Plateau,this is not correct.

If my memory serves me right, I believe Ngo Monica Gwom (Plateau North) is by this token the first ever female Senator-elect on the Plateau.

She like Rep-elect Donald Weze Jos North-Bassa,among others never took their seats in chambers ,no thanks to Abacha’s palace coup of Nov ,1993 but at least they were declared elected by the Humphrey Nwosu-led NEC as INEC then was.

By His grace Prof Daduu’t may be on her way to be the first woman to take her seat in the Red-Chamber but at the moment she’s not the first Senator-elect,Hon kaze maintained.

It would be recalled that following the victory of prof, Nora Daduu’t of the APC in the just concluded Senatorial southern Plateau zone, Governor Lalong who it elate, refferred to prof.Datuu’t in his congratulatory message signed by the Governor’s Director of Press and Public Affairs Makut Macham .
The Governor Press statement is dated 6th November,2020.

by Alexander Aleburu

Governor Lalong Congratulates Prof.Nora Dadu’ut APC Female Senator Elect.

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overnor Lalong Congratulates Prof.Nora Dadu’ut APC Female Senator Elect.

By, giwa alex, Jos
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has congratulated Prof. Nora Dadu’ut candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for making history as the first female Senator-elect in Plateau State.
The Governor congratulatory message is contained in a press release dated 6th December,2020, signed by the the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor Makut Simon Macham and made available to this medium in Jos, plateau state capital.
Prof. Nora Dadu’ut who emerged winner of the Plateau South Senatorial District bye-election defeated her closest rival by George Daika of the PDP for the nod to fill the vacuum created by the death of the former occupant of the seat late Senator Ignatius Longjan.
Governor Lalong said the victory of Prof. Nora Dadu’ut was not surprising as the APC is well rooted in the whole state particularly the Southern Senatorial District.
He congratulated Prof. Nora whom he believes will give quality representation to the people of the Southern Senatorial District and also represent the interest of the State at the red chamber.
He commended INEC and security agencies for working assiduously towards a successful election. He said the electorate also deserve special commendation for conducting themselves peacefully and ensuring that the execise was devoid of violence and malpractice.
Lalong also called on other political parties and candidates who lost the election to rally round the winner in the best interest of the zone and Plateau State as a whole.
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overnor Lalong Congratulates Prof.Nora Dadu’ut APC Female Senator Elect.

By, giwa alex, Jos
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has congratulated Prof. Nora Dadu’ut candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for making history as the first female Senator-elect in Plateau State.
The Governor congratulatory message is contained in a press release dated 6th December,2020, signed by the the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor Makut Simon Macham and made available to this medium in Jos, plateau state capital.
Prof. Nora Dadu’ut who emerged winner of the Plateau South Senatorial District bye-election defeated her closest rival by George Daika of the PDP for the nod to fill the vacuum created by the death of the former occupant of the seat late Senator Ignatius Longjan.
Governor Lalong said the victory of Prof. Nora Dadu’ut was not surprising as the APC is well rooted in the whole state particularly the Southern Senatorial District.
He congratulated Prof. Nora whom he believes will give quality representation to the people of the Southern Senatorial District and also represent the interest of the State at the red chamber.
He commended INEC and security agencies for working assiduously towards a successful election. He said the electorate also deserve special commendation for conducting themselves peacefully and ensuring that the execise was devoid of violence and malpractice.
Lalong also called on other political parties and candidates who lost the election to rally round the winner in the best interest of the zone and Plateau State as a whole.
by Alexander Aleburu

SDM 2023 presidency: Social Media Campaign Group For Senator Dino Melaiye For President Emerges

As the quest of who to succeeds the incumbent President Mohammed Buhari commences is at the top gear,a yet to be identified youth group have created a campaign group for Senator Dino Melaye-SDM as a man who is most qualified for the position come 2023.

The Facebook Group Page has attained over 11.3k active organic members within a week.

Senator Melaiye, who just affirmed his commitment to Peoples Democratic Party PDP comeback 2023. May likely be among the top contenders for the challenging job.

Though, the Senator who is yet to respond to the enquiry text from the OBSERVERS TIMES is a force to contend with.

by Alexander Aleburu

Kwande’s Family Appreciates Nigerian’s Visit Over The Demise Of Son, AbdulNasser Yahaya, As Lalong Condoles Ex-Ambassador.

Kwande’s Family Appreciates Nigerian’s Visit Over The Demise Of Son, AbdulNasser Yahaya, As Lalong Condoles Ex-Ambassador.
Our Reporter,Jos
The family of the former Ambassador of Nigeria to Switzerland, Amb. Yahaya Kwande has appreciated the good spirited Nigerians who commiserated with the family during the demise of their son, AbdulNasser Yahaya-Kwande.
In a press statement signed by Yusuf Yahaya-Kwande and made available to this medium in Jos, Plateau state capital, expressed the concern of Nigerians who Commiserates with the Kwandes during their moment of grieved over the demise of their son who went to be with Lord recently.
He noted that people of different personality from all walk of life visited the family residence in Jos, while some made phone calls to commiserate with the family during their moment of aggrieved.
“To God we belong and to Him we return. Whatever Allah takes away or gives, belongs to Him, and everything with Him has in this world.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our family, friends and well wishers who visited us in the family home in Jos, as well as many who called and sent their condolences.”
The family expressed gratitude to God for the life and time AbdulNasser spent on earth and recalled their good moments when they ate, worked, laughed, prayed and played together.
“With deep love, He will be fondly remembered. He was a compassionate, kind, spiritual gentleman. He will be deeply missed. I pray that Allah forgives all his sins and grant him the highest rank in Al Jannah firdaus.
“May Allah unite our family and grant us the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss. He is survived by his parents, son and several brothers and sisters.”
Meanwhile, Plateau State Governor, Simon Bako Lalong says he received the news of the death of Abdul-Nasser, son of Elderstatesman Alhaji Yahaya Kwande with shock and sadness.
Governor Lalong in a statement signed by the Director of press and Public Affairs to Lalong Makut Macham and made available to this medium, commiserate with the death of Abdul-Naseer said the demise of the gentleman is definitely a huge loss to the Kwande family and the entire people of Plateau State considering his hardwork and dedication.
Lalongsaid “as a Farm Manager, Abdul-Nasser chose to focus on the most critical occupation that is not only crucial to food security of our State and the nation, but also to job creation and economic prosperity”.
While praying God to grant the soul of the deceased eternal rest, Lalong called on Alhaji Yahaya Kwande and the entire family to be consoled by the fact that he lived a productive life where he contributed to the development of the State and nation at large.”
by Alexander Aleburu

Plateau State: Senatorial Bye Election ,Governor Lalong Urgues Voters To Vote Emass For APC.

Plateau State: Senatorial Bye Election ,Governor Lalong Urgues Voters To Vote Emass For APC.

By, giwa alex, Jos
Governor Lalong of Plateau state has urged eligible Voters to come out emass and vote for APC candidate.
Governor Lalong give the instruction at his home town in Ajikamen immediately after casting his vote in an interview with journalist.

The governor who voted at the primary school close to his residential building, said I am using this opportunity to appeal to the eligible Voters to come and Vote for APC the best candidate in this plateau southern Senatorial Bye election.

He praise the turned of voters which he discribed as encouraging and enshewed for Peaceful election throughout the process.
On the security articheture of the system,he praise the security on ground as there no any reported case of breakdown of law and other in any polling unit,and asked them to maintain that fest.
On his message to the voters,he said “I am using this medium to call on the people to Vote Credible Candidate that will attract development to the constituency.
In another development the chairman of APC in Shandam LG has lamented the low turnout of voters in the Plateau Southern Zone Senatorial Bye election.
The chairman of the ruling Party APC in Shandam local government Mohammed Hamza who speaks with journalist in an interview said the voters Apathy is due largely because the election is not general election and awareness is relatively low,but all the same the turned out of voters is still encouraging.
Mohammed said he is very optimistic of the APC candidate in the Senatorial Bye election because the zone is right from on set , met for APC so Our Party Will surely come out victorious.
He further add that before the closing of voting as specified by electoral law,I hope more elligable voters will Come out to Vote.
by Alexander Aleburu

Plateau State Government Mourns Former Minister Of Defence,Gen.Domkat Bali. 

Plateau State Government Mourns Former Minister Of Defence,Gen.Domkat Bali
By,giwa alex, Jos
The Government of Plateau State says the state and the nation at large has lost one of its patriotic and loyal sons, Former Minister of Defence Gen. Domkat Bali who died at the age of 80 years.
The government mourning statement is contained in a press statement dated 4th November,2020,signed by the Direction of press and Public Affairs to the Governor of the state Mackut Macham and made available to this medium in Jos , Plateau state capital.
Governor Lalong in a statement said the passing of the retired military General is a great loss to the country considering the fact that he was one of the highly decorated officers who served the nation meritoriously in various capacities and proved his worth

.

He recalled that apart from serving the country as Minister of Defence, Gen. Bali was a key member of the Supreme Military Council and Armed Forces Ruling Council, where he held several positions including the Chief of Defence Staff.
He said ” Gen. Bali was focused and committed to the peace and progress of Nigeria and Plateau State in particular where he contributed immensely to addressing the security challenges in the State, always deploying his wealth of knowledge and advising various administrations, and stressed that “Indeed Plateau State has lost an icon”.
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He further said that Gen. Bali, who answered the call of his people to serve as the Ponzhi Tarok many years after his retirement from the military demonstrated so much interest in the welfare of the Taroh nation and did his best to project and protect their interests.
Governor Lalong said even in death, Gen. Bali will continue to inspire young Nigerians who want to serve the nation within the military because of his patriotism, gallantry and principles.
Lalong however condoled his widow, Mrs. Esther Bali, his children, the Taroh nation and the entire State while asking God to grant his soul eternal rest.
by Alexander Aleburu

The Kwandes Has Describes Late AbdulNasser Yahaya as kind, compassionate.

The Kwandes Has Describes Late AbdulNasser Yahaya as kind, compassionate.
Our reporter, Jos
The family of former Nigeria Ambassador to Switzerland , Alh. Yahaya Kwande has described their late son AbdulNasser Yahaya-Kwande as compassionate, kind and a spiritual gentleman.
In a statesman signed by Yusuf Yahaya-Kwande said the family will greatly miss the contented life AbdulNasser lived, he worked for the peace and unity of his people.
“To God we belong and to Him we return. Whatever Allah takes away or gives, belongs to Him, and everything with Him has a limited fixed term (in this world). It is we great sadness we accept the loss of Abdulnasser Yahaya-Kwande.”
The family appreciated the kind visit of prominent Nigerians from all walk of life during the grieved moment and pray God to give them the fortitude to bear the expensive lost.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our family, friends and well wishers who visited us in the family home in Jos, as well as many who called and sent their condolences.
“We are grateful to God for AbdulNasser’s life and the time he spent with us. We ate, worked, laughed and prayed with him. With deep love, He will be fondly remembered.
“He was a compassionate, kind, spiritual gentleman. He will be deeply missed. I pray that Allah forgives all his sins and grant him the highest rank in Al Jannah firdaus.
“May Allah unite our family and grant us the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss. He is survived by his parents, son and several brothers and sisters.”
by Alexander Aleburu

Plateau State : Governor Lalong Denies Withholding LG Salaries.

Plateau State : Governor Lalong Denies Withholding LG Salaries.
By,giwa alex,Jos
Governor Bako Lalong of Plateau state has debunked the allegations from different quarters in the state , expecially from the local government workers in the state that the state government under his leadership withholding the Council’s salaries.
Governor Lalong said contrary to the allegations,he want to use this medium to state categorically that the state government under his watch didn’t withhold the salaries of any work force in the state,and by extension that of the LG council.
Governor Lalong make the clearification in a press statement dated 3rd December,2020, signed by the Commissioner of information and communication Hon.Dan Manjang and made available to this medium in Jos, Plateau stated capital.
According to the press statement,said
In recent days, motorists plying some roads within the Jos-Bukuru metropolis in Plateau State have experienced disruptions arising from blockage of strategic roads within the metropolis resulting to inconveniences and untold hardships.
The blockage of the roads is being carried out by Local Government Workers and Primary School Teachers who are said to be demonstrating and demanding for the implementation of the new minimum wage for their members.
The Government of Plateau State under the leadership of His Excellency Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong, KSGG concedes to the rights of the workers to demonstrate peacefully in line with constitutional provisions in demanding for their rights.
However, due to the disruption to normalcy and negative impact on the economy of the State as well as the tendency for the protests to be hijacked by hoodlums and criminals, it has become important for Government to put the records straight and lay the facts in the court of public opinion.
This is more so when the demonstrators by their chants and pronouncement are vilifying, castigating and calling His Excellency the Governor unprintable names over a matter that is not directly within his purview, and inspite of his efforts to ensure amicable resolution.
In the first place,the statement reads, salaries, emoluments and allowances of Local Government staff and teachers are entirely the responsibility of the Local Government Councils that belong to a different tier of government.
This has been reinforced with the implementation of autonomy to the Local Governments in the State in line with recent national developments, therefore the Governor has no direct responsibility for implementation of the new minimum wage at the Local Government level nor does he possess any fiat to “direct” such payment.
Chanting solidarity songs by the affected staff to the effect that “Lalong ka bamu hakin mu” translated (Lalong give us our wages) is highly misplaced and to say the least mischievous.
Secondly, Governor Simon Bako Lalong has consistently remained a labour-friendly Governor comparable to non in the recent history of Plateau State since assuming office in 2015.
He did not only pay 8 months’ salary arrears of State workers he inherited from the administration of Governor Jonah Jang, but also paid all withheld allowances under the “No-Work-No-Pay” rule.
Today, the statement continued,workers can testify to the fact that he has never owed workers any salary since he took over rather, he has ensured that they get their alerts before the 25th of every month.
Little wonder, the workers themselves named him “Governor Alert”to now suggest that this same Governor is withholding the sweat of Local Government staff and teachers who are being administered by a separate and autonomous tier of government is most uncharitable and condemnable.
Let it be known that when the Plateau State Government began implementing the new minimum wage, the Governor was keen on ensuring that local government staff and teachers are also carried along hence his encouragement of the negotiation process for its implementation in that tier of government.
The Governor having noted the delay in concluding negotiations on the implementation of the new minimum wage at the local government level which affected the payment of October and November 2020 salaries, the Governor convened and chaired an emergency intervention meeting of relevant stakeholders held on Thursday, 26th November 2020.
The meeting which was attended by the Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly and Principal Officers; Chairmen of the 17 Local Governments; and Members of the Joint Negotiating Council Union and Government sides inclusive, resolved to set up a Technical Committee to ascertain the inflow/outflow of all the Local Governments and make appropriate recommendations that will accommodate the payment of the new minimum wage to the workers at the third tier of government.
The further said while everyone, including Governor Lalong was anxiously waiting for the outcome of this committee’s report, the State Government was inundated with threats of protests, disruptions, campaign of calumny, threats to lives and properties of some senior public servants and even politicization of what is purely a labour matter.
This threat the government said was eventually implemented when some of the affected workers embarked on street protests thereby disrupting movement and putting citizens and motorists into sever hardships.
He Said Government recognizes the hardship of the workers and genuinely wants to see that the matter is quickly resolved as enumerated above.
However, it is not unaware of the politicization of the issue by those who are bent on casting aspersions on the “Rescue Administration” and also smearing the excellent record of Governor Lalong in attending to the well-being of all workers and citizens.
The Governor’s state the desperation has gone to ridiculous levels with some even threatening to disrupt the scheduled bye-election for the Plateau South Senatorial District slated 5th December 2020.
In the light of the above, Government wishes to appeal to the aggrieved workers to reconsider their actions and allow the Technical Committee conclude its work for further action.
They should have a rethink and refrain from being used by politicians and other interests to embark of actions that are not only inimical to the State, but also injurious to their cause.
Let them heed the voice of their leaders who are deeply involved in the negotiations and respect the appeal by the Chairman Joint Public Sector Negotiating Team for Plateau State Comrade James Diwa who issued a Press Statement dated 3rd December 2020 wherein he appealed for calm and suspect all protests as the Technical Committee is working to achieve its mandate.
It should be remembered that the State has been struggling with the impact of COVID-19 which has adversely affected the economic fortunes of the State and the nation as a whole.
The recent ENDSARS protests and the attendant looting and destruction of public and private properties, as well as the disruption to economic activities also impact the State negatively.
Only recently, the country again slipped into a recession thereby creating more uncertainty.
With all these challenges, the economy of the State is already fragile and cannot afford further denigration by the disruption of economic activities including blocking of strategic roads that constitute the economic live-wire of the State by local government staff and teachers who are assumed to be fighting for their welfare.
While the Government appeals to the protesting workers to show restraint, understanding and embrace peaceful means of ventilating their grievances, it wishes to assure law abiding citizens that it will not fold its arms and see the State being grounded by any individual or group under whatsoever guise.
In as much as Government has the duty to listen and look into the plight of its workers, including local government staff ,which has continued to do, it also has the responsibility to protect other citizens who desire to engage in lawful businesses to earn their living.
After all, government does not have the capacity to employ all citizens but relies on the private and informal sector to do that.
Stopping people from accessing their destinations is therefore an unnecessary affront that should be avoided at all costs.
by Alexander Aleburu

JNI,Bala Usman Reads Christmas Carol Of Nine Lessons,Sues For Peaceful Coexistence.

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NI,Bala Usman Read Christmas Carol Of Nine Lessons,Sues For Peaceful Coexistence.

By,giwa alex, Jos
JNI which is one of the decisions making body in lslam,and Chairman of Jos North local government area of Plateau state were among the dignitaries who read this year 2020 Tree Lighting and Christmas Carol and Nine Lessons to herald Christmas celebration.
The event which take place in Jos North local government Secretariat open compound 2nd December,2020,is significant as the the two personalities are from the other side of the religious divides lslam.
The JNI represented by the Deputy lmmam of Jos Central mosque who stood in for the Emir of Wase, charged the Christians faithful to unite with their muslims counterparts as to emulate our Lord Jesus Christ who during his time on earth didn’t discriminate between the Jews and the gentles but carried everybody along.
He lamented how things has gone this bad ,as he recounted his childhood experience when he was growing up in the midst of Christians friends as play mates and school without anybody discriminate against base on religious background.
He further stressed that this year 2020 , Carol of Nine Lessons is historic because as a muslim he is amongst the dignitaries who read the Carol of Nine Lessons which he said is very instructive and thought provoking that regardless your religion, what matter is your closeness to the almighty and doing his Will.
He charged both religion to take queue for what has just transpired today where the Muslims ,the Chairman of the council and my humble self who are on the other side of religious divides take part in the reading the Carol of Nine Lessons which ordinarily would have been Christians affairs.
He encourage the Muslims to also borrow leave from what has just transpired here today at the celebration of Carol of Nine Lessons held in Jos North.
In his speech,the chairman management committee Jos North LG, Hon.Bala Usman said the council has made tremendous progress in the organization of the event which started last year with only tree lighting, but this year we have scaled up by adding “Carol of Nine Lessons”which Usman said is as a result of the Council’s approach in inclusive governance.
The chairman added that the Council have chosen this path in Jos North to celebrate humanity and use our diversity as our source of unity and strength.
It is my belief that as people of different faiths, we need to celebrate with each other when ever our religious festivals are at hand.
He said the two major religions in Nigeria, Christianity and Islam both preach love,Peace and tolerance.
It is in the pursuit of this that my administration does not discriminate based on religion, tribe or political affiliation.
“My administration takes a cue from the progressive mindedness of His Excellency the Executive Governor of Plateau State and Chairman Northern Governors Forum Rt Hon. Simon Lalong who has worked hard to ensure that peace is restored in Plateau State.
The Chairman said his doors are widely open for suggestions on how to take Jos North higher to the next level of development.
He assured the citizens of Jos North by extension Plateau state that the government is y working with security agencies to ensure that we maintain peace and security at all times, especially during festive periods like Christmas.

The Governor of Plateau state

Simon Lalong represented by then Commissioner for Special Duties Warr commended the committee chairman of Jos North for his efforts in restoring lasting peace in the local government since he assured office.
by Alexander Aleburu

Plateau State: Chairman JPSNT Appeals To LG Workers To Suspend all forms of protests.

B

y,giwa alex,jos

The Chairman, Joint Public Service Negotiating Team, Plateau State Trade Union, Cmr. James Diwa has appealed to Local Government Workers in the state currently protesting non implementation of the new minimum wage to suspend all forms of protests.

The appeal, according to the chairman was as a result of a meeting between Government and Labour on Monday which led to setting up of a technical committee to ascertain the inflow and outflow of cash of all the Local Governments in the State and make appropriate recommendations for the implementation of the new minimum wage.

A statement signed by the chairman of the union and a copy made available to this medium in Jos , Plateau state capital on Wednesday, reads;

“You are aware that the 7th days ultimatum issued government to implement the minimum wage to Local Government Workers ended yesterday.

“However, a meeting between government and labour on Monday 30th November, 2020 set up a Technical Committee to ascertain the inflow/outflow of each of the 17 LGCs and make appropriate recommendations that will accommodate the payment of the minimum wage to local government workers. “While we share in the hardship workers are passing through in the face of harsh economic realities, we appeal to workers to be calm and suspend all forms of protests for now while the technical committee intensifies effort at completing its assignment to pave a way for the implementation of the new minimum wage to all the local government workers within the shortest possible time”.

According to Comrade James Diwa,recall that local government workers in Plateau state on Monday embarked on a peaceful protest to register their grievance over non implementation of the new minimum wage. The development saw workers blocking some major ways in Jos, the Plateau State capital

:)

by Alexander Aleburu

Governor Lalong Commiserates With Ezekiel Gomos Over His Wife Death.

Governor Lalong Commiserates With Ezekiel Gomos Over His Wife Death.
By,giwa alex ,Jos
The Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has commiserated with former Secretary to the Government of Plateau State and the Chairman of the Plateau State Economic Advisory Council, Nde Ezekiel Gomos, over the death of his wife Mrs. Hauwa Rena Gomos who pass on recently at the age of 58 years.
The Governor Commiseration message is contained in a press statement dated 2nd December,2020 , signed by the director of press and public affairs to the Governor,Makut Macham and made available to this medium in Jos, Plateau State capital.
In the statement, Governor Lalong said he was distressed over the demise of Mrs. Gomos died when she was most needed by her family and the society at large.
Governor Lalong recalled that the late Mrs. Gomos contributed immensely to the development of Plateau State and Nigeria during her career as a teacher and later as land surveyor where she worked with the Federal Department of Surveys as Land Surveyor before resigning to go into private business.
While commiserating with Nde Gomos and members of his family over the loss, the Governor urged him to be strong at this difficult time and take solace in the fact that she lived a productive live and served with love and humility.
The Governor Lalong prayed God to grant her eternal rest and comfort the family.
by Alexander Aleburu

Plateau State: PDP Call For APC’s Disqualification Ahead 5th Dec, Senatorial Bye-Election .

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lateau State: PDP Call For APC’s Disqualification Ahead 5th Dec, Senatorial Bye-Election.

By giwa Alex, Jos
The People Democratic Party (PDP) Plateau State chapter has called for the automatic disqualification of All Progressive Congress (APC) candidate ahead Southern Zone Senatorial Bye election billed to hold 5th Dec,2020,as the candidate of the party is alleged card carring member of the party.
As they alleged that the All Progressive Congress (APC)in the state Is on a clendestian move to buy the December 5th southern Zone Senatorial election to his favor.
The people Democratic party(PDP) plateau state chapter made the startling allegations in a press conference held 3rd Dec,2020 at the Party’s Secretariat Along Abrahim Taiwo Road opposite NTA station in Jos , Plateau State.
The press statement signed and read by the the chairman of the party,Hon Christopher Adukuchili Hassan,alledged that the APC is currently depoying it foot soldiers to Shandam and other area where the election is to be held to cause mayhem if the election didn’t be to their favor.
The Party further add that it’s ironic that the All Progressive Congress (APC)who is parading candidate without valid membership party card go by the Party Constitution, is not suppose to be floor member of a political party let alone the candidate of the Party for a very respected election like Senatorial Bye election and calling for the disqualification of PDP candidate George Daika who by all ramification is a qualified candidate for the election.
The chairman reiterated that contrary to the hoax cry of the fustrated APC, that the party has been disqualified,we as the members of the party in the state are saying without menacing words that the party candidate for 5th December,2020 George Daika is very much in the Plateau South Senatorial Bye election race heading to win the election.
He however called on the Independent National Election Commission (INEC)to Conduct transparent Senatorial Bye election in the state base on the oath of office sworned by the commission to be impartial in protecting the already earned integrity of the Commission ,and urgued the security agencies should protect all electorates during and after the election come Saturday 5th December,2020 to exercise their Civic responsibility.
On the court case rocking the party challenging the election which brought the present Exco on board, the chairman said,that is not the major problem of the party at moment,as the Party’s focus as it stands,is to go for this Senatorial election and come victorious.
Hon.Hassan said the party has put all modalities in place to settle all rifts bedviling the party , as it will come out stronger at the end of the day.
by Alexander Aleburu

Northern Christians Advocates For Structure Of Governance To Protect Nigerians interest.

Northern Christians Advocates For Structure Of Governance To Protect Nigerians interest.

By,giwa alex,Jos
Christians under the auspacies of Arewa Pastors Forum For Peace has Advocates strongly for the restructuring of governance by Buhari led Government that will Protect the interest of all Nigerians as against what is been operating currently.
And called for physical protection and support for farmers who are now becoming endanger species in the hands of the insurgent particularly the trouble North-East zone ,to stem the tide of emerging food insecurity and nutritional crisis as exemplified in the recent lootings of Covid-19 Palliatives across the states of the Federation.
The advocacy is contained in a keynote address by the National President of “Arewa Pastor’s Forum For Peace by Bishop MJ Ndarchang at third International Ministers’ Conference held at the Rwang Pam Township Stadium in Jos, Plateau State capital.
The Forum use the conference to Call on the government to as a matter of national emergency weigh into the present abject poverty ravaging the rural-urban divide which has entrenched inqualities in the population.
As the religious body used the conference to send a strong worded message to Mr President Mohammedu Buhari to as a matter of urgency address the issue the nation’s economy currently nose diving to be more productive for ordinary Nigerias and address unemployment , poverty and low wages.
He however decried the indiscriminate manner the apex bank of the country (CBN)in the lending of loans to Nigeria based on hard to explain criteria,an called on the Central Bank of Nigeria to take it opon itself on how farmers can get interest free loans to aid them in their farming activities.
On the current killings in the country with no security solutions,the Christians body called on President Buhari to call for search and mopping up of the proliferation of small arms and light weapons more especially the northern state of the country,as they called for complete overhaul of the security architecture in line with the yearning and aspirations of Nigerians.
The Pastors Forum called on the government to see to the resuscitation of the moribund industries in the country which has shoot up unemployment in the country, which if put in place can provide employments for the teeming youths in the country.
The chairman decried the violent attack in the northern states which has displaced many Christians communities particularly in Borno state ,and other surrounding State of the Federation ,this has left behind thousand of widows and orphans.
Bishop Ndarchang use the keynote address to call on the religious father to have unity of purpose and unite to see that the next CAN president Come from the northern zone , to avoid always playing second fiddle.
The theme of this year Pastors Conference For Peace which is the 3rd in it series,is ” Power of Unity In The New Horizon”
by Alexander Aleburu

Pastors Condemns Kidnapping, Banditry And Peace Threaten Activities In Nigeria

Pastors Condemns Kidnappings, Banditry And Peace ThreatenActivities In Nigeria.

By,giwa alex,Jos
The Nigeria Pastors under the auspacies of Arewa Pastors Forum For Peace has add it voice to the high rate of kidnapping, banditry and other peace threatening activities freely going on in Nigeria.
And condemned the recent #Endsars Protest which was hijacked by hoodlums to unleashed mayhem on the government and private properties and condoled those who were one way or the other affected negatively.
The chairman of Arewa Pastors For Peace Rev.Sylvester Dombin made the condemnation at the occasion of the Third International Strategic Conference of Arewa Pastors Forum For Peace (APFFP), held at the Rwang Pam Township Stadium ,Jos, Plateau State held from ,2nd-6th November,2020.
The chairman lamented the continue killings in some parts of the country that refuse to go away,the action which is currently threatening the peace and development of Nigeria to its very existence.
The chairman also used his welcome address to condmed the adoption of the man of God Rev.Polycarp Zongo and others men of God who are still being held by their adoptor still in captivity which he said is very saddened.
He said the forum have come as representative of our fast growing forum and as stakeholders in the Nigeria project to Remind Ourselves As Change Agents And Peace Ambassador to develop new ways of building peace and be proactive about it in a pragmatic and systematic way,also ,to canvass for collaboration aimed at bringing lasting Peace In Nigeria.
He charged those looking at the resurgence of religiosity in contemporary politics , peacekeeping , peacemaking ,peace building and conflict resolution in post reconstruction shouldn’t be viewed as an inheretly dangerous force,as scholars have argued a new secular religious model of inter-faith,inter-state diplomacy , good information/intelligence gathering mechanism loom as developments with significant potential to resolve conflicts and minimize hatred for one another.
As the chairman however reiterated the forum aims and objectives to include society free from ethnic, religious, cultural difference and discrimination.
The Conference which has it theme as “The Power Of Unity In The New Horizons “,will come to a close on Saturday 6th November,2020.
by Alexander Aleburu

Governors Condemns The Grusome Killing Of Borno Farmers.

Governors Condemns The Grusome KillingsOf Borno Farmers.
By, giwa alex, Jos
The Governors under aegise of Northern Governors Forum has condmed in strong term the recent grusome killing of Borno Rice Farmers in Zabarmari, Borno State by Boko Haram insurgents.
The grusome killings of the farmers by the heartless members of Boko Haram insurgent is contained in a press statement dated 29th November,2020 , signed by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State who doubled as the Chairman of the Forum Makut Macham and made available to this medium in Jos , Plateau State.
Lalong said the entire country is deeply saddened over the killing of the innocent rice farmers who committed no crime, except to go to the farm to earn their living.
He said the tragic incident is a great setback to the efforts of Nigeria to attain domestic sufficiency in rice production as well as food security.
He said the Forum has consistently worked with the Federal Government, security agencies and local support groups to ensure that farmers are protected in order to enable them carry out farming activities.
Lalong said despite this condemnable act, the Forum will not relent in its support to security agencies to deal decisively with the terrorists and other criminals.
The Governor commiserated with the families of the deceased farmers as well as the people and government of Borno State over the unfortunate incident.
by Alexander Aleburu

Plateau State: Langtang North LG workers Stage Protest Over New Minimum wage

Plateau State : Langtang North LG Workers Stage Protest Over New Minimum Wage.
By, giwa alex,Jos
The Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE),Langtang North Local Government Council Chapter has on Monday stage a local protest over non implementation of their new minimum wage by Lalong led government in the state.
In an interview with the Chairman of the Council ,Hon Joshua Ubandoma Laven in telephone says ,the situation has been brought under control but the situation is still unbearably raising frail nerves.
He said the local government Union leaders presented him with their letter of dissatisfaction over non implementation of the 30,000.00 new minimum wage which was signed into since law since year 2015 .
According to him ,they embarked on a peaceful protest and their letter was copied to all the security agencies in Langtang North LGA demanding for full implementation of rate .
Hon. Laven who said ,as a member of the committee on salary review ,he is working toward implementing the law on new minimum wage to the staff of the Council but one of the biggest challenges for now is that some local governments are record low lnterna Generated Revenues (lGR) .
Hon. Joshua Ubandoma expressed optimism that with the low income generation, government is looking for better ways of addressing the welfare of staff for better productivity .
We are employing strategy to ensure that civil servants working in Langtang North LGA are better improve and to function effectively to improve on their well-being,he maintained.
He disclosed that the Council has concluded plan to launch the Council’s Radio station on the 3rd December, 2020 ,we are now test running it to see the booster outreach .
However, the situation is presently calm , but I have to address the protesters by making them understand that we are making adequate arrangement to effect the new payment soon ,if government harmonize the salary structures .
by Alexander Aleburu

Court Threatens To Remand Chairman In Prison Over PYC Election On Court Contempt.

Court Threatens To Remand Chairman In Prison Over PYC Election On Court Contempt.
By,giwa alex, Jos
The High Court sitting in Jos, Plateau State capital has threatened to commit the chairman election Committee of Plateau Youth Council (PYC) Ignatius Dama to prison for flagrantly disobeying the court order despite the repeated warning for parties to maintain status quo in the matter brought before it.
As the presiding Judge , Justice Mohammed Nafisatu of the Federal Court 10 frawned on how the court order is being disobeyed with impunity by the defendant in the case brought before it by the body.
The Plateau Youth Council (PYC) association for the youth in the state with particular age bracket is in court to challenge the composition of the election committee body whose age bracket falls outside the youth constitutional specified age which automatically disqualified the chairman of the electoral body PYC.
The case which was slated 27th November,2020 for final written addresses couldn’t not countinue because the counsel to the plantiffs Barr. Pam said my Lord although today is slated for written addresses, but I don’t think it would be possible because I couldn’t write my written address because the defendant has vowed to continue with the preparation for the election even when the court has ordered the parties in the matter to maintain Status quo pending the court determination over the matter.
The Counsel to the plantiffs further add that as we speak my Lord,the timetable for the Conduct of the election for all the Exco of (PYC) is in circulation and the aspirants contesting various positions has been adequately briefed on the modalities for the election which is billed to commence by 3rd-7th December.And lamented that if the court order is not adhered to by litigants,there is no need of coming to seek redress in court of law and I see no reason for me to continue with the matter when some people are bent in with the Youth Council’s election undermainding the order of the court.
In quick reaction,the presiding Judge Justice Nafisatu Mohammed of court 10 frawed at the attitude of Nigeria whom she refferred to as “Bunches Of Ingnorance People With Little Or No Knowledge Of The Implications Of Their Actions”,who don’t or refuse to know the consequences of their actions.
Justice Nafisatu command the defendant chairman of PYC Election Committee ingnatius Dama who was physically present in court to stand up and explain while he should not been remanded in prison for blatantly disobeying court order which is tantamount to court contempt which attracted been remand in prison custody,the counsel to the electoral chairman quickly intervened as he promised the court that his clients will henceforth obey the court order.
The court however reiterated the need for the parties to maintain Status quo pending the court determination on the case brought before it.
As Justice Nafisatu issued out a strong warming to the parties in the matter and direct their counsels to prevail on their clients in other to maintain Status quo.
The case is however adjourned to 11th December,2020 for continuation of final written addresses.
by Alexander Aleburu

The Lies And Deception On The Buhari Administration To The Nigerian Youths. 

T

he Lies And Deception On The Buhari Administration To The Nigerian Youths.

By, Sen. Dino Melaye.
If speak the truth you will die, you lie, you will die so why not speak the truth and die. It is time to call a spade what it really is, a spade. Government is wasting Instead of utilising the little resource allocated properly. It is absurd for Government to dash monies out and call it other names.
I have warned severally about the difference in “dashing stipends”, creating jobs and generating jobs,
These are 3 different things entirely;
The government keeps deeping hands in the coffers “dashing” people stipends and calling it job creation or youth empowerment!
Check this:
When you allocate for example 75billion for youths development as seen for Nigerian youths; who exactly or what exactly are you doing?
..because in your own statistics of over 40million unemployed Nigerian youths
..or 130 million youth population as always “purported” by the bureau for statistics,
Then you help me do a little calculation…
75billion shared amongst 75.000 youths will go 1million each;
75billion shared amongst 750.000 youths will go 100.000 each;
75billion shared amongst 7.5million youths will go 1k each; thus..
In your statistics consideration of total youths population or unemployed Nigerian youths you can see that your 75billion youths empowerment funds will only “dash” 7.5 million Nigerian youths 1k each out of the 40million unemployed,
..and “dash” 75.000 youths 1million each or….
750.000 youths 100k each if distributed “sincerly”
The question is have you “empowered ” created or generated any job here?
What would the average Nigeraian youth do with
1k, 100k or even 1m as the case might be for sustainable development or job sustenance in this very “unfriendly” business and survival economy we have in our country today.
You see when we all applaud and rejoice over the sound and mention of certain sum for Job or youths development purpose
we should properly evaluate the intent and actuals if it is of any tangible relief or impact in ameliorating the sufferings or expectations of the average “hunger and hardship” ravaged Nigerian youth.
I believe with the above calculation you can even add up all the funds supposedly allocated for one form of public aid, development or Grant’s together and devide amongst the unemployed or overall youths statistics.
You’ll see that for example;
the 75billion youths development funds and
75billion business grant funds
Which equals to 150billion in two different release directives
will only give out of the 40million unemployed Nigerian youth 1k each to 15million youths only.
….are we serious to really tackle this “monster issue of unemployment ? Or we are planning for the “devils concert” ahead when these monsters we are making realise this calculation and the reason why all the government say they have been doing or putting in to confederations is just a “rhythm for the gods”
Let’s build a National youths database
With the cardinals of proper youths statistics Identification,
Qualification Identifications
Skills Identifications
Interest Identifications
And Passion Identification
These would be a parameter for determining effective and sustainable program planning, Grant’s distributions, Job creation and Empowerment options.
These will to a very large extent show a genuine sincerity of purpose and readiness to do the right programs, projects and public/youths allocations going further.
…at this point I Senator Dino Melaye will leave you to do a little research of all the funds put up for different areas of peoples support, public works and youths development; add them up and devide amongst 40 million or 130 million let’s see what and how much we have or would have done. We must also realize that all said above is if there is sincerity in the distribution which of course we know is impossible. The cabal, cronies and family will steal not less than 20billion naira out of the 75billion naira. There is no difference between this and MAMSER, PEOPLES BANK, NDE,TRADER MONEY,NPOWER,NAPEP, Etc. All are stop gap measures and deceptive tools to continuously subjugate and perpetually keep the youth poor and unemployed.
by Alexander Aleburu

PDP crises : Court sacks Hon Chris Hassan Exco, Order for fresh congresses in Plateau

PDP Crises : Court Sacks Hon Chris Hassan Exco Order For Fresh congresses In Plateau

By, giwa Alex,Jos
A Plateau State High Court sitting in Jos on Thursday has sacked Hon Chris Hassan led Exco conducted by Hon Yakubu Chocho care taker committee by describing the Congress as illegal that lacking in merit under the law of natural justice .
Justice P.S.Gang while delivery judgment on a suit filed by the Former Member Representing Jos South /Jos East Federal Constituency challenging their exclusion and calling them non card carrier of the PDP .
The judgment read that for the national Secretariat to reappointed the Hon Yakubu Chocho into the care taker committee to conducts screening for themselves as illegal, unconstitutional base on section 223 of the federal republic of Nigeria amended and section 25(a) of PDP guidelines for the conduct of wards ,LGs and state congresses as stipulated .
The judgment explained further that the PDP exco whose tenure expired on the 6th June 2020 after four years then sometimes in July presented a purported letter claiming to be sent by the PDP National Secretariat and they are also aspirants for the various positions from 2nd -25th defendants as they constituted themselves into caretaker committee to enable them rig election in their favour and denied other aspirants that is unconstitutional .
According to the judgment ,the PDP national Secretariat has the right to extend the tenure of exco but that should be done by a neutral exco that can screen and ensure credibility and transparency in the entire exercise .
He said if the PDP national Secretariat allow such act to continued that can amounted to tenure elongation to rubbish members vying for the same position under the same political party .
Speaking to Hon Bitrus Kaze at the Court premises after the judgement have been entered in his favour on ,how did you feel?
Kaze explained that he is so happy,not just because the judgement is on his favour but that it has added value to democracy and subsequently the judgement is an indication that you cannot be a judge in your matter.
According to him, “this is what has disrupted fairness in PDP, this is what fabricated lack of fairness in the party that should have been the envy of all political parties “.
He pointed out that ” aside entering judgement in your favor the court order for compensation of #2million so I feel highly honoured that this judgment captured all the Kangaroo congresses conducted by the Yakubu Chocho led Caretaker committee PDP “.
The judgement explained vividly that all aspirants who bought the party nomination form are eligible to contest for the congress that is yet ,it would have been within 10th Aug,2020 when the tenure of the caretaker is within the law and has not elapse,to me that is fundamental .
He commended the judiciary for adding value to the beauty of our democracy because the caretaker committee was further extended, of which that extension is interpreted by the court to be illegal and therefore null and void of no effect.
Kaze added that , most importantly the court stresses very,very clearly that anybody that want to pervert the course of natural Justice will have the Court of law to contend with so that is the reason why we are here in the Court believing that the court will listen to us and today we can go home and sleep .
Hon. Bitrus Kaze said that the issues claimed by Hon Yakubu Chocho disclaiming some of us that we are not member of PDP that we don’t pay our prescribed dues to the party, the court said ,”we are member of the political Party even if the party could not determine the issue of membership, but your ward do which is fundamental and rewarding in politicking and the court refused to module into it”.
Hon. Bitrus disclosed that the judgment has just robbed his party and a very close associate which he described as total sadness but the law of the land has to take it position.
We have said it severally,in the course the judgement,of his lordship the court maintained that we complainants ought to have been attended to their complaint but they turn a deaf ear to listen to them .
Kaze add that it is consequential of any other Congress and other bye product , in other words,any other decisions the Party took beyond 10th August,2020 ,in the name of Congress and caretakers,is null and void and of no effect. lt and stand nullified and one of such decisions is the plateau Southern Senatorial Bye Election.
He said you can’t extend the caretaker congress beyond August 10th,2020;and expect the bye product to stand.
Its very hard for you to bear particularly when it involve your friends , somebody I know,and more importantly my party but the position of the law most be respected .
Speaking earlier,the Counsel to the plaintiff Abdullahi Munir said his clients are in court because the tenure of the executive committee of the people Democratic party has elapsed and the same people that is partaking in the election is met to serve as caretaker committee.
My clients feit they will not get Justice , because the same people will be involved in the screening of candidates in the election.
The implications of today judgement is of two folds, that the PDP as Party have the right to constitute committee but after 3 months,they did not have the power to extend it.
Secondly, that the court had ordered fresh Conduct of the party’s Congress within 90 days and all the elligable candidates of the People Democratic party (PDP) should be given free hands to participate.
In addition,the cost of 2Million is awarded to the plaintiffs.
PDP crises : Court sacks Hon Chris Hassan Exco order for fresh congresses in Plateau
By, giwa Alex,Jos
A Plateau State High Court sitting in Jos on Thursday has sacked Hon Chris Hassan led Exco conducted by Hon Yakubu Chocho care taker committee by describing the Congress as illegal that lacking in merit under the law of natural justice .
Justice P.S.Gang while delivery judgment on a suit filed by the Former Member Representing Jos South /Jos East Federal Constituency challenging their exclusion and calling them non card carrier of the PDP .
The judgment read that for the national Secretariat to reappointed the Hon Yakubu Chocho into the care taker committee to conducts screening for themselves as illegal, unconstitutional base on section 223 of the federal republic of Nigeria amended and section 25(a) of PDP guidelines for the conduct of wards ,LGs and state congresses as stipulated .
The judgment explained further that the PDP exco whose tenure expired on the 6th June 2020 after four years then sometimes in July presented a purported letter claiming to be sent by the PDP National Secretariat and they are also aspirants for the various positions from 2nd -25th defendants as they constituted themselves into caretaker committee to enable them rig election in their favour and denied other aspirants that is unconstitutional .
According to the judgment ,the PDP national Secretariat has the right to extend the tenure of exco but that should be done by a neutral exco that can screen and ensure credibility and transparency in the entire exercise .
He said if the PDP national Secretariat allow such act to continued that can amounted to tenure elongation to rubbish members vying for the same position under the same political party .
Speaking to Hon Bitrus Kaze at the Court premises after the judgement have been entered in his favour on ,how did you feel?
Kaze explained that he is so happy,not just because the judgement is on his favour but that it has added value to democracy and subsequently the judgement is an indication that you cannot be a judge in your matter.
According to him, “this is what has disrupted fairness in PDP, this is what fabricated lack of fairness in the party that should have been the envy of all political parties “.
He pointed out that ” aside entering judgement in your favor the court order for compensation of #2million so I feel highly honoured that this judgment captured all the Kangaroo congresses conducted by the Yakubu Chocho led Caretaker committee PDP “.
The judgement explained vividly that all aspirants who bought the party nomination form are eligible to contest for the congress that is yet ,it would have been within 10th Aug,2020 when the tenure of the caretaker is within the law and has not elapse,to me that is fundamental .
He commended the judiciary for adding value to the beauty of our democracy because the caretaker committee was further extended, of which that extension is interpreted by the court to be illegal and therefore null and void of no effect.
Kaze added that , most importantly the court stresses very,very clearly that anybody that want to pervert the course of natural Justice will have the Court of law to contend with so that is the reason why we are here in the Court believing that the court will listen to us and today we can go home and sleep .
Hon. Bitrus Kaze said that the issues claimed by Hon Yakubu Chocho disclaiming some of us that we are not member of PDP that we don’t pay our prescribed dues to the party, the court said ,”we are member of the political Party even if the party could not determine the issue of membership, but your ward do which is fundamental and rewarding in politicking and the court refused to module into it”.
Hon. Bitrus disclosed that the judgment has just robbed his party and a very close associate which he described as total sadness but the law of the land has to take it position.
We have said it severally,in the course the judgement,of his lordship the court maintained that we complainants ought to have been attended to their complaint but they turn a deaf ear to listen to them .
Kaze add that it is consequential of any other Congress and other bye product , in other words,any other decisions the Party took beyond 10th August,2020 ,in the name of Congress and caretakers,is null and void and of no effect. lt and stand nullified and one of such decisions is the plateau Southern Senatorial Bye Election.
He said you can’t extend the caretaker congress beyond August 10th,2020;and expect the bye product to stand.
Its very hard for you to bear particularly when it involve your friends , somebody I know,and more importantly my party but the position of the law most be respected .
Speaking earlier,the Counsel to the plaintiff Abdullahi Munir said his clients are in court because the tenure of the executive committee of the people Democratic party has elapsed and the same people that is partaking in the election is met to serve as caretaker committee.
My clients feit they will not get Justice , because the same people will be involved in the screening of candidates in the election.
The implications of today judgement is of two folds, that the PDP as Party have the right to constitute committee but after 3 months,they did not have the power to extend it.
Secondly, that the court had ordered fresh Conduct of the party’s Congress within 90 days and all the elligable candidates of the People Democratic party (PDP) should be given free hands to participate.
In addition,the cost of 2Million is awarded to the plaintiffs.