Israel and Nigeria would soon commence regular direct flights. The Israeli Tourism Minister, Yoel Razvozov disclosed this recently in Jerusalem during a meeting with the Executive Secretary, Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission, Rev Dr Yakubu Pam who met with the Tourism Minister twice during his recent visit to Israel. The Tourism Minister explained that the initial plan was to operate only charter flights between both countries, but the major focus now is to operationalize regular direct flights between the two countries. Their meeting was primarily centred on mutually beneficial relationship between both countries which was hinged on how to operate regular flights by a Nigerian airline. The Minister affirmed that Nigeria,s current population of 206 million stands the country at advantage position as the most populous black nation on the African continent.He added that christians constitute about 50 percent of the population of Nigeria, hence the country has a reasonable number of intending pilgrims she can boast of. Mr Razvozor posited that the direct regular flights by a Nigerian airline to Israel would certainly galvanize intending pilgrims from Nigeria to fly often to the Holy Sites in Israel and even boost their financial strength. However, he was not sure whether the regular direct flights would operate from Lagos, Nigeria,s commercial capital or from Abuja the official capital of Nigeria.He assured the NCPC boss that this would be sorted out as events unfolds. The Israeli Tourism Minister commended the bold efforts of the NCPC boss at repositioning the bilateral relationship between Nigeria and Israel through Pilgrimage. He further commended him for finding time to visit Israel for the meeting.He added that the NCPC boss would be making history when the regular direct flight between Nigeria and Israel kicks off; being the current Executive Secretary of NCPC who played key role in its actualization. Signed Celestine Toruka Head, Media and Public Relations 30th July, 2022.
Bearing any last minute delay the Senator representing Plateau south at the National assembly Sensor Nora Dadu’ut is set to dump the Rulling all progressive Congress following the latest crisis and insecurity revaging the country
This follows as the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC is struggling to maintain its majority in the Senate as 12 Senators have indicated interest in dumping the party for the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.
Actual news learned that last Wednesday, during an Executive session, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, (All Progressive Grand Alliance, APGA, Abia-South) had moved a motion for issues on Buhari’s impeachment to be discussed.
The APC currently enjoys the majority in the senate with 61 senators while the PDP has 40 senators. The All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA has 1, New Nigeria Peoples Party 2, Young Progressives Party, YPP, 1 and Labour Party with one senator.
The motion was seconded by Senator Adamu Bulkachuwa, (APC -Bauchi North) as several lawmakers were miffed at the poor state of security with increasing wave of terrorists’ attacks across the country and recent spate of attacks in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
A legislative aide privy to details of the session disclosed; “There was no opposition during the executive session, according to what the senator told me. It was agreed the issue will be tabled for discussion during plenary under Point of Order (PoO).”
“They were all surprised when the Senate Minority Leader, Senator Phillip Aduda, (PDP-Abuja), raised the issue and it was shut down by the Lawan.”
“They are feeling someone in that closed-door session tipped off the president and his team, who immediately got in touch with Lawan to shoot it down,” he said.
This angered the legislators as all PDP senators staged a walk-out accompanied by some APC senators.
Below are the Names of the Senators set to join the PDP;
1. Senator Adamu Bulkachuwa, (APC -Bauchi North)
2. Senator Ladi Dadu’ut, (APC – Plateau South)
3. Senator Bello Mandiya, (APC – Katsina South)
4. Senator Ibrahim Oloriegbe, (APC – Kwara Central)
5. Senator Danladi Sankara, (APC – Jigawa West)
6. Senator Sabi Aliyu Abdullahi, (APC – Niger North)
Ahead of the 2023 general elections and in an attempt at stock taking of the APC in Kanam Local Government Area,the Executive Chairman,Hon.Dr.Dayyabu Yusuf Garga has held a meeting and directed all stakeholders to return to their wards and discuss progress and development of the party.
He has further asked them to have interface with all concerned towards addressing challenges if there are any.
Meeting with all elected and supervisory councilors,special advisers,senior and special assistants,former councilors,former deputy chairman of the council as well as elders and other critical stakeholders,Dayyabu Garga pointed out that the do not have a choice than to preach the APC because of how impactful it has been to them as a people in the area.
He said the Governor Simon Lalong administration has tried its best in getting to the grassroots hence its attraction of development which Kanam has benefited.
Garga added that in a democracy,challenges are bound to be faced as such as a family there is the need to return and iron out issues then move forward as one hence the meeting with them and directive to move down to the people.
“We have the Badawa Zone,Dugub,Gagdi and Gid Gid wards as such it is imperative that we consolidate on the gains and strength that we have.We will continue to initiate and execute projects that will touch the lives of our people positively as directed by His Excellency Governor Simon Bako Lalong so I am further directing you all to act in compliance as you have always done”.
The Executive Chairman said the APC has paraded very qualified candidates with quality in the persons of Dr.Nentawe Yilwada for Governor,Hon Diket Plang for Senate,Rt.Hon.Yusuf Gagdi for PKK,Hon.Bala Noma and Karlmax all of Kanam LGA as such victory is sure in the coming elections.
He equally charged them to deliver other APC candidates across board so that Kanam will benefit more in the coming administration.
Various sums were thereafter donated by the Chairman and some stakeholders to facilitate movement of the stakeholders to the nooks and crannies of the LGA.
JOS MAIN MARKET: PLATEAU STATE IS NOT CEDING MARKET
BACKGROUND:
It is common knowledge that the Jos Main Market is one of the iconic landmarks of Plateau State and a source of pride to the citizens who hold it dear to their hearts. The destruction of the market in 2002 has therefore remained one of the most tragic incidents to ever befall the State which caused unquantifiable economic loses, emotional trauma and denied the State tourist and business opportunities which prevailed before its destruction.
During the campaign for the Governorship of Plateau State in 2015, Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong (then candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC) promised to rebuild the market if elected. Those who watched the gubernatorial election debate would recall that whereas Lalong promised to rebuild the market, his major opponent said otherwise. At the end of the day, the electorate made their choice based upon this promise and many others that the APC candidate offered.
Therefore, upon coming into office in 2015, the Governor began the process of rebuilding the Jos Main Market as one of his key priorities. His Rescue Administration contacted major financial institutions and investors within and outside the country for the project. Many came with huge enthusiasm and promises which appeared promising and prompted the Government to demolish the existing parts of the structure on May 17 2019 in preparation for the reconstruction. It is important to note that at this point that a lot of politically motivated propaganda had started being circulated against the efforts of the Governor where it was alleged that billions were spent to demolish the structure. This was false.
Nevertheless, the Government was not deterred and continued detailed discussions with the investors that indicated interest in rebuilding the market. These discussions got deeper but became stuck upon requests from the intending investors and financial institutions which in summary required that Plateau State:
a. Gives them a Bank Guarantee
b. Letter of Comfort to own and manage the market for as long as it takes them to recoup their investment
c. Guarantee to off-take 70% of the shops (in other words buy them)
d. Bring 20% of the cost of reconstruction aside the land being its equity etc.
These negotiations which involved many experts and key Government officials continued and the offers did not favour the State but put it at a disadvantage. Moreover, the Government was not in a position to give Bank Guarantee of almost 20 billion naira that some investors submitted. It could not also pledge to off-take the shops when built instead of buyers doing so. Many would remember that the Government was committed to settling backlog of inherited salaries from the previous PDP administration and ensuring paying regularly; completing abandoned projects inherited from the PDP; working to improve IGR among others which meant it could not guarantee such demands made by the prospective investors. The Governor further met with foreign and local investors who did not also provide any better deal for the State in the rebuilding of the Jos Main Market. Looking at other commitments of the Government already tied to its monthly income, it was not possible to enter into another funding that will be a huge burden for the State and nearly impossible to handle.
THE JAIZ BANK OFFER:
Despite the setbacks, Governor Lalong kept hope alive and promised to do his best to fulfill his promise to the people of Plateau State who gave him their mandate in 2015 and 2019. This determination yielded positive results when the Governor upon learning of other huge market projects in various Northern, Eastern and South South States funded by Jaiz Bank Plc, decided to engage them on the idea of rebuilding the burnt Jos Main Market. Talks started in 2021 between the State Government and Jaiz Bank. Series of deliberations were held which brought up the following offer by the investing bank.
1. The Bank will finance the reconstruction of the market 100% with the Plateau State Government not required to pay a kobo.
2. The Land (over 7.4 hectares) is the equity of the Plateau State Government which it is contributing to the project.
3. The project will be done in three phases yielding a total of 4,321 shops which will be shared in the ratio of 60% (Jaiz Bank) 40% (Plateau Government).
4. The 60-40% ratio is for the purpose of leasing out the shops only. The entire market still belongs to the Plateau State Government.
5. Those who lease the shops from either Plateau State Government or Jaiz bank will own it for a period of 40 years after which ownership returns to the Government. At this point, new investors can purchase from the State Government or the existing buyers renew their leases.
6. As soon as Jaiz Bank finishes selling its 60%, it will cease to have any interest in the market as those holding the lease will deal only with the Plateau State Government through the management of the Market (Jos Main Market Authority) and the Ministry of Commerce which is a parastatal of the Government.
7. The entire shops will be sold to interested buyers without prejudice to faith, ethnicity or political affiliations. It is open for the public to invest in.
8. The first phase will be delivered and commissioned before the end of the tenure of Governor Lalong.
Having gone through the offer by Jaiz Bank, the State Executive Council further subjected the proposal to extensive deliberations and scrutiny and came to the conclusion that the deal was good for the State and the investor, hence its approval. Besides, the Government carried out its due diligence to study the track record of Jaiz Bank in delivering such projects. It found that the bank in partnership with Kano State government and private investors, is constructing a multi-million world-class drug-only wholesale market, the first of its type in Nigeria, at the Kano Economic City. In a similar arrangement, the bank in partnership with the Niger State Government, is developing three hectares in the Minna City Centre to provide for a shopping complex, modern underground parks, modern filling station, warehouses, corner shops, restaurants and a recreational centre. It is also doing so in Kaduna and Enugu States among others. Based on above examples of performance profile and experience the Plateau State Government is optimistic of the bank’s capacity to handle the Jos market project and deliver.
Therefore, the Government has also engaged the leadership of the Plateau State House of Assembly and its relevant Committees on the benefits of the project to the State.
SENSITIZATION AND AWARENESS:
Thereafter, the State EXCO mandated its relevant MDAs to carry out sensitization and awareness by engaging various stakeholders ahead of the signing of the MOU for Rebuilding the Jos Main Market. The Governor also personally engaged top religious, traditional, elders and other leaders of thought on the project knowing fully the passion that they have on the market which is a great heritage of the State. As part of the engagement and sensitization, the Hon. Commissioners for Commerce, Information and Communication and other Government officials met with stakeholders representing various groups in the State to breakdown the content of the proposed MOU between Plateau State Government and Jaiz Bank. This was successfully done with questions being raised by those in attendance and answers provided.
Regrettably, the outcome of this engagement has been twisted, politicised and reported under the caption “Governor Lalong cedes Jos Main Market to Islamic Bank”. This has unnecessarily invoked passions and emotions portraying a false narrative that the State was parting with its cherished heritage to an “Islamic Bank”. While the Government respects the rights of its citizens to raise questions on every decision and make their observations and displeasure known, the Rescue Administration wishes to allay the fears being raised as the deal will not work against the State. Rather, it is an opportunity to once again raise the sleeping giant heritage of the famous Jos Main Market which has not added any value to the Government and its people since it was burnt down 21 years ago. Government assures the citizens of Plateau State that sensitization and enlightenment will continue before, during and after the reconstruction in order to address genuine concerns which require answers and clarifications.
BENEFITS OF THE DEAL TO PLATEAU STATE AND ITS CITIZENS
While Jaiz Bank hopes to make profit from the partnership for its shareholders, the Government and people of Plateau State also stands to gain a lot from the reconstruction of the Jos Main Market. Here are some expected benefits for the State and its citizens.
1. The State will generate more revenue from the operations of the market and be able to carry out other projects and programmes for the good of the people.
2. The moribund Jos Main Market Authority (JMMA) will be brought back to life as it is saddled with the responsibility of managing the market.
3. All willing and able Plateau citizens will be given an opportunity to buy and own shops in the market either from the State Government (40%) or Jaiz Bank (60%).
Priority will be given to those who lost shops in the burnt market to in the sales of the new shops.
5. Government will monitor the sale of the market to ensure that no individuals or groups are given unfair treatment over others in the sale of the market on basis of faith, ethnicity, political affiliation or other considerations. There will be equity, fairness and justice to all.
6. Property around the Jos Main Market area will appreciate in value
7. More jobs will be created during and after the construction.
8. More people will visit Plateau State for trading activities and tourism thereby generating more economic activities and revenue.
9. The market will further promote the efforts of the Rescue Administration in restoring the peace and harmony of the past since the market embraces people with different faiths, ethnicity and origins.
10. The success of this partnership will boost the confidence of other investors to come into the State and establish their presence and partner with the Government in other projects and programmes.
CONCLUSION:
From the foregoing, it is very clear that the intentions of the Plateau State Government is pure and well thought out as they are for the benefit of the State and its citizens. The terms of the MOU between the Government and Jaiz Bank are clear and be be scrutinised and can be verified. The Rescue Administration under the leadership of Rt. Hon. (Dr) Simon Bako Lalong will never do anything to mortgage the heritage, rights and privileges of its people. On the contrary, the Lalong administration is buying back sold assets such as the BARC Farms which has been acquired. In the reconstruction of the Jos Main Market, Government has weighed all the options and found that this deal is the most favourable considering the lack of funds for the Government to carry out direct intervention or take a loan with astronomical interest rates. Leaving the market at its current state does not do anyone good because it is not generating anything for the State and its citizens. Rather, the land remains wasted and a hideout for criminals.
The Government wishes to assure the citizens that everything is being done to ensure that interested Plateau people benefit from the shops and also participate in the economic activities that will come up once the market is delivered.
Therefore, the Government appeals to all citizens to carefully peruse the project and avoid being deceived by politicians who are bent on ensuring that the market is not reconstructed so as to score cheap political point against Governor Lalong and the APC particularly at the eve of the general elections.
Bottom line is that Jos Main Market is the property of Plateau State and shall remain so for ever. However, it makes no economic sense for the property to remain at its current state of decomposition when it can be revived and put to use in a win- win situation for the benefit of the citizens. If any citizen has a better and genuine offer for the reconstruction of the market than the one on the table right now, the Lalong Government is a listening one and would pay attention. As at today, there has not been such offer. What is needed is the unity of purpose and the will to make this project a reality for posterity and the good of the people of Plateau State. Not everything needs to be politicised.
There is no need for anxiety, sentiments, misgivings, misconceptions and misrepresentation which is being pushed out by political forces that has resulted in name-calling, insults and hatred of both Government and individuals in the social media and otherwise. As a matter of fact as Government is aware of planned demonstrations being sponsored by the opposition against this noble gesture initiative between Plateau State Government and Jaiz Bank.
The menace of drug trafficking and abuse coupled with its spiraling effect of cultism and crime, is a cankerworm ravaging the youthful population in Nigeria, with Plateau State feeling the brunt. This concern formed the nucleus of discourse with the Plateau State commandant of the NDLEA, Mr. Umar Yahuza where he lamented a surge in the use of narcotic drugs as evidenced in the arrests and convictions of drug traffickers lately. It is the root cause of this menace that Gov Simon Lalong is attacking by providing massive employment and engagement for youths by pumping over nine billion naira into the ongoing construction of the British/America flyover bridge. With this innitiave, the teeming youths in the state are already being engaged in various ways as construction superintendents, project engineers, construction estimators, construction inspectors, journeyman electricians, plumbers, pipefitters, carpenters and artisans. The multiplier effect is the creation of a new stream of income for food vendors, recharge card sellers and transporters, amongst others.This, in turn, will improve the local economy, as the workers employed in the project will have wages to pass along to other local businesses. But that is just the beginning of the mission by the Lalong administration to rescue the state from unemployment and poverty which fuel youth restiveness. The construction of the Jos Main Market is another well thought out project that will double the domino impact of these benefits. It can be likened to the Indian construction industry which employs about 51 million people – the second-largest employer – and contributes around 9% to the country’s GDP and in addition, creates more than 45 million direct and indirect jobs in the Asian country. The British/America flyover and the Jos Main Market is sure to play a significant role in aggregate economy of the state in terms of its contribution to revenue generation, capital formation and employment creation which ultimately support the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and socio-economic development. The wages and personal income earned by these workers will improve and enable citizens to pay their sales and property taxes. With these, the internally generated revenue of the state is bound to increase astronomically in the coming days, as Gov Simon Lalong reinvents the “civil service” state into a pool of budding entrepreneurs. One recalls that it was in the year 2015, that Lalong, then the All Progressives Congress APC) governorship candidate in Plateau State, made a vow at the Nenpun Arena in Pankshin Local Government Area of Plateau state, to rebuild the Jos Terminus Main Market if elected into office. As a man who walks his talks, Lalong did not forget the pledge he made to the people and kick-started the process for its realisation. After several preliminary works that included a survey on the site and later bringing the old structure down, the Governor awarded the contract for the rebuilding of the market last month ending the search for a viable investor which started in August 2016 but yielded little results until respite came from Jaiz Bank PLC with an offer to fund the construction with acceptable model. The concept designs and financial projections was subjected to a rigorous process by relevant government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) made up of the Attorney General and commissioner of justice, Ministries of Commerce and Industry, Housing, Bureau of Public Private Partnerships, Debt Management Office, Plateau Investments and Property Company Ltd under the meticulous lense of the Harvard trained Chief of Staff, Noel Donjur. After robust engagement, the Plateau State Executive Council approved the engagement of Jaiz Bank in tow with their recommended contractor, to deliver the project in 12 months at the cost of N9.412 billion naira, all things being equal.
This is 37 years after the market was commissioned in 1985, and 20 years after the market was destroyed by fire in the year 2002.
As expected, the award of the contract which marks a significant step towards rebuilding the edifice and towards fulfilling the promise made by the governor, has been greeted with excitement because of the potentials it holds to the state government as a revenue earner, to citizens as a center of commerce and others as a tourists site.
What many do not understand is that in awarding the contract, Governor Lalong has also worked out quite a number of benefits to save the state from incurring further costs in its bid to rebuild the market.
The first is that the contract would be carried with a zero interest as Jaiz Bank, which won the N9.4 billion contract,to rebuild the market under a PPP agreement will do so at a zero percent interest.
With so much needed to carry out other projects, the state government has hit the bulls eyes with this arrangement by freeing what would have been debited as interests for the contract to be used for other projects.
By this, the state government is keying into the financial tact of the Federal Government and world best practices which focus on award of contracts under similar interest free arrangements to save the government funds to develop other sectors.
The market on completion is projected to consist of 3-floor edifice of 4,312 shops at an estimated construction rate of N98,000/sqm, with the standard shop size of 3m x 4m = 12sqm.
As the bank is enabled to appoint the contractor based on competence and to supervise work till it is delivered to specification, the agreement comes with a form of guarantee on both quality and meeting of deadline.
The idea of rebuilding the market also comes with innovation that would revive trade and commerce on the Plateau and boost the economic potentials of the state.
In addition to the 4231 shops, adequate provision for spaces to house banks, a park, police station and Admin Block have also been made to adequately address issues of security and maintenance.
Having over 4,000 number of shops concentrated in one place is like housing multiple plazas in one place or constructing a mini Dubai!
With the burning of the market in 2002, the state has for the past 20 years endured the absence of a major commercial nerve center that galvanizes both commercial and social activities of that magnitude.
The Jos main market in its hey days, used to contribute about 40 to 50% of the state’s internally generated revenue while pulling major investors, entrepreneurs and others to the state because of its potentials.
With its breathtaking architecture, colourful design and towering height, it was more than a place for the exchange of goods but had become a social center for meaningful interaction which fosters unity and cohesion among the diverse groups in the state.
As the brain child of our respected founding father of Plateau, Joseph Gomwalk, every Plateau citizen views rhe market with a sense of nostalgia.
Incidentally, it was General Muhammadu Buhari who as head of state commissioned the market in 1985 under the then military government of Samuel Atukum.
What a better way to relive the 37 year old memory than rebuilding the market under the President Buhari administration and handing it over to the people in May 2023.
The Continuous killings of people in Wase local government area of plateau state has continued unchecked as another 10 People were killed in an attack by bandits and Fulani Militia in Pinau village of Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The attack which told place yesterday according to eye witnesses said the attackers Shot Sporadically into the air to send the villages running for thier lives killing ten people and injuring one person the eyewitness told this medium.
It would be recalled that bandits and Fulani Militia have been operating in some villages in the local government following the difficult terrain which has made the Nigerian security agencies unable to response to the security situation in the affected areas Spokesman of Operation Safe heaven major Takwa Said the men of the Special task force have been mobilised to handle the situation
It’s quite misleading and unprofessional of some writers to alledge that the plateau state government under the tittle Governor Lalong cedes Jos Main Market to Islamic Bank this write up by The will Newspaper which is bad and as well is trying to disrupt the fragile peace existing in the state.
A member of the Stakeholder meeting Joseph Fom while addressing journalist in Jos Said a critical look at what led the plateau state government under the Capable and able leadership of RT Hon Simon Bako lalong through the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development which is the Supervising ministry had been approached by the Bank to help Build the burnt Jos main market which has been neglected by Successive administration which led to thugs and all manner of individuals harbiting the environment which has caused a security threat to the residents of the area.
He Said the state government inorder to fulfill its mandate of ensuring dividends of democracy is provided swing into action by first ensuring that the debris within the market is cleared as witnessed some years back through the demolishion of some illegal structures to pave way for proper Construction work, this action prompted Jaiz bank to enter into negiations with the state government to build the market, a project that will contain four thousand, three hundred and twenty one (4,321) shops, only one thousand seven hundred (1700), representing its 40% holding, will be owned by Plateau State during the forty (40) years covered by the agreement.
According to him the agreement entered into earlier around 2020 the deal was to be on 50/50 basics but because of cost of materials was less then but now a review was made which led to a conclusion of 60/40 agreement which is to be done in three phases, is to be funded by Jaiz Bank, while the Plateau State government provides land, security, and enabling operational environment, as the reconstruction work is billed to be completed within twelve months.
One will wonder why the tag Islamic Bank came from because the bank is a conventional bank just like other banks across the country which was authorised by the Central bank of Nigeria to go about its lawfull business then it beholds on one to wonder why the segregation based on faith besides 70 percentage of its customers are Christians who have trooped to the bank to access loans which is interest free which the writer is a customer of the bank according to information available to this medium
And in entering this agreement religious leaders as part of the Stakeholders were present while these agreement was being discussed Plateau people and some sections of the media should not play politics with the economic benefits(Source of livelihood ) he Pointed out.
It’s quite misleading and unprofessional of some writers to alledge that the plateau state government under the tittle Governor Lalong cedes Jos Main Market to Islamic Bank this write up by The will Newspaper which is bad and as well is trying to disrupt the fragile peace existing in the state.
A critical look at what led the plateau state government under the Capable and able leadership of RT Hon Simon Bako lalong through the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development which is the Supervising ministry had been approached by the Bank to help Build the burnt Jos main market which has been neglected by Successive administration which led to thugs and all manner of individuals harbiting the environment which has caused a security threat to the residents of the area.
The state government inorder to fulfill its mandate of ensuring dividends of democracy is provided swing into action by first ensuring that the debris within the market is cleared as witnessed some years back through the demolishion of some illegal structures to pave way for proper Construction work, this action prompted Jaiz bank to enter into negiations with the state government to build the market, a project that will contain four thousand, three hundred and twenty one (4,321) shops, only one thousand seven hundred (1700), representing its 40% holding, will be owned by Plateau State during the forty (40) years covered by the agreement.
According to the agreement entered into earlier around 2020 the deal was to be on 50/50 basics but because of cost of materials was less then but now a review was made which led to a conclusion of 60/40 agreement which is to be done in three phases, is to be funded by Jaiz Bank, while the Plateau State government provides land, security, and enabling operational environment, as the reconstruction work is billed to be completed within twelve months.
One will wonder why the tag Islamic Bank came from because the bank is a conventional bank just like other banks across the country which was authorised by the Central bank of Nigeria to go about its lawfull business then it beholds on one to wonder why the segregation based on faith besides 70 percentage of its customers are Christians who have trooped to the bank to access loans which is interest free which the writer is a customer of the bank according to information available to this medium
And in entering this agreement religious leaders as part of the Stakeholders were present while these agreement was being discussed Plateau people and some sections of the media should not play politics with the economic benefits(Source of livelihood ) of the
The APC government in Plateau State, led by Simon Bako Lalong, has conceded ownership of the Jos Main Market after spending more than one billion naira to demolish it during the 2020 fiscal year. Governor Lalong reportedly approached the management of Jaiz bank, seeking a partnership for the rebuilding of the Jos Main Market gutted by fire in 2022
At a stakeholders meeting Tuesday, July 26, preparatory to signing of the Memorandum of Understanding, the State Government was represented by the Commissioners for Commerce and Industry, Idris Gambo, and Information, Dan Manjang, the permanent secretary, Ministry of commerce and industry, and directors and staff of the ministry.
With the design of the project for reconstruction showing it will contain four thousand, three hundred and twenty one (4,321) shops, only one thousand seven hundred (1700), representing its 40% holding, will be owned by Plateau State during the forty (40) years covered by the agreement.
According to details of the stakeholders meeting, the reconstruction of the Market, which is to be done in three phases, is to be funded by Jaiz Bank, while the Plateau State government provides land, security, and enabling operational environment, as the reconstruction work is billed to be completed within twelve months.
With Lalong’s representatives at the meeting dispatched to proceed to engage the leadership of the Church in Plateau and convince it to accept the emerging arrangement, the two partners, that is the Plateau State government and Jaiz Bank, are expected to sign the Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, any day of the first week of August 202 .
The First Lady of Qua’an Pan an Local Government Council, Mrs. Precious Ernest Daa, in collaboration with the Switch Foundation of her Excellency, Mrs Regina Bako Lalong on Monday July 25, 2022 in Ba’ap Doemak, distributed fertilizers to women in the locality as means to curtail the hardship they face each farming season.
Presenting the items Mrs Da’a urged the beneficiaries to make proper use of it in other to boost their agricultural yields at the end of the farming season.
Speaking during the presentation, representatives of the Switch Foundation, Mrs. Zainab Ishaku Isok and Esther Waklek encouraged the beneficiaries to make a judicial use of the items in their various farms and to ensure that they extend same gesture to others by sharing some to desiring peoples in their wards.
Responding, the APC Women Leader of Qua’an Pan Local Government Area, Mrs. Rahila Kyari appreciated the kind gesture of her Excellency for always putting smiles on their faces, and pray to God to bless her.
In attendance during the distribution ceremony was the Deputy chairman of the Council, Hon. Henniet Wapmuk, Supervisory Councillor for Social Services, Hon. Rita Buba , Head of Women Council of the LG, the APC Women Ward Leaders within the LGA, representatives of different groups and religious organizations, among other dignitaries.
Below are some of the pictures recorded during the events in Doemak, Ba’ap the headquarters of Qua’an Pan Local Government.
The Northern Governors Forum has commissetared with the President of the Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem over the death of her son Prince Paeke Shapnaan Dongban who died on Saturday 22nd July 2022.
Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Plateau State Simon Bako Lalong in a statement on behalf of his colleagues described as very sad the death of Prince Shapnaan who was 38 years before his sudden death.
He said the Northern Governors received the news with shock and are devastated by the loss of a vibrant youth who has been working hard to prepare himself towards national service in his chosen career.
Lalong while sharing in the grief of the Appeal Court President Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, said the Forum stands with her at this difficult moment where she is passing through the pains of loosing another son.
He urged her to accept the demise of her son as the will of God and remain faithful to him to comfort her and heal her pains of such tragic loss of a loved one.
The Governor prayed God to forgive the sins of the deceased and grant him eternal rest while comforting the entire family.
The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission, NCPC Rev. Dr Yakubu Pam has said that Christian Pilgrims were in the Holy Land to pray for the peace of Nigeria. Rev.Pam who was represented by the NCPC Director of Planning, Research and Programme Development, Barr.Sonny Ebiyaibo made this known recently in Nazareth, Israel during the 2021 on going Main pilgrimage to Israel/ Jordan. He informed that the theme of this year’s pilgrimage exercise is “Pilgrmage , Peace for National Development”. He explained that the theme was borne out of the realisation that right now Nigeria is faced with a lot of challenges bedeviling the nation. In his words, “Nigeria is presently in a turmoil of serious Security breaches and thus it calls for concern and prayers because without peace we cannot have development in the society”. The NCPC helmsman hinted that the spiritual component of this year’s pilgrimage has been excellent. According to him, “pilgrims have been focused and are praying in line with the teachings of the Bible.” In addition, he revealed that this year’s pilgrimage is special in one particular way: “This is the first time the Commission is organizing Pilgrmage to Israel and Jordan at the same time, recall that last year Pilgrmage to Jordan was conducted for the first time, but today we have a double destination,” he said. In the same vein, The Executive Secretary of the Enugu State Christian Pilgrms Welfare Board, Mr.Nestor Ezeme, has said that this year’s pilgrimage has been exciting and interesting. He affirmed that all the stories they have read in the Bible is real. In his words,” you can see in the faces of my Pilgrms that they are happy and full of joy because they have not seen it and experienced it before”. He thanked the Enugu State Governor, RT Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi for the privilege and opportunity to come to the holy land and feel the holiness of God. He also appreciated the Executive Secretary, Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission,Rev.Dr Yakubu Pam for a well organized excercise . Mr.Ezeme advised the pilgrims to use this opportunity to have a sober moment of reflection as they visit various sites in the Holy Land. He urged them to remain focused untill the end of the exercise so that they would go home a better people.
Over 10000 residents of Pinua village in Wase local government area has flee the village following the incessant attacks by bandits and Fulani Militia who have continued to cause rampage in the community
Some of the fleeing villages who spoke to Actual news said for close to six months now alot of villages in Wase have been under severe attacks by bandits and Fulani Militia who has been on rampage in the locality
According to them because of fear of further attacks the villages decided to run for thier dear lives as evident in the skim of events
They wondered why Pinua village is under heavy attacks is it because of the economical political or territory Control remains unknown by them
It would be recalled that last month bandits gave quick notice to about 5 villages on possible attacks since then the center couldn’t hold again as the continues attacks of the villages has made the council management helpless
The security personal in the council seems helpless as the terrain to the affected Communities are very to difficult to reach the community due to the nature of the place leading to the few on ground withdrawing owning to unknown reasons
Efforts to reach the operation safe haven spokesman proved abortive as he is not responding on the security situation in Wase Local government area
Over two people have be killed and many injured in Pinua Village as what could be discribed as Fulani Militia rampage in some villages in Wase local government area of plateau state
Eye witness and residents of the area said yesterday afternoon Fulani Militia invaded the village with motive unknown to them raided the village killed two and injured quite a number people
They said attackers who are known Fulanis in the area and other from Zamfara state have continued to cause untold hardship to the residents leading to most of th fleeing from thier residents to others parts of the local government area
Similarly another attack has occured in kambiri village near Company zarok as many have been Injured by suspected bandits who have continued to terorise the area and led to many turning to refuges
They pleaded with government to come to thier aid towards ensuring that this militias are brook to book
It would be recalled that for close to over three months villages in Wase local government area has been under siege as bandits and militias has taken has been on the rampage for close to two weeks now invading and attacking villages especially Pinua Village have been under the attack of militias, bandits who kidnap victims ,steal cows and send the villages packing
Efforts to reach the Nigerian police proved abortive as he phone lines were busy
The Plateau State Chapter of Nigeria Union of Public Service Reportorial, Secretarial, Data Processors and Allied Workers (NUPSRAW), has elected new officials to run its affairs for the next four years. At the end of the exercise, Comrade Nelly James Amamma emerged as Chairman with Comrade Nansel Danjuma as the Vice Chairman. Others officers include: Comrade Matawal Joshua, Assistant Secretary, Comrade Cecilia Kumdiyel, Financial Secretary, while the positions of Treasurer and Auditor went to Comrade Mandir Goselle and Comrade Kaneng Dung Pam, respectively, while Comrade Roseline Kim Pam emerged Chairperson of the Women Committee. Out of the seven available positions, five females emerged with two males. Also, out of the seven positions, five were elected unopposed. The posts of Financial Secretary and Assistant Secretary were the only two keenly contested positions and we’re duly elected by the 63 delegates. Announcing the results of the election, the Returning officer, Comrade Abdulsalam M. Dala, who is also the Deputy National President of NUPSRAW, congratulated the newly elected officials of the union and called on all members to give them the needed support to help move the Union, NUPARAW forward. Earlier, while declaring the ninth Quadrennial State Delegates Conference opened, the Plateau State Head of Civil Service, Engr. Sunday Hyat, who was represented by the State Director of Labour, Mr. Michael Lamu, said the essence of unionism is to empower members and maintained that that is why government is committed to their welfare. In an acceptance speech after taking her Oath of office, the newly sworn in State Chairman of NUPSRAW, Comrade Nelly James Amamma, thanked members for believing in them and promised to operate an open-door policy where all will contribute their ideas for them to achieve NUPSRAW’s dreams. According to the Chairman, “we appeal that Secretariat Cadre be highly considered during employment to promote efficient service delivery at the work place. This will further strengthen the Union and help sustain peaceful industrial harmony”.
Occupants of the Government reserved Areas (GRA) in Pankshin local government area has raised alarm over Plot by the state government to sale the quarters to its cronies without following due process
They said some Powerful individuals in government connived to sell the government quarters at Pankshin to their families and cronies who claimed to have purchased the said housing estate .
The Staff who doesn’t want his name in print for fear of victimisation said buyers are alleged to be conniving with the state Head of Services in harassing and intimiding them who are active state civil servants to vacate the buildings as it has been sold to them among the buyers include the Executive Secretary Plateau State Christian welfare Board Rev father George Gorap
According to them some of the standing building with people occupying them are been forced to vacate the premises claiming they have bought the house’s for business .
The occupants said the former Head of service ,Azi Izam adviced those who had earlier laid claim to ownership of the government quarters to steer clear saying government has not authorized the sales of the said properties.
The residents of the estate who spoke bitterly said unless urgent step is taken to address the encroachment and illegal acquiring of land and properties belonging to government in the state .
They raised congent issues bordering on land racketeers of Government estate in the state by the government appointees of Governor Bako Lalong government to auction properties of the state .
They further lamented that despite their constant complaint to safeguard the estate, proved abortive, as the governor’s appointees who claimed untouchable are bent on acquiring the houses at all cost .
However the State Head of Service Engr Sunday Hyat while responding to this medium Said the quarters were sold for a very long time and those interested bought the said properties and land from the proper authority which is the ministry of lands and survey
According to him the quarters were sold long time ago even before this adminstration so wondered why people will complain
Reacting on the allegation against h that he bought houses in the area, State Secretary Christian Board Reverand father George Gorap said allegation against him are milicious and mischievous
He said the allegation against him is false as he brought his land 4 years ago with tittle documents
Jubilation as STF trains 165 Civilian JTF in Plateau state on intelligence and information gathering.
The Special Task Force in Plateau state has graduated one hundred and sixty-five Civilian Joint Task Force trained on surveillance and information gathering in Riyom Local Government Area.
In a colourful ceremony held at the Riyom Local Government, Mini Stadium was attended by traditional rulers, politicians, and illustrious sons and daughters of the area.
In a remark at the passing out parade, Commander Operation Safe Haven and General Officer commanding 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Ibrahim Ali said the training of the 165 able-bodied men and women into the Civilian JTF was aimed at enhancing the security architecture of Riyom Local Government and Plateau State.
The GOC who was represented at the occasion by the Deputy Commander Operation Safe Haven, DCP Mohammad Rabiu stressed that the complementary role of the Vigilante services cannot be over emphasised considering the numerous security challenges bedeviling Plateau state and the Country, hence all hands most be on deck to allow peace to prevail in all communities while on their part they would continue to plan and conduct their operational activities in line with the vision of the Chief of Defence Staff.
General Ali noted that the 165 trainees of the Civilian Joint Task Force would contribute to local policing efforts across all the communities in Riyom Local Government Area haven acquired the basic skills that will enable them to be effective in maintaining peace in their localities. He further reminded them of the oath of allegiance administered to them to be disciplined and avoid any activity that is capable of tarnishing the image of the Civilian Joint Task Force and by extension Plateau state.
Chairman, Riyom Local Government Council Mafeng Gwallson appreciated the efforts of the Commander of the Sector 6 Operation Safe Haven Riyom, Cornel Hasan Gwani and other security agencies for equipping the civilian JTF with the necessary skills required and expressed hope that his people will continue to enjoy relative peace in their communities.
Gwallson explained that Riyom Local Government Area has always been a flash point for insecurity but thanked God that normalcy has been restored in all the communities.
The Council Chairman charged the trainees to be focused and vigilant by always providing intelligence gathering for the Military and other security agencies in the area to secure members of their communities. According to him, the 165 youths trained are the first phase of the Civilian JTF in Riyom as more would also be trained in no distant time and further pledged his administration’s readiness to continue to provide shelter for his people.
Commander Sector 6 of the Operation Safe Haven Riyom, Cornel Hasan Gwani explained that for the past 14 days, one hundred and sixty-five personnel drawn from various local security outfits and across diverse ethnic groups from the three districts of Riyom Local Government were trained by their personnel as directed by the HeadQuarters of Operation Safe Haven.
Cornel Gwani also said that the participants were taken on physical training, foot drills, weapon handling, information gathering and lectures on the current security situation in Plateau state and the country.
Member representing Riyom Constituency at the Plateau state House of Assembly, Timothy Dantong praised the Council Chairman for always standing by his people and also for the steps taken to recruit youths into the Civilian JTF which according to him is the first of its kind in the state and charged the trainees to be proactive in carrying out their assignment.
Ataa Aten of Ganawuri, Yakubu Chaimang expressed optimism that the Civilian JTF being put in place will go a long way in curbing the menace of insecurity in the Local Government Area and implored the trainees to take advantage of the training to deepen their skills in providing the necessary security support to their communities.
Oath Commissioner at the event Barr Nokna’an Drenkat congratulated the trainees on their passing out parade and advised them to be faithful in their places of duty so that Riyom Local Government will continue to experience peace.
The event featured the presentation of writing materials to primary school students by the Commander Sector 6 Operations Safe Haven , Riyom, Cornel Gwani which according to him the gesture was part of his contributions to promote education in Riyom Local Government Area.
The Christian Association of Nigeria has reacted to the presence of some clerics at the unveiling of Kashim Shettima as the running mate of the All Progressive Congress presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu.
Reacting to the event on Wednesday, the Vice President of CAN (19 Northern States and Abuja) and its chairman in Kaduna State, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, likened the Bishops to desperados who went there for themselves.
John Hayab further said the presidential candidate of the APC, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, was free to “hire mechanics and other artisans and sew clerical garments for them”, that effort would only add to their many ropes but would not change the need for fairness and justice.
He said, “The people we saw at the unveiling of Shettima paraded as Bishops are people who did not have enough time to learn how to wear Bishop garments. Take a closer look at their photo and you will see another Nollywood movie.
“CAN wonders why the desperation. First, a story was out claiming to have come from the Chairman of CAN Borno state only to be refuted. Secondly, there was another lie that BAT (Bola Ahmed Tinubu) and his running mate were on their way to meet CAN President one night. A meeting that was not true and was on a night that the CAN President was in Alabama USA attending the Baptist World Alliance Conference of which he is the Vice President.
“Another desperation story was that they met Papa Adeboye which the RCCG later refuted. If Christians are not important why the desperation?
“BAT is free to hire mechanics and other artisans and sew clerical garments for them. An effort that will only add to their many ropes when the political exercise is over but will not change the need for fairness and justice that CAN is calling for.
“CAN appreciate that we are in a democracy, no need to do funny and dubious things just to prove a point because it will in the end bounce back. BAT team should simply do what is right and stop the drama.”
The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission, NCPC ,Rev. Dr Yakubu Pam has commended Pilgrms on good conduct as they are on Pilgrmage to Israel and Jordan. He made this statement recently during the JP ceremony of Pilgrms which held at Amman , Jordan.
Rev.Pam who was respresented by the NCPC Director of Mobilization, Mr. Christian Udegbunam, commended the fourth batch of pilgrims for being good ambassadors of Christ and Nigeria .
He also commended the State Chairmen and Secretaries for their humility during the pilgrimage exercise, According to him,” history has been made by the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission. He further reiterated that” we are privileged to be among the first set of pilgrims to make history while embarking on pilgrimage to both Israel and Jordan “.
Also speaking at the event was , His Royal Majesty, Ogunsanwo Olukayode, Oba Onilara Of Ilara expressed his appreciation to God for his mercies and the privilege to have such experience so far. According to him,” we give God all the praise that we are able to come, see and conquer”. He explained that pilgrimage to the Holy land is not a jamboree but a spiritual exercise.
The Chairman, Edo State Pilgrims Welfare Board and Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria, Edo state, Bishop Oriname Oyonude Kure in his good will message, commended the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission for his vision. In his words, ” we are grateful to the able Executive Secretary of NCPC Rev. Dr Yakubu Pam for being a Visionary Man”.
He explained that Pilgrimage was in a deep darkness due to the COVID 19 pandemic ,but for the innovation of the Executive Secretary of NCPC , he was able to revive it.
He appreciated all the State Governors for their support towards pilgrimage in Nigeria.
The fourth batch of pilgrims comprise pilgrims from Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, Ekiti , Osun and Edo state.
The Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission, NCPC has commenced the screening of intending pilgrims of Delta State for the 2021main/Easter 2022 Pilgrimage exercise to Israel and Jordan. The screening exercise commenced on 19th July, 2022 at the Anglican Bishop Court Asaba and would be rounded off on 21st July, 2022. Speaking during the opening ceremony of the screening exercise, the Head of Special Duties Department of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission, Mr Sunny Udeh enjoined the intending pilgrims to cooperate with the Commission,s officials by providing the relevant documents that would facilitate their screening process. He further intimated them that they would be making history for being part of the Commission,s first ever joint Pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan. He admonished them to maximize the opportunity given to them by conducting themselves decently if selected to go on the Pilgrimage journey to the Holy land. Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman, Delta State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Most Rev. Cyril Odutemu thanked the Executive Governor of Delta State, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa for his relentless efforts in advancing the cause of Christian Pilgrimage in the state. He further commended the Governor for his consistency in the sponsorship of christians in Delta on Pilgrimage. About 315 intending pilgrims of Delta State are expected to participate in the on going NCPC Pilgrimage exercise to Israel and Jordan.
Journalist in plateau State have been advised to always investigate and cross check facts available to them before going public as they are the forth estate of realm
This was disclosed by the Executive Secretary Plateau State Christian welfare Board Reverend father George Gorap in an interview with Journalist in Pankshin on the recent allegations that he in connivance with some staff of the ministry of lands survey and town planning brought without due process government quarters in Pankshin local government area of plateau state According to him the work of a journalist is to verify information available to ensure both parties are given equal opportunities and fair hearing for the public to under and know the truth but a situation such is lacking will undermine the profession
Rev father Gorap while reacting to the said publication by some online blogs expressed shock at the malicious allegation labelled against following the manner in which the publication was done without fairness to professionalism and balancing of reports said the allegations was a huge shock
He pointed out that first of all, I don’t deal with land. I don’t deal with houses. I am completely shocked how someone wrote such a story without facts and proper investigation
The issue of sales of Government Low-cost houses in Pankshin is an issue that has been settled since. I also know that this an issue that has been there for over the years that those places have been sold, and people have occupied them. And it is a long time deal. So I don’t know what is coming up now. I don’t know why they’re after me. Well as a reverend father and a man of God precisely four years ago l was able to acquire a land there like any other Citizen of plateau were am trying to put up a structure in the past three years to live after my retirement .
First of all the writer of the publication only called him that there was an accusation against him by Occapants of government quarters and that does he has any response two minutes later the allegation report came alway published without giving me fair hearing which to me is an act of unprofessional and Character assassination
If the occapants of the said property have a problem, they should know where to go and sort that out which is the ministry of Lands and Survey and find out what the problem is and also go to the Office of the aHead of Service, if there are issues they will want to take up.
But not to tarnish my image as a person. I think it is not worth it for me to read on the news about all this. I’m not part of this business.
This he swells is blackmail but I don’t know what they are looking for. From me as a person. I know who I am. And I’m just surprised at how this whole issue is playing out but ensured that to follow peace in life
He urged the appropriate authorities in charge of journalist to train it’s members on professional to avoid future occurance
It would be recalled that occupants of government quarters in Local government area has raised the alarm that the Christian Pilgrimage Board Chairman ,Rev.Father George Gorap in connivance with some staff of the ministry of lands survey and town planning without due process connived to be selling government quarters at Pankshin to their families and cronies who claimed to have purchased the said housing estate .
The staff and the said buyers are alleged to be conniving with the state Head of Services (HoS)in harassing and intimiding the occupants who are active state civil servants to vacate the buildings .
Following the impeachment of the Oyo State Deputy Governor, the State House of Assembly has approved the nomination of Adebayo Lawal, Chairman of the State Housing Corporation, as a replacement.
Actual news reports that the erstwhile deputy governor, Rauf Olaniyan was on Monday impeached by the House after being found wanting on allegations of gross misconduct.
The approval for replacement followed the nomination by Governor Seyi Makinde who sent the name of Lawal to the lawmakers for consideration.
The nomination was contained in a letter from the Governor addressed to Speaker of the House, Adebo Ogundoyin, presented on Monday during plenary.
While reading the letter, the speaker said it was in response of an earlier letter sent by lawmakers to the Governor dated July 18 informing him of the removal of Olaniyan from office.
The new Deputy Governor was recently announced as the running mate to Governor Makinde in the Oyo State 2023 governorship election.
Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation Babachir David Lawal has described the decision by the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its standard bearer, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to field a Muslim -Muslim ticket for the 2023 presidential election as an existential threat to Christians in Northern Nigeria. According to him, Alhaji Tinubu declaration that the APC flagbearer does not need the vote of Christians and that “Christians can go to hell with their votes” in 2023.
Despite protests by all well-meaning APC members across the country against the Muslim-Muslim ticket as a threat to the Christian faith, Tinubu’s affirmed Alhaji Kashim Shettima as his Vice Presidential nominee,
The APC chieftain assured his former ally that his brickmanship to perpetually relegate unborn Northern Christian children to second-class citizens and irrelevance in their own country, where they would neither aspire to be President or Vice president would fall flat.
He said they have picked the gauntlet stressing that the God of justice and equity would vindicate their cry through Nigerian voters when the votes are counted in February 2023.
The former SGF cried that Tinubu by his choice is driving a wedge on their right to justice and peaceful coexistence with all practitioners of other religions, pointing out the political gambit would be met with an appropriate response, citing a quote from the bible.
“I did say it, “those the gods want to destroy they first make mad. Tinubu has thrown down the gauntlet. He has submitted Alhaji Kashim Shetima as his nominee. He has stood by his affirmation that he only requires Muslim votes to be President and for all he cares, Christians can all go to hell with their votes. This is his position and he has a right to it. I concede to him.
“We have picked up this gauntlet. The God of justice and equity through the Nigerian voter will decide the victor between the Nigerian Christian, Alhaji Tinubu and his party the APC.
“This is our country and we will not let Alhaji Ahmed Bola Tinubu relegate us, our children and our religion to second-class status in our own country.
“For us, this is an existential crisis. Our rights to justice and peaceful co-existence with all practitioners of other religions are under threat. A northern Nigerian Christian child deserves to be bequeathed a future in which he can aspire to be President or Vice President of Nigeria.
“The Bible supports our position and the Nigerian Constitution supports and even guarantees it.
“Come on Alhaji Tinubu! Come on APC! Again, to your tents o Israel. The Bible records a time like this in history: 1 Chronicle 12: 32: “from the tribe of Issachar, there were 200 leaders of the tribe with their relatives. All these men understood the signs of the times and knew the best course for Israel to take,” he added. (Independent)
OSUN STATE ELECTION IS NOTHING BUT THE POWER OF THE PEOPLE WITH SUPPORT OF A WELL STRUCTURED POLITICAL PARTY ACROSS THE STATE Not government might nor incumbency factor.
Check out in Osun apc’s government, Out of the 9 members of house of representatives, PDP has only 2, the rest are APC.
Out of the 3 Senators, PDP has only 1,
Out of 26 members of the Osun State Assembly, PDP has only 2 and the rest are APC members.
The rest,
The Governor apc
Deputy Governor apc
Speaker apc
Deputy speaker apc
All the Commissioners apc
DGs apc
SSA apc
SSG apc
Chairmen and members of boards apc
Tinubu factor apc
APC National Secretary apc
Bisi Akandi apc
Fani Kayode apc.
Vote buying apc
Thuggery apc
Power of Incumbency etc.
Yet, with all these so-called intimidation and very active arrogance of the apc across states and the national politics they couldn’t retain the state because of the power of the people.
Don’t be deceived, that you can continue intimidating the people, and you think the people will watch and allow you steal their mandate again? your intimidation has come to an end.
Because the people have decided on who they want, no government intimidation can change them or stop them from actualizing what is ahead come 2023.
We believe in the power of the People and we believe in their struggle because our mission is to defend the Peoples interest.
We are with the people for a stronger and united Plateau
The Plateau State chapter of the Nigerian Hunters and Forest Security services has appointed the Plateau State Gubernatorial Candidate of the Labour Party Ambassador Yohanna Margif as its Grand Patron.
State Commander of the Nigerian Hunters and Forest Security services, Ambassador Dabat Nienmoup while presented the certificate of confirmation to Margif as a Ground Patron of the Nigerian Hunters and Forest Security services at a brief Ceremony held in Jos on Sunday.
The Commander said the conferment of Grand Patron on Ambassador Margif is to appreciate his Contributions and support to security development of the state as well as his Philanthropist works.
He calls on Nigerians to emulate Chief Ambassador Margif selfless service to the society.
The Commander however assured the Labour Party Governorship Candidate of their unflinching Support always.
While Responding after receiving the confirmation certificate Plateau State Governorship Candidate of the labour Party ahead of the 2023 election, Chief Ambassador Yohana Margif promised to prioritize Security of lives and properties if elected Governor of Plateau State.
Margif explained that the state has had it’s own share of Insecurity Which has resulted in the loss of lives and properties, saying he has already developed security blueprint and strategies to collaborate with experts to ensure that Plateau is secured.
PLATEAU STATE PDP CONGRATULATES SENATOR ADEMOLA NURUDEEN JACKSON ADELEKE ON HIS VICTORY AS THE ELECTED GOVERNOR OF OSUN STATE
Plateau State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP warmly and joyfully congratulates Senator Nurudeen Jackson Ademola Adeleke, on his well-deserved triumph and emergence as the duly elected Governor of Osun State. This victory is a solid foundation on which the PDP Rescue Mission for Nigeria in the 2023 general elections, will be anchored.
The entire structure of the PDP across the State, rejoice with the Osun State Chapter of our great party the (PDP) His Exellency Senator Nurudeen Jackson Ademola Adeleke, and the People of Osun State over their brave, courageous, and hard-fought victory to emerge triumphant, in this election.
The leadership of the party in the State and our Governorship Candidate Hon Caleb Mutfwang, congratulate the Governor elect of Osun State which we believe that: ‘Osun election is very critical and important to the PDP. This election is very important to us and this victory will send a strong signal that we are ready to rescue and rebuild Plateau State and the Nation.
‘The foundation of what is to come is that we have to deliver Osun State to be able to inspire hope and change the narrative in the Country for positive development. We cannot allow our State and the nation to continue to suffer, we cannot allow a situation where our children will continue to be at home instead of being in school.
‘People are pained because of insecurity, killings, corruption, inflation, nepotism, devaluation of the naira, and other challenges, but if we are to turn around our State and the nation for good, we must work together to form the government at the state and national level. This is indeed a stepping stone towards 2023.
With PDP, there is great hope for the future. It is for us to collectively work together for the success of the party starting with the Osun election,” Plateau and Nigeria will be great again.
“As we rejoice with Senator Ademola Adeleke, the PDP family in the State and indeed the great people of Osun State, who have now reclaimed their mandate, which was brazenly stolen in 2018, with this resounding and authoritative triumph, let us state categorically that the PDP has delivered a forceful and definitive statement with this result that it is going for total victory in 2023 and there is no stopping the Rescue Plateau and Nigeria mission from now on.
“Once again, Congratulations your Excellency Osun State, Governor Elect, Senator Nurudeen Jackson Ademola Adeleke.
The Executive Chairman of Mikang Local Government Council, Augustine Bako has appealed to members of the All progressive Congress Party who felt displeased during the party’s governorship, National and State Assemblies prameries to close ranks so that they can collectively work for the progress of the party and its candidates at all levels.
He made the statement during a meeting with the party’s grassroot critical stake holders in Tunkus the Council’s headquarters recently.
The Chairman thanked them for honouring the invitation which by and large expresses their interest of placing the party above all odds to enable them work collectsively in rejecting disastrous errors that could drag the party into a deep political pit.
Bako maintained that the meeting is part of his obligations which are centred on the existing principles of democracy and that of his party so as to unite agrieved members in preparation to the task of moving closer to the people towards the electioneering campaigns.
The Chairman, while congratulating winners at all levels, described the primaries as no Victor no vanquat and admonished stakeholders to embrace those who have been given such pportunities to contest by giving them meaningful advises.
He lauded INEC for the on going continues voters registration and call on party leaders to mobalilize all eligible persons within them to participate.
In a remark, the deputy Chairman of the council, Kevin Makun described the meeting as apt and advised against formation of different camps and cacuses which are not relevant in the party’s effortts in trying to deliver in future elections.
He challenged both the elected and the appointed leaders to get closer to their people at the grassroot to enable them have knowledge of some of the immediate problems emanating within for far reaching solutions. .Earlier speaking while delivering a welcome remark, the Secretary to the counci,l John Haruna Tama commended the Chairman for his foresight and urged those present to make good use of the gathering to mend political fences which he believed is the sure way to succeess.
Other speakers who includes the party Secretary, John Teltu ,representatives of ward Chairmen, women and youth showered accolades on the Council Chairman, Augustine, Bako for his humble and friendly disposition to issues which has advance his political integrity and align with him on the need for a larger house meeting within a short period of time.
The Executive Secretary Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission NCPC, Rev. Dr. Yakubu Pam has enjoined staff of the Commission to take delight in their job. The NCPC boss gave this advice during the morning devotion at the NCPC Corporate headquarters in Abuja on 15th July, 2022. Taking his exhortation from the book of Psalms chapter 1 verses 1-5, he urged staff not to walk, stand or sit in the counsel of the wicked but should find delight in the law of the Lord and in his law does he meditate day and night. Rev. Pam further advised staff to be dedicated to their job, according to him, “if you allow the organization to pass through you; you will gain a lot and be able to learn in your field and work with people of right counsel.” He charged the staff to be focused at all times as it is the only way they would continue to add value to the system. In his words, “God has not given us the spirit of fear and timidity, but of boldness and sound mind.” He added, “You need to be focused, for you to have the crown you must pass through the cross.” The No. 1 Christian Pilgrim Officer of the Federation thanked the staff of the Commission for their hard work and sense of duty at the ongoing 2021 Main/Easter 2022 pilgrimage exercise in Israel and Jordan. His words, “I must appreciate you all for putting in your best and staying put in your place of duty.” He enjoined them to be a shining light of the Commission while supervising the pilgrims in the Holy Land Rev. Pam also tasked staff to be disciplined and put the image of the Commission in the right perspective. He equally enjoined the Directors and Management staff of the Commission to encourage discipline amongst staff under them in order to create a conducive work environment.
THE STATE POLICE COMMAND UNDER THE ABLE LEADERSHIP OF CP BARTHOLOMEW N. ONYEKA psc (+) HAS RETURNED THE SUM OF FIVE MILLION, NINE HUNDRED AND TWENTY SEVEN THOUSAND, ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY NAIRA CASH (#5,927,120.00k) TO THE THE VICTIM OF AN ARMED ROBBERY ATTACK ALONG FUSKAN MATA/JENGRE ROAD:
The commissioner of police Plateau State Command CP Bartholomew N. Onyeka psc (+), line with his mission of policing with the fear of God, has the returned the sum of five million, nine hundred and twenty seven thousand, one hundred and twenty naira cash (# 5,927,120:00k) to the family of one Mr John Okeke of No 74B Rukuba road, Bassa LGA Plateau State, on the 4th July 2022.
The unfortunate incident happened on the 22nd day of may 2022, when a distress call was received by the Jengre Divisional Police headquarters, that a robbery is taking place along Fuskan mama Jengre road, the DPO, SP ALOBO E. JOHN, Swiftly mobilized his patrol team raised to the scene, and rescued the victim, and cleared the road immediately, and restored normalcy to the area, while other Officers immediately rushed one of the victim to the Plateau Specialist Hospital Jos, for medical attention, by name one Mrs Laraba Ibrahim where the doctor confirmed her dead on arrival, as a result of a gun shot wound she sustained during the attack by the hoodlums.
Due to the to the Swift and timely response by the DPO and team, the cowardly hearted robbers took to their heels, hence other victims who ran into a nearby bushes were also rescued from their unlawful acts, that was then the money of Mr John okeke was recovered, who was on transit from saminaka Kaduna State to Jos Plateau State.
In view of the above the CP uged all resident of the state to continue to give timely information to the Police and other security agencies as this is one effective way to fight crime and criminality within the state.
The CP has put out a stern and serious warning to criminals within the state to either repent from their wicked ways or leave Plateau State or be ready to face the full weight of the law.
The CP admonish members of the public to go about their lawful business as the command will not rest in it’s fight against crime and criminality, and will continue to ensure that Plateau State is safe for all.
E-SIGN DSP ALFRED ALABO, POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER FOR: COMMISSIONER OF POLICE PLATEAU STATE COMMAND.
A Note Of Gratitude To Hon. Dr. Dayyabu Yusuf Garga (Galadiman Jhar).
By: Prince. Taru Salim Dugub
Let men see, let them know a real man, who lives as he was meant to live …
Hon. Dr. Dayyabu Garga is the real man who is living as he is meant to live. A father, a gentleman, an achiever, a mentor, compassionate, empatic being, amazing person, utterly committed to serving humanity without expecting praises or accolades.
I was actually blown away when it occurred to me that in such a small amount of time in Plateau politics, Dayyabu Garga has achieved so much. A quintessential philanthropist, a refined gentleman, lover of academics and healthy debate, a devoted family man and a leader.
Interestingly, in a time when everyone is for himself and his family, the amiable Galadiman Jhar is exceptional. He stood for me in every circumstance. I won’t forget; It’s not everyday one comes across gentlemen like Hon. Dayyabu Garga. That is differing things to different people.
He’s a mentor to the youth, a voice for the voiceless and yes hope to the hopeless.
One only needs to spend a little time with him to understand that his taciturnity is only a mask beneath which exist an aggressive zeal to leave behind indelible footprints where ever he sets his foot.
It’s quite impressive how Dr. Dayyabu Garga juggled his personality to suit an easy moment or occasion. He could easily mingle with the downtrodden and the next minute, he will be up rubbing minds with the mighty and taking impacting decisions for millions of people. His simplicity is very natural.
Dayyabu Garga’s meteoric rise over the last Nineteen years is a political success story that will enrich the libraries of scholars for decades to come. For rise of a dynasty is much less appealing political story than rise of an underdog who triumphed against heavy odds.
Thanks to the humility of the Galadiman Jhar there are many important milestones in his life. The cumulative tend more to the positive. A life committed to the pursuit of the common good of all, irrespective of creed, region and ethnicity. He sees and treats everybody as human first. A social democrat whose religion is for the advancement and betterment of all peoples-he has influenced lots of government intervention and has personally intervened in the lots of his people.
Indeed, Dayyabu Garga is unusual. His understanding of life is evidenced in the fact that he places great premium on the nurturing of the spirit and excellence of the mind above mundane consideration or pursuits. Most importantly, he thrives in integrity and faith in God spiced with a burning desire to see the best for his people. That is the philosophy driving his involvement and engagement in politics.
Where most people who get elected into public offices are not leaders but mere politicians, Dayyabu Garga is a hybrid result of skillful crossing of leadership with politics. He’s a leader who is always willing to do what’s right even when it’s not easy but because in his best judgement it’s the right thing to do. He’s always willing to go an extra mile for his people without recourse to the political benefits involved.
His patience even when obviously miffed or livid is the missing maturity lacking in many politicians. His constant references to scriptures from the Holy Qur’an and Teachings of our beloved prophet – pointed to a feisty individual guided by absolute faith and belief in a Supreme Being, Allah SWT.
ATaru Salim Dugub writes from the Palace Of Danbiram Dugub Of Dugub Ward 12th July,2022
The Christian political leaders within the APC in the nineteen (19) Northern States met in Abuja on the 11th of July 2022 to deliberate on the issue of the party’s Muslim-Muslim ticket and its implications to the nation.
The meeting noted with concern the resignation of some high profile Christians from the APC across the States of the Federation, as a consequence with more to follow unless concerted efforts are made to redeem our party from hate mongers and those who seek to exploit religion to perpetuate their self-interests as opposed to national interest. After extensive deliberations, the meeting came to the following conclusions:
That as Christians within the APC, we cannot in all fairness to our consciences and faith go to our various constituencies to campaign for a Muslim – Muslim ticket.
That Nigeria is a multi-religious and a constitutional democracy and NOT a theocracy with religion as a major national fault line which cannot be whimsically manipulated without dire political consequences on our peaceful co-existence as a people.
That the current Nigerian environment and political atmosphere of the nation is different from what occurred in 1993 and therefore a Muslim – Muslim ticket is unacceptable. It doesn’t take the smart to know that the Abiola/Kingibe victory in 1993 turned out to be a pyrrhic victory as there was never a President Abiola nor Vice President Kingibe. Is that what we want a repeat of in 2023?
The selection of a Muslim running mate is a display of crass insensitivity to the complexity of modern Nigeria and the entire Church. It is also a betrayal of the advocates of unity and peaceful co-existence with our Muslim brothers including notable Imams who had forewarned the party and the candidate from traveling that treacherous route.
That the APC has always come under the suspicion of the Church as pursuing an islamization agenda. Hence the various labels of the APC as: Islamic Movement, Islamic brotherhood, janjaweed party, Boko Haram party etc, etc. Now with all the positions in the hands of our Muslim brothers, it would take ingenious mendacity to prove otherwise.
That if the APC said a Muslim – Muslim ticket would be injurious to the health of our nation in 2015, has that situation therefore radically changed to make Muslim – Muslim ticket good for the health of our nation in 2023, if we may ask?
That the rejection of a Muslim – Muslim ticket by Christians would undermine the electoral fortunes of the APC and its candidates across all States and constituencies where Christians enjoy numerical advantage. By so doing APC has recklessly thrown its Christian candidates under the bus across the nation.
That considering the fact that PMB, the chairman or the party, deputy Chairman North, President of Senate the Speaker and deputy Speaker, and now both the presidential candidate and his running mate etc are all Muslims and assuming that such lopsidedness does not violate S.14 (3) ot the Constitution, if this was to be reversed so that all these were Christians, Can any contentrous Muslim in Nigena attempt to sell such patently unjust and unfair arrangements to the Muslim Ummanh in Nigeria?
The APC party constitution preamble states “will guarantee equal opportunity for all mutual and peaceful co-existence respect and understanding, eliminating all forms of discrimination and social Injustice among Nigerians. The Muslim-Muslim ticket appears to have violated this provision.
That Mr. President being also the Leader of APC is urged to intervene in this matter in order to ensure justice, equity and fair play in the interest of the peace and and stability of this great nation and save our party from disintegration. we believe that PMB who fought to keep Nigeria one, will not allow Fanatics on both sides to wreak havoc on what remains of the tapestry that binds us as a people. We can avoid the dire political consequences of the contraption called “same faith ticket.
We are disheartened that someone who wants to be a leader for all sections of the country is resorting to religious exclusivism as a tool for winning an election. This will certainly result in a massive revolt against the party. Leadership is all about inclusiveness, justice and cquity.
CONCLUSION At this moment ot National peril, we believe that what should be paramount in Nigeria is unity. For without unity we cannot build any political party or candidate that elevates the greed of a few people above the need of generality of the people has no business running the affairs of Ngeria.
Signed: Prof. Doknan DB Sheni Signed Dr. Ishaya G Bauka Signed Prof. Saidu lbrahim
National President of Pankshin Old Boys Association POBA, Alumni of the famous Government College Pankshin Barr. Steve Abar has emerged the Captain for the Oldest golf Course in Nigeria, the Rayfield Gulf Club Nineteen Thirteen.
Barr Abar, who is the Member of the Plateau State Judiciary Service Commission was elected alongside ten other officials at the just concluded twenty twenty two General Meeting of the golf club which held at the club house in Jos, Plateau State to pilots the affairs of the club for the next one year.
While Delivering his acceptance speech during his inauguration, the new captain of the Rayfield Golf Club Nineteen Thirteen, Barr Abar appreciated the confidence reposed in them by members with the new responsibility pledging to uphold that trust in keeping with the visions of the founding fathers of the club which has been sustained thus far.
He promise to continue to build on the game of gulf in plateau state and Nigeria adding that they will open up more to aggregate and harness those wealth of ideas,suggestions and other contributions which are critical to the realization of the collective objective that will keep making the Rayfield Golf Club a destination of choice for golfers nationwide and a prime hub for relaxation,recreation and socialization of members.
“We as exco do not claim to have all solutions to the enormous challenges confronting us.Neither are we all knowing but we can promise you that we will work hard to deliver on our ma dates” Abar said.
The Captain noted that in the coming days,weeks and months they will be aggregating support from members to further transform the club and the game of golf building on professionalism as they unveil greater plans for the club and game.
He added that they will unveil several plans and interventions through statutory and regulatory reforms,proposing physical developments on the course and club house to members amongst others.
He also thanked the out gone Captain of the Golf Club Air Commodore Lazarus Mshelia (Rtd) and his team for a job well done describing them as hardworking,industrious and passionate saying they will build on it for the greater advantage of all.
The new captain of the Rayfield Golf Club Nineteen Thirteen,Steve Abar paid glowing tributes to the Grand Patron of of the club,His Excellency Governor Simon Lalong for the numerous interventions he has done for the club and the game of golf on the Plateau and Nigeria at large describing his time as “the golden era of golf on the Plateau”.
While stressing the need for more support Abar said exco will within the shortest time explore the possibilities of an inaugural kitty to bring together golfers for the continuous and harmonious development of the sport and mankind.
Other officials elected with the Captain to include; Engr. Isaac Ige – Vice Captain, Arc. Victor Pam – Secretary, Emma John Danat – Treasurer and Sunday Morris Okoh – Handicap Secretary.
Others are; Barr. Amer Chami – Course Officer, Davou Pwajok – House Member, Kelly Cleophas – Bar Secretary, Jesse Dati – PRO, Grace Alheri Luka – Competition Secretary and Christy Pius – Lady Captain.
Plateau State Police Commissioner, CP Bartholomew Onyeka, has charged the 227 newly recruited Police Constables in the state to take their job seriously as a means of curtailing criminality in the state.
The police commissioner gave the charge on Monday at the Police Command headquarters in Jos, Plateau state, while dispatching the police officers to the 17 local government areas of the state to commence duties.
Mr Onyeka warned the personnel not to use their uniforms to intimidate people in the society.
Speaking with journalists shortly after the departure of the 227 Police personnel, the Police Public Relations Officer of the command, DSP Alfred Alabo, said the new constables have been adequately trained to police the state and the country effectively.
The police spokesman revealed that 29 out of the total of 227 are female police officers, recently trained at the Police Training School, Jos.
In an interview with the best graduating constable, Mr Obedient Solomon and his female counterpart Miss Nanklin Yakubu, both police officers urged citizens to have confidence in the force for protection.
Solomon particularly said his desire is to nip crime in the bud. While Miss Yakubu assured for effective service to the citizenry.
Two other police officers, Afiniki Dachi Joseph and Arkwina Luka, who were adjudged second best police trainees, also in an interview pledged to utilise the training received to improve Nigeria’s security system.
The Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party in Plateau State, Hon. Chris Hassan has said that Barr. Caleb Mutfwang is the right man to be entrusted with the governance and the future of the state.
He gave the assertion when youths leaders led by Rt. Hon. Nuhu Ayuba Abok and Hitler Pwajok paid him a solidarity visit at the State Party Secretariat at the weekend.
Hon. Hassan added, Barrister Muftwang’s administration will place premium on youths development, good governance and provide purposeful leadership.
The PDP administration will place Service above ambition, decency above aspirations and intergrity above expediency.
He advised the youths to come out in their numbers to support and vote the party in the 2023 general election.
Responding, Rt. Hon. Abok and Hitler in their separate remarks congratulated the party for a successful primaries and promised to mobilize their groups to support the party from Presidential to Governorship and other elections for the party.
Plateau LP Guber Candidate Debunks Plans to sale his Mandate to aggrieved APC, PDP Aspirants
Governorship candidate of the Labour Party in Plateau State Ambassador Yohana Margif on Sunday debunked the rumors that he is considering given out his Mandate for a huge amount of money to some aggrieved Governorship aspirants from the Ruling APC and also the Opposition PDP who are considering defection after the just concluded Party Primaries.
Ambassador Margif in a Press Statement signed and issued on Sunday in Jos described the rumors as fake news and untrue fabrications aimed at confusing the electorate in Plateau State because of his Political influence and that of the Labour Party in the State
While calling for Peace, love and unity in Plateau State, appreciated the People of Plateau for their love and unflinching support for his candidature ahead of the 2023 election and also admonished citizens to continue to pray for the State and offer Supplications to God for Devine intervention in the affairs of the state, particularly now that Political activities are gearing up.
He described himself as the Obedient Servant of Plateau State, saying he has the intellectual capacity and every experience needed to do what is expected of a servant to Pilot the affairs of the State towards consolidating democracy as a veritable means of entrenching a stable political order in the state.
Margif noted that the Labour Party is a Party sent by God to restore the lost Glory of Plateau and Nigeria call on all citizens who are 18 years and above without voters card to take advantage of the extension of the ongoing voters registration by the electoral empire INEC so they can be part of the revolution about to take place in Plateau and Nigeria come 2023.
I, Hon. Ernest Abner Da’a, the Executive Chairman of Qua’an-Pan LGC, Plateau State, on behalf of the Executive Council, the Legislature, the Traditional Council and the good people, join the people of goodwill to felicitate with the Muslim Ummah on the occasion of the 2022 Eid el-Kabir celebration.
Eid el-Kabir, also known as Eid el-Adba, as a celebration marking the culmination of the Annual Pilgrimage to Mecca and significantly, commemorating Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son, is very significant because it teaches us the willingness to sacrifice all that we own and are, for the greatness and common good of humanity.
Regardless of our religion, tribe and political affiliations, let us live in the consciousness of the message of Ed-el-Kabir everyday, by imbibing Ibrahim’s ideals and sacrifice to contribute meaningfully to our communities.
I appeal to the faithful to use this unique occasion to pray for the country and it’s leaders, so that together, and with God on our side, we shall overcome our challenges.
With joy and love, we in Qua’an-Pan wish all our Muslim brothers and sisters a blessed and peaceful celebration, and congratulate all Muslim faithful who successfully performed the Hajj this year.
May the blessings of Allah (SWT) fill your lives with happiness, success and fulfilment.
Once more, we wish you all, a religiously fulfilled and memorable celebration. Ameen.
The Chairman of Qua’an-Pan Local Government Council, LGC, of Plateau State, Hon Ernest Abner Da’a, has congratulated the the All Progressive Congress, APC, candidate in the Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe for the choice and successfully unveiling his running mate, Hon. Pam Bot Mang
The Chairman who made the commendation in a statement he signed on Thursday July 7, 2022, acknowledged the capacity of the combination of two candidates to deliver the party in the state and pledged the commitment of the people of Qua’an-Pan Local Government Area to support and deliver the team and all APC flag bearers.
Hon. Da’a, who appreciated the commitment of Governor, Rt Hon Simon Bako Lalong in steering and sustaining the APC in the State, appealed to members of the APC family to conduct themselves well during the campaigns, urging them to “continue to exhibit high level of tolerance and understanding as we go about our campaigns”.
Below is the full text of the statement
I, Hon. Ernest Abner Da’a, the Executive Chairman of Qua’an-Pan LGC, Plateau State, on behalf of the Executive Council, the Legislature and the good people heartily congratulate the Gubernatorial Candidate of the All Progressive Congress (APC) Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe, for the successful unveiling of his running mate, Hon. Pam Bot-Mang towards the 2023 Governorship Elections.
We commend the choice and are happy with the combination because it has very high capacity to deliver the state to the APC in the next General Elections going by the wealths of experiences of the candidates.
We appreciate His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Plateau State and Chairman Northern Governors Forum (NGF) Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Simon Bako Lalong for steering the APC family on the Plateau to this level of success. This feat is a vindication that the Rescue Administration in the State has a large heart for the citizens.
As we continue to steer the ship of the state and Local Governments, we want to assure all the APC flag bearers of the massive support of the people of Qua’an-Pan LGA towards their respective successes in the 2023 General Elections.
While we assure of total support and victory, we appeal to the APC family to continue to exhibit high level of tolerance and understanding as we go about our campaigns.
Once more, congratulations to the Governor to be, Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe, his deputy Hon. Pam Bot-Mang and the APC family on the Plateau and beyond.
The Speaker of The Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Sanda, wants the Muslim Ummah in Plateau state and beyond to practice the virtues of love, unity and peaceful coexistence, as professed by Prophet Mohammed (SAW).
The Speaker made this known in a goodwill message to the Muslim Ummah as they celebrate this year’s EID-EL-KABIR.
The speaker said; “As the commemoration of this wonderful festival goes on, let us remember the virtues of love and unity that forms the basis for this celebration and how important it is for our state and nation, even as we share in the joy and the fellowship of the celebrations”.
On behalf of his family, members and staff of the Plateau state house of Assembly, the speaker prays that in this state and nation, peace will reign and together, the people will prosper and progress in our time.
NCPC BOSS CELEBRATES TWO YEARS IN OFFICE The Executive Secretary, Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission, Rev.Dr .Yakubu Pam has celebrated two years in Office on 7th July ,2022.The Staff and friends of the Executive Secretary were all gathered in the Conference hall of the NCPC Corporate headquarters in Abuja to celebrate with him.
The NCPC Boss in his remarks thanked God for his appointment and also appreciated Mr. President for finding him worthy and deserving to superintend over the affairs of NCPC at a time like this. He explained that although his assumption of office was at the most challenging time when the world stood still for the ravaging and most dreaded COVID 19 global pandemic which destabilized all facets of human endeavour. However, he said”We were able to succeed because God was on our side and we were focused and determined to change the narrative”. He further explained that in 2021 the Commission carried out a thorough examination of its enabling Act which empowers it to carry out pilgrimage activities to the Holy Sites around the world and since Israel borders were shut down against international pilgrims, the need to explore other pilgrimage destinations became imperative. He explained that “our discovering of Jordan and eventual prosecution of our maiden pilgrimage there was not without challenges,but be that as it may, we were able to embark on our first ever pilgrimage to the Kingdom of Jordan between 24th July, 2021 and September, 2021.”
“Today, we can safely say that the NCPC maiden pilgrimage to Jordan was no doubt a big success and has been adjudged one of the finest outings of the Commission in the last decade as no single abscondment was recorded” . He assured that “the Commission will continue to explore more Holy Sites in the world so as to provide alternatives for the Nigerian Pilgrims in order to enable them perform their pilgrimage obligations at any Holy Sites in the world. To this effect,
he said, “I was in Turkiye in January this year where I met with Turkiye officials and visited some of their holy Sites. It is our plan to include Turkiye in our pilgrimage programme in the nearest future.,” Rev.Pam assured that he would continue to use pilgrimage to foster unity in the land and as a veritable tool for moral transformation. He expressed his gratitude to the supervising body – the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, OSGF for their support these two years he has been in charge of the Commission, according to him, “without them, we would not have been able to achieve much. He also appreciated the pilgrimage friendly Governors for helping to advance the cause of Christian Pilgrimage in their respective States. He appreciated the Commission’s strategic partners such as the Ground Handlers and the Air Carriers who have done marvelously well these two years that he has been navigating the waters of Christian pilgrimage in Nigeria.
few hours from now the Rulling All Progressive Congress APC Gubernatorial Candidate Nentaway Yalwada is set to unveil his running mate to party faithfully
Plateau state Commissioner for works is set to be unveil as his running mate
Sources close to grave wine says the running mate Pam Botmang is currently the Commissioner for works and the son of the former governor of the state Michael Botmang whose tenure as short lived following the illegal impeachment of the former governor Joshua Dariya who is serving a jail term in kuje prisons
Pam Botmang who is a berom from zawam in Jos South local government area is a humble personality who has be a mber of the kitchen cabinet of governor Simon lalong
His arrival on the generation next train signals the base towards the success of the Rulling party to retain the plateau state come 2023
The Executive Secretary Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission, Rev.Dr Yakubu Pam has condoled with Prof.Ango Abdullahi, the Chairman of the Northern Elders Forum over the loss of his eldest son on 30th June, 2022.
The Executive Secretary who paid the condolence visit to the bereaved at his residence in Zaria,Kaduna State, expressed his sympathy over the sudden death of Isa Abdullahi who was a Director with the National Intelligence Agency NIA, he said” there’s time for everything, a time to be born and a time to die,but we should thank God in whatever circumstance we find ourselves”. According to him, it is hard for a father to bury his child,but we cannot question God”. Rev.Pam praised Prof. Ango for his determination and strength, in his words, “you have been able to withstand so many challenges in life, and you still remain strong”, Nigeria needs patience and it’s only the wise teachings of leaders like you can make Nigeria better”. Prof.Abdullahi in his remarks, thanked the Executive Secretary for his show of love, according to him,” this were the teachings of our forefathers to live in peace and togetherness irrespective of tribe and religion”. He expressed regrets over the crisis in Jos and other troubled states, he said the perpetrators of this acts are our children and grandchildren because we have failed to guide them right. He opined that our prayers for a better Nigeria must work with actions.
The Management of Qua’an-Pan LGC of Plateau State, has concluded arrangements for the construction of the collapsed Turniang and Langkaku Bridges in Kwande and Namu Districts, respectively.
The Executive Chairman Qua’an-Pan LGC, Hon. Ernest Abner Da’a, represented by the Deputy Chairman, Hon. Helen Henniet Wapmuk, disclosed this on Monday July 4, 2022, during an inspection tour of the collapsed bridge linking Kwande and Turniang towns of the Local Government. The Council Boss, further explained that since major part of the bridge has been washed away; there is the need for the the Council to reconstruction it.
“As a Council, we have priority for the welfare and economic development of our people, so, the reconstruction work will commence in earnest, in order to ameliorate the suffering of the people due to the collapse of the bridge’, she said.
“Similarly, arrangement is being made by the Council for the reconstruction of the Langkaku Bridge that collapsed almost at the same time,” Hon. Wapmuk added.
She described the collapsed of the two bridges in the Council ilas a set back to the Area, because the affected communities form part of the agricultural and commercial hub centres of the local government.
The Council appealed to the people within the area to exercise patience and support government in her quest to harness human and capital resources for effective service delivery for the general good.
The Deputy Chairman was accompanied on the the visit by the Supervisory Councilor for Works, Hon. Jafaru Chindo Usman and the Media Team to the Executive Chairman.
Mathias Yengoet Dajan SSA Media, Publicity & Protocol to the Executive Chairman 4th July, 2022
We the Concerned Plateau Patriotic People’s Democratic Party PDP is calling on all PDP founding fathers, stakeholders, elected Officials, former governors, Ministers, former and serving National Assembly Members, Serving and Former State Assembly Members, Former Commissioners, Local Government Chairmen, party officials from State, Local government and wards Levels, Former Appointees of all level and all PDP Members in the State to Please stand united to take over leadership from the fail government of the confused APC come 2023.
We are also appealling that all candidates of the party from the Presidential, Governorship, Senatorial, House of Representatives and House of Assembly should be supported by all members of the party at all level to keep our differences and grievances aside for “united we stand, divided we fall”.
Plateau People and Nigerians are now looking and depending on the PDP to salvage the nation from the present predicament.
The PDP lost in 2015 and 2019 for lack of unity, and we must keep our grievances and personal interest aside and be united for the interest of the State and the nation
We are disturbed that by the turns of event, that after the successful and transparent primaries of the party that produce flag bearers ahead of the 2023 general elections and successful nomination of the running mate for the governorship, we should be strategizing and galvanising our energies tiwards the campaigns ahead of us, but very unfortunate that we are still divided along religious and tribal differences instead of quality of candidates.
We strongly want to advise that instead of channeling our energy towards writing Petitions to Abuja, we should rather focus on uniting ourselves to take over power. Whether COCIN, Catholic, ECWA or whatever denomination we are all one before God and from Plateau, so we should not replace quality candidate with denomination for the job of salvaging Plateau state from the failed APC administration.
PDP members shouldn’t make another mistake by not being united like what happened in 2015 and 2019, where many worked against the party because Plateau people are with us now and we must not disappoint them.
We are the opposition party and there is every need to ensure that we support our Gubernatorial candidate and his running mate and all other candidates of the Party from across all levels.
We are, however, appealling to all those who may have ignorantly written any Petition against our amiable Running mate to our powerful and winning indefatigable Governorship Candidate Barr. Caleb Mutfwang to immediately withdraw for the interest of Peace, success and victory of the PDP come 2023.
Hon.Dr.Dayyabu Yusuf Garga has been elected First Deputy National Vice Chairman of the Petroleum Tanker Drivers of the National Union of DAYYABU GARGA CLINCHES TOP OIL/GAS UNION POSITION:TO HAVE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON PLATEAU/NIGERIA.etroleum And Natural Gas Workers Union of Nigeria,NUPENG.
The election which came up during the national convention of the union in Ibadan,Oyo State saw to the emergence of the plateau born Dayyabu Garga clinching the second highest office of the union in Nigeria.
Additionally,he has with another responsibility as Director of Operations to over see and coordinate its daily activities across the thirty six states of the federation including the FCT.
Speaking to newsmen after his emergence and swearing in at the well attended convention,Dayyabu Garga who is also Executive Chairman of Kanam Local Government Council thanked Almighty Allah as well as people of plateau state for the prayers and support he received.
He commended Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau State fro encouraging sons and daughters of the state to spread their tentacles into National and International affairs such as where he has found himself today.
Dayyabu Garga praised the delegates from plateau and other states who gave him the push which has brought him this fa to one of the top most positions in the oil and gas industry.
Looking at the very sensitive place of the oil and gas industry in a nation like Nigeria which largely depends on it the oil and gas union chief said he will ensure that Plateau State enjoys the privilege of having him their as he will greatly work with all relevant agencies domiciled in the state to ensure that there is a smooth operation of its activities.
“This is the time that we will place Plateau State among those that will have direct benefits from our activities and also groom and train more persons into the industry”
Dayyabu Garga said a smooth channel of communication will be established between his office and the players in the industry plus general public so as to build a strong and Virgil system.
12 persons were killed in a clash between bandits and vigilantes, in Zak community of Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Shapi’i Sambo, a youth leader in Wase who confirmed the latest development told our correspondent that the incident occurred around 9am yesterday explaining that “the clash left 12 people dead out which 9 were bandits while 3 were vigilantes.”
Our correspondent reports that Zak, is about 40 kilometers from Wase town, the headquarters of Wase LGA.
Major Ishaku Takwa, the spokesperson of the Operation Safe Haven(OPSH), a multi security taskforce maintaining peace in the state, confirmed the incident to newsmen but could not ascertain the casualty figure of the incident, stressing that the commander and troops who repelled the attack moved to Gajin Bashar community to fight bandits who had stormed the area to attack, saying the men of the OPSH moved to Gajin Bashar after receiving distress calls of an attack.
The youth leader narrated that “The bandits came on motorcycles in their numbers in the morning. We suspected that they passed a night in a bush closed to Zak.
hWhen people realised that the bandits arrived the community, they quickly informed Operation Safe Haven stationed in Zak and they swiftly mobilised their troops to the general area and repelled the attacks together with the vigilantes, It was a serious clash,” Shapi’i added.ttps://googleads.g.doubleclick.net/pagead/ads?client=ca-pub-3959353501888451&output=html&h=300&adk=1435250740&adf=3491599903&pi=t.aa~a.2415524782~i.10~rp.4&w=360&lmt=1657012866&num_ads=1&rafmt=1&armr=3&sem=mc&pwprc=8247736331&psa=1&ad_type=text_image&format=360×300&url=https%3A%2F%2Ftheagenewspaper.blogspot.com%2F2022%2F07%2Fplateau-attack-12-killed-as-bandits.html%3Fm%3D1&host=ca-host-pub-1556223355139109&fwr=1&pra=3&rh=274&rw=328&rpe=1&resp_fmts=3&sfro=1&wgl=1&fa=27&uach=WyJBbmRyb2lkIiwiMTEuMC4wIiwiIiwiMjIwMzMzUUFHIiwiOTQuMC40NjA2Ljg1IixbXSxudWxsLG51bGwsIiIsW10sZmFsc2Vd&dt=1657012924812&bpp=15&bdt=2850&idt=16&shv=r20220629&mjsv=m202206280101&ptt=9&saldr=aa&abxe=1&prev_fmts=0x0%2C360x300&nras=3&correlator=8067941634177&frm=20&pv=1&ga_vid=1433942692.1657012924&ga_sid=1657012924&ga_hid=2068151983&ga_fc=0&u_tz=60&u_his=1&u_h=825&u_w=360&u_ah=825&u_aw=360&u_cd=24&u_sd=2&dmc=4&adx=0&ady=1529&biw=360&bih=698&scr_x=0&scr_y=212&eid=44759875%2C44759926%2C44759837%2C44766558%2C31068196%2C31068288&oid=2&pvsid=1194569507175342&tmod=260723756&uas=3&nvt=1&eae=0&fc=1408&brdim=0%2C0%2C0%2C0%2C360%2C0%2C360%2C698%2C360%2C698&vis=1&rsz=%7C%7Cs%7C&abl=NS&fu=128&bc=31&ifi=3&uci=a!3&btvi=2&fsb=1&xpc=gAnXrwhRl3&p=https%3A//theagenewspaper.blogspot.com&dtd=149
The Governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC in Kaduna, Senator Uba Sani has picked governor Nasir El-Rufai’s deputy, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe as his running mate for the upcoming 2023 gubernatorial elections in the state.
Sani who made the announcement on Monday night after consultations with critical stakeholders of Kaduna State, said ” I am happy to announce that I have picked Her Excellency, Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe as my running mate in the 2023 governorship election in Kaduna State.”
In a statement by the lawmaker, he said Dr. Balarabe has contributed immensely to the giant strides recorded by the Mallam El-Rufai’s administration in infrastructure and human capital development.
He went on “Dr. Balarabe has demonstrated hard work, punctuality, dedication and team spirit in the discharge of her responsibility as Deputy Governor which has endeared her to the critical stakeholders in the State.
The Governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC in Kaduna, Senator Uba Sani has picked governor Nasir El-Rufai’s deputy, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe as his running mate for the upcoming 2023 gubernatorial elections in the state.null
Sani who made the announcement on Monday night after consultations with critical stakeholders of Kaduna State, said ” I am happy to announce that I have picked Her Excellency, Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe as my running mate in the 2023 governorship election in Kaduna State.”
In a statement by the lawmaker, he said Dr. Balarabe has contributed immensely to the giant strides recorded by the Mallam El-Rufai’s administration in infrastructure and human capital development.
He went on “Dr. Balarabe has demonstrated hard work, punctuality, dedication and team spirit in the discharge of her responsibility as Deputy Governor which has endeared her to the critical stakeholders in the State.
“I wish to therefore call on the good people of Kaduna State to support the choice of Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe as my running mate. I also enjoin them coming out en-masse to vote for our ticket during the forthcoming 2023 general election. Your mandate in 2023 will enable us to build a peaceful, prosperous, and greater Kaduna State.
“Together, we are determined to make the State a reference point for good and responsive governance,” Sani stated.
Candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming general elections Dr Nentawe Yilwatda ,on Monday vowed to revamp critical sectors of the state if elected Governor.
Nentawe Yilwatda who paid a courtesy call to members of the Nigerian Union of Journalist at the state secretariat in Jos, said members of the media are critical partners.
He thanked the people of the state for their support before and during the primaries stressing that he would not let them down if elected Governor.
He stress the fact that his policies tagged “ACCESS” is a principle that will govern plateau without any sentiments to tribe or religion.
In his words, “I shall consider security as a cardinal point, security is fundamental because we need to protect our children.”
Nentawe stress that this will be captured through effective use of drones and community vigilante groups.
Dr. Nentawe further added that he will work to ensure plateau state is united if voted into office.
He stressed that ”i have come to empower the people of plateau state and to make sure plateau state is a haven for all irrespective of Religion or tribe.
He also vowed to focus attention on rural development if elected governor.
“Proper education must be given to our children, we would carry every one along in governance.”
Nentawe also promised to be accountable, accessible and responsive to the needs of the people for the development of the state.
He further said more public schools with adequate facilities would be provided in the rural areas, adding that education was key to development.
“I promise to give priority to youth empowerment as I would set aside 10 percent of the Internally Generated Revenue of the state for vulnerable people in Plateau, we would build business hubs and revamp agriculture.”
Yilwatda further said he will intensify on poverty alleviation programmes with a specific focus on youth employment and empowerment, as he declared that an idle hand is the devil’s workshop.
“We all know that the future belongs to the youths who are innovative and industrious, they are also the bedrock for development if empowered.”
“I will empower the youths to realise their full potentials and that will be one of my key priorities if given the mandate,” he said.
“I want to also state that if given the opportunity to serve, I will be accountable and responsive to the problems confronting the people of Plateau.”
According to him, making the youth self-reliant, resourceful, industrious and creative is one of the agenda of what I’m going to do if elected; hence I would always welcome ideas that would give the desired leverage.
He promised to bring back night life in the state and create business opportunities for citizens of the state.
“On agriculture, he vowed to collaborate with relevant bodies to fund the sector which will go a long way to engage youths and reduce unemployment in the State.
He called on the people of the state to support his aspiration and ensure he gets elected as Governor.
“I called on people of the state to support the APC at all times.”
While receiving the Candidate on behalf of the members, the chairman of the union, Paul Jatau thanked the APC flag bearer Nentawe Yilwatda for the visit and urge him to have an open door policy where everyone can have access to him for the growth of the state.
The gubernatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang has assured that the party will carry everybody along ahead of the 2023 general elections.
He expressed optimism that the party will work collectively by reconciling with all members to go into the general election as a united and formidable family. Mutfwang disclosed this yesterday at the State PDP secretariat in Jos during the presentation of certificate of returns to all candidates of the party ahead of the 2023 general elections.
“I am appealing to us to know that once primaries are over, every candidate that has emerged, irrespective of our persuasion automatically becomes your candidate. If you are a true and genuine party faithful, you will support every candidate that has emerged from President, Senator, House of Representatives to House of Assembly.
“I want to appeal to all of us, that known of us love any candidate more than the other, we all love our candidates and we will stand by our candidates, we will work for our candidates, we will deliver our candidates and by the grace of God we will smile to victory together.
“Anywhere I have entered since my emergence, I have campaign for all our candidates. Of course there will still be issues but some of them cannot be resolved over night but we are working hard to resolve all the issues so that we will go into the election as a family.”
He expressed commitment towards resolving all outstanding issues within the party and promised to continue to give listening ear to all matters in the spirit of Justice and fairness to all.
The party Chairmen, Hon. Chris Hassan described the primary election in the state as a hectic exercise but expressed gratitude to God that the state conducted one of the most free and fair primaries.
“I am happy that the elections came out very smoothly, I congratulate all of us for eventful and wonderful exercise. Plateau had one of the best election ever and in all the elections, there was no casualty, there was no petitions but we had success stories.” Hassan explained that the party had embarked on reconcialtory meetings with all those who contested the governorship, Senate, House of Representatives and the State House of Assembly to enable all of them think and act together for victory during the general election.
He appreciated the governorship candidate for demonstrating uncommon patriotism, humility and leadership qualities that has endeared more supporters to the party through spirit of reconciliation, Justice and fairness.
The Chairman appealed to all those who contested the primaries to forgive the party for any error it committed during the exercise and said as human, they are bound to make mistakes. He said the party and the candidates will continue to consult widely and reconcile those who are aggrieved with the outcome of the primaries to strengthen the party’s chances of winning convincingly in 2023.
Armed Bandits attack Plateau villages, shoot two, kílled one and abduct two persons
Armed Bandits have again struck the people of Pyem Chiefdom, of Mangu LGA in Plateau State, they attackers who came in at the wee hours of this morning attacking the residence of an elder statesman and community leader of Angwan Baraya, Baba Yarima Jabil of Jannaret Ward all in Gindiri District, shot the elder statesman who eventually survived it but is in bad shape and has been hospitalized, sadly his son who was shot too did not survive the shoot out.
They armed bandits further whisked away with the wife of the victim and no contact has been made as of the time of filling in this report, the necessary authorities have been alerted and are in top search to bring the culprits to book we learned.
“Baba Yarima is a respected and great community leader, who has groomed his children to top educational positions in the state,” a member of the community said.
Amongst his children are Prof Y.Y Jabil of the famous University of Jos, Dr I Jabil Deputy Provost NVRI Vom and Dr Angel Jabil of the University of Jos, as well.
Yet another sad occurance took place again in Washna Village of Panyam District, Mangu LGA where two women were abducted as well, amongst which was Malama Hanatu Audu Washna, who is the mother of Barr Danladi Audu Washna a principal officer in the National Assembly Abuja.
Member representing Langtang North Central Hon Daniel Nanbol lipstick has officially defected from the major Opposition Peoples Democratic party to the fast rising Labour party citing lack of internal democracy among others said his choice of labour party was borne out of his desire to move with the train that is moving the nation forward
According to him his performance as a current lawmaker in the plateau state House of assembly will speak for him as the driving force towards seeking re-election .
The Lawmaker accused some political godfathers who felt threatened with his performance as a Lawmaker as reasons why he was denied a fair hearing during the last people’s democratic party primaries were he withdraw haven seen their plans
Nanbol said he is a grassroot mobiliser and the large crowd that was witnessed today is as a result of his acceptability by this constituents who are where to throw thier support to him
Speaking at the event the state party chairman Esther Zamfara described the wind of defections across the state to labour party especially a sitting lawmaker is an indication that the party has gained wide acceptability in the state
She discribed the Lawmaker Nanbol lapsick as a people oriented and visionary lawmaker saying ‘the people’s democratic party has made a mistake in letting him go”
He called on the people of Langtang North Central to rally round the lawmaker to ensure he emerges victories during the polls.
The lawmaker had earlier commissioned a newly build and furnished primary school in his constituency an distributed uniforms to over one thousand students
Dignitaries present at the event who spoke include the national deputy chairman of the party,other aspirants and stakeholders who assured that the party will emerge victorious during the general elections
Plateau State chapter of the All Progressives Congress, APC, has called for the suspension of the impeachments and suspension of three local government chairmen embarked upon by their legislative arms, and to maintain the previous status quo.
This was contained in a press statement signed by the Publicity Secretary of the party, Hon. Sylvanus Namang and made available to newsmen in Jos on Saturday
Namang said the party received with concern the impeachments, suspension and impeachment threat saga of the Chief Executives in Mangu, Jos North and Langtang North Local Governments in the past two days by the legislative arms of the councils which bordered on the misunderstanding between the two arms of government; the Legislative and the Executive Arms.
He lamented as sad the development at the third tier of government where the Legislative arms have impeached, suspended or threatened to impeach the chairmen or their deputies, saying, “Whatever are the merits or demerits of the actions by the Legislative Arms in the said local governments, the APC in the state calls for calm.
He added that “The status quo ante should be maintained in the said local goverments, which is that all the actions taken or purported to have been taken against the Executive Arms should be suspended forthwith.”
According to him, the APC is a party built on a solid foundation of law and order and has a very strong dispute resolution mechanism which were not deployed or exhausted in the impeachment, suspension and threats to impeachment of the LG chairmen in question.
Namang further commends the roles played by Governor Simon Lalong through his Deputy, Professor Sonni Gwanle Tyoden, the Plateau State House of Assembly Committee on Local Government and Chieftaicy Affairs, the Honourable Commissioner of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, the Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice and security agencies in the state for promptly restoring sanity, law and order in the affected local goverments.
The APC assured the feuding parties and the public that it would dig into the roots causes of the disquietment in the affected local goverments and sanction any infraction discovered.
It would be recalled that late this week, the vote of no confidence was passed on the executive chairmen of Mangu and Jos North, Hon Minister and Shehu Bala, by their legislators, where that of Mangu was suspended for 90 days and his deputy impeached.
And that of Jos North was interrupted by hoodlums were journalist were attacked and Arise news correspondent Camera was destroyed while the vote of no confidence was passed on the chairman. That of Langtang North was a call on the legislative council to impeach the chairman, Hon. Zulfa Rimven.
The Court of Appeal sitting in Jos has, this day 1st July, 2022, sacked Bitrus Zulfa Rimven as Chairman, Langtang North L.G.C.
You will recall that following the judgement of the Plateau State High Court of Justice sitting in Langtang on the 13th day of December, 2021 in Suit No. PLD/L7CV/2021 which was instituted by Hon. Nankar Napoleon Shagaya against the APC, Zulfa and PLASIEC, in which the High Court nullified the candidature of Bitrus Zulfa Rimven and pronounced that he was never elected as Chairman of Langtang North L.G.C, Zulfa had filed an appeal at the Court of Appeal challenging the propriety of the judgement of the High Court.
In a considered judgement delivered for about 4 hours today, the three justices of the Court of Appeal unanimously (meaning all the three justices were in agreement) dismissed the appeal filed by Zulfa for lacking in merit.
The Court while dismissing the Appellant’s appeal commended the erudite judgement delivered by the Honourable Justice N.K Sasheet of the High Court of Justice of Plateau State sitting in Langtang and reasoned that the soundness of the judgment could not be assailed and therefore cannot be tampered with by the Court of Appeal.
The Court of Appeal re-iterated the orders of the High Court which include, among others, the nullification of the candidacy of Bitrus Zulfa Rimven and the order to the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) to withdraw the purported Certificate of Return it issued to Zulfa as the winner of the chairmanship election for Langtang North.
Further more, their Lordships in their wisdom awarded a cost of 250, 000 Naira against Zulfa and in favour of Hon. Nankar Napoleon Shagaya to mitigate the financial burden the latter has been made to go through as a result of the unmeritorious appeal filed by Zulfa.
While we congratulate the judiciary for stepping in to salvage our democracy once again, may we salute the courage of Hon. Nankar Shagaya for approaching the court to assert his right as well as standing tall throughout the period of the struggle for justice.
May we also salute the Tarok electorates who have never hidden their love and support for this legal venture; your prayers and well wishes in various respects have kept us going. We can’t thank you enough!
To the slaves of impunity, we say to you that no matter how long a night may seem to last, daybreak must come. The end is in sight and, as you will have witnessed in the political landscape, your impunity has boomeranged as you have completely lost the political grip you had erroneously thought such dastardly act would deliver to you guys.
As a legal team, we hereby applaud Hon. Nankar Shagaya for trusting us with a sensitive case of this nature which we have delivered with such aplomb to glory of the Almighty God. For L.T Dangle Esq., N.A Dashe Esq., and a host of others who have contributed in one way or the other throughout this legal battle, I salute you. At least, we shall stand to be counted among the few honorouble men who refused to be browbeaten into hobnobbing with impunity by the so- called high and mighty. Well, I say no more!
We were in this for service and the attainment of Justice, and not for any pecuniary benefits, and so shall we remain! We are equally resolutely determined to continue to employ the instrumentality of the law even beyond May 29, 2023 to hold to account any illegal occupant of public office and we shall see to it that all financial benefits that will have accrued to any such person are returned to the public coffers.
It was Alexander the Great who once said: “There is nothing impossible to he that will try.”
The Executive Chairman of Jos North Local Government Council Shehu Bala Usman has terminated the appointment of two Supervisory Councilors with immediate effect.
Those whose appointment were terminated are the Supervisory Councilor of Information, Research and Documentation, Silas Ibrahim and his Water Sanitation and Hygiene courterpart, Christopher Nnajiofor.
In a statement signed by the Council’s Secretary, Pastor Samuel Gyang Chollom, the Chairman appreciates them for the services rendered to the council and wish them well in their future endeavors.
The statement further directed them to hand over all government property in their possession to the Council’s Director of Personnel Management without any further delay.
” As thugs invade council chambers molest Journalist , councilors “.
15 out of 20 legislators of Jos North local government council of Plateau state has passed a vote of no confidence on the Chairman of Jos North local government council Hon Shehu Bala Usman citing gross misconduct, abusive of office amongst others
Councillor representing Tudun wada ward Hon Christopher Atang while moving the motion for Passing of a vote of no Confidence Said the Council Chairman Hon Shehu Bala awarded Contracts without due process as provided by law among which are jenta Adamu 3km road Construction, new market 1.5 km, yam Ganda-rokkos 1.5km and purchase of pediatric hospital at fudawa, supply and installation of transformers, at exhorbitant prices, concerete pavement and drainage at farin gada market
These Contracts he don’t award them only but claimed some are completed or almost at completion stage which is not true as these projects are cited in our domain,
He also connived with some people who claim contractors to handle these matter
Hon Attang further said the council chairman connived with some money lenders to secure fictitious loan facilities with high interest rate at the detriment of the local government without proper approval which ran into millions of naira,Collection of tenement rate by friends and family
According to him the above name alledgations are true as facts are there having set up a committee and visited the various places in the council and interacted with the people involved were there made impeachable confessions about the gross misconduct of the council chairman Shehu Bala
Supporting the motion Councillor representing Naraguta A ward Hon Abdulraham Aliyu said the Council Chairman has failed the people who elected him through his actions and said as legislators they will not fold thier arms and watch illegality take place
He said the Council Chairman has three days to response as they the legislators will forward a letter to the house of assembly for investigation and if found quity will face the music as the State assembly will do a thorough investigation into the allegations
He advised the council chairman to open the law and not to try any illegal actions which might lead to his removal
Meanwhile while the vote of no confidence was been passed on the chairman ,some thugs stormed Suspected loyal to the council led by the media Aid to the Council invaded the venue and harassed some councilors and Journalist who were covering the procedure leading to the demage of camera of the correspondent of arise TV by the thugs .
The Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), has distant itself from a distorted media report that the department of State Security, (DSS)
agents raided one of their facilities in Jos where 21 Muslims/almajiris are held hostage and being forcefully
The Church in a statement made available to this medium and was dully signed by Rev. (Dr) Stephen Baba Panya ECWA President stated that The attention of the leadership of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), has been drawn to some distorted media report that the Department of State Security, (DSS) agents raided one of our facilities in Jos where 21 Muslims/almajiris are held hostage and being forcefully converted to Christianity.
Dr. Panya revealed that these reports are not only false and misleading but a deliberate effort to discredit the church and cause religious crisis.
Among numerous ECWA Units is the ECWA Discipleship Unit established under the ECWA Church-Related Ministries Department of the ECWA Headquarters as follows:
PRESS RELEASE ON THE FALSE ACCUSATION THAT ECWA FORCES PERSONS, INCLUDING ALMAJIRI, TO CONVERT TO CHRISTIANITY
The attention of the leadership of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA),
has been drawn to some distorted media report that the Department of State Security, (DSS) agents raided one of our facilities in Jos where 21 Muslims/almajiris are held hostage and being forcefully converted to Christianity.
These reports are not only false and misleading but a deliberate effort to discredit the church and cause religious crisis.
Accordingly, we wish to present the following facts on the allegation:
Among numerous ECWA Units is the ECWA Discipleship Unit established under the ECWA Church-Related Ministries Department of the ECWA Headquarters.
The Unit, among other activities,
Trains the less privileged in the society for capacity building, skill acquisition, Christian Ethics and leadership skills with the sole purpose of making them relevant to the society.
Equips the trainees, upon completion of their one year training, with tools that will help them in establishing themselves.
For lack of space at the ECWA Headquarters, the office acquired a private property within Tudun Wada residential area in Jos as a temporary site for the training and housing of all trainees.
The trainees at the property, before being enrolled, are expected to provide the name of their sponsors and pay a mandatory sum of N75,000.00 to cover feeding and training fees.
As a practice, the Unit maintains a file for each student containing his or her personal data.
Trainees at the facility, as a matter of policy, are all adults with none falling below the age of Eighteen (18).
Trainees are free to withdraw from the training once they are dissatisfied with either the policies or the condition of the facility. Management also has the right to withdraw a trainee on grounds of infringement of the rules and regulations of the facility.
The Unit from its inception, has graduated over Eighty-six (86) trainees spread across different parts of Nigeria with various skills.
Prior to June 14, 2022, the property accommodated twenty-four (24) trainees with a list of pending applicants waiting for space for enrolment.
The ECWA Church-Related Ministries Department was shocked over the false allegations said to have emanated from the “escapee” Abdulrahman Hussaini that the trainees at the property are citizens that were forcefully brought to it for the purpose of forcefully converting them to Christianity.
These allegations are complete falsehood because the trainees being persons of age, are available at any time for Government Officials to interact with, to hear their respective stories, just as was done by the Department of State Services (DSS) recently.
Following a report by the JNI in Jos as we later understood, the DSS visited our facility and accordingly interviewed the occupants who freely disclosed to the security agents that they enrolled on the program at their own volition and were not forced, except Abdulrahman Hussaini’s brother who opted to leave with his brother Abdulrahaman and were released to the DSS without any excitation.
What is clear in this drama, is that the Hussaini brothers were planted as moles for the purpose of discrediting the good works of the church unit where thousands of trainees have benefited and are now living as responsible members of the society. What is more, Trainees are given two weeks break six months after their stay in the facility to get back and prepare for the final lap of their training. It is of the moment to note that the Hussani brothers have gone on this break and returned on their own volition
ECWA, as an organization, has a widespread nationally and internationally and believes in the Rule of Law and will not involve itself in the infringement of the Fundamental Rights of any Nigerian to his freedom of religion, movement, or association.
The above are the facts the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) has offered.
Any other insinuations and/or accusations such as has been made viral on the media space are FABRICATED LIES to dent the good works of ECWA since the past 129 years of its existence.
PRESS RELEASE ON THE FALSE ACCUSATION THAT ECWA FORCES PERSONS, INCLUDING ALMAJIRI, TO CONVERT TO CHRISTIANITY
The attention of the leadership of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), has been drawn to some distorted media report that the Department of State Security, (DSS) agents raided one of our facilities in Jos where 21 Muslims/almajiris are held hostage and being forcefully converted to Christianity. These reports are not only false and misleading but a deliberate effort to discredit the church and cause religious crisis.
Accordingly, we wish to present the following facts on the allegation:
Among numerous ECWA Units is the ECWA Discipleship Unit established under the ECWA Church-Related Ministries Department of the ECWA Headquarters.
The Unit, among other activities, Trains the less privileged in the society for capacity building, skill acquisition, Christian Ethics and leadership skills with the sole purpose of making them relevant to the society. Equips the trainees, upon completion of their one year training, with tools that will help them in establishing themselves. For lack of space at the ECWA Headquarters, the office acquired a private property within Tudun Wada residential area in Jos as a temporary site for the training and housing of all trainees. The trainees at the property, before being enrolled, are expected to provide the name of their sponsors and pay a mandatory sum of N75,000.00 to cover feeding and training fees. As a practice, the Unit maintains a file for each student containing his or her personal data. Trainees at the facility, as a matter of policy, are all adults with none falling below the age of Eighteen (18). Trainees are free to withdraw from the training once they are dissatisfied with either the policies or the condition of the facility. Management also has the right to withdraw a trainee on grounds of infringement of the rules and regulations of the facility. The Unit from its inception, has graduated over Eighty-six (86) trainees spread
June 14, 2022, the property accommodated twenty-four (24) trainees with a list of pending applicants waiting for space for enrolment. The ECWA Church-Related Ministries Department was shocked over the false allegations said to have emanated from the “escapee” Abdulrahman Hussaini that the trainees at the property are citizens that were forcefully brought to it for the purpose of forcefully converting them to Christianity. These allegations are complete falsehood because the trainees being persons of age, are available at any time for Government Officials to interact with, to hear their respective stories, just as was done by the Department of State Services (DSS) recently. Following a report by the JNI in Jos as we later understood, the DSS visited our facility and accordingly interviewed the occupants who freely disclosed to the security agents that they enrolled on the program at their own volition and were not forced, except Abdulrahman Hussaini’s brother who opted to leave with his brother Abdulrahaman and were released to the DSS without any excitation. What is clear in this drama, is that the Hussaini brothers were planted as moles for the purpose of discrediting the good works of the church unit where thousands of trainees have benefited and are now living as responsible members of the society. What is more, Trainees are given two weeks break six months after their stay in the facility to get back and prepare for the final lap of their training. It is of the moment to note that the Hussani brothers have gone on this break and returned on their own volition
ECWA, as an organization, has a widespread nationally and internationally and believes in the Rule of Law and will not involve itself in the infringement of the Fundamental Rights of any Nigerian to his freedom of religion, movement, or association.
The above are the facts the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) has offered. Any other insinuations and/or accusations such as has been made viral on the m
Mikang Local Government Area is a conglomeration of four Districts speaking different languages with farming as their major source of income. For better living and sustainable development, the good people of mikang consider farming as their pride.
After series of multifarious achievements in different sectors, Member Representing the good people of Mikang in Plateau State House of Assembly, Hon. Naanlong Daniel Gapyil, is at it again to support his constituents at the right time by supporting farmers with free fertilizers.
In separate remark, Mikang Local Government Council Chairman Hon. Augustine Bako who was ably represented by the Secretary of the council Hon. Haruna Tama, appreciated Hon. Na’anlong for his continuous benevolence towards the good people of Mikang. He further assured the Hon. Member of his full support come 2023.
Speaking on behalf of the Party, the Secretary of APC in Mikang, Hon. John Tehltui Stated that “The Member Representing the people of Mikang in the State House of Assembly has been a major pillar and backbone in strongly holding the party, APC in Mikang.
The Party Secretary further advised the committee on fertilizer distribution to exercise transparency while distributing the fertilizers.
The Members of Mikang Legislative Arm were also fully on ground to witness the distribution of the dividend of democracy to their people. The Leader of the Mikang Legislative Arm expressed profound gratitude to the Hon. Member and promised to support his candidacy because of his obvious good deeds.
The APC Zonal Women Leader, Mrs. Monica Zal, urged all the beneficiaries not to downgrade the quantity being given to them while considering the population in Mikang Local Government Area.
The Mikang traditional Rulers were on ground to witness the distribution of the dividend of democracy in display by their humble Son, the Hon. Majority Leader.
Speaking on behalf of the entire traditional Council, the Long Lalin, who represented the President, Mikang traditional Council, Barr. Donald Dajen Puntel ll, prayed for and lifted Hon. Naanlong’s hand given him full assurance of his victory at the polls come 2023.
The Chairman of the committee on the distribution of fertilizer, Rev. N. S. Koppah, expressed his joy and commendation to the Hon. Member for given them the opportunity to handle the affairs of the fertilizers distribution. He further pleaded with those the fertilizers may not reach to exercise patience and remain calm.
On his part, Hon. Na’anlong Daniel Gapyil, the Workaholic Member Representing the good people of Mikang in the State Assembly charged the beneficiaries to judiciously use the fertilizers in their respective farms and not to sell same whatsoever.
The Lawmaker appreciated the committee and advised them to be vigilant and transparent during the distribution process.
The Legislator further extend his undiluted appreciation to the people’s Governor, the Governor of Plateau State, Rt. Hon. Barr Simon Bako Lalong for his unflinching support to the Plateau State House Assembly without which, he said the supply and distribution of the free fertilizers to farmers in Mikang would not have been possible. He appreciated the Governor further for his assurance to the people of Mikang on the timely completion of the project of Langtang to Garkawa and the connection of electricity to the national grid in Tunkus, the Headquarters of Mikang LGA. before the end of his tenure as the Governor of the State.
The committee has done justice by coming up with a comprehensive list of the beneficiaries, which includes:
The Mikang Executive Council;
Mikang Legislative Arm;
All State Government Appointees from Mikang;
-Commissioner. -Permanent Secretaries. -Commission Members. -Senior Special Advisers. -S.A to the Governor;
Local Government Senior Advisers;
Party (APC) Structure. -State Legal Adviser. -Zonal Women Leader. L.G.A Party Chairman and Excos;
Mikang Traditional Council from top to village heads;
Tehl Development Association. A. Piapung Development Association. B. Youm Development Association.
The Executive Chairman Qua’an-Pan Local Government Council of Plateau State, Hon. Ernest Abner Da’a has enjoined eligible voters in the area to take advantage of the 2 days public holiday in the State, to register and acquire their Permanent Voters Cards, PVCs.
Hon Da’a, who made the appeal in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Affairs, Stephen Sarki Musa, also called on them to continue to patronize the designated INEC Continuous Voters Registration Centers, for the registration exercise and cautioned them against waiting until the last minute.
“With the 2 days public holiday and the extension of time by INEC for the Continuous Voters Registration Exercise, I appeal to all eligible voters to turn out in their numbers to register and obtain their Permanent Voters Cards,” the Chairman said.
He added that the advantages of obtaining the cards are numerous, as it creates opportunities for choices in the election of credible leaders in the 2023 and subsequent elections in the country.
“The only opportunity to elect credible leaders is for the electorate to obtain their Permanent Voters Cards. There should be no room for complain with the holidays and the extension,” Hon. Da’a declared.
The Executive Chairman commended INEC for listening to the voices of the people by extending the period of the exercise and appealed to them to provide more facilities and personnel to meet up with the upsurge in the number of people coming out for the exercise.
He also called on traditional and religious leaders to join the various authorities of Government in educating and mobilizing their wards towards the success of the exercise.
In line with the mission of the commissioner of police Plateau State Command CP Bartholomew N. Onyeka psc (+) which is policing with the fear of God and Policing without boundaries, the command have yet again recorded another break through On the 24th of June 2022, at about 2040hrs, some armed robbers came out of Daji Madam Pandam forest along Namu-Lafia road, and robbed some passengers of their belongings, upon receiving this information, A combined team of police operatives in collaboration with other security agencies led by our eveready DPO swiftly rushed to the area, engaged and neutralize one of the hoodlums who was later confirmed dead, others escaped into the bush with bullets injuries. search was conducted around the scene and following items were recovered (1)Toy gun (2)torch light (3)knife and other dangerous weapon. Meanwhile effort is still on going to get the fleeing suspects arrested. The Commissioner of Police Plateau State Command, CP BARTHOLOMEW ONYEKA psc(+) has applauded the swift response of the security operatives. He has therefore assured the good people of plateau state that the command will continue be unrelenting in fishing out any criminal elements within our borders. The CP is also using this medium to send a strong warning to those who think it’s business as usual to stay clear from crime and criminality or leave Plateau State, as the command will not rest until we fish them out and prosecute them in line with the law. He equally called on members of the public to continue to support the police with useful and timely information about all criminal activities within their area, as the police under his watch will continue to put in more effort to keep Plateau State safe for all.
The Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) and General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division Nigerian Army (NA), Major General Ibrahim Ali has inaugurated landmark projects in Headquarters Operation SAFE HAVEN to improve the welfare and operational effectiveness of troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN.
Delivering his welcome address during the ceremony, the Officer Commanding Defence Company OPSH, Captain Musa Aruwan said the projects would provide a conducive working environment for troops to carry out their responsibility effectively. He maintained that the troops would forever remain grateful to the commander for giving them befitting accommodation and potable water.
In his remarks, the Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, Major General Ibrahim Ali charged Commanders at all levels to take the welfare needs of their troops very seriously adding that improved welfare leads to effective result.
Genral Ali also noted that it is a command responsibility to improve the standard of living of troops making huge sacrifice and dedicated to the service of their fatherland.
The commander further stressed that the projects would boost the morale of troops and strengthen their commitment to the fight against insecurity in the joint operation area.
Appreciating the commander on behalf of the troops, the Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM) OPSH, Master Warrant Officer (MWO) Azi Yusuf lauded the giant stride of the commander and his resolve to continually improve the welfare of troops.
Highlight of the event was the cutting of tape to commission the remodelled office of the Regimental Sergent Major, newly built 2 blocks of troops accommodation as well as the newly constructed borehole among others.
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The Executive Chairman Qua’an-Pan LGC, Hon. Ernest Abner Da’a, has charged beneficiaries of the Plateau State COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (PL-CARES) Livelihood Grant Support to make judicious use of the grants to better their lives and communities.
Hon. Da’a spoke through his deputy, Hon. Helen Henniet Wapmuk while playing host to officials of the Community and Social Development Agency (CSDP) Plateau State Chapter at the Council Secretariat on Thursday June 23, 2022.
The Council Chairman said, it is a rare privilege for them to be amongst the lucky ones selected out of thousands that applied, hence the need to justify their credibility and worthiness.
“As a Council, we welcome you and wish you well as you engage the beneficiaries. We will give maximum support to ensure the success of the programme for the benefit of our people,” the Chairman added.
Hon. Wapmuk, flanked by the Supervisory Councilor for Social Service, Hon. Rita Buba appreciated the Federal and State Governments for yet another intervention, stating that the Training and subsequent disbursement will go a long way to cushion some economic challenges amongst the people of the locality.
Speaking earlier, leader of the team, Mrs. Saratu Aliyu explained that their mission in Qua’an-Pan is to flag off the Orientation, Training on Soft Skills and Enrollment/Biometric Capture of Beneficiaries of the PL-CARES Grants.
Mrs. Aliyu disclosed that the 56 beneficiaries from Qua’an-Pan LGA, will be undergoing a training on how to use the grant, adding that the distribution will be done at the conclusion of the training exercise.
Thee CSDP Team later met the beneficiaries and commenced the engagement exercise immediately.
The team members included Adams Kwalpung Mark, Nuhu Daniel, Ballins Akims, Yenkwo B. Dongnaan, Nenrot Daniel, Stephanie Kumhoom, Sheila Bature, Mr Amfani and Mr Abari.
Mathias Yengoet Dajan SSA Media Publicity and Protocol
The Executive Secretary Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission, Rev Dr.Yakubu Pam has called on Christian pilgrims to put whatever they have learned during the pilgrimage exercise into practice . He disclosed this at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport, Abuja while recieving the first batch of Christian pilgrims who left Abuja on 15th June,2022 to Israel and the Kingdom of Jordan and have completed their pilgrimage circle on 23rd June,2022.
Rev Pam explained that the testimonies of the pilgrims have been fantastic, in his words” they are excited about their experience in both pilgrimage destinations, Israel and Jordan.
The NCPC boss commended the active role played by the Medical team , the Spiritual Leaders as well as the pilgrimage mangers for coordinating an excellent exercise.
He affirmed that the 360 Pilgrms who were airlifted all came back complete without a record of abscondment and he prayed that same testimony would be said of subsequent batches. He advised the Pilgrims to go back home and share their experience with people around them, and spread the good news of Christ with what they have heard, seen and also touched with their hands ; he urged them to be good ambassadors of Christ and also good citizens of our great country Nigeria.
The NCPC helmsman also intimated that the exercise is on going and hopefully would be rounding off in September.
In his remarks, the Director, FCT Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mr.Dabara Audu expressed his joy for the safe return of the first batch of Pilgrms airlifted for the 2021 main Pilgrmage to Israel and Jordan. He disclosed that all pilgrims went their for the real purpose of it and not for any other transaction and tourism or any of sort.He said, “the number that went came back the same and in good health,he added. According to him, “we are happy to be back and hope to make impactful change desired for our nation.
The states airlifted for the first batch of Pilgrms to Israel and Jordan were FCT and Bayelsa.
The Association of Local government chairmen Plateau State Chapter has called on the national secretariat of the Rulling All Progressive Congress to ensure national unity and interest is paramount in thier resolve for Nigeria to remain united
The Council Chairmen Spoke to journalist through its Chairman Hon Alex Naantuam who is also the executive chairman Shendam local government area
Naantuam Says thier is need to consider Barr Simon Bako Lalong as the running mate of Bola Tinibu in the forth coming election. He urged the party to forget about Muslim Muslim ticket and consider the governor who is from the north Central in order to balance the equation. According to him” The governor has exhibited leadership qualities right from the days he ventured into politics even to date as the governor and also the chairman of the northern governors forum” Lalong is not only a good choice for Plateau but for the whole country if given the chance. So as an association of chairmens we fully support and endorse Barr Simon Bako Lalong to be the Vice President under the All Progressive Congress and we hope and pray that the party will look at his qualifications and give him the opportunity to bring development in the country and we on the other hand will support fully from the state and beyond.
The Executive Chairman of Qua’an-Pan Local Government Council, LGC, Hon. Ernest Abner Da’a, has commended all who have contributed towards the sustainability of the Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention (SMC) programme, describing it as one of the most effective interventions was of prevention of malaria in most vulnerable areas.
Hon. Da’a, who made the commendation while declaring open a 3-Day Train -the-Trainers sessions, in preparation for the implementation of the 2022 Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention, SMC, vaccination exercise in the locality, also extoled the Primary Health Care (PHC) Department for effective service delivery.
“We appreciate the Federal Ministry of Health, the State Ministry of Health and the Local Government Health Department, as well as other donor agencies who have made contributions towards ensuring the sustainability of the SMC vaccination programme.”
“We thank you the implementers, without you the job wouldn’t be possible. So, it is indeed heart warming to see all of you gathered for the Train-the-Trainers, believing that the knowledge will be well articulated and the implementation will be done to the later,” he added.
Da’a, commended the staff of PHC Qua’an-Pan Local Government for always ranking first in most of the health intervention programmes and other services in the State; saying, “the Council has dedicated that to the committed and dedicated Staff of PHC department,” stressing that based on his personal assessment of their performance, he holds the department in high esteem.
The Executive Chairman further tasked the personnel, to continue to do justice to the programme, emphasizing that because ‘health is wealth,’ especially the health of children, who he said are more vulnerable, is very important. While praying God to reward the Staff for their sacrifices to humanity, the Council Boss pledged to support the training with entertainment.
Earlier, the Director PHC, who was ushered to the podium by the Supervisory Councilor for Health, Hon. Jonas Dasok Koplang, explained that the Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention (SMC), is a highly effective intervention to prevent malaria in those most vulnerable to the effects of the disease.
He said the exercise involves the monthly administering of doses of antimalarial drugs to children aged 3-59 months during peak malaria transmission season.
At the event, which was attended by the Directors and Staff, the Chairman’s entourage included his deputy, Hon. Helen Henniet Wapmuk, Secretary to the Council, Hon. Gideon Godenaan Dashe, Supervisory Councilors, among other appointees.
Plateau state governor Simon Lalong has declared 27th and 28th June 2022 as public holiday to enable Citizens of the state turn out en mass to register at the on going INEC Permanent voters card slated to end 30th June 2022
Secretary to the state government Prof Danladi Atu in a press Statement says the governor aim is to ensure that plateau state citizens are not denied the Opportunity to participate and vote Candidates of thier Choice ahead of the forth coming general elections
says the constituents who appreciated his performance have assured
Member representing Langtang North Central in the Plateau State House of Assembly Nanbol Listick who recently defected from the People’s Democratic party to labour Party has expressed optimism of winning his reelection to the Plateau State House of Assembly in his new found political party come 2023.
Nanbol Listick, member representing Langtang North Central in the 9th Assembly who recently defected to the labour party following what he termed as “injustice by some few individuals in the party” said the constituents who appreciated his performance have assured him of second mandate in any political party.
The first time member who’s performance in terms of contributions on the floor of the house and Constituency interventions has endeared him to his constituents, wonder why some few individuals will want to truncate the will of the majority by hijacking his former party, the PDP.
Nanbol Listick also debunked speculation in some quarters that his reelection bid is against zoning formula of the constituency, where he said the zoning system allow second term just as a former member of the Constituency, Mrs. Dina Lar was elected twice consecutively.
He said his resignation from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and subsequent defection to the Labour Party followed wide consultations with electorates in the constituency and not a one man decision.
In his 3 years as representative of the good people of the Langtang North Central constituency, Nanbol said he has sponsored bills, motions on matters of public importance that needs urgent government attention for the betterment of the Constituency and state at large.
He said he has intervene in the education sector in his constituency by constructing many Class room blocks across LEA Primary Schools, built Police and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps NSCDC outpost in some Districts, Primary Health Care, water projects, cash and skills empowerment of constituents as well as scholarship among others.
The official launch of his new political party, the Labour Party in Langtang North and South which is scheduled for July first, 2022 is going to feature commissioning of another School intervention project
It could be recalled that Hon. Nanbol Listick re-contested his current seat under his former party PDP but the primary election ended in a tie between him and his opponent and a new date was fixed for rerun primary but he opted out of the rerun and resigned from the party.
A Staunch member of the Peoples Democratic Party in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State, Hon. Amos Tongwe has congratulated Ngo Josephine Piyo over her emergence as the running mate for the party’s Gubernatorial candidate, Barr. Calep Mutfwang. Piyo was unveiled on Tuesday as PDP Governoship running mate by the flag bearer (Mutfwang) himself in the presence of stakeholders of the party. Speaking immediately after the event, Tongwe commended Mutfwang for the decision. He however observed that going by the global trend, he expected a youthful running mate for the purpose of appealing to that group who constitute over 60 percernt of the population of the country. “Most democracies in the world are geared toward involving the younger generation in the affair of things.
“This development has not only encouraged youths participation but has seen many taking over affairs of governance in many countries such as France, Canada and Ukraine.
“In Nigeria, the south East, South West and the far North have shown committment toward involving the younger generation in the scheme of things.
“This was clearly demonstrated when Pius Anyim was elected and subsequently became Senate President at the age of 39, Bankole Demiji became Speaker, House of Representatives at age 33 while Salisu Buhari also head the House of Representatives at the age of 29”, he said.
Tongwe lamented that it is only in the middle Belt, particularly in Plateau State that age is always adopted as a factor to edge out the younger generation in the scheme of things. Consequently, he called on the PDP Governoship candidate to consider it a duty to ensure the inclusion of youths in his Government after recording victory in 2023 which he said is the prayers of every genuine PDP member in Plateau State . On his part, Tongwe promised to give his best including resources to ensure PDP victory in the governoship election in 2023. “I believe in the ideals and philosophy of the PDP because the PDP is the only party that has good and developmental programs for the people.
“I must also say that I am positive and confident in the capabilitiy and capacity of Hon. Calep Mutfwang in delivering the dividends of democracy to the people.
“It is for this reason that I am calling on him to ensure the involvement of the younger generation for this onerous task.
“The involvement of the youth is also significant taking into cognizance the global quest of grooming the younger generation for leadership purpose”, he said.
Barr Mutfwang unveils Piyo as running mate on Tuesday. During his speech at the occasion, he said women constituted a larger chunk of voting population, therefore, giving them a voice was a compelling neccesity.
Plateau Guber Race: Mutfwang unveils Piyo as running mate, says giving women a voice a compelling neccesity
The PDP Governoship candidate in Plateau, Barr Calep Mutfwang on Tuesday unveiled former Chairman, Riyom Local Government Council Hon. Josephine Piyo as his running mate. In his speech during the unveiling, Mutfwang stated that he had to demonstrate his capacity for leadership by taking a very tough decision for the choice of a Deputy Governorship candidate for the party. He however, added that fortunately for him, he had an array of qualified men and women to choose from stressing that ironically, it was a difficult one since it can only be one person. The Governoship candidate hinted that in making the decision, he made far-reaching consultations with leaders of the Party, Stakeholders, and various Caucuses before choosing his Running Mate in order to enhance the joint ticket going into the general elections. According to Mutfwang, “It is pertinent to mention that since my election, I have taken the responsibility of providing leadership seriously.
“I have begun by talking with and where possible visiting my fellow contestants. I am very grateful for their sportsmanship and solidarity thus far.
“The discharge Permit to place on record the unflinching support I have enjoyed from the leadership of our Party across the state, elders, stakeholders, and supporters since I emerged as our Gubernatorial Candidate.
“Some of you will recall that in the course of my campaigns before the party primaries, I made a commitment to giving a voice to the voiceless.
“I make bold to say that a critical segment of our society that is often neglected in leadership considerations is the women folk and yet they form a formidable percentage of our population. For me giving them a voice is a compelling necessitity.
“I therefore have the honour and privilege of introducing to our party members and Plateau people a respected Plateau woman, mother, grandmother, daughter of Barkin Ladi, wife of the people of Riyom.
“She was trained as a healthcare worker and served as public administrator before becoming a consummate politician. Ladies and gentlemen behold the Honourable Mrs. Josephine Chundung Piyo, as my Running Mate”
The PDP Gubernoship candidate further expressed his confidence in the choice of his running mate for the fact that she is a grassroots and cosmopolitan politician, a loyal party woman believing that she would bring along with her a wealth of experience, having served the State dutifully and diligently as a Nurse, Teacher before venturing into politics when she got elected into the Plateau State House of Assembly in 1999. He said that thereafter, She served as Special Adviser to the Executive Governor, of Plateau State from 2008 to 2011 and later got elected as the Chairman of Riyom LGC from 2014 to 2015. He passionately appealed to every true PDP man and woman of good conscience to join hands in what he called a great task of winning the 2023 elections to enable the party bring succour to the good people of
It is not for nothing that Elder Godsday Orubebe’s resignation from the PDP is trending. After working for the party for years, the former minister is irked that the party has failed to do the right thing at the right moment and said he had to leave due to the failure of the PDP to zone the presidency to the Southern part of the country. His action has generated interest on the political stratosphere because it is an indictment on the PDP for failing to uphold the time tested principles of equity and justice. This is unlike the All Progressives Congress (APC) which got it right as far as equity and fairness to all are concerned. This is why the emergence of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a southerner, has held the interest of genuine statesmen in Nigeria as the APC has demonstrated its capacity to make sacrifices for the well being of the nation. Being a Muslim has however thrown up another challenge to the APC and this has to do with the choice of a running mate for Tinubu and the need for religious balancing to give all a sense of belonging. Proponents of Muslim/Muslim ticket have dominated public discourse with the point that the Muslim North should be factored in since it holds the vote bank. But those that toe this line of argument have not followed the dynamics of Nigeria’s political history to wit that those standing elections are not only those on the ballot but those behind them as well, or put in another way, a political figure can be on the ballot without being the candidate of a party. When for instance, Buhari emerged as presidential candidate of the then opposition APC, he did not accept having a Muslim running mate but agreed upon and accepted Tinubu’s nomination of Pastor Yemi Osinbajo, a Christian southerner, to create a balance and avoid the inherent dangers that would go with a Muslim-Muslim ticket. Though Tinubu was not on the ticket in 2015, he delivered the South West to the APC as if he was the one standing election. Similarly, Buhari is not on the ticket for 2023 but his bankable 12 million votes which come mainly from the Muslim North are bound follow his direction and that of his party like Tinubu was able to influence on the APC in 2015. It is instructive that in spite of his gargantuan followership, Buhari insisted on muslim/Christian ticket before winning the 2015 and 2019 elections. Now that Tinubu is faced with a similar situation, he is expected to ride on the doctrine of reciprocity and allow President Buhari to present a Christian vice presidential candidate to him for APC to win the presidential election. Buhari’s support will bring the northern votes, just like Tinubu’s support for Osinbajo brought votes from the Southwest. That being the case, among the Christian aspirants being analysed so far as running mate to Tinubu, the nominee that holds the aces is Rt. Honourable Simon Lalong, Governor of Plateau State and the Chairman of Northern Governors Forum. As the only Christian APC governor from the North, he has exhibited leadership as the first among equals. The support he has enjoyed from the Northern Governors Forum and his track record for promoting peaceful coexistence has distinguished him. A Tinubu/Lalong ticket will bring regional and religious balance and ensure equity and justice. While his chairmanship of the Northern Governors and Progressives Governors will attract the support of the governors, his candidature will attract Christian votes from the northern and southern parts of Nigeria. A Tinubu/Lalong ticket will stall the exodus to the Peter Obi/Labour Party frenzy which is gaining traction. Buhari demonstrated those virtues when he insisted on Muslim/Christian ticket in 2015. Tinubu must demonstrate statesmanship by allowing a Muslim/Christian ticket in 2023. This takes after the pattern in our recent history as a nation where Obasanjo paired with Atiku, Yaradua with Jonathan, Jonathan with Sambo and now Buhari with Osinbajo which took care of the regional and religious balancing. With the support of President Muhammadu Buhari, Lalong will replicate the winning formula that Asiwaju brought to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo in 2015, with the additional value of equity, justice and fairness. As a Catholic and a KSGG (Knight of Saint Gregory the Great) bestowed on him by the Pope, there’s is the possibility that pairing with Lalong will resonate with the predominantly Catholic South East and probably make the ticket become more appealing to the likes of Orubebe who are demanding for fairness.
Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), has successfully moved pilgrims from Israel to Amman, Jordan, as part of its Israel and Jordan 2021 Main Pilgrimage Exercise.
It will be recalled that NCPC had on Wednesday airlifted intending pilgrims to Israel and Jordan. The pilgrims first landed in Israel where they spent four(4) days, visiting Holy sites in Israel.
The Federal commissioner representing the North East on the NCPC Board, Rev. Dr. Jidda Gelengu who is among the first batch, while speaking on the ongoing pilgrimage exercise expressed appreciation for all the efforts put in place. He also commended the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Rev. Dr. Yakubu Pam for what he described as good leadership and diversification, for being able to put together a combined pilgrimage destination.
Rev. Gelengu further applauded staff of the Commission on the first batch for being true and dedicated to their job. In his words, “I am happy with the staff here with me as they have been helpful and carried out their task well, in ensuring all pilgrims are always out on time and together.”
Also speaking, the Federal Commissioner representing the South-South on the Board of NCPC, Barr. Forgiven Amachree disclosed that the pilgrimage exercise has been spiritually fulfilling and so far no abscondment has been recorded, in his words, ‘We are glad to have successfully completed the days in Israel, without recording any abscondment. I am very optimistic that none will be recorded even in Jordan”.
He further disclosed that from Amman Jordan the pilgrims will be going back to Nigeria after having visited the Holy sites in Jordan. He told Pilgrims “Jordan also has spiritually intriguing sites, so get ready to be spiritually satisfied”.
THE Multi Million Naira ultra modern Peter and Anna Bawa Memorial Hospital, Kwande in Qua’an-Pan Local Government Area of Plateau State is to commence full operations in October 2022.
Consequently, preparatory to the full take off, the Management of the Hospital said it will start a test run of services in September this year.
The Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Duncan Group of Companies, Dr Godfrey Bawa Shitgurum, MON, disclosed this in Kwande on Saturday June 11, 2022 after he led his management team and medical personnel to an inspection tour of the facilities in the hospital.
Dr Shitgurum, who is the Noetsen ( Wusai) of Kwo Chiefdom, disclosed that the hospital was built by one of their outfit, the Peter Bawa and Anna Foundation as a way of giving back to the people of the community and it’s environs.
He said once operational, the 50 beds hospital, comprising of 6 male and female Wards in addition to Children and Maternity wards is expected to have 3 doctors and other essential professional personnel to run it.
Collaborating the GMD/CEO, Miskoom Larry Peters Bawa, the Goena (Barade) of Kwo Chiefdom, informed the team that equipment, drugs and most of the essential materials for the take off are already in place.
He commended the medical team for ensuring that the hospital is of international standards and urged them not to relent in meeting all the necessary requirements before the October 2022 commencement date.
He disclosed that the idea behind the establishment of the hospital was based on the philosophy of the Foundation to provide ” modern health facilities for underserved rural areas”, adding that the provision of such services will assist in ending “unnecessary deaths and suffering ” of the people within the area.
Miskoom Bawa opined that apart from the provision of medical services, the establishment of hospital will create jobs, boost the economy of the area as well open other opportunities that will better the lives of members of the community and it’s environs.
Speaking on behalf of the medical team, Dr Benedict Baamshal Mairiga commended the Duncan Group of Companies and Peter Bawa and Anna Foundation for it’s commitment towards the project.
He assured them of prudent management of personnel and resources, adding that the best hands would be recruited to meet the standards, vision and mission of the hospital.
Some of the major facilities available at the hospital include Ultrasound scan, ECHO and EGG. Laboratories, Ambulance and mortuary, while the services to be rendered include medical, surgical, maternity, neonatal and other specialized care.
The Management further disclosed that it would make available radiological and other facilities recommended by the medical team before the October commencement date.
Signed Stephen Sarki Musa For: Management Dated: June 15, 2022
The Executives, entire membership, friends, admirers and sympathisers of the Peoples Democratic Party ( PDP ) Plateau State Chapter heartily congratulate H. E Alhaji Atiku Abubakar GCON as the Presidential candidate of our great party and H E Dr Ifeanyi Okowa Governor of Delta State on his selection as the running -mate to our presidential candidate.
State Publicity Secretary John Akans Said both of you are embodiment of hope and aspirations to our country Nigeria. Your election at the National Convention and subsequent selection of Gov Okowa signifies hope fulfilled and aspirations achieved. Nigeria cannot afford another eight years of unresponsive government with failed government policies and programmes which do not address the needs and yearnings of our people. As a responsible party, we no longer want a government that is out of touch of Nigerians and pushes corrupt interests and nepotism over the interest of all Nigerians.
We appreciate Your Excellency Alh Atiku Abubakar for your courageous acceptance to serve Nigeria and it’s people and your party in this onerous position.We know that you could not have come to this decision without a lot of inner reflection and soul searching but we are also confident that the path you have chosen is the right one and that fate has led you to it. State Publicity Secretary PDP Plateau State.
For us in Plateau State and as a party, our hopes are for a properous Nigeria, a secour Nigeria a Nigeria whose young and old are not looking for the first chance to escape the shores of the country but see opportunities, hope and aspiration and are inspired by patriotism to put their strengths and minds to the task of National development. With you at the helm of affairs we look forward to a Nigeria of our dream. A Nigeria that inspires hope and fulfilment among its people, a Nigeria which has equal opportunities for all especially job opportunities not such that depend on who you know, a Nigeria where good education counts ,a Nigeria where everyone can move freely and sleep with your eyes closed ,a Nigeria where justice prevails. Nigerians want to see these realities practiced in this country and you both have the vision and qualities to effect these changes Nigerians are looking for .
We congratulate you, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and Dr Ifeanyi Okowa as our winning team for 2023 positive change, we are confident that you are the agent of true change that Nigerians need at this challenging time. You are catalysts that will redirect the political discourse to refocus on the people of this country.
We have no doubt as a party that you will both harness your vibrancy, intellect, wisdom and leadership qualities to deliver the message about that New Nigeria we envision.you are coming with a message of governance that provides, solutions to problems, governance which is goal oriented not one that is lacking in direction and purpose, a message that will create change and modernize the country for posterity.
We wish to use this moment to thank and praise the vision and foresight of our National Chairman Dr Iyorchia Ayu our candidate HE Alh Atiku Abubakar, members of the NWC, BOT, all groups of our party faithfuls at all levels and grassroots members who participated in the election and selection process of our Presidential candidate and his running mate Dr Ifeanye Okowa.
By this choice, you have demonstrated to Nigerians and the rest of the world , that the PEOPLES DEMOCRATIC PARTY(PDP) understands the problems facing Nigeria as a whole and PDP stands ready to address these problems without fear or favor.
Finally, we on the plateau under the able leadership of Hon Chris A. Hassan extend our sincere appreciation, support and goodwill to our incoming President H E Alhaji Atiku Abubakar the vice president Dr Ifeanye Okowa and the entire party hierarchy and we urge you to fight to finish, we give you every assurance that Plateau State chapter and the people shall stand by you to the end.
The Plateau State Chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, has elected and sworn in new executives to pilot the association affairs for a 3 year term.
The election and subsequent inauguration of the new Excos was held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ Secretariat following the expiration of the tenure of the former Excos who have served for two terms of six years.
All the positions were unopposed as there was no contest hence, all the female journalists unanimously affirmed them to lead the association as announced by the National Vice President of the association, representing zone D, Mrs. Jamila Abubakar.
Mrs. Nene Dung of Plateau radio television was elected as the new chairperson to be assisted by Grace Akwe Gotip, Mwuese Adem is to serve as secretary while Yuonne Ishola is the assistant secretary. Others are Eunice Agabas (Treasurer), Patience Aliyu (Financial Secretary) and Janet Jinawa (Auditor).
Barrister Mary Izam, the Plateau State chairperson of the Federation of Women Lawyers ,FIDA, administered oath of office to the new Excos.
In her acceptance speech, the new Chairman of NAWOJ, Mrs. Nene Dung while thanking God and members of the association for the confidence repose on her, appealed for cooperation among members to take the association to greater heights.
She solicited support from her predecessor and other past leaders of the association to enable her discharge the task with ease as she promised more connection and to create a NAWOJ website for easy accessibility of the association activities in Plateau State and the world.
Earlier, the Electoral Committee Chairman, Mrs. Esther Nasara in her welcome address assured that they had screened all those aspiring for the positions to ensure they present credible leaders for the great Association.
The National Vice President of NAWOJ, zone D, Mrs. Jamila Abubakar appreciated the outgoing Chairperson, Mrs. Jennifer Yerima for her doggedness and leadership style that saw the association to this level, especially how she fought for the less privileged, orphans and stood as a voice to the voiceless in the society.
She prayed God for grace upon the new Excos to enable them succeed but urged them to be committed in making sacrifices for the association, as they know that NAWOJ is not a money making Association.
The out-going Chairman, Mrs. Jennifer Yerima, thanked God for seeing her and all her team throughout their tenure and also appreciated the support she enjoyed from members and friends of NAWOJ and she also appealed for more support to the new leadership.ood will messages from Plateau State Commissioner for Information ,Dan Manjang who was represented by a Director in the Ministry, Mrs. Theodora Damulak, Plateau State NUJ Chairman, Mr. Paul Jatau, Mr. Mark Agagwu, the Assistant Director News, NTA Jos zonal office among others.
The on-going campaign by stakeholders in northern Nigeria, that the winner of the All Progressive Congress (APC) Presidential primary, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, should pick the Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong as his running mate, whose regional appeal and grassroots support in the north would be invaluable to Tinubu’s victory at the general elections.
This was disclosed by the Plateau State Commissioner of Lands, Survey and Town Planning, Mr Yakubu Dati, who stated that in a secular and multicultural country like Nigeria, it is given that broad considerations should be made to accommodate all interest groups in leadership, for equity and fairness not only to be done, but be seen to have been done.
“It was this understanding that made the northern APC governors to push for a southern presidential candidate, since by 2023, a northerner, President Muhammadu Buhari, would have done eight straight years in Aso Villa.
“Since Tinubu is a Muslim from the Southern part of the country, it is expected that for the APC to have a balanced ticket, which it would take to the general elections to convince Nigerians to vote for it, that it is only right for the party to balance the presidential ticket with a Christian from the northern part of Nigeria”, he said.
Dati also observed that by doing that, the party would have succeeded in sending the message across that it is not just for all Nigerians, but that it is sensitive to the demand for equity by all sections of the country.
He noted that taking this position, would further boost the chances of the party at the general elections, as Christians from both the southern and northern parts of Nigeria would not feel alienated from the APC because of the VP factor, while Muslims from all parts of the country would also have a sense of belonging in the party because of faith of the presidential candidate.
This seems to be the party’s best bet to winning the 2023 elections as any other consideration would spell danger for the party at the polls as already a section of the country are already apprehensive about the possibility of the APC going into the election with a Muslim-Muslim ticket.
“Already, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has warned the leading political parties to bury the thought of Christian/Christian or Muslim/Muslim presidential ticket in 2023 stressing that it is a threat to the fragile peace and unity of Nigeria”, he said.
Dati recalled that CAN, in a statement signed by its national secretary, Barrister Joseph Bade Daramola, advised that a balance of both religious practitioners be considered in the choice of running mates of the presidential candidates and said ‘any party that tries same religion ticket will fail. This is not 1993. The Presidential running mate for the APC presidential flag bearer, Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu, should pick a Christian from the North, Atiku’s running mate should be a Christian from the South, while Obi should choose his own among the Muslims from the North. Anything contrary to the above, means that the leadership of these political parties do not bother about the unity of this entity called Nigeria.’
The Commissioner said while CAN cannot decide for political parties how it should conduct its affairs; the view of the religious body resonates with a large percentage of the populace who demand sensitivity to such issues.
“This is the spirit behind such government policies as federal character and equitable representation and distribution of resources. The APC cannot at this time, afford to take the unnecessary risks that come with an unbalanced ticket given the complexity of Nigeria and the tightness of the current race for the presidency.
“As it is, not only is the PDP candidate, Atiku Abubakar formidable, but there are some third forces that may either spring surprises or vitiate the chances of the two major parties in their traditional strongholds,” he stressed.
He remarked that Kwankwaso’s NNPP for instance is bound to reduce the votes of the APC in its traditional strong hold in the Northwest, while Peter Obi of the Labour Party may do the same to the PDP in its South East.
“So the two major parties need to tread carefully to maximise their advantages, as this is not the time for risk taking. Luckily for the APC, it has people that can be paired with Bola Tinubu which can add value to the presidential ticket and the foremost so far is the governor of Plateau State, Simon Bako Lalong.
“This is more so given the fact that before supporting a southern candidate for the party’s presidential ticket, there was a gentleman agreement that any that emerges would pick his running mate from among the governors who pushed this cause,” he said.
The Commissioner stressed that so far, Lalong remains the only Christian governor in the APC who was part of that meeting and should be so considered, adding that the Plateau governor has delivered the state to the APC twice, the first time displacing PDP as the ruling party in the state and has gone ahead to consolidate on that by putting structures that have made the APC popular not just in the Plateau State, but in North Central Nigeria.
“Lalong is also accepted by both Christians and Muslims in the country, as he is known to have shown fairness to adherents of both faiths in his seven years as governor and brought peace in a state hitherto bedevilled by crises.
With him as running mate to Tinubu, Christians and Muslims in the North would be happy to vote for the APC, while Christians in the South would have no apprehensions over an unbalanced ticket. Furthermore, the Southerners and Muslims in the North would have every reason to be cheerful, adding value to the APC presidential ticket and enhancing its chances at the polls,” the Commissioner added.
Unknown Gunmen Kidnapped Rev Father in Plateau State
Unknown Gunmen have abducted Rev. Fr. James Kantoma, the Parish priest of St. Anthony Catholic Church, Angware, Jos East Local Government Area of Plateau.
Confirming the kidnapp Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Police force Plateau State Command DSP Alabo Alfred, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the state, said Rev Father James Kantoma, who is also the chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the local government, was kidnapped on Sunday night at the church’s vicarage.
He said the command has deployed officers and men from the anti-kidnapping unit to the community.
“Our men are already working to ensure that the cleric regains his freedom and apprehend those behind the abduction,” the PPRO said.
Speaking, Rev. Fr. Polycarp Lubo, the Chairman of CAN in the state, described the incident as ”unfortunate and sad.”
“Since the gunmen took the priest away, we have not heard anything either from him or the abductors.
”This is so sad, but we are praying for him that no harm will befall him wherever he is,” he said.
Lubo, however, called on government and security agencies to ensure the safe return of the abducted priest and others in captivity.
An Islamic Scholar in Plateau State Imam Abdullahi Abubakar Gashih says the personal disposition of Governor Simon Lalong to Peace and peaceful coexistence has contributed significantly to the return of Peace in Plateau state.
Imam Abubakar, who stated this while speaking to Journalists in Jos, noted that the policy approach to inclusive governance was one element that has brought about stability in the state.
He said the people of Plateau State are proud of Governor Lalong’s achievement and his philosophy of Peace through mutual understanding and cooperation, describing him as a God fearing leader who embraces all without regards to ethnicity or religion.
He prayed that God will reward Governor Lalong with a higher office as he comes to the twilight of his administration.
Imam Abdullahi is remembered for providing shelter for hundreds of Christians fleeing attacks from Muslim herdsmen who had launched coordinated attacks on Christian farmers in 10 villages in the Barkin Ladi area of Plateau State in 2018.
The mention of the name Simon Bako Lalong simply evokes different feelings and meanings to different people.
Whenever Lalong is mentioned, the name resonates in different quarters differently.
Some say, can anything good come from Ajikamai? Similar to what was said of Jesus of Nazareth! Though such question is rhetorical, the answer is obvious to whoever might raise it! While some genuinely ask such question in marvel to what God can do to and with whoever he pleases, others ask the question albeit derogatorily.
Prior to 29th May, 2015 when Simon Bako Lalong was sworn in as Executive Governor of Plateau State, despite the fact that he had held positions to be reckoned with, elective for that matter, he was seen as an underdog, someone that can and will not put up a fight of any kind.
Many people did not even believe that he will make it to Rayfield as Chief Executive of Plateau State not even the person he took over from. It is said that his predecessor was sarcastic at a campaign in 2014/15 referring to Lalong when he symbolitically raised a bunch of keys and said “We cannot build a house and one stranger will bring brooms and pile in it!” That is the level which he (Lalong) did not matter in anyway then.
However, destiny came knocking and like God told Jeremiah in Jeremiah 1:4-8 thus:
“The word of the Lord came to me saying, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.’
‘Alas, Sovereign Lord,” I said, ‘I do not know how to speak; I am too young’. But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am too young’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you; declares the Lord,’’’-(NIV).
Lalong like many, was mirrored differently from the way God looked at him. As a matter of fact, I am tempted to add to his names Jeremiah thus Right Honourable (Dr.) Simon Jeremiah Bako Lalong, KSGG!
Sooner had he assumed office that he faced the issue of insecurity that had engulfed the state of no known dimension and nipped it in the bud to the consternation and surprise of many pundits and pessimists alike. The crisis, insecurity, reduced drastically. Little wonder he was called and consecrated by the Lord himself. Otherewise, he would not have removed us from the situation of hatred against each other.
Like Jeremiah, it is possible that Lalong had looked down upon himself as too young and if that be so, God must have rebuked him not to and went ahead and consecrated him. As a matter of fact, news had it that even people close to him taunted him.
And indeed to their consternation he became governor in 2015 and was re-elected in 2019. And not only that, he was also saddled with the responsibility of leading the 19 Northern State Governors of Nigeria as its Chairman, irrespective of political party and other considerations.
Every human being has two sides. And for Governor Lalong, people only know the seeming weak side of him which is a source of strength for him.
What do you expect of someone whom the Lord has consecrated? The Lalong we do not know is strong-willed, focused, target oriented, resilient and unassuming. This is a man that listens more than he speaks and whenever he chooses to speak, wisdom exudes from his lips. An encounter with him changes your opinion of him for good.
He has ably led the 19 Northern Governors creditably. One of the high points was last week when he led the 13 of the 14 northern Governors of the All Progressives Congress party to insist that the presidency of Nigeria should go to the South when the opposition appeared to have jettisoned zoning and some interests in the ruling party were towing the same line. It takes a man full of wisdom who is focused and who is respected by colleagues to boldly lead this kind of endeavour that has moved our dear nation forward. Equity and justice demanded so and this was demonstrated by the 13 wise men led by Lalong who spoke for national unity, peace and progress. They stood tall in the hour the nation needed them.
What the foregoing means therefore, is that Lalong is God-sent. And if that be so, there is still a lot to be expected from this unassuming, humble, simple and kind son of Ajikamai who does not pride himself on anything apart from God.
Already the people of the Southern Zone of Plateau State have bestowed upon him a higher responsibility beyond the shores of Plateau State to represent them in the Senate following the elections coming up next year.
With the emergence of the APC standard bearer Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Lalong’s name has again resonated among likely candidates to be considered for Vice President.
While he has not said anything about these insinuations, the loud clamour for him to be considered speaks a lot of his personality, achievements and the grace of God upon him. One thing is certain that if he has done it all at the state and regional levels, he can also do it at the national level having been Speaker, Governor and practiced law for many years.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has pegged the deadline for the submission of list of Presidential candidates and their running mates by political parties at June 17.
The Commission warned the dedicated portal for the submission of list of candidates for national elections will automatically shut down at 6.00pm (1800hrs) on Friday 17th June 2022.
However for governorship and House of Assembly elections, the list of candidates shall be uploaded from 1st to 15th July 2022.
INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, gave the hint at a meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners in Abuja on Thursday.
The Commission stressed further that only names of candidates that emerged from democratic primaries as provided by Sec. 84 of the Electoral Act 2022 shall be submitted.
Yakubu said: “All primaries end today Thursday 9th June 2022. For the next one week from tomorrow 10th June 2022, all Political Parties are required to submit their list of candidates for national elections (Presidential/Vice Presidential, Senatorial and House of Representatives) latest by Friday 17th June 2022.
“For State elections (Governorship/Deputy Governorship and State Houses of Assembly), the list of candidates shall be uploaded from 1st to 15th July 2022 as already provided in the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2023 General Election already released by the Commission.
“All political parties are required to upload the details of their candidates for each constituency to the INEC Candidate Nomination Portal (ICNP). To achieve this objective, four officials recommended by each of the 18 political parties were trained on the procedure for uploading the nomination forms to the dedicated web portal.
“Confidential Access Codes to the portal have already been given to each Political Party to facilitate the uploading of its to facilitate the uploading of its nominations”.
He continued: “For emphasis, the Commission wishes to remind Political Parties that only the names of candidates that emerged from democratic primaries as provided by Sec. 84 of the Electoral Act 2022 shall be submitted to the Commission. Similarly, the list of all Presidential and Governorship candidates must be accompanied by the names of their running mates (i.e. Vice Presidential and Deputy Governorship candidates) without which the nomination is invalid.
“All nominations must be uploaded to the portal on/or before the deadlines. The portal will automatically shut down at 6.00pm (1800hrs) on Friday 17th June 2022 for national elections and 6.00pm (1800hrs) on Friday 15th July 2022 for State elections. With this innovation, the Commission has eliminated the physical interface between party officials and INEC staff for the purpose of submitting the list of candidates for the 2023 General Election.
“A Nomination Centre has been set up here at the Commission’s Headquarters to receive and process all nominations by political parties, including dedicated telephone lines to serve as Help Desk for any Party that may need assistance. In our avowed commitment to openness and transparency of the process, the media will be invited to the Nomination Center so that Nigerians will see our level of preparedness for the exercise”.
Plateau State Governor and Chairman of the Northern Governors Forum Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong has congratulated Asiwaju Bola Tinubu on his emergence as the Presidential standard bearer of the APC in the forth coming general elections.
Lalong in a message described the victory of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu in the keenly contested APC Presidential Primaries as a well deserved one considering his experience, capacity and investment in the growth of Nigeria’s democracy.
Governor Lalong said the overwhelming victory of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu at the Primaries vindicates the position of the APC Northern Governors that power should shift to the Southern part of the country in the interest of equity, justice and unity.
Lalong said the Jagaban has remained a colossus in the Nigerian political landscape since the military era where he coalesced with others to push for return to civilian rule and also played a key role in the emergence of the APC which eventually ended the rule of the PDP.
He expressed confidence that Asiwaju Bola Tinubu’s victory represents the confidence of the party that he has all it takes to lead the APC into the general elections and ensure victory for the party in the Presidential and other elections.
While assuring him of support and collaboration for the battle ahead, Lalong urged him to use his wide reach and political sagacity to ensure that the process of reconciliation and enhancing unity is pursued with vigour and determination so as to enable the APC retain power and consolidate on the legacies of President Muhammadu Buhari.
Governor Simon Bako Lalong of Plateau State has done it again.
After pivoting the affairs of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as Chairman of the Ondo State Governorship Campaign and delivered the party in the South West state in 2016, Lalong’s ideas have again ruled at the just concluded APC presidential primary.
With the successful conclusion of the APC primary, Governor Lalong’s fight for justice and equity which has ensured peace in Plateau State for the over seven years he has presided over affairs in his state, has been transcended to the national level.
This is the big takeaway from the just concluded presidential primary which held at the Eagle Square in Abuja and which many have applauded for its sensitivity to Nigeria’s multiculturalism as well as equity and fairness for the nation’s unity.
While the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) went ahead to choose their candidate based mainly on linear and partisan consideration, the APC was more considerate as it took into cognisance the feeling of a large section of the country and decided that in the overall interest of Nigeria give all sides a sense of belonging.
This is based on the understanding that since the North, with President Muhammadu Buhari, would be completing eight straight years by 2023, that it is only fair that the South should take the next shot at the presidency.
But this this did not happen by chance as some of the leaders of the APC, mainly the APC Northern Governors had to stick their necks out to ensure that the right thing is done.
Governor Lalong of Plateau State who chairs the Northern State Governor Forum (NSGF) was at the forefront of this campaign for equity and justice which eventually paved the way for Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to emerge as the presidential flag-bearer of the APC.
The 14 governors took a position that the presidential ticket of the APC should go to the southern part of Nigeria for fairness.
Speaking on behalf of his colleagues at the conclusion of the meeting, Lalong also asked aspirants from the northern region to withdraw from the race to clear the path for the aspirants from the South.
He said, “It is a question of honour for the APC, an obligation that is not in any way affected by the decisions taken by another political party” and to a large extent, it was this position that provided the paradigm shift for the party to go for elections rather than consensus and paved the way for Tinubu to clinch the party’s ticket.
As many have rightly said, if there’s any group of persons that deserves praise for seeing that the APC respected the principle of zoning and takes into cognisance the sensitivity of the populace, it is the APC Northern governors.
Now that the APC presidential primary is over and Tinubu has been announced as the candidate of the ruling party and given the flag, there is the need to focus on what will improve his chances at the general elections.
Whatever choice the presidential candidate makes at this stage, will give an indication of his understanding of the nation’s political dynamics and give a glimpse of his vision for the country.
The time for the submission of candidates to INEC is nigh and there is no time to waste in seeking what would give an advantage to the APC ticket.
Luckily, Governor Lalong is no stranger to Tinubu as the two have worked together for years.
When Lalong was chairman of the Conference of Speakers, he coordinated leaders of the state legislature across the country to cooperate and give in their best for governors to run their states smoothly at the time Tinubu was governor of Lagos State.
The Plateau Governor is also well known for charting the course for justice and equity to reign and that is why he has been able to restore peace to a state which before his administration, had been torn by crises and insecurity.
On assuming office in 2015, Lalong made sure his cabinet reflected all the ethnic groups in the state and this doused the tension over appointments in the state.
The Governor was to go ahead to administer the state with equity and fairness and by being fair to all.
This had sent a strong message across that the Governor is fair minded and not biased against any group and that has helped him to rule the state in peace.
He has been well commended for not showing discrimination in the siting of projects in his state as his structural intervention are evenly spread across the length and breadth of the state.
The Governor had also created chiefdoms for perceived marginalized groups and gave all in the state a sense of belonging and allowed democracy, rather than imposition to thrive when electing local government chairmen.
This was why In 2019, his colleagues governor found him worthy to be elected as the chairman of the northern governors’ forum which comprises 19 members.
On assuming the Chairmanship, Lalong had promised not to betray the people of the region and his colleagues by championing issues that are of best interest to the country.
This is exactly what he has done to the APC by being a catalyst to the election of Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the presidential flag bearer of the APC.
The APC which will now be focused on how to win the 2023 elections must not lose sight of the fact that it needs someone whom the whole country can relate with and not one whose identity only amplifies our natal divisions.
Even as the APC presidential primary was going on at the Eagle Square in Abuja, some fifth columnists went to work trying to discredit the envisaged victory of Bola Ahmed Tinubu by circulating fake text messages that the Jagaban Borgu is set to pair up with an adherent of his faith to wins at the general elections next year.
The move which was cut short by the media Team of Bola Ahmed Tinubu was aimed at poisoning the minds of delegates and the electorate towards the APC when it became apparent that Tinubu was set to clinch the ticket.
In response, the BAT media Team said Tinubu is not known for jumping the gun and will address issues concerning his ambition when it is official that he has clinched the ticket.
With Lalong, the far North, the North Central and the entire country would have a stake in the Tinubu presidency.
Plateau State governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Barr. Caleb Mutfwang has assured party faithfuls of his readiness to restore mandate back to PDP for the common good of plateau Citizens
Mutfwang made this commitment at a brief reception after receiving his Certificate of return from the party Seceteriate which had the attendance some of his colleagues the aspirants, states Assembly fragbearers, members of the State and National Assembly, including critical stakeholders among others who graced the ceremony.
Mutfwang expressed gratitude to God Almighty and thanked the Peoples Democratic Party for the opportunity and confidence bestowed upon him to bear the party’s flag in 2023 ahead of greater Plateau.
The PDP’s flagbearer said, he is ready to bring everyone especially his colleagues aspirants whom he contested alongside with as his main target at this point, is to contest and win the governorship of Plateau State for restoration of people’s hope.
According to the flagbearer, “The time is so critical and as far as this journey is concerned, no one will be left behind because everybody is important. So we need everyone on board”.
Mutfwang revealed his intention to begin reconciliation and consultations with his colleagues aspirants whom they contested the seat together as part of his effort to unify the party.
He assured party faithfuls of his determination to face the APC and other opponents in the forthcoming general elections.
The Leadership of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) calls on all members across the State to remain calm, united and continue to work towards the success of PDP after our great successful Congress across the state particularly the Governorship which saw the wide acceptance of Hon Barr. Caleb Mutfwang as the Governorship candidate of the party which has naturally thrown up even greater interest in who should team up with him as a deputy in the race.
From this premise, we can appreciate the intense and daily speculations on this matter. Just as in the race for the candidacy, there were 18 men of honour who were all very qualified to pick the ticket, so also PDP has an immeasurable pool of loyal, resourceful and qualified men and women who can easily be picked to deputise our Candidate.
However, the leadership of the PDP in Plateau has officially zoned the running mate of our Governor to the Northern zone of the state but no decision has been taken on the person yet. Once it is done, it will be communicated officially.
We therefore call on our very esteemed party members and stakeholders to regard any publication on the social media as mere speculation, and the expression of the desires of individuals or groups who wish to influence the process and have things done in their preferred way.
We urge all party loyalists to pull back from this threshold which is generating unwanted tension and even provocation. What is required now is fervent prayer that will guide the decision making process so that a sure winning team is produced to take over the new government house in Rayfield – built by the PDP administration but which now lies in avoidable but unforgivable dilapidation – just like the fractured condition of the lives and infrastructure of the whole State.
Now is the time to fix our lives. Now is the time to fix our state. The party will do what is absolutely necessary to safeguard and promote its interest and integrity when the leadership sits to make a definite decision on who should race along with our Candidate, Hon Barr Caleb Mutfwang.
Facts have emerged that members of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have rejected an offer of $50,000 made to each of them to accept Ahmad Lawan, senate president, as the party’s consensus presidential candidate for the 2023 general election.
APC national chairman, Senator Abdullahi Adamu had called a meeting of NWC by 1pm on Monday in Abuja.
Sources privy to the meeting informed our correspondent in Abuja that Adamu told the NWC members that President Muhammadu Buhari has endorsed Ahmed Lawan as presidential candidate of the party.
The NWC members as Actual News gathered, opposed the decision, saying it couldn’t have been true given what the northern governors had said that power should shift to the south and the response of the southern governors in that regard.
In reaction to that also the NWC members said that given what President Buhari had said in respect of the positions of both northern and southern governors it could be a mere case of name dropping of the president.
The 22 APC governors from northern and southern regions of the country were said to have also opposed the move as it’s against their position on emergence of presidential candidate.
The 11 northern APC governors had on Saturday night after their meeting, issued a statement declaring their resolution that the party should zone it’s selection of presidential candidate for the 2023 election to the south.
APC SET FOR 3RD STRAIGHT VICTORY SINCE 2015, SAYS PRESIDENT BUHARI
At a meeting held Sunday night at State House, Abuja, with members of the National Advisory Council of the All Progressives Congress (APC), President Muhammadu Buhari appraised the series of consultations held so far towards getting a widely acceptable presidential standard bearer, and concluded: we are on the way towards winning our third straight victory since 2015.
Saying the meeting was convened to provide leadership and direction during the transition period, the President added that the motive was “to strengthen our unity and to focus on building upon our electoral fortunes.”
He added: “I am optimistic that the outcome of this consultation with the National Advisory Council will in addition to sharpening our focus, help to fortify the positive democratic principles, practices and culture that already exists within the party system.
“In the course of these consultative processes, I have already met separately with the Progressive Governors and with all our eminent members who are aspiring to become the Presidential flag bearer for our party during the 2023 elections.
“I am pleased to inform you that those meetings have been fruitful and indicative of a party that is prepared and marching towards a third straight victory since 2015, at the presidential polls.”
President Buhari recalled that at the meeting with the Governors and the aspirants, “I underscored the important roles consensus building and consultation have played in the survival of successful political parties around the world, adding that our party should not be an exception.
“Recognizing the foregoing, therefore, I also emphasized the need to strengthen our unity, stabilize our internal cohesion and system as well as present a formidable Presidential candidate who has the ability to build a unified nation and the capacity to deal with our challenges.
“The party machinery has also screened all our aspirants to the office of the President and found that they consist of eminent personalities, rich in experience, capacity, commitment to service and accomplishment in life. This gives us a lot of confidence but it also comes with its challenges.”
He said that in the circumstances, in order to prevent any post-convention acrimonies and also reduce noticeable anxiety among members on the possible outcome of the process, the party leadership has recommended the intensification of consultation and consensus building to reduce the number of aspirants as it approaches the convention, which commences Monday , June 6, 2022.
The President said in order to further support the efforts of the party, he has admonished the aspirants to consult among themselves and with the party, so that the objective of the recommendation by the leadership would be actualized.
And as members of the National Advisory Council of the APC, the President says he recognizes the fact that they all have diverse interests, spheres of influence and expectations. “You similarly possess the collective ability to ensure our victory at the 2023 polls by strengthening the stability and unity of the party.
“My charge and appeal to all of you, therefore, is to reach out to your various spheres of influence to actively promote the spirit of consultation and consensus building so that a formidable candidate for the 2023 Presidential elections would emerge from the convention. Our citizens do not expect less from us.”
President Buhari assured, as he did to the Governors and the aspirants, that in the interest of the nation and the party, he would lead the transition processes and on-going consultations, “till we successfully choose our candidate for the 2023 presidential elections and record our third straight victory, thereafter, by God’s grace.”
Responding on behalf of the National Advisory Council (hitherto known as Board of Trustees) members, former Internal Affairs Minister and Senator, Major General Mohammed Magodo (retd), former Osun State Governor and first Interim National Chairman of the party, Chief Bisi Akande, and former Senate President, Chief Ken Nnamani, thanked the President for the consultative meetings, and commended him for the great service he had rendered to the country, particularly in the areas of agriculture and infrastructure.
They were unanimous that with hard work and a united front, the APC would win the presidential election billed for February next year, as well National Assembly, governorship, and State Assembly polls.
Gunmen terrorists on Sunday attacked the St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, headquarters of Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, killing no fewer than 50 worshippers.
According to eyewitnesses, the attack occurred in the morning during the church’s Sunday service.
They also said that the gunmen stormed the church during service and started shooting sporadically., and detonated explosives inside the church premises.
The stray bullets of the terrorists also killed passerby who were hit by their bullets.
The injured and the dead were rushed to the Federal Medical Centre Owo, for medical attention.
Confirming the incident, the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of FMC, Owo, Dr Liasu Adeagbo, told newsmen that the hospital had deployed medical personnel to cater for the victims.
It was learned that the hospital’s medical personnel on ground at the emergency unit were overwhelmed by the large number of victims, hence many of them were referred to private hospitals for treatment.
The police command in Ondo had yet to officially react to the incident as of the time of filing this report.
Statement by Northern States’ APC Governors and Political Leaders
APC governors and political leaders from the northern states of Nigeria today met to review the political situation and to further support our Party in providing progressive leadership amidst our national challenges. During our discussions, we welcomed President Muhammadu Buhari’s invitation to governors and other stakeholders to contribute to the emergence of a strong presidential candidate for the APC.
After careful deliberation, we wish to state our firm conviction that after eight years in office of President Muhammadu Buhari, the presidential candidate of the APC for the 2023 elections should be one of our teeming members from the southern states of Nigeria. It is a question of honour for the APC, an obligation that is not in anyway affected by the decisions taken by another political party. We affirm that upholding this principle is in the interest of building a stronger, more united and more progressive country.
We therefore wish to strongly recommend to President Muhammadu Buhari that the search for a successor as the APC’s presidential candidate be limited to our compatriots from the southern states. We appeal to all aspirants from the northern states to withdraw in the national interest and allow only the aspirants from the south to proceed to the primaries. We are delighted by the decision of our esteemed colleague, His Excellency, Governor Abubakar Badaru to contribute to this patriotic quest by withdrawing his presidential aspiration.
The APC has a duty to ensure that the 2023 elections offer a nation-building moment, reaffirming that a democratic pathway to power exists for all who value cooperation and build national platforms. This moment calls for the most sober and inclusive approach to selecting our party’s candidate, and we call on all APC leaders to fulfil their responsibility in this regard.
Signed, 4th June 2022:
Aminu Bello Masari Governor of Katsina State
Abubakar Sani Bello Governor of Niger State
Abdullahi A. Sule Governor of Nasarawa State
Prof. B.G. Umara Zulum Governor of Borno State
Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai Governor of Kaduna State
Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya Governor of Gombe State
Bello M. Matawalle Governor of Zamfara State
Simon Bako Lalong Governor of Plateau State
Senator Aliyu Wamakko Former Governor of Sokoto State
Dr. A.U. Ganduje Governor of Kano State
Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu Governor of Kebbi State
Member representing Langtang North Central in the Plateau State House of Assembly Nanbol Listic has joined Labour Party following his resignation from the People’s Democratic party PDP
The lawmaker made this known with newsmen in Jos Said after wide Consultation and mass pressure from his Constituents who felt his Performance in the hallowed Chambers Should not be washed away has Joined the labour Party and will Contest the Langtang North Central House of Assembly under this unique party
He Said Steps are in top gear to actualise be his dreams in his new found Political Part
It would be recalled that the Member representing Langtang North Central constituency in the Plateau State House of Assembly, Hon. Nanbol Listic has resigned his membership from the Peoples Democratic Party PDP. In a letter addressed to to the PDP Chairman Reak Ward, Hon. Nantim Pwotbol, the Hon. Member cited faction and sharp division in the party as reason for his resignation.
This follows the intrigues that played out during his primary elections were he alleged that person’s are hell bent on tricanting his effort to return to the green chambers
According to him the issue of zoning that was brought out by some persons he said “yes zoning is allowed but in a situation were performance is key the need for Continuity is necessary he Cited instances were people from other zones contested with the Aspirants from zones agreed he wondered why his case will be different”.
He pledge to use performance based methodology to win the Secondary elections
The private residence of Plateau State APC gubernatorial candidate, Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda has been turned to a Mecca of some sort as different interest groups ranging from youths associations, women groups, tribal associations, politicians of note and spirited individuals come daily to congratulate and identify themselves with the APC gubernatorial flag bearer in Plateau State.
Today, the Plateau State APC Chairman, Hon. Rufus Bature, led a delegation of his Exco members to also congratulate the party’s candidate for the overwhelming victory he received during the primary election. While delivering his remarks, the party chairman noted with delight the humility and brilliance of the party’s candidate which has attracted so much goodwill to the party. He assured the candidate of the party’s readiness to mobilize massive votes in order to win the 2023 general election. He further advised the candidate to keep his doors wide open and strengthen partnership amongst his co-contestants who lost the election. According to the Chairman, this action will unite the party going into the general election.
. Nentawe Yilwatda while responding, appreciated the Chairman and State Exco for finding time to visit and congratulate him. He thanked the party for midwifing a credible process that translated into his election as party flag bearer. He reiterated the fact that he would ensure all his campaign promises of Securing, Uniting and Prospering Plateau State are implemented diligently when he is eventually elected as Governor. Dr. Yilwatda also used the opportunity to reach out to those who lost out to join hands with him and forge a formidable front ahead of 2023. He promised to organize a dinner with all APC aspirants from House of Assembly up to Governorship who lost out and integrate them into his plan for the future. He assured the party that he would run an issue-based campaign and promised to justify the trust deposited in him by the party.
Similarly, the Jos North party Exco, elders and stakeholders including the Rt. Honourable Baba Hassan also visited to congratulate Dr. Yilwatda. Others included Barkin Ladi Exco and stakeholders, Kanke Stakeholders, Yoruba Community in Jos, Tudun Wada Youths, One Plateau Group and Plateau Progressives Forum.
Others who visited the residence are the Jos East Executive Council and Legislative Arm, Bokkos community and many notable individuals.
Following the Conclusion of House of Assembly Primaries for the Rulling All Progressive Congress APC and the Opposition Peoples Democratic party less than 20% of its members will be returning in the 10th assembly following the outcome of the party parties
In the rulling All Progressive Congress the Speaker Plateau House of Assembly Yakubu Sanda narrowly escaped losing the primaries as he won with 15 votes against a female aspirant who scored 9votes
Information available to this medium reveals that monitory inducement herald the primaries while in other state Constituencies Bala Noma Kantana State Constituency Won his primary while Chip Abdul Yangu Mangu North East and Majority leader Naanlong Daniel had a field day in Mikang
Others lost thier tickets include Mohammed Balo(Quan pan South),Livinus Kwapan(Shendam),Eric Dakogoel(Quan North),Adamu Mavo(Wase),Philip Dasan(Pankshin South),Ezra(Pankshin North), among others while in the People’s Democratic party Timothy Dantong won Riyom State Constituency, Gwattson From(Jos South),Bala Fwangj ( Mangu South), others who lost include Esther Dusu(Jos North West),
While three of the members aspired for higher Positions for House of representatives Ibrahim Baba Hassan(Jos North North) APC won the primaries for Jos North / Bassa federal Constituency, Peter Gyangden (Barkin Ladi(PDP), Won Barkin Ladi Federal Constituency while the deputy Speaker Saleh Yipmong(Dengi)APC lost Plateau Central Senatorial seat.
With this it is expected that new set of members will be returning to the 10th assembly come 2023 as Political Campaigns are in the wings ahead of the election
This medium will keep you posted on the latest development on who wins the seat within the Rulling APC and Opposition PDP.
A Group Known as Grassroot Mobilization of All Progressives Congress,(APC) in Plateau state, had Unanimously endorse Hon. Ishaya Itse For the Position of Deputy Governor of the Party. Hon. Ishaya Itse is a Frontline Politician,A Philanthropist on the Plateau and has impacted positively on the lives of the less privileged.Students and Women through scholarships and grants. The endorsement was signed by the Chairman of the group,Hon. Henry Patrick and Secretary,Hon. Azi Moses Madaki. They called on all APC stakeholders in the state to join hands with them and support Hon. Ishaya Itse to Deputise Hon. Nantawe Yilwada for good Governance,Equity and fairness, he will use his prowess and wealth of experience to lead the party into victory comes 2023. If you can recalled,He contested for the state Chairman of the All Progressives Congress in the state and is still contributing his quota to the growth of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at His Jos Jarawa Ward,Jos North LGA, Plateau state and the Country at large. A political scientist and a community leader. The Group said they will not relent on their oars by lobbying all and Sundry to support the just course. If giving the Change, Plateau state will continue to witness transformation,Human Capital Development and entrenchment of Peace as well as Economic Growth.
A Group Known as Grassroot Mobilization of All Progressives Congress,(APC) in Plateau state, had Unanimously endorse Hon. Ishaya Itse For the Position of Deputy Governor of the Party. Hon. Ishaya Itse is a Frontline Politician,A Philanthropist on the Plateau and has impacted positively on the lives of the less privileged.Students and Women through scholarships and grants. The endorsement was signed by the Chairman of the group,Hon. Henry Patrick and Secretary,Hon. Azi Moses Madaki. They called on all APC stakeholders in the state to join hands with them and support Hon. Ishaya Itse to Deputise Hon. Nantawe Yilwada for good Governance,Equity and fairness, he will use his prowess and wealth of experience to lead the party into victory comes 2023. If you can recalled,He contested for the state Chairman of the All Progressives Congress in the state and is still contributing his quota to the growth of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at His Jos Jarawa Ward,Jos North LGA, Plateau state and the Country at large. A political scientist and a community leader. The Group said they will not relent on their oars by lobbying all and Sundry to support the just course. If giving the Change, Plateau state will continue to witness transformation,Human Capital Development and entrenchment of Peace as well as Economic Growth.
The Executive Chairman of Qua’an-Pan Local Government Council (LGC), Plateau State, Hon. Ernest Abner Da’a, has commended and congratulated the Leadership of the All Progressive Congress (APC) on the Plateau, all delegates, all aspirants and the entire party faithful, for the successful conducts of the party Primaries which produced flag bearers for the 2023 general election.
Hon Da’a who made the commendation on Monday May 30, 2022, while speaking to his Media team on the outcome of the Primaries, specifically congratulated His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Plateau State and Chairman Northern Governors Forum (NGF) Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Simon Bako Lalong KSSG and Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe for emerging the APC flag bearers for Plateau South Senatorial District and Governorship contest in 2023, respectively.
The Chairman, who described the respective delegates as wonderful people for their peaceful conducts during the Primaries, also congratulated the APC flag bearers for Plateau North and Plateau Central Senatorial Districts, as well as the National and State Assemblies seats.
Hon. Da’a called on the winners to be magnanimous in victory, further appealed to them to consider their “victories as victories for all, as there is, ‘no victor, no vanquish’. “I urge all to close ranks and galvanize both human and capital resources towards the 2023 General Elections”, the chairman emphasized
He commended the doggedness of those who lost out for giving the winners what he described as “a good, brotherly and peaceful family contest”, and urged them to close ranks and join forces towards the successes of the Party and its flag bearers in the 2023 General Elections.
Hon. Da’a, while calling on the Party to put in place mechanism of reconciliation towards covering grey areas, assured the party and it’s candidates of the massive support of the Quality and Progressive people of Qua’an-Pan LGA in all the elections, come 2023.
Plateau Lawmaker, Nanbol Listic resigns from PDP, cites factions, sharp division in the party as reason
The Member representing Langtang North Central constituency in the Plateau State House of Assembly, Hon. Nanbol Listic has resigned his membership from the Peoples Democratic Party PDP. In a letter addressed to to the PDP Chairman Reak Ward, Hon. Nantim Pwotbol, the Hon. Member cited faction and sharp division in the party as reason for his resignation.
The letter entitled; LETTER OF RESIGNATION FROM PEOPLES DEMOCRATIC PARTY PDP, reads, “Ihumbly write to your good office to tender my resignation letter from the Peoples Democratic Party. My reason for resignation was as result of the sharp division and faction displayed by party leadership and members at local level which may affect my political career.
Find attached my membership card with number 1919352 with Reak Ward registration number 18″.
Former Member who represented Pankshin South in the Plateau State House of Assembly in the 8th Assembly Hon Alice Dimlong Osigwe under the All Progressive Congress (APC) has won the much expected grassroot Opinion polls conducted by the Pankshin Kanke Kanam grassroot Community youths leaders with 2 ,718 votes to beat his closest rival David Barji Bitrus with 2,153 votes.
Hon Alice Dimlong who is a grassroot mobilzer and a vocal Speaker scored 2718 votes out of the total votes 6513 representing 46.1%, David Bitrus David scored 2,153 votes represents 41.3%, Hon Yusuf Adamu Gagdi came third with 1,9574 votes which represents 6.3%, Hon Philip wallok and Hon Abbas wakdung scored 929 votes each representing 5.3% in that order
The PKK Grassroot Community youth leaders while declaring Hon Alice the winner of the online poll, appreciated those who participated and disclosed that the results have shown that the winner, Hon Alice Dimlong is recommended as the preferred,trusted and competent aspirant of the ruling APC in the forthcoming House of representatives primary election slated for the 26th May, 2022.
The grassroot Community leaders posited that Hon Dimlong the only female member in the 8th assembly and a princess from ngas land is honest pragmatic and is a voice to the people at the lower level
She is a woman who is eager to examine issues and listen closely to people to know thier problems
The opinion poll by the Plateau Progressives Youth Network with over 6,856 respondent have been accepted by the Plateau Indigenous Development Association (PIDAN) made up of 53 Nationalities.
With few days to the Conduct of the house of representatives the people has spoken through a more reliable Opinion Polls deciding thier direction
The immediate past Executive Secretary of wase local government area Ibrahim Galadima has won the wase State House of assembly primaries defecting other Aspirants scoring 47 votes to defect his closet rival who scored 11 votes
The primary election which was held in wase saw the former council secretary having the highest number of votes to win the keenly contested primaries
It would be recalled that Hon Ibrahim Galadima was before now a two time executive secretary of wase local government area with under the leadership of Dr Hon Ado Abubakar Buba when the call to serve the people was done on him l.
Hon Galadima who had no choice to to answer this call which led to the former secretary throwing his weight into the ring by winning the ticket
Speaking shortly after winning the primaries the winner Ibrahim Galadima says his will ensure quality representation by making the people of wase constituency proud in the Chambers
He further appreciated Stakeholders of wase for standing by him through trust by making him the flag bearer of the Rulling All progressive Congress Candidate
One of the Governorship Aspirants of the Ruling Party, All Progressives Congress (APC) in the just concluded Primary Elections which held on Thursday 26th May, 2022 in Plateau State, Dr. Patrick Dakum has said the election was highly compromised, marred by intimidation of delegates by top government officials in the State and other avoidable irregularities that tampered with its integrity.
He made these known while addressing Newsmen in Jos, the Plateau State Capital.
According to the Public Health Expert, the election was not a true reflection of the minds of the delegates and party faithfuls as it fell short of what is expected of an election that should be transparent, free, fair and credible.
He appreciated all those involved in the “Consolidation Movement” saying the goal of going into the contest for governorship is borne out of deep passion for Plateau State, inclusivity in the governance of the State and a deep passion not to “throw the baby with the bath water”
According to the Public Health Expert, the election was not a true reflection of the minds of the delegates and party faithfuls as it fell short of what is expected of an election that should be transparent, free, fair and credible.
He appreciated all those involved in the “Consolidation Movement” saying the goal of going into the contest for governorship is borne out of deep passion for Plateau State, inclusivity in the governance of the State and a deep passion not to “throw the baby with the bath water” According to him every government that has come on the Plateau has excellent points and things they have done and that he was ready to take the best practices from past government and consolidate them into a programme that will use outcome-driven implementation process in order to move development faster.
“For me as a Child of God, I have always known that the destiny of Plateau State and ours as individuals is in the hands of God, so for me circumstances does not change what comes out from the inside” he said.
He said if he is to be unhappy that will be for the fact that development may be taken ten years backward and the people will be responsible for truncating development for not doing the right things they ought to had done.
He recounted the experiences throughout the campaigns period and the primaries how the list of delegates were not disclosed to the Aspirants and were later told few dates prior to the Primaries that the Delegates were to be accommodated by the government. He said he toured all the Local government areas in the State twice, met with party officials, discussed his plans for the State and seek for their support, a feat no other Aspirant could achieve. He said the APC had the opportunity to field the Candidate that will not be difficult to sell.
He said during the Primaries, he was shocked that in the Local Government Area that started the election (Qua’an-Pan LGA), only two Delegates could write even when it was obvious that most of them were literate. He disclosed that the same thing played out in other Local Government Areas.
He said Local Government Council Officials were around to influence who Delegates will vote for as the delegates were not given the opportunity to freely cast their votes for the Aspirant of their choice. “There was a lot of intimidation on the Delegates, you could see them being very terrified as you could see government officials hovering all over the place to ensure the delegates go a particular direction” he said. According to him, they walked out because the result of the Primaries will not reflect the true mind of the APC Members in Plateau State. He said the Primaries was compromised and wasn’t in a away that will reflect the best in the Candidate. He said they have channeled their complains to the appeal Committee and awaiting the verdict to know the next line of action. He hinted that if nothing is done about their petition, he will consult with the stakeholders and people who believe in the consolidation vision to take the appropriate decision.
“I will also put my ears to the spiritual ground to know the conviction God is giving me in my heart, if I am to stay in the party and work for it and the Candidate or otherwise, these are possibilities” he said.
He urged his supporters to stay calm and peaceful as they engage the leadership of the party to look into the issues presented.
the primary elections held in Shendam, the Zonal Headquarters of the Senatorial District, the delegates unanimously elected the Governor who was unopposed as the standard bearer of the APC. As the sole candidate, the Governor was elected through affirmation.
Zonal Chairman of the APC in Plateau Southern Senatorial Zone, Alhaji Musa Abdullahi Nyalum said members of the party in the zone resolved to give Governor Lalong their mandate to represent them in the Red Chambers because of his experience and performance as Governor of the State.
Chairman of the election panel from the APC National Headquarters Rt. Hon. Titi Oseni said although the Governor was the sole candidate for the elections, the process of voting would still be done in line with the guidelines of the party.
Thereafter, delegates from Wase, Mikang, Langtang South, Langtang North, Quan, Pan, and Shendam Local Government Areas took turns to cast their votes.
At the end of the voting, Rt. Hon. Titi Oseni announced that Governor Lalong polled 335 out of the 340 votes (with 5 invalid) affirming him as the APC standard bearer for the Plateau South Senatorial District Seat in the forthcoming general elections.
In his acceptance speech after the elections, Governor Lalong thanked members of the APC in the zone for giving him their mandate, promising not to disappoint them.
He said he will use his experience as former Speaker of the House of Assembly, Governor and lawyer amongst others to ensure that he attracts development to the Zone and the entire State.
Lalong who also thanked the people for purchasing the form for him to contest, urged the members to remain steadfast ahead of the general elections where the party is hopeful of winning not only the Senate seat, but all other offices to be contested.
He assured the people of Plateau State that the APC will continue to work for the progress of Plateau State just it has done in the past 7 years.
The Governor also used the opportunity to commend the APC family in Plateau State for conducting all primary elections for the various offices peacefully and without any rancour.
Officials of INEC from Plateau State and the National Headquarters monitored the exercise.
A frontline Plateau Northern Senatorial Zone Aspirant under the platform of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC), Hon. Lumumba Dah Ade has withdraw from the Primary Election scheduled for Saturday 28 May, 2022.
Adeh, who was one of the three Aspirants in the race made his withdrawal known through a letter addressed to the Plateau State Chairman of the APC, Hon. Rufus Bature and copied Governor Simon Lalong who is also the leader of the party in the state. Others who the letter was equally copied are the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Idris Wase, the Chairman, APC Senatorial Elections Committee to Plateau State, the APC Chairman, Tahu Ward, the Commissioner of Police, Plateau State Command, the Director, Department of State Security Service (DSS) Plateau State, The Residents Electoral Commissioner, INEC Plateau State and Chairman, APC Plateau Northern Zone.
The letter entitled; “WITHDRAWAL FROM APC PLATEAU NORTHERN SENATORIAL ZONE PRIMARY ELECTION”, reads; “I write to inform you that I have withdrawn from the APC Plateau Northern Senatorial District Primary Election. The decision was taken after a review of prevailing situation and extensive consultations with stakeholders”.
Some journalists sought to know how he would explained his decision to his ardent supporters, the former Federal Lawmaker stated that as hard and difficult the decision was, he strongly believed it was for their collective good. “It would not serve any useful purpose going to a race which final result has already been determined.
“It would be foolhardy, it would be wasteful in terms of energy and resources. So, I believe even if my decision is not understood now, in the course of time, it would become clear to all”, Adeh said.
When sought further to know who he in his view was a credible choice among the remaining two aspirants, Adeh said, “Of the three of us contending for that seat, I happened to be the one with requisite experience relating to the job required.
“But you know, in all political situations, merit, oftentimes is secondary.
So, I am not in a position to know or determined the next credible person as it were, but I know and for sure that I would have given Plateau Northern Senatorial Zone quality representation based on my experience and understanding the complex in the landscape”.
For purpose of clarity, Hon. Adeh said his withdrawal from the race was not on the bases of consensus but based on circumstances beyond his control.
Hon. Lumumba Dah Adeh is an Engineer, a politician, a businessman, a football administrator and a philanthropic. He is the first representative, Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency in the National Assembly from 1999 to 2003 and was House of Representatives Committee Chairman on Works. Adeh was later appointed Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters.
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has concluded its House of Representatives primary elections in the eight Federal constituencies in Plateau State.
The exercise which was concluded early Saturday morning, had the Deputy Speaker House of Representatives, Ahmed Idris Wase picking the ticket for Wase Federal Constituency.
Also, a former Deputy Speaker in the Plateau State House of Assembly and an incumbent member representing Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Gagdi was returned, after polling 171 votes, while his opponent Abbas Wokdung scored 7 votes.
For Jos South/Jos East Federal constituency, the incumbent chairman of Jos South LGA, Gideon Dandereng polled 62 votes to defeat his closest rival, Dung Dalyop who got 45 votes.
Meantime, for the Barkin Ladi/Riyom Federal constituency, a former chairman of Barkin Ladi LGA, Emmanuel Loman, who recently dumped the PDP for the ruling APC, clinched the ticket.
Also, for Jos North/Bassa Federal constituency, Hon. Ibrahim Baba Hassan picked the ticket for the constituency.
For Mangu/Bokkos Federal Constituency, Ishaya David Lalu won the constituency ticket; while Vincent Bulus emerged victorious to clinch the Langtang North/Langtang South Federal constituency ticket of the party.
The Shendam/Quaan Pan/Mikang Federal constituency ticket was won by the immediate past Chief of Staff to Governor Lalong and John Dafa’an.
The Publicity Secretary of the APC, Sylvanus Namang told newsmen in Jos, that the aspirants were returned winners, and will fly the party’s flag in the 2023 general elections
The Actual News 
