By Peter Akpah

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has sworn in the acting President of the Customary Court of Appeal Hon. Justice Patrick Sati Dapit, with a charge that he should work towards deepening the rule of law and also ensuring that the courts administer justice in accordance with the constitution.

Governor Lalong who presided over the oath taking ceremony at the Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos said the acting President of the Court of Appeal is taking over at a time when there is a greater need to strengthen the judiciary in order for it to perform more efficiently.
He said “the Judiciary remains a strong pillar of the Nigerian society and of its democracy. As such, the people will continue to look up to judicial officers, especially Judges for justice, equity and the triumph of truth over falsehood.

My experience as a Lawyer, a former Legislator and now Governor, has strengthened my belief that the sanctity, integrity and independence of the Judiciary must be defended at all costs, as anything to the contrary will lead to chaos, anomie and instability”.

The Governor said because this position carries with it huge responsibilities, the people must uphold His Lordship Hon. Justice Dapit in prayers as he discharges this burden faithfully, according to the laws of our land and the oath of office he has taken.
He assured that his administration will continue to work with the Judiciary and Legislature to ensure that our Courts are made conducive for judges and staff as well as all those who come to access justice or other services.

In his reaction, Hon. Justice Dapit expressed thanks to God for the opportunity to be serve the people at this time, saying he is prepared to ensure that justice is given to everybody.
He said he was fully aware that the Customary Court is a grassroots court that the people look up to for seeking redress. He said he will do his best to guide his colleagues and staff of the court towards performing their duties with the fear of God and obedience to the Constitution.
Justice Dapit was born on 15th June 1959 and obtained his Law Degree in 1985 from the University of Jos. He joined the services of the Plateau State judiciary in 1990 after practicing as a lawyer for four years. He was appointed a judge of the Customary Court of Appeal in 2013.

By Peter Akpah

Member representing Jos North/Bassa federal constituency in the National Assembly, Hon Haruna Maitala has distributed fertilizer to all the APC EXCO members in his constituency. Hon Maitala disclosed this during an interactive session with journalists on Monday in Jos immediately after the distribution exercise. The Hon. Member said why he gave fertilizer to the APC EXCO members was because they were the first set of people who first gave him the mandate that eventually saw his emergence as federal legislator saying that more so, most of them are not on any pay roll.
Speaking further, he said that his decision to distribute fertilizer was in line with the federal government directives for people to go back to farms to help cushion the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic that has ravaged the nation and the world at large. He added that the idea was to further encourage his constituents to go into farming so as to be self employed and not to depend on government Jobs alone.

Hon Maitala decried the way and manner some people have turn his constituency office for a place meant for the submission of personal or family requests rather than a place for presenting issues and ideas on how to develop the constituency adding that he was doing everything possible to change the perspective.
Hon Maitala also speaking on the crisis in some part of his constituency and the effort made so far to bring an end to the incessant skirmishes, he said he has been discussing with stakeholders in the constituency and recently, with the committee set up by the Irigwe traditional council to bring out modalities on how to stop the reoccurring of crises and attacks in the community. According to him, he would synergized with the senator representing the Northern zone, I D Gyang to bring lasting peace in the zone. Maitala noted that it is not all about party lineage but the people and plateau state at large that matter adding that although his constituency is the most difficult constituency in the country because of its nature, he would try his best to be a good representative and bring dividends of democracy and development to the constituency.

By Peter Akpah

GOVERNOR LALONG INSPECTS COLLAPSED LANTANG-WASE BRIDGE; ORDERS IMMEDIATE INTERVENTION.

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong on Tuesday 30th June 2020 undertook an on the spot assessment of the damaged Lantang-Wase bridge which has cut off travels between the two Local Governments and other parts of the State as well as Taraba State.

Governor Lalong who was accompanied by Secretary to the Government of the State, Prof. Danladi Atu, Cheif of Staff Noel Dongjur and some members of the State Executive Council, said he was at the site to personally assess the situation and also reassure the people that Government will not neglect them.

Lalong said “although this is a Federal Road, we have to immediately intervene in order to ameliorate the suffering of the people since this road is a major commercial corridor in this area. This is one of the roads that I submitted to the President for Federal Government intervention which has been approved. I will soon be in Abuja to intimate him on this development so that the bridge can be rebuilt immediately”.

The Governor then ordered the Ministry of Water Resources and Energy to immediately provide boats that will ferry people across the river while intermediate work is being carried out.
He thanked the people for their continued support to his administration and assured them that Government will ensure that the bridge and other projects are carried out to improve their living standards.
Emir of Wase, Alhaji Muhammadu Haruna Sambo commended Governor Lalong for showing concern and coming to see things for himself despite sending teams earlier. He said the collapse of the bridge has cut off Wase Local Government from some parts of the State and is greatly affecting economic activities.
He appealed to the Governor to impress on the Federal Government to expedite action on the rehabilitation of the entire road as well as the bridge in order to save his people from economic deprivation.
Alhaji Haruna also appreciated Governor Lalong for his doggedness towards ensuring the discovery and exploration l
of oil and gas within the Wase and Kanam areas as announced by the NNPC recently.
Federal Controller of Works, Plateau State Engr. Usman Magin said already the Federal Ministry of Works has sent teams to assess the situation and work will soon commence on the collapsed bridge.
The Governor also inspected the Duankwam bridge linking Shendam and Garkawa which has also been partially damaged by the rains.
After receiving briefings from the Commissioner for Works, Pam Botmang Governor Lalong directed the contractor already working on the road to immediately deploy to the bridge for quick intervention.
Chairman, Shendam Local Government Miskoom Alex Nuantam appreciated the Governor’s personal visit which he described as reassuring.
Before returning to Jos, the Governor inspected also inspected ongoing reconstruction of Shendam-Ibi road where he asked the contractor to increase the tempo of work in order to cover lost time due to COVID-19.
He said although it is a Federal road, the State is carrying it out to ease the difficulties of the people with the hope that the it will be reimbursed by the Federal Government after completion.

By Peter Akpah

Office Of the Executive Assistant to the Governor On Social Investment Programme, Plateau State
29TH JUNE 2020

PRESS RELEASE FROM THE OFFICE OF THE FOCAL PERSON/ EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE GOVERNOR ON SOCIAL INVESTMENT PROGRAMMES
N-POWER PORTAL IS NOW OPEN AND ACTIVE
Sequel to a press release issued on the 22nd June 2020 notifying the general public on the commencement of Batch C NPower registration, we are pleased to announce that the portal is now active and ready for engagement. The general public are to note that the official website is: npower.fmhds.gov.ng
According to the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, more than one million youths have applied from commencement. We therefore encourage our unemployed youths in Plateau State to quickly apply while the portal is open. All applicants are further reminded to personally engage with the portal to ensure correct information is submitted. Note that unemployed citizens between the ages of 18-35 with or without formal education can apply. Those that benefited from previous NPower programmes should not apply.
The public are assured that the N-Power portal is secured and no data is compromised. The general public should note that the application is strictly online and people are advised not to disclose their personal information to third party that may claim they are compiling names. Do not submit names to anybody for processing.
All stakeholders should support the process by providing internet facilities especially to people in remote areas in order to increase the number of applicants in Plateau State.
Stay safe and avoid the spread of corona virus

Signed:
Dr Sumaye Hamza
Focal Person/Executive Assistant to the Governor-SIP

By Peter Akpah

The Northern Governors Forum has condoled with the Government and people of Kogi State over the passing away of Justice Nasiru Ajanah Chief Judge of Kogi State who died at the age of 64.
Chairman of the Forum and Plateau State Governor, Simon Bako Lalong, in a statement, described the death of Justice Ajanah as a great loss to his immediate family, the people of Kogi State, the Judiciary and nation at large.
He said “Justice Nasiru Ajanah served the nation with integrity and honesty as he administered justice without fear or favour. As a life bencher a member of the Presidential Implementation Committee on Financial Autonomy of State Judiciary and State Legislature, he left behind a legacy of hardwork and commitment that will continue to inspire the younger generation particularly in the judiciary where he spent most of his years”.
He prayed God to grant the deceased eternal rest and comfort the family at this difficult moment.
Similarly, the Northern Governors has expressed shock over the death of the Hama Bachama and paramount ruler of the Bachama Kingdom, Homun Honest Irmiya Stephen who died on Sunday June 28th 2020 at the age of 66.
In a message of commiseration on behalf of the Forum, Governor Lalong consoled with the family of the late monarch; people and Government of Adamawa State; and the Bwaytie nation over this sad development.
He described the late monarch as a unifying factor who worked for the peace, stability and development to his kingdom, Adamawa State and the nation at large.
Lalong recalled the years of service of the late monarch in the Nigerian Army where he worked in different parts of the country and in various capacities to ensure that Nigeria’s territorial integrity is defended.
He asked the people of Bachama Kingdom to be consoled by the good legacies he left behind and the development efforts he attracted to his community.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham, ANIPR
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of
Plateau State & Chairman, Northern Governors Forum.
29th June 2020.

By Peter Akpah

Correspondent Chapel will Raise and Shine Again

Expression of Interest to Contest for the Position of Vice Chairman of Correspondent Chapel,NUJ Plateau State Chapter

Ladies and Gentlemen let me first of all express my Sincere and Profound gratitude and appreciation to you all

I Douglas Francis of Coretv news haven Consulted,assessed and analyzed the recent happenings in the Correspondent Chapel and haven met the Conditions Spelt out by the electoral Committee of the Chapel, after Carefully and Critically assessing my Strength and weaknessess in respect to the above. L

I wish to Contest for the Position of the Vice Chairman in the forth Coming elections Slated for July

My intention to Contest and Serve the Chapel was borne out of love and good intentions with a Clear desire Serve to repostion the Chapel along Side whoever emerges Chairman and other executives as my Job description as the Vice is to assist and deputy or any other assignment assigned to me

The Correspondent Chapel as we all know is diverse and unique in nature with members cut across various media houses it represent across board which therefore calls for togetherness and Collaboration

This uniqueness if well articulated put together will Move the Chapel forward and l pledge to build up the foundations of our Predecessors over the years,Strengthen the weak Pillars and fill the Crack

You will recall that as a member of this Chapel my top Priority has always being transpirancy, togetherness and team work as have always being demonstrated in my relationship with you all and my interest to Contest this position is not for Personal gains or Selfish ambitions nor Promote Partisan interest or mediocrity but to prove that l have all it takes to Serve the Chapel through Character,Capacity, Charisma and energy and also rebrand the image of the Union.

Therefore, let me use this Singular honour and Prevaliage to Call on you members of this great and unique union to Vote for me as the Vice Chairman to move the union forward

It is my Conviction that the Chapel will raise and Shine 🔆 again to the flight of each and everyone of us if Voted as the Vice Chairman of Correspondence Chapel Douglas Francis a man of Capacity and the 3Ts..Transpirancy Togetherness and Teamwork.

By Peter Akpah

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong says all Nigerians must support the
Judiciary particularly Judges in the dispension of justice and the sustainance of the rule of law which is key to the survival of democracy.
Governor Lalong said this at the valedictory court session in honour of the retiring President, Plateau State Customary Court of Appeal Hon. Justice Julia Asabe Kyentu who is retiring after attaining the age of 65.
Lalong who praised Justice Kyentu for serving the Judiciary meritoriously, described her as a superb judicial officer who contributed immensely to the development of the bench and bar.

He said “For those who know Justice Julia Kyentu either within or outside the courtroom, the experiences may vary, but the testimony of her integrity, hardwork, intellectual capacity and judicial depth is the same. Hon. Justice Julie Kyentu has over the years not only demonstrated her deep knowledge of the law and its application to the dispensation of justice, but has also shown courage to administer justice without fear or favour, affection or ill will”.
Lalong said as a woman, Justice Kyentu is among the roll call of distinguished Plateau daughters who have broken the ceiling to establish the fact that women are more than capable of performing any function in society if given the opportunity.
He urged both members of the bar and bench to do everything possible to safeguard the integrity of the Judiciary which is not only the hope of the common man as commonly referred to, but the hope of democracy, good governance and societal development.

He assured that his administration will continue to support all efforts at deepening reforms in the judiciary to make it more effective.
Chief Judge of Plateau State Hon. Justice Yakubu Gyang Dakwak described Justice Kyentu as an astute judicial officer who put in her best in delivering justice to all manner of persons without fear or favour.
He said the Plateau Bench will miss her greatly and the vacuum created will be difficult to fill.

Commissioner of Justice and Attorney General Chrysanthus Ahmadu and the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association Jos Branch, Barrister Yakubu Bawa, described the retiring justice as a women of dignity and integrity who never succumbed to pressure from various quarters to subvert the cause of justice.
They said her faith in God and adherence to the constitution and oath of office enabled her to carry out her assignment and finish without blemish.
Justice Julia Asabe Kyentu while responding, thanked God for the opportunity the privilege to serve in the Judiciary in various capacities reaching the peak as the Preaident of the Plateau Customary Court of Appeal.
She said her experience over the years has reaffirmed her belief that God orders the steps of all his children and uses them in the way and manner he deems fit. She said despite all challenges, she was leaving the bench very fulfilled, hoping that those she is leaving behind will take the Judiciary to the next level.
Meanwhile, Governor Lalong has approved the appointment of Justice Sati Patrick Dabit.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham, ANIPR
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
27th June 2020.

By Peter Akpah

Plateau State Governor and Chairman, Northern Governors Forum Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong has expressed deep shock over the demise of former Governor of Oyo State, Abiola Ajimobi.
Governor Lalong in a condolence message on behalf of the Forum described the late Ajimobi as a man of integrity who served the people of Oyo State and Nigeria with excellence.
Lalong said the sterling leadership qualities of late Ajimobi and his role in the formation of the All Progressives Congress endeared him to many party members which led to his appointment as Deputy National Chairman, South.
He recalled the contributions of Governor Ajimobi to the oil and gas industry in Nigeria during his career where he made significant impact on its growth and development.
Governor Lalong consoled with the wife of the late Governor, Florence, children and entire family, asking them to take solace in his rich legacies and accept the sad development as the will of God.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham, ANIPR
Director Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
25th June 2020.

By Peter Akpah

The Northern Governors Forum has congratulated three eminent Nigerians, (Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila; Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwoolu; and elderstatesman Amb. Babagana Kingibe) on the occasion of their birthdays, recognising their contributions to to National development.

Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Plateau State, Simon Bako Lalong in a congratulatory message described Speaker House of Representatives Femi Gbajabiamila who clocked 58 as a great Nigerian who has continued to promote development particularly through his legislative experience.

He commended the Speaker for standing up for ordinary Nigerians by giving direction and quality leadership to the green chamber which has led to the passing of laws that have promoted good governance, peace and tranquility.

On Governor Babajide Sanwoolu of Lagos State who turned 55, the Northern Governors saluted his courage and pragmatic leadership style which has enabled the nation’s commercial capital to continue to play a pivotal role in national development.

The forum while wishing him more years of success, asked him not to relent in his commitment of serving the people of Lagos State and the nation with integrity, compassion and excellence, in line with his campaign promises.

For elderstatesman, Ambassador Babagana Kingibe, the Forum congratulated him for attaining the age of 75 and also commended his sense of loyalty, patriotism and commitment to Nigeria.

Governor Lalong said “Ambassador Kingibe has transversed the political landscape of the country, and making his mark on the international stage, making congent contributions to the socio-political development of Nigeria in various capacities over the years. We celebrate his dexterity and passion in promoting National unity, peace and good governance”.
The Governors while wishing him many more years of good health, peace and God’s divine protection, asked him to continue to avail the nation his wealth of experience and wisdom.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham, ANIPR
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
25th June 2020.