Tribunal affirms the election of Hon. Baba Hassan of jos North/Norht State constituency and dismisses petition for lack of merit

Tribunal affirms the election of Hon. Baba Hassan of jos North/Norht State constituency and dismisses petition for lack of merit.
By Peter Akpah
The National and State Assembly Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Jos has confirms the election of Hon. Baba Hassan of the All Progressive Congress ( APC), as member representing Jos North/North in the Plateau state House of Assembly and also in like manner dismissed the petition of Barr. Manir Abdullahi Barau of the Peoples Democratic Party ( PDP).
The election of state Assemblies election was conducted on the 9th of March, 2019, and declared and returned Hon. Hassan as the duly elected member Jos North/ North, Plateau state House of Assembly having fulfilled all the conditions required INEC and issues him with the certificate of return, into the office.

However,the candidates and the people Democratic Party not satisfied with the decision of INEC, who is the 1st respondent,PDP Petitioners approached the tribunal asking it to set aside the decision of the 1st respondent INEC
The summary of the grounds of the petition was that at the time of the election, Hassan ( who was the 2nd respondent) was not qualified to contest for the election as he allegedly submitted to INEC an affidavit in form CF001, containing false information as he allegedly submitted a forged Diploma Certificate from the University of Jos before the 2015 election. the petitioners prayed that the declaration and the affidavit contained false information, that the 2nd respondent was not qualified to contest for the election in 2019 as result of false information given to the 1st respondent; An Order nullifying the election and declaration of the 2nd respondent as the winner of the election into the House of Assembly Jos North/North state constituency conducted by the 1st respondent and withdrew the Certificate of Returned given to the 2nd respondent by the 1st respondent; An Order compelling the 1st respondent to conduct fresh re- run election and, an Order to stop the 2nd respondent from participating in the re- run.
The 2nd respondent in his response however, submitted that the petitioners were not entitled to the reliefs sought and urged the tribunal to dismiss the petition.
During hearing, the petitioners called 4 witnesses and presented 12 exhibits; the 2nd respondent called 3 witnesses and presented 17 exhibits while the 1st respondent did not call any witness nor presented any evidence. Likewise the 3rd respondent ( APC).
After exchange of processes, Counsels for the petitioners and the respondents finally adopted their Final Written Addresses on 2 September, 2019.
In its judgment on Monday, the tribunal expunged several exhibits and paragraphs in the petitioners’ replies to replies to both 2nd and 3rd respondents replies to the petitioners petition.
Further more, the tribunal held that going by section 135 of the penal code, forgery is a criminal offence. However, the tribunal held that though the petitioners claimed that the 2nd respondent presented forged Diploma Certificate from the University of Jos, to the 1st respondent could not proved beyond reasonable doubt how the said certificate was forged. More so that the 1st respondent, who is the electoral umpire maintained that the 2nd respondent fulfilled all the requirement set out by it as prerequisite qualification for the contest. Adding that Also, the investigation conducted by the Nigerian Police on the issue of the Certificate forgery exonerated the 2nd respondent from that act as the Police officer who investigated the 2nd respondent Inspector Sunday Baba testified before the tribunal that at the end of the Police investigation, the 2nd respondent was not found culpable of Certificate forgery.
The tribunal also faulted the petitioners for not presenting before it, series of documents relating to the alleged forgery and could also not call some personalities to clarify some knotty issues regarding their allegation. For instance, the tribunal wondered why the petitioners failed to called Barr. Dandam, the former Registrar of the University of Jos who through exhibit 9 confirmed that the 2nd respondent did attend, graduated and was conferred with a Diploma Certificate in Business Administration.
The tribunal further held that most importantly, the petitioner having alleged Certificate forgery by the 2nd respondent, ought to have presented before the tribunal, the original copy of the alleged forged Certificate for comparison which they also failed to do.
In the light of the above, the tribunal ruled the 2 issues raised in the petition in favour of the 2nd respondent and against the petitioners. The tribunal further held that the 2nd respondent did not lie on oath. In all, the tribunal held that the petitioners did not prove their case beyond reasonable doubt and dismissed same for lacking in merit

Twenty Years of Democratisation in Nigeria

By Peter Akpah

Twenty years of democratisation in Nigeria looking backward, moving forward

Twenty years of democracy in Nigeria is so exciting to know it is already twenty years of unbroken democractic rule n Nigeria, the journey to democratic rule has been tortuous one right from the incursion of the military into the political space in 1966, when the fragile democratic structures of the country were literally pulled down by the military, the journey for democracyand democratisation’s has been with sweat and blood, Dr John Kayode Fayemi stated this during his lecture at National Institute For Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) kuru, jos south LGC of plateau state when he was addressing the executive course 41.

The Chairman Nigerian Governors’ Forum and the Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. John Kayode Fayemi when Speaking on the topic, “Twenty years of Democratisation in Nigeria: Looking backward, moving forward, Dr. Fayemi maintained that, “Quite ironic was the fact that while Nigerian Leaders that fought for the independence of Nigeria did not have to die in the hands of the colonial authorities, many Nigerians were illegally incarcerated, maimed, dehumanised and killed by their own millitary before we could get democracy.

It could be recall and remember with the profound respect, the Supreme price they paid: Chief MKO Abiola and his wife Mrs Kudirat, PA Alfred Rewane, Bagauda Kaltho, among others who had pay with their Precious lives, what of the countless artisans, journalist, activist, politicians, civil society personalities, ordinary citizens who were jailed or got eliminated for demanding democracy, even countless others too were forced into exile, and yours truly was one of the many exiles who became persona non grada in their own country.

“I do not need to repeat without sounding horing, the fact that many notable pro-democracy personalities were murdeted in cold blood because of the fight for the instruction of democracy in Nigeria”.

He said the system deteriorated from all sectors of life including electoral management, manipulation of the press, multiple party system with bad legal system to manage the democratic system.

“The Supremacy of the law means that all persons and institutions governed by law are equally subjected to the law. More succinctly‚ it means that even agents of state are submissive to the dictates of the law, for, this is the only guarantee that people‘s right are protected from any dictatorial tendencies.

“It is the guarantee that private businesses owned by foreign nationals can be protected from severe adversity of diplomatic hostilities among nations. It also provides guarantee that ordinary citizens can have a place to ask for relief if their rights and privilege are trampled upon.

“One could confidently say that the rule of law has taken roots in Nigeria.We have seen many instances that the federal government have lost cases to states, individuals and institutions. In fact, there are many judgement debts hanging on the police and other security agencies as result of court pronouncements.

“We have seen courts reinstating people who got their appointments terminated under malicious circumstances. The courts have intervened in so many classical cases that have strengthened our constitutional jurisprudence on many matters that touched on the constitution, federalism, resource distribution and many others.

“As a governor in Ekiti, I have got many unfavourable judgments from the state high courts; although some see this as strange in the states but this is a common experience in Ekiti. We can only wish for the better, there is no doubt that the rule ot law and the protection of human right is getting rooted in the Democratic practice ot Nigeria and this is without prejudice with the fact that we still have concerns about the integrity of some of the juries and the quality of their ptonouncements. But these are exceptions than the norms.

“Before coming to the political space, my first forth was in the civill society oxganisation. I cofounded the Centre for Democracy and Development (COD) which was dedicated to the promotion of democratic ideas, good government and the democratisation of the country. I have been involved in many ptogrammes aimed at engendering democratic practice after the long years of military mindset to pubkic governance.

“It is therefore comforting to witness that Nigeria has very vibrant civil society organisations that have been in the vanguard of policy, advocay, public engagements m and capacity development programmes. They have also served as a formidable bastion of policy analysis and public enlightenment.

“In oome cases, they have mobilised the public in resisting what they considered as & threat to public interest through protests‚ litigation and advocacy.

“While we can pat ourselves at the back for the modest successes we have achieved, we do not need to be told that the job remains unfinished. I have indicated before, there is no ready-made democracy, every democratic nation continues to improve on how to be better in serving the greater number of the people.

Social and human capital investment, one of the strategy to bridge the frightening gap between those at the bottom of economic ladder and those on the cliff of the pyramid would be to adopt some social investment measures that take care of the poorest of the poor.

This is what we have done Ekiti with some noticeable success, and you will recall that my first tenure as governor one of my signature programmes was the social security allowance paid to the very vulnerable aged people in the state, we also did a lot of youth focused social investment programmes that put them on stipends while also keeping them busy in public works and services, and also free education policy in public primary and secondary schools in the state and free health care for children, pregnant women and aged people, some of this ideas are now being adopted nationally by the Federal government and some development agencies because of the success in Ekiti.

“However, I should like to highlight some areas that urgently needs radical improvement for us to further deepen our democratic culture, this is because until our democratisation process becomes an everyday culture, it would continue to be met with a dissonant disposition among the people generally.

“Essentially‚ Nigeria is still a traditional society where some elements of feudal, monarchical and theocratic practice deeply influence the values and social relations among her peoples, this has made the concept of citizenship a lot difficult to fully have its meaning.

“This has unfortunately, ultimately done an incalculable dent on our democratisation process and in fact, fed most of what are known as communal and ethnic conflicts in the country. Our democratic culture is still waved around primordial clannish boundaries such that people can only contest election in a place called their “state of origin”.

“Nigerians must boldly interrogate the definition of a people as “non indigene” settlers or even strangers in a country they call their own!

The DG National Institute of policy and strategic studies (NIPSS) Prof Habu Galadima thank the governor despite his schedules still find time to grass the occasion and deliver the lecture, and also stated that the have achieved so much and learn a lot from the lecture delivered by his excellency Dr John Kayode Fayemi, and very inspirational and educating and an eye opener for them to understand democracy and 20 years of democratisation in Nigeria

In an interview with the members of course 41 the monitor general Brig Gen Mahamadu Umaru Mangai, in his reaction said the lecture was quite interesting and inspiring and have open their eyes to see how to move this country forward and give back to the society what the learnt her, and similarly Gwantau Habila a permanent secretary with plateau state government who is among the course 41 member said the lecture has creat and also given them the opportunity to work hard and to move this nation forward, in times of governance, to bring about purposeful development and creat an investment free environment for all to enjoy and plateau being home of peace and tourism he will bring his experience and what he leant here to move plateau forward and together with his excellency Rt Hon Simon Bako Lalong rescue mission plateau state will bounce again to her glory , and also give back to the society with the learn, col sani sulemann chairman study group 6 in his reaction acknowledge the fact that the need to door more to give back to the society and move Nigeria forward and a country free of any rancour, and also work to stop the insecurities being faced by the country and bring lasting solution.

“Democracy make more meaning when citizen has the same rights and privileges no matter where they live it settle.”

Twenty Years of democratisation in Nigeria.

By Peter Akpah

Twenty years of democratisation in Nigeria, looking backward moving forward Twenty years of democracy in Nigeria is so exciting to know it is already twenty years of unbroken democractic rule n Nigeria, the journey to democratic rule has been tortuous one right from the incursion of the military into the political space in 1966, when the fragile democratic structures of the country were literally pulled down by the military, the journey for democracyand democratisation’s has been with sweat and blood, Dr John Kayode Fayemi stated this during his lecture at National Institute For Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) kuru, jos south LGC of plateau state when he was addressing the executive course 41.

The Chairman Nigerian Governors’ Forum and the Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. John Kayode Fayemi when Speaking on the topic, “Twenty years of Democratisation in Nigeria: Looking backward, moving forward, Dr. Fayemi maintained that, “Quite ironic was the fact that while Nigerian Leaders that fought for the independence of Nigeria did not have to die in the hands of the colonial authorities, many Nigerians were illegally incarcerated, maimed, dehumanised and killed by their own millitary before we could get democracy.

It could be recall and remember with the profound respect, the Supreme price they paid: Chief MKO Abiola and his wife Mrs Kudirat, PA Alfred Rewane, Bagauda Kaltho, among others who had pay with their Precious lives, what of the countless artisans, journalist, activist, politicians, civil society personalities, ordinary citizens who were jailed or got eliminated for demanding democracy, even countless others too were forced into exile, and yours truly was one of the many exiles who became persona non grada in their own country.

“I do not need to repeat without sounding horing, the fact that many notable pro-democracy personalities were murdeted in cold blood because of the fight for the instruction of democracy in Nigeria”.

He said the system deteriorated from all sectors of life including electoral management, manipulation of the press, multiple party system with bad legal system to manage the democratic system.

“The Supremacy of the law means that all persons and institutions governed by law are equally subjected to the law. More succinctly‚ it means that even agents of state are submissive to the dictates of the law, for, this is the only guarantee that people‘s right are protected from any dictatorial tendencies.

“It is the guarantee that private businesses owned by foreign nationals can be protected from severe adversity of diplomatic hostilities among nations. It also provides guarantee that ordinary citizens can have a place to ask for relief if their rights and privilege are trampled upon.

“One could confidently say that the rule of law has taken roots in Nigeria.We have seen many instances that the federal government have lost cases to states, individuals and institutions. In fact, there are many judgement debts hanging on the police and other security agencies as result of court pronouncements.

“We have seen courts reinstating people who got their appointments terminated under malicious circumstances. The courts have intervened in so many classical cases that have strengthened our constitutional jurisprudence on many matters that touched on the constitution, federalism, resource distribution and many others.

“As a governor in Ekiti, I have got many unfavourable judgments from the state high courts; although some see this as strange in the states but this is a common experience in Ekiti. We can only wish for the better, there is no doubt that the rule ot law and the protection of human right is getting rooted in the Democratic practice ot Nigeria and this is without prejudice with the fact that we still have concerns about the integrity of some of the juries and the quality of their ptonouncements. But these are exceptions than the norms.

“Before coming to the political space, my first forth was in the civill society oxganisation. I cofounded the Centre for Democracy and Development (COD) which was dedicated to the promotion of democratic ideas, good government and the democratisation of the country. I have been involved in many ptogrammes aimed at engendering democratic practice after the long years of military mindset to pubkic governance.

“It is therefore comforting to witness that Nigeria has very vibrant civil society organisations that have been in the vanguard of policy, advocay, public engagements m and capacity development programmes. They have also served as a formidable bastion of policy analysis and public enlightenment.

“In oome cases, they have mobilised the public in resisting what they considered as & threat to public interest through protests‚ litigation and advocacy.

“While we can pat ourselves at the back for the modest successes we have achieved, we do not need to be told that the job remains unfinished. I have indicated before, there is no ready-made democracy, every democratic nation continues to improve on how to be better in serving the greater number of the people.

Social and human capital investment, one of the strategy to bridge the frightening gap between those at the bottom of economic ladder and those on the cliff of the pyramid would be to adopt some social investment measures that take care of the poorest of the poor.

This is what we have done Ekiti with some noticeable success, and you will recall that my first tenure as governor one of my signature programmes was the social security allowance paid to the very vulnerable aged people in the state, we also did a lot of youth focused social investment programmes that put them on stipends while also keeping them busy in public works and services, and also free education policy in public primary and secondary schools in the state and free health care for children, pregnant women and aged people, some of this ideas are now being adopted nationally by the Federal government and some development agencies because of the success in Ekiti.

“However, I should like to highlight some areas that urgently needs radical improvement for us to further deepen our democratic culture, this is because until our democratisation process becomes an everyday culture, it would continue to be met with a dissonant disposition among the people generally.

“Essentially‚ Nigeria is still a traditional society where some elements of feudal, monarchical and theocratic practice deeply influence the values and social relations among her peoples, this has made the concept of citizenship a lot difficult to fully have its meaning.

“This has unfortunately, ultimately done an incalculable dent on our democratisation process and in fact, fed most of what are known as communal and ethnic conflicts in the country. Our democratic culture is still waved around primordial clannish boundaries such that people can only contest election in a place called their “state of origin”.

“Nigerians must boldly interrogate the definition of a people as “non indigene” settlers or even strangers in a country they call their own!

The DG National Institute of policy and strategic studies (NIPSS) Prof Habu Galadima thank the governor despite his schedules still find time to grass the occasion and deliver the lecture, and also stated that the have achieved so much and learn a lot from the lecture delivered by his excellency Dr John Kayode Fayemi, and very inspirational and educating and an eye opener for them to understand democracy and 20 years of democratisation in Nigeria

In an interview with the members of course 41 the monitor general Brig Gen Mahamadu Umaru Mangai, in his reaction said the lecture was quite interesting and inspiring and have open their eyes to see how to move this country forward and give back to the society what the learnt her, and similarly Gwantau Habila a permanent secretary with plateau state government who is among the course 41 member said the lecture has creat and also given them the opportunity to work hard and to move this nation forward, in times of governance, to bring about purposeful development and creat an investment free environment for all to enjoy and plateau being home of peace and tourism he will bring his experience and what he leant here to move plateau forward and together with his excellency Rt Hon Simon Bako Lalong rescue mission plateau state will bounce again to her glory , and also give back to the society with the learn, col sani sulemann chairman study group 6 in his reaction acknowledge the fact that the need to door more to give back to the society and move Nigeria forward and a country free of any rancour, and also work to stop the insecurities being faced by the country and bring lasting solution.

“Democracy make more meaning when citizen has the same rights and privileges no matter where they live it settle.”

Political leaders cannot misuse their powers and still expect peace in the society says Gen JT Useni

By Peter Akpah

The governorship candidate of people Democratic Party Gen Jeremiah T Useni, call on political leaders to use their offices well, so that they can bestow peace among the youths and the electorate, he made this call when he donated the sum of N5m for the headquarters of the Regional church.

Political Leaders Cannot Misuse their Power And still Expect Peace In Society – Gen JT USENI

Says there are ways to deal with kidnappers
Tells Youth how they can live longer
Donates N5m for modernising Headquarters of Regional Church.

Plateau State Governorship Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the last general election, Senator (Lt. Gen.) Jeremiah Timbut Useni has spoken against the misuse of power by political leaders.

He said, “You cannot deny people the leaders they have freely voted for in an election and expect that there will be peace in society.”

Gen Useni was speaking at a church service to mark the 70th birthday and 50th wedding anniversary of the Ataa Aten of Ganawuri, in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.

“If those in authority continue to impose losers on the people and stop winners from claiming their electoral victory how will things go well with the way we govern ourselves?”

“So we must tell each other the truth always. We should stop lying to ourselves that it is politically acceptable and normal to cheat in elections and still be declared winners. If we keep doing this, are we doing the correct thing? Are we not simply telling lies?”

The former minister of the Federal Capital Territory decried the widespread kidnapping across the nation.

“We should demand from the government to take very firm action against these thieves. Because these people do not hesitate to kidnap, or even kill. However, we must also mobilise our communities to be alert at all times. Yes, we need prayers from our religious leaders quite alright, but we should be watchful too. If we don’t deal with them they are already dealing with us. Should we not do something to handle them well?”

Gen Useni drew the attention of young people to values that could help them to be productive in society and live longer.

“Stop disrespecting your parents and elders or else you cannot live long. Stop insulting your parents because you think you have better education than they. Instead appreciate the sacrifices of your parents in making you become what you are today”

Gen Useni donated the sum of *N5m* (Five Million Naira) toward the reconstruction of the church building which also serves as the headquarters of COCIN Regional Church Council (RCC) Ganawuri, and asked that the work be started right away.

The Ataa Aten, Mr Yakubu Chaimang, explained that the Thanksgiving service was to celebrate his recovery from a life-threatening illness and to also raise financial support to modernise the church building.

The Guest Preacher, Rev. Samuel Mangai spoke on “Pleasing God with the position He has given to you.” He drew his sermon from the book of Daniel Chapter five.

The councillors forum plateau state swears in new excos

  • By Peter Akpah

The councillors forum plateau state chapter on the occasion of the inauguration of her new exco and swearing in, has a brand new chairman in person of Hon Agwom Ishaya Silas from fobur B west ward of the legislative arm of Jos east LGA, who was sworn in along with other excos, the occasion which took place at Hill station hotel conference hall have in attendance Hon Ezekiel Volgap chairman ALGON plateau state and current chairman Mikan LGA, and Hon Diket Plang,and host of other dignitaries and host of others.

The chairman of the councillors forum plateau state chapter Hon Agwom Ishaya Silas, said he is highly delighted and honored and his profound appreciation goes to the almighty God for finding him worthy to represent the good hard working and responsible people of fobur B ward in the legislative arm of jos east local government council for making him obtain favour from and before his honorable colleagues who graciously and unanimously endorsed and return him elected as the chairman plateau state councillors forum unopposed and he therefore return all the glory to God and also grateful appreciate his honorable councillors from the various lacal government areas of plateau state, who for the love trust, confidence and uncommon consideration they have for the legislative arm of jos east local government area, come together irrespective of ethenic, religious or party affiliation elected him to chair this noble forum in a friendly and rancor free atmosphere, and this uncommon love and support they accorded to him will not be taken for granted and this is indeed a greater demonstration that we are greater than some of our individual ambition, and he forever remain grateful and continue to solicit for their unflinching support.

Hon Agwom forether show his most sincere gratitude to the leadership of the association of local government of Nigeria (ALGON) plateau State chapter for their support to the forum of councillors and pledge their support to the leaderships of various lacal government, and the grass root which the represented.,
Similarly Hon Richard Dokotri who represented Arch Pam Dung Gyang who is the chairman of the occasion unbehalf of him congratulate all the councillors across plateau state and the excos on their election into office and as councillors he also said as grass roots elected he challenge this forum to sponsor a collective bills that are of urgent impact to our house of assemble, and lastly call on them to work hard and with sincerity and reach the grass root.
Hon Ezekiel Volgap the elected chairman of Mikan LGA, and chairman ALGON plateau state chapter, in his goodwill massage said they are working tirelessly to see how they can pay the furniture allowances even though is half of the money, and also promise to take care of their welfare, and as the third tear of government they are working and also plead with Mr President to look into the sharing formula of the federal allocation and put the local government first because the are the grass root and have the direct contact with the grass root, and no state without the local government the local government make the state and as such should be given due consideration.
The excos are as follows:-
(1)Hon Agwom Ishaya Silas :- chairman (jos east LGC)
(2) Hon Francis Biput P:-Deputy chairman (Kanke LGC)
(3) Hon Abubakar Lawal Saddiq Secretary :- Wase
(4) Hon Dauda Bitrus Wull Assistant Secretary:- Bassa LGC
(5) Hon Dashik Peter Paul, Financial Secretary. Quanpa’an LGC
(6) Hon Rebecca D Planangzale, Treasurer. Pankshin LGC
(7) Hon Changfa Tanko P.R.O 1 shandam LGC
(8) Hon Bulus Nyam. P.R.O II Jos east LGC
(9) Hon Mandan Simon Na’anbat, Organizing Secretary. Mikan LGC
(10) Mandat James Auditor. Bokkos LGC
(11) Hon Panle Vwar Legal Adviser. Mangu LGC
(12) Hon Mustapha Ismail. Southern Zone chairman Shendam LGC
(13) Hon Yakubu Galadima.Northern Zone chairman
(14) Hon Abubakar Yakubu central zone chairman Dengi LGC.
Hon Nindirmwa who read one of the citation which the entire excos the best of lock and also thank all the members of the organizing community for their hard work.

Sabon gari mado community commend Jolex construction company, As they Ask For more compensation

  • By Peter Akpah jos

The tudun wada mado, sabon gari community wants to thank his excellency Rt Hon Simon Bako Lalong over the on going project in the community, they called on his excellency as part of his promise to consolidate on his achievements and the project being one, the youth leader mado zone ‘B’ Mr Sunday and baba Jacob who spoke on behalf of the community express their joy over the project, and also commended (JOLEX CONSTRUCTION COMPANY) for their efforts for employing some of their youths for the work,

The community leaders also thank JOLEX construction company for paying some compensation to some people who their houses where marked for demolition, the leaders further ask that government should provide more funds at least help those who haven’t been given their compensation because only few persons got, and with this it will make the work go fast most especially that the raining season is coming to an end.

Some of the residents complain and of their houses marked for demolition, lands being encruch, this makes them loose their tenant as no body will want to pay for a house or property marked, some of them also said the welcome the development but as retired pensioners that is the only source of their living, and now been deprived of it and for over 2 years now the houses are empty and causing them a great lost, but when compensation is paid that will help them look for another alternative of livelihood.

And the use the medium to call on the member representing Josnorth west Hon simi and also thank her for her immediate intervention when the small bridge linking Sabon gari mado popularly called japenise bridge that she help in repairing, and ask her to also assist for the realisation of the Sabon gari mado road construction as the roads are terrible bad.

5 women arrested in jos for alleged trafficking
5 women arrested by Police in Jos for Alleged trafficking.
By Peter Akpah jos
The Plateau state Command has said that it has arrested five women in Jos for alleged criminal conspiracy and trafficking in person . This revelation was made on Friday by the state Commissioner of Police (CP), Isaac Akinmoyede during a press briefing in his office at the Command headquarters Jos.
The Police gave the names of the suspects as Rose Adams (25), Mildred Bakwo (34), Lisa Yisa Yelkopba (35), Fatima Abdul (20) and Christiana Ochuba (32).
According to the Police Commissioner, on 23 August this year, one, Chidi Daniel of Jenta Mangoro in Jos North LGA reported at ‘A’ Division of the Nigerian Police Jos that on 31 July this year, his wife, Rose Adams left his house for Dadin Kowa Jos South LGA with two of his children; Chinedu Daniel ( 1 year 8months) and Chibuike Daniel ( 1 month old). The police said that the complainant further stated that his wife returned home on 23 August with only Chinedu Daniel adding that when he inquired of Chibuike, his wife told him that she gave the child to a woman that works with Voice for the Girl Child Foundation, a juvenile welfare centre. The police however stated that upon investigation, it was discovered that the child was sold to Christiana Ochuba of Bright Way, Rukuba Road, Jos North LGA. The CP added that the meticulous investigation of the force led to the arrest of the suspects stressing that they will be charged to court according to their involvement in the illegal trade.

Suspects paraded by the Police
In a similar development, the police said that it has recovered firearms and ammunition. The police said that on 2 September this year, the force operatives at Pinau village, Wase Local Government Area of Plateau state while on foot patrol, sighted a motor cyclist carrying a person who was bearing an AK 47 rifle. “When they saw the police personnel approaching them in a professional manner, they abandoned the AK 47 with breach number 01968 and sped off with the motor cycle. The firearm has been recovered and investigation is ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspects with a view to knowing their mission “, said the Police.

Lalong Worn Those Lobbing For Commissioners To Stay Clear.

By Peter Akpah

Governor Lalong swore in new appointees, Prof Danladi Abok Atu as Secretary to the Government of the State and Hon Noel Kuryil Donjur as Chief of Staff, this are the first key appointments made by the Governor Simon Bako Lalong , after the appointment of the Director of press and Public affairs , it could be recall that after the election and swearing in of His excellency Rt Hon Simon Bako Lalong for his second term in office, dissolve all the members of his cabinet, and instructed them to hand over the affair of all ministries and Government house to the permanent secretaries respectively, since then is been four months no SGS and chief of staff Government house, and commissioners, this the Governor said it is to the interest of the state, as he said he has already finished listing his cabinet the commissioners and other government appointments, in the state.

The Governor also emphasis that any person lobbing for commissioners is wasting his or her time because he has already finished his list of commissioners, and he is responsible for all the appointment and no body but him and any body that has complain should deal directly with him, so any person lobbing should save his or her strength and time because he has finished his appointment waiting for the house of Assembly to pass it, before announcing their names, and also Lalong emphasis that nobody is to tell him who is who and who worked and those who didn’t work and also those with bad records and performance, as he has promised the good people of plateau state on consolidating on the good work he has started, this the Governor said in strong terms, worning to those lobbing with money.
The in the occasion was the present former Deputy Governor of plateau state Den Pauline Talen, Hon Idris Maje deputy speaker federal house of representatives, Hon Latep Daban, and members of National working committee of All Progressive Congress (APC) Da Jacob Gyang Buba the chairman traditional council and head of chief, and other Royal Fathers are present to grace the occasion.

The Governor in his speech said Let me begin my remarks by expressing unquantifiable gratitude to God Almighty for the privilege to serve Plateau State at this time of our history. I don’t take for granted the opportunity God has bestowed on me to have been elected Governor of our dear State twice in 2015 and 2019.
I cannot thank enough, the good people of this State for the confidence they have reposed on us particularly in the last elections where they again demonstrated their trust in our Rescue Stewardship by massively voting myself and His Excellency, the Deputy Governor Prof. Sonni Tyoden for another term. We remain grateful and take the mandate very seriously.
I dare say that the electorate has discharged part of their obligation by bringing us back to office to carry on with the final phase of our Rescue Mission and to deliver the dividends of democracy to them. The task before us is huge and a burden we must discharge with sincerity, integrity, vision and dignity.
That is exactly why we are here today to swear in two key officials, the Secretary to the Government of Plateau State Prof. Danladi Abok Atu and Chief of Staff Hon. Noel Kuryil Dongjur who are very critical to the actualization of our mandate.
Let me first congratulate the appointees for being chosen out of the millions of our citizens to serve our State. It is a rare opportunity for you to justify your calling by doing everything possible to add value to governance in such a way that the impact will resonate in even the remotest corner of our State.
These two sons of Plateau State, Prof. Danladi Abok Atu – a distinguished Scholar and Public Servant, one time Chairman of Jos North Local Government Council and until now the Director, Institute for Peace and Social Rehabilitation – University of Abuja and Hon. Noel Kuryil Dongjur, a seasoned Quantity Surveyor and one time Commissioner of Works, and current member of the Plateau State Economic Team, were carefully selected for their love for our State and track record of diligent, honest and committed service.
You will recall that during my address to the citizens of Plateau State on democracy day June 12th 2019, I unveiled the new Vision of our Rescue Administration tagged: “PLATEAU STATE IN THE NEXT LEVEL: POLICIES AND PROGRAMMES OF THE RESCUE TEAM, PHASE 2” where we promised to leave behind lasting legacies for this generation and generation to come.
In particular, we conceptualized our vision for the next four years under a three-point policy thrust anchored on: PEACE, SECURITY AND GOOD GOVERNANCE; PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT; And SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC RE-BIRTH.
Ladies and gentlemen, the elections are over and work has started in earnest. Our people are thirsty for good governance that we promised and we have no excuses to roll off our sleeves and get down to work and deliver such promises.
For the new Secretary to the Government of the State and Chief of State, this expectation makes your task very challenging and exciting as you settle in to begin driving the bureaucracy of government to work in line with the thinking and philosophy of the Rescue Administration.
Like I have said in various fora since our re-election into office, we are in our last lap and are resolved that the next four years will be devoted to consolidating on the gains we made and expanding on critical areas of development for the benefit of our people.
This can only be possible when the machinery of government works smoothly, harmoniously and systematically to ensure that all policies of this administration are religiously implemented and in record time.
I am confident that you will bring to bear your wealth of experience, vast knowledge and spirit of patriotism and selfless service as you coordinate the running of government activities and programmes.
As the next cabinet is being constituted, you will be required to give proper direction, guidance and motivation to the all ministries and agencies of government for effective performance without undue rancour and distractions. You must lead by example and ensure that discipline is maintained and observed throughout the service.
Remember that your appointment is not a license to self-aggrandizement nor self-enrichment or any personal gain for that matter. It is about service to our people and ensuring that this administration delivers on its mandate and leaving lasting legacies for our beloved State.
Don’t forget that we shall all give account of our stewardship to the people and most importantly to God. We must therefore be determined to take every task seriously and see every challenge and constructive criticism as a guide to keep us on track.
As it always said, no one (including myself) is indispensable. Therefore, we will not tolerate anyone who undermines Government’s efforts or flagrantly disregards directives. Poor performance, dereliction of duty, non-chalance or outright sabotage are not acceptable and will not be appreciated nor tolerated.
As I conclude, I wish to reaffirm my commitment to delivering good governance to the people of Plateau State in line with our campaign promises. With the support and understanding of everyone, this task though difficult, is surmountable. All we need do is to always “THINK PLATEAU, AND ACT PLATEAU”.
Once again I congratulate you on your appointments and wish you successful service to our people. It is my sincere prayer that God will grant you the enabling wisdom and strength to take our people to the next level

Lalong worn Those Lobbing For Commissiners

By Peter Akpah Governor Lalong swore in. New Appointees, Prof Danladi Abok Atu as Secretary to the Government of the State and Hon Noel Kuryil Donjur as Chief of Staff, this are the first key appointments made by the Governor, after the appointment of the Director of Press, if could be recall that after the election and swearing in of His excellency Rt Hon Simon Bako Lalong for his second term in office, dissolve all the members of his cabinet, and instructed them to hand over the affair of all ministries and Government house to the permanent secretaries respectively, since then is been four months no SGS and chief of staff Government house, and commissioners, this the Governor said it is to the interest of the state, as he said he has already finished listing his cabinet the commissioners and other government appointments in the state.The former Deputy Governor of Plateau state and
The Governor also emphasis that any person lobbing for commissioners is wasting his time because he has already finished his list of commissioners and he is responsible for all the appointment and no body but him and any body that has any complain should deal directly with him, so any person lobbing should save his or her strength and time because he has finished his appointment waiting for the house of Assembly to pass it and he announce the names, and also Lalong emphasis that nobody is to tell him who is who and who worked and those who did not work and also those with bad records and performance, as he has promised the good people of plateau state on consolidating on the good work he has started, this the Governor said in strong terms, worning to those lobbing with money.

The former Deputy Governor of Plateau state and now the Minister of women affairs and Social Development, Den Pauline Talen and the Deputy Speaker House of Representatives the number 6th person in the country Member Representing Wase Hon Idris MaJe, and other members of House of Representatives in various state, the chairman traditional council of the state Dr Jacob Gyang Buba and other Royal Fathers, Hon Latep Daban, and members Of the National working committee of All Progressive Congress are all present at the occasion.

The Governor in his speech said Let me begin my remarks by expressing unquantifiable gratitude to God Almighty for the privilege to serve Plateau State at this time of our history. I don’t take for granted the opportunity God has bestowed on me to have been elected Governor of our dear State twice in 2015 and 2019.
I cannot thank enough, the good people of this State for the confidence they have reposed on us particularly in the last elections where they again demonstrated their trust in our Rescue Stewardship by massively voting myself and His Excellency, the Deputy Governor Prof. Sonni Tyoden for another term. We remain grateful and take the mandate very seriously.
I dare say that the electorate has discharged part of their obligation by bringing us back to office to carry on with the final phase of our Rescue Mission and to deliver the dividends of democracy to them. The task before us is huge and a burden we must discharge with sincerity, integrity, vision and dignity.
That is exactly why we are here today to swear in two key officials, the Secretary to the Government of Plateau State Prof. Danladi Abok Atu and Chief of Staff Hon. Noel Kuryil Dongjur who are very critical to the actualization of our mandate.
Let me first congratulate the appointees for being chosen out of the millions of our citizens to serve our State. It is a rare opportunity for you to justify your calling by doing everything possible to add value to governance in such a way that the impact will resonate in even the remotest corner of our State.
These two sons of Plateau State, Prof. Danladi Abok Atu – a distinguished Scholar and Public Servant, one time Chairman of Jos North Local Government Council and until now the Director, Institute for Peace and Social Rehabilitation – University of Abuja and Hon. Noel Kuryil Dongjur, a seasoned Quantity Surveyor and one time Commissioner of Works, and current member of the Plateau State Economic Team, were carefully selected for their love for our State and track record of diligent, honest and committed service.
You will recall that during my address to the citizens of Plateau State on democracy day June 12th 2019, I unveiled the new Vision of our Rescue Administration tagged: “PLATEAU STATE IN THE NEXT LEVEL: POLICIES AND PROGRAMMES OF THE RESCUE TEAM, PHASE 2” where we promised to leave behind lasting legacies for this generation and generation to come.
In particular, we conceptualized our vision for the next four years under a three-point policy thrust anchored on: PEACE, SECURITY AND GOOD GOVERNANCE; PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT; And SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC RE-BIRTH.
Ladies and gentlemen, the elections are over and work has started in earnest. Our people are thirsty for good governance that we promised and we have no excuses to roll off our sleeves and get down to work and deliver such promises.
For the new Secretary to the Government of the State and Chief of State, this expectation makes your task very challenging and exciting as you settle in to begin driving the bureaucracy of government to work in line with the thinking and philosophy of the Rescue Administration.
Like I have said in various fora since our re-election into office, we are in our last lap and are resolved that the next four years will be devoted to consolidating on the gains we made and expanding on critical areas of development for the benefit of our people.
This can only be possible when the machinery of government works smoothly, harmoniously and systematically to ensure that all policies of this administration are religiously implemented and in record time.
I am confident that you will bring to bear your wealth of experience, vast knowledge and spirit of patriotism and selfless service as you coordinate the running of government activities and programmes.
As the next cabinet is being constituted, you will be required to give proper direction, guidance and motivation to the all ministries and agencies of government for effective performance without undue rancour and distractions. You must lead by example and ensure that discipline is maintained and observed throughout the service.
Remember that your appointment is not a license to self-aggrandizement nor self-enrichment or any personal gain for that matter. It is about service to our people and ensuring that this administration delivers on its mandate and leaving lasting legacies for our beloved State.
Don’t forget that we shall all give account of our stewardship to the people and most importantly to God. We must therefore be determined to take every task seriously and see every challenge and constructive criticism as a guide to keep us on track.
As it always said, no one (including myself) is indispensable. Therefore, we will not tolerate anyone who undermines Government’s efforts or flagrantly disregards directives. Poor performance, dereliction of duty, non-chalance or outright sabotage are not acceptable and will not be appreciated nor tolerated.
As I conclude, I wish to reaffirm my commitment to delivering good governance to the people of Plateau State in line with our campaign promises. With the support and understanding of everyone, this task though difficult, is surmountable. All we need do is to always “THINK PLATEAU, AND ACT PLATEAU”.
Once again I congratulate you on your appointments and wish you successful service to our people. It is my sincere prayer that God will grant you the enabling wisdom and strength to take our people to the next level.
Thank you for your attention.
Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Simon Bako Lalong
Executive Governor

Plateau Economic Gets a Boost As Federal Government Injected The Total of 8.941 Billion into plateau state, circulating in young graduate under N-Power

  1. By Peter Akpah

The social investment programme (SIP) plateau state head by Dr Sumaye Hamza the special assistant to the governor on SIP, in colabration with giz, Fadama111,and Ps-pvcsp, organize a four day workshop for N-Power volunteer starts-up, to build them on the current situation, and boost human capacity in them to become employers of labour, and, according to Dr Hamza the programme and the most beneficiaries are the common, and the poor and less previlage in the country, and also the programme is also a giz, and other innovation to establish and train the participants on deferents innovations, by one of the beneficiary in the person of Badi Mamuda Emmanuel who was among the participants that travel to Germany for training, and was one of the facilitator on the workshop to share his experience on what he leant in Germany. Emmanuel Badi who shared his experience said he want to train the youths to be self employed, and be an employer of labour.

In the opening remarks by the focal person Dr Sumaye Hamza, she said it is more inspiring for the fact that the programme is initiated through her guidance by N-Power beneficiary by name Emmanuel Mamuda Badi, Badi is a trainer with green innovation centre for agriculture and food sector (GIAE) GIZ Nigeria,and the beneficiary was one of the successful N-Power Volunteers with GIZ international conference and training centre feldafing, Germany.
Dr Hamza said the beneficiary has made us proud, by sharing experience this dissemination programme will inspire other young entrepreneurs not necessarily N-Power beneficiaries to be more focused and committed, the workshop will certainly provide an opportunity where the N-Power entrepreneurs will share experience with each other to be equipped in self economic decision making and understand the context of the start-up.

At this time it is important that I remind us the components of the social investment programme, initiated by our president Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, which are all the implementation in the plateau state with the tremendous support of our Governor and the chairman Northern Governors Forum Rt Hon, Barr Simon Bako Lalong, and the components are as follows
1. Job creation
2. National home grown school feeding
3. Conditional cash transfer
4. Government enterprise empowerment programme.
Dr Hamza said government is committed to ensure that citizens of Nigeria are supported to boost their agricultural activities and subsequently get out of poverty, therefore the social investment programme seeks to achieve the following objectives
1. Boost productivity especially amongst the marginalized and the vulnerable including women.
2. Stimulate economic activities in unreachable areas
3. Help creat sustainable jobs.
4. Have a multiplier effect by attracting investment that are tied to solving supply side constraints
5. Improve livelihood
6. Enhance financial inclusion
7. Reduce inequality engender stability and security in communities
8. ultimately reduce poverty.
Plateau State has over 11,000 N-Power graduate beneficiaries in the components of N-tech, N-health and N-Agro, from inception and a total of N8.941 Billion has been injected into the state circulating in the hands of these young graduate under N-Power in plateau state, and this does not include N-Power Build where skills are provided as well as start-up tools and monthly stipends to over 900 youths.
We have lots of success stories under all the SIP components, and also focusing on the N-Power intervention for the purpose of this gathering, Their are beneficiaries that are into cosmetology, livestock, crops farming, masonry, tiling, fashion design and catering services just to mention a few, suffice is to say that an appreciable number are now financially stable and have served as employers of labour.
Dr Hamza said doing what government is doing in the words of a beneficiary “if I had known, I would have not been waiting for government to give me employment, because I have invested and I am paying people to work for me, and she further encourage all the beneficiarbeneficiaries to keep doing the good work and at the end Nigerian economic will grow drastically
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