Plateau State Governor, His Excellency Barr Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has urged Christians in Plateau and worldwide to embrace the spirit of love, peace, and unity during the Christmas Celebration.
Addressing the congregation at a Christmas Service held at the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) Number One, RCC Ampang West, in Mangu Local Government Area, Governor Mutfwang expressed deep sorrow over the recent unprovoked attacks in Mangu and Bokkos Local Government Areas, where lives were lost and property destroyed.
Governor Mutfwang highlighted the unfortunate incidents that occurred in the days leading up to Christmas, and expressed regret at the loss of lives and destruction in the affected areas. He called on Plateau residents, especially those directly affected, to remain resilient and steadfast in protecting the state’s heritage amidst the security challenges.
“We celebrate Christmas with heavy hearts due to the insurgency in Mangu, Bokkos, and parts of Barkin-Ladi LGAs. “Despite the recent attacks, we must stand firm. God will fight for us; we are not here by accident but by divine ordination,” the Governor stated.
He urged citizens to turn towards God in these trying times, emphasizing God’s role as a refuge and help. Governor Mutfwang discouraged extravagant celebrations beyond one’s means and appealed to individuals contemplating wrongdoing to redirect their energies towards selfless service to God and humanity.
The Governor extended his condolences to the bereaved families, praying for the eternal rest of the departed. He encouraged people to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities for prompt security response.
The sermon delivered by RCC Chairman Ampang West, Rev. Peter Mangset, focused on the essence of Christmas— the birth of Jesus Christ—calling on Christians to exemplify love and share with the less privileged.
Addressing a cheering crowd at the central football field, Ampang West, Governor Mutfwang appreciated their support during the last elections and called for sustained prayers for divine intervention in the state’s renewed security challenges.
Accompanying the Governor were Chief of Staff, Engr. Jeremiah Satmak, Head of Service, Plateau State, Barr. Rauta Dakok, Commissioners, Special Advisers, and Heads of Government Agencies.
The Gubernatorial Candidate of the Labour Party,(LP) in Plateau State ,Ambassador Yohanna Magif and Comrade Solomon Ndem have been declared wanted for impersonating as leaders of the Plateau State Chapter of the party after court sacking Alh.Lamidi Bashiru Apapa and recognizing Hon.Julius Abure as the authentic National Chairman.
This medium gathered that former members of Labour Party (LP)in Plateau State are currently on the run as security agent in the state are on their trail on them for Impersonating as the Chairman of the Party.
However , the state chapter recognize Mrs Grace Zamfara as the authentic state Chairman of Labour Party in the state .
It’s was revealed that ,Ambassador Yohanna Magif was expelled from the party right from his Mushere ward by calling him to stop parading himself as member or card-carrying LP in the state.
The disclosed that the party National Working committee (NWC) rectified his suspension since before the general election 2023 which bordered on criminality records and forgery of some vital and the party’s sensitive documents.
Solomon Ndem was expelled equally with Magif for alleged criminal conspiracy , for aiding and abating Ambassador Yohanna’s acts as the duo use him Solomon as a decoys to disrupt the party activities collecting money from gullible oppositions party fronting Solomon as Chairman of LP in plateau and himself Magif leader of the party in the state.
According to the statement made available in Jos, to this medium , the security agent has been directed to spread their tentacles to go after Ambassador Magif for a baiting criminal through Solomon as the substantive Chairman of the party in the state with the aim of deceiving and defrauding gullible members of public.
Magif and Solomon is currently on the run as they are nowhere in sight as the vigilant eyes of the security agent are after them to get them arrested.
It would be recalled that Ambassador Yohanna Magif claimed to have been the candidate of labour Party for Governorship in the last election not Patrick Dakum.
However it was later discovered that he collected monies from opposition party with his deceptive promise to collapse the party structure with them that will give them easy rides during just concluded general elections.
All efforts to get the response of Magif and Solomon proved abortive as calls to their separate hands set phones where not answered, and the calls where not returned.
Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has extended his warm greetings to citizens of the state and Nigerians on the joyous occasion of celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.
In a statement in Jos, Governor Mutfwang encouraged all citizens, both in Plateau and across Nigeria, to embrace the true spirit of Christmas by sharing love and exchanging gifts, especially with the less privileged.
The governor message is contained in a press statement dated 24th December 2023 signed by Director of press and Public Affairs to the governor Gyang Bere and made available to this medium in jos.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang said,
“On behalf of your Government, I extend heartfelt wishes as we collectively commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. Let us recall that God’s love for mankind led to the redemption through His son. This Christmas, let’s rekindle our love for humanity by dedicating our time and energy to enriching the lives of others. May we embody values of love, charity, and selflessness, contributing to a more united, peaceful, and prosperous Plateau.”
Acknowledging the challenges faced by the state, including security issues, economic hardships, and political concerns, Governor Mutfwang reassured the people that his administration is committed to alleviating these difficulties. He emphasized faith in divine intervention and called for hope and prayer for a positive turnaround.
“As we celebrate, let’s hold onto hope, knowing that God, in His grace, will guide us through. I urge all citizens to conduct themselves peacefully, contributing to the creation of a harmonious environment for lawful activities.”
Governor Mutfwang concluded with heartfelt wishes for joy, happiness, hope, and unity in diversity during this memorable Christmas celebration. He prayed for divine blessings upon Plateau State.
Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has strongly condemned the recent brutal attacks on innocent residents in Mushu village, Bokkos Local Government Area.
He has therefore directed security agencies to promptly apprehend the perpetrators responsible for the heinous acts and ensure they face the full wrath of the law.
The governor condemnation is contained in a release dated 24th December 2023 signed by Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor Gyang Bere and made available to journalist in jos.
The governor expressed deep concern over the unacceptable violence, Governor Mutfwang urged communities across the state to remain vigilant, reporting any suspicious activities to security forces for immediate action. He questioned the impunity of the attackers who inflict harm on communities, destroy property, and evade justice.
Highlighting the importance of collective collaboration among rural communities, the Governor assured that proactive measures will be taken by government to curb the ongoing attacks on innocent citizens. He sympathized with affected families, and urged them to find solace in God as the government diligently works to end the prolonged violence.
Wishing swift recovery to those injured, Governor Mutfwang emphasized his administration’s unwavering commitment to pursuing peace and unity. He reassured the public that these goals remain top priorities, with continuous efforts until the desired results are achieved.
As the state faces these challenges, Governor Mutfwang extended his heartfelt prayers for a peaceful Christmas celebration in Plateau and across the country.
“Those who ride on the back of the tiger to get or clinch to ‘power’ usually end up in its (Tiger) belly”
By ,Miskoom .C.Mainasara
The aphorism situated in this piece aptly describes the self-inflicted wound the All Progressives Congress, APC (or better still, Aggrieved Politicians’ Convention, APC) in Plateau State is ignominiously exhibiting.
Their frontal desperation to clinch to power through the subversion of the mandate of the over a million registered voters who overwhelmingly voted candidates of the Peoples’ Democratic Party, PDP in Plateau State during the last Nigerian general elections has failed woefully, in fact it will be more disastrous for them in the days ahead.
This is because over half-a-million voters could not have made a mistake by overwhelmingly voting the incumbent Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang and the Deputy Governor Ngo Josephine Piyo into office.
The backdoor tactics and pyrrhic victory of using “those we know” to purloined the mandate of a determined people by a few opportunists may only appear for a moment but; like a fleeting shadow, it will evaporate like the mist with the first glimmer of the sun rise.
The deceptive antics employed by the “Aggrieved Politicians Congress, APC”, Plateau State is already crumbling like a pack of cards. Their twisted narrative that hoodwinked a section of the judiciary and their gullible supporters that the Peoples’ Democratic Party, PDP was in disobedience of a court order in respect of the latter’s repeated congress despite INEC’s (the electoral umpire) affirmative nod to the repeated congress may soon see the light of the day.
This is because when the light shines, darkness must give way. It is little wonder that even some of the legislators of the APC who are “enjoying” the spoils of the “messy” war are beginning to make overtures to Governor Mutfwang as an attempt to court his sympathy nay that of the good people of Plateau State.
They are beginning to realize that those who ride on the back of the tiger to clinch power, more often than not, end being swallowed by the same tiger that they fed; But let them mark this, though the wicked spring up like grass and all evildoers flourish, they are doomed to be destroyed forever.
I hold the strong conviction that Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s ascendancy to power is God ordained; with over half a million votes in the kitty, an overwhelming majority of supporters across the length and breadth of Plateau State, a growing multitude of admirers all over the Country with a network of Global partners, for all who entered the social contract with the people centered and visionary administration on the Plateau, be rest assured that there is light at the end of the tunnel, ONLY God alone WE KNOW.
*By *THE COMING DEFEAT OF THOSE WHO RIDE ON THE BACK OF THE TIGER TO CLINCH POWER…*
_*“Those who ride on the back of the tiger to get or clinch to ‘power’ usually end up in its (Tiger) belly”*_
The aphorism situated in this piece aptly describes the self-inflicted wound the All Progressives Congress, APC (or better still, Aggrieved Politicians’ Convention, APC) in Plateau State is ignominiously exhibiting.
Their frontal desperation to clinch to power through the subversion of the mandate of the over a million registered voters who overwhelmingly voted candidates of the Peoples’ Democratic Party, PDP in Plateau State during the last Nigerian general elections has failed woefully, in fact it will be more disastrous for them in the days ahead.
This is because over half-a-million voters could not have made a mistake by overwhelmingly voting the incumbent Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang and the Deputy Governor Ngo Josephine Piyo into office.
The backdoor tactics and pyrrhic victory of using “those we know” to purloined the mandate of a determined people by a few opportunists may only appear for a moment but; like a fleeting shadow, it will evaporate like the mist with the first glimmer of the sun rise.
The deceptive antics employed by the “Aggrieved Politicians Congress, APC”, Plateau State is already crumbling like a pack of cards. Their twisted narrative that hoodwinked a section of the judiciary and their gullible supporters that the Peoples’ Democratic Party, PDP was in disobedience of a court order in respect of the latter’s repeated congress despite INEC’s (the electoral umpire) affirmative nod to the repeated congress may soon see the light of the day.
This is because when the light shines, darkness must give way. It is little wonder that even some of the legislators of the APC who are “enjoying” the spoils of the “messy” war are beginning to make overtures to Governor Mutfwang as an attempt to court his sympathy nay that of the good people of Plateau State.
They are beginning to realize that those who ride on the back of the tiger to clinch power, more often than not, end being swallowed by the same tiger that they fed; But let them mark this, though the wicked spring up like grass and all evildoers flourish, they are doomed to be destroyed forever.
I hold the strong conviction that Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s ascendancy to power is God ordained; with over half a million votes in the kitty, an overwhelming majority of supporters across the length and breadth of Plateau State, a growing multitude of admirers all over the Country with a network of Global partners, for all who entered the social contract with the people centered and visionary administration on the Plateau, be rest assured that there is light at the end of the tunnel, ONLY God alone WE KNOW.
No fewer than 350 soldiers wives and their spouses of Nigerian Fallen Heroes where among those who benefited from Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA) 3 Division Chapter, under the leadership of the Chairperson Mrs. Fibishola Abubakar .
The event which is a yearly ritual marked the end of 2023 charity for soldiers’ wives and spouses of Nigerian Army fallen heroes held at Maxwell Khobe Cantonment Jos, Plateau State.
Addressing the beneficiaries, Mrs Fibishola Abubakar who also donated cows to the women to celebrate the yuletide season, took the opportunity to express her gratitude to the President of NAOWA, Mrs Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja,for her advocate for the welfare of officers and soldiers’ families.
She further applauded Mrs Lagbaja for her unwavering guidance and support, which has been pivotal to the great achievements recorded by the association, particularly within the 3 Division.
While expressing the association’s commitment to the welfare of the families of troops who are diligently protecting the citizens, as well as the spouses of fallen heroes who have made the ultimate sacrifice in safeguarding the country, the Chairperson further emphasized that the sacrifices made by the fallen heroes will always be remembered and honored.
She expressed gratitude to the General Officer Commanding 3 Division who doubled as Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN for his unflinching support to NAOWA.
Earlier in her welcome address, Mrs Dorothy Agi, wife of the Commander 3 Division Garrison said she was gladdened by the giant strides of the Chairperson in making positive impact in the lives of soldiers’ families.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mrs Sofuru Chukwu Dinah who spoke on behalf of the beneficiaries appreciated the kind gesture of the Chairperson.
She noted that the act of generosity by NAOWA serves as an encouragement to spouses of fallen heroes and families of the troops.
The end of year charity outreach in Jos stands as a testament to the dedication of the NAOWA President, Mrs Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja to look out for the well-being of military families and the wider community.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of plateau State has assured the Youths on the plateau of positive light after the dark tunnel ,urged them to keep faith with people Democratic Party ,PDP government in State that is loaded with good plans for the youth.
Mutfwang said if not for series of litigations which bedevilled my emergent as governor of the state in the last general election, occasion by APC Party in the state,our government under my leadership suppose to have reel out the plans for the youth since we assumed office 29th May 2023.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang give the assurances during the event organized by the Youth on the plateau tagged ‘Youth Hang Out’ held at the Land Fields Resort in Jos South Local Government 22nd December 2023.
The governor reaffirmed that for the little distraction on the government cause by those who didn’t wish the state well,we would have long reel out the programs for the youth by now, but God willing , in 2024 the youth will see definite engagement.
Add that 1st January 2024 ,there is going to be mega Musical Festival in jos the state capital , which will attract visitor from all worlds of live, those that have business in the state will benefit.
Charged the youth to leave positive lives that their parents and family members , the state and the nation in general will be proud of .
The governor assured them that the government is proud of you in every opportunity will have to promote our youth will do it .
Stressed that the Youths who are students in school , the government will ensure that our vocational schools in the state is over haul, and you will see a lot of activities in 2024.
He further stressed that is the desire of the PDP administration under my watch in the state that the youth are gainfully employed, while those who preferred skills acquisition todo so by God willing.
He debunked the insinuations that the Youths in the state are lazy, unintelligent, and drug addicts, but l did not subscribe to that line of insinuations, because I know , and belief that our youth in the state and any where in the country ,are productive, intelligent are not drugs addicts.
Urged them not to loose focus following the plethora of court cases challenging his victory which is currently at the Supreme Court, described as temporal that will sooner or later come to pass as light will over come darkness.
Governor Mutfwang thank the organizers of the program to bring the youth together so that we can relax and celebrate and tell the world that there is peace on the plateau.
Our prayers and desire is that we will spend the Christmas peacefully and we cannot do anything useless as youth are very vigilant because you are the defendant of the community , you are intelligence gathering of the community, you are the people that determined what happened to any community.
When there are trouble , you put yourselves together and advice the elders what to do.
Yusuf Musa the youth leader in Mangu local government applauded governor Mutfwang for bringing the youth together irrespective of ethnic, tribal and political difference which is the way plateau use to be.
John Mark Pam assistant youth leader in plateau state , who doubled as the plateau Northern leader , said for the youth in the state to have gone out of their way to organize Hangout for the governor, is an indication that he is Youths friendly.
Stressed that governor Mutfwang is not governor that distance himself from the youth . Add that the benefit of the hangout is enormous that it boost the moral of the youth on the plateau that the governor is not far from the them.
We have been having meaningful meetings with the governor , and assured us that what is ahead of us is huge , full with benefits, said the government is not only for the party members alone, but for all the youth on the plateau.
Publicity Secretary of PDP Aspirant forum said the event is another milestone in the state, described the youth as the vanguard of the society.
Said the event is first of it kind in the state, which is a pointer of interest the governor attached to the youth in the state. We are trying to change the narrative where people are trying to have wrong motion that ones a government is form, that government belong to a particular people or Party as the case may be.
Called on the youth in the state to gavanise their experience, ideology to bring the state to higher hight.
The Inter -Political Advisory Council (IPAC), plateau state chapter has condemned in strong term the recent political crisis that has engulfed the River State House of Assembly where members commenced the process of impeachment proceedings against the governor, that cumulated to mass decamping of not fewer than 27 members of the ruling People’s Democratic Party(PDP) in the House to the opposition All Progressive Congress (APC),in the state.
The action playing out in River State called for concern, if not handled with caution and care is going to consume everybody and pose threat to our nascent democracy .
This Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) condemnation is contained in a press statement dated 21st December 2023 issued by the Chairman of IPAC , plateau state chapter Comrade Abubarkar Dogara and made available to journalist in Jos.
Comrade Abubarkar Dogara who doubled as the Chairman of Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the state, called on the actors to sheath their political sword and allow peace to reign , and settle down for developmental legislative business that will be beneficial to the River state electorates that voted them into various political offices.
And called on the embattled governor to be a father to all irrespective of ethnicity, religious and political differences.
In similar development, the Plateau State IPAC has raised serious concern over the recent Appeal Court Judgement that sacked virtually all legislative members under the platform of PDP from office for what they described as no Structure, Sponsorship and Nomination .
IPAC as an organ saddled with the responsibilities of advising all political Parties on their inter and intra party activities from local government, State and federal level in Nigeria,we also have a responsibility to advice relevant bodies on politically related matters especially when it has direct bearing on electoral disputes.
As against this backdrop, we are calling on the judiciary to be caution over plateau and Kano states Appeal Court judgement to avoid collateral damage, as the political space is already tense in the aforementioned states.
IPAC said the advice is against the backdrops that for the mandates of millions of electorates in the said states who queue under a scourging sun for hours to vote candidate of their choices, eventually that mandate be abruptly taken away with judicial excuses of no Structure, Sponsorship and Nomination is something that call for general concern. Henceforth, IPAC will keep a closer attention to Political parties more than before to ensure that party constitutions are strictly adhered to, in an effort to avoid unnecessary disputes after elections.
Dogara called on those candidates whose elections were prematurely terminated to follow civilized way of peaceful resolution and shun act capable of causing mayhem in the affected states which will not be for the interest of nobody.
IPAC further used the Press statement to inform the plateau citizens about IPAC intentions to embark on inspection of projects executed by Barrister Caleb Mutfwang administration for the past 7 months he assumed office as governor of plateau.
Our decision as Inter- Party Advisory Council (IPAC),is to continually keep in check our political officers and Commend them where it’s necessary, and encourage them to keep the good service to the people and rebuke those who fail to measure up with the expectation of the electorates.
The Senate has confirmed the appointment of 11 Supreme Court justices appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to fill the vacancies on the apex court bench.
The confirmation followed the consideration and adoption of a report by the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, during Thursday’s plenary.
President Tinubu had asked the Senate to confirmed the nominees, who were recommended by the National Judicial Council to fill the vacant positions following death and resignation of some justices.
According to DailyTrust, the nominees confirmed are Justice Haruna Tsammani (North East) who chaired the Presidential Election Petition Court, Justice Moore Adumein (South South), Justice Jummai Sankey (North Central), Justice Chidiebere Uwa (South East) and Justice Chioma Nwosu-Iheme (South East)
Others are Justice Obande Ogbuinya (South-East), Justice Stephen Adah (North Central), Justice Habeeb Abiru (South West), Justice Jamilu Tukur (North West), Justice Abubakar Umar (North West) and Justice Mohammed Idris (North Central).
The chairman of the committee, Senator Tahir Monguno (APC, Borno), while presenting his panel report, said the nominees possesed the requisite qualifications and experience to occupy the position and that there was no petition against them.
He, therefore, recommended their confirmation.
With the confirmation of the 11 justices, the Supreme Court now has the complete statutory requirement of 21 justices on its bench.
Senators, who spoke before the confirmation, had expressed concern over the delay in the appointment of justices for the Supreme Court bench.
Senator Seriake Dickson (PDP, Bayelsa) urged that in the event of subsequent vacancies, a provision for their immediate replacement should be made.
He said, “Anytime these vacancies occur, they should be filled immediately. I want to draw that to the attention of the President; there shouldn’t be delay so that we don’t become a laughing stock.”
The Senate Leader, Michael Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti), said it was important that those who are next in line be screened and appointed immediately as the vacancies occur at the apex court.
Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (APC, Abia) stressed that the funds allocated to the Supreme Court in the 2024 budget should be reviewed upwards to ensure its effectiveness.
He said, “The Senate should look at the budget of the judiciary because even the state courts are in a mess. How can they give good justice? This is not the way it was before; we were doing better.”
The Plateau Initiative for Development and Advancement of the Natives (PIDAN), on the umbrella body of all the 56 autochthones of Plateau felicitates with the citizens of the State on Christmas celebration and a prosperous 2024 New Year.
PIDAN’s felicitation message is contained in a release dated 21st December 2023 signed by it President Prof.JKA Madaki Gujor and Secretary General.
According to the release,he states It is our hope that we enjoy a yuletide season free of violence but full of peace, merriment and pageantry. Indeed, let all our celebration activities demonstrate all that our Lord Jesus Christ preached while on Earth and stood for as the way to eternal life.
PIDAN equally appreciate and to place on record the numerous development project initiatives, as can be seen in the Jos metropolis and other parts of the State, of the Caleb Mutfwang administration and to wish His Excellency excellent health and more wisdom in the New Year.
We wish to appreciate the security agencies for the good work they have been doing resulting in the relative peace which we presently enjoy. We commend the good leadership of the current General Officer Commanding (GOC), both the 3rd Armoured Division of the Nigeria Army and Operation Safe Haven which has made the difference in the very good level of Security and Peace in the State.
We wish to further appeal to the security agencies to take additional measure to strengthen the security architecture and increase their level of vigilance in the light of the forthcoming Yuletide so as to prevent criminals, kidnappers and bandits from wreaking havoc in communities during the festive period.
Events of the last few years have shown that yuletide periods are period of mass gathering and criminals, kidnappers and bandits may take advantage of such times to wreak havoc to communities. We are appealing to church leaders to beef up security around their premises and avoid late night programs so as not to create environment where kidnappers and bandits could easily take advantage of and create security problems in the State.
We also wish to commend the efforts of the leadership of the development associations in the State in contributing to effective community policing and taking care of internally displaced persons. We wish to appeal to them to step up their vigilante group activities to improve the safety of their communities during the Yuletide period.
PIDAN appreciates the conduct of most politicians in the State who heeded to our advice that we allow the legal processes take its full course as they relate to the elections of our leaders in the 2023 general elections and accept in good faith the final outcome of the election results as validated by the judicial pronouncements.
PIDAN wishes to appreciate and respect the feelings of those politicians and citizens not pleased with the outcome of declarations of both the electoral umpires and the judiciary but we need to remind them that creating chaos and confusion among the people will not help us nor strengthen the fragile peace and unity which we yearn for and so much cherish. We wish to urge them to continue to pursue their interest within the existing legal framework to their logical conclusions.
We are equally appealing to those whose cases have been concluded to demonstrate the spirit of sportsmanship in both victory and defeat. We had at the beginning of the elections knew that there will be winners and losers and we expected all participants to have prepared their minds for both types of outcomes.
We wish to state in unequivocal terms that wild public demonstration or activities capable of disturbing public peace in relation to electoral outcomes in particular and other reasons in general, are not welcome by PIDAN and we urge all those with such plans to shelve them because such shall not be supported by us or those who mean well for the State. We look forward to a justifiable outcome as we await the judgement of the Supreme Court on the leadership contest in Plateau State.
Finally, PIDAN wishes to appeal to all citizens to take security concerns very seriously in all programs and engagements and report suspicious persons and strange faces to the police and community traditional chiefs as means of reducing the risks of unpleasant events. We wish all citizens of the State a wonderful Christmas celebration and a prosperous new year.
The Governor of plateau state Caleb Mutfwang has frowned at societal and government neglect of Legionnaires and military retirees who laid their precious lives fighting to defend the country from both internal and external invasion.
These are Military retirees and others who lost their lives serving in the volatile war front like the North- East in the Boko Haram enclave, Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) in plateau state, and trouble zones in the country.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang was speaking during the launching of 2024 Armed Forces Emblem Appeal Fund to herald January 15th 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day which was set aside to celebrate heroes who put their live on line for the survival of the country now called Nigeria.
He said many of the retired military personnel and the Legionnaires served at the trouble spots in different parts of this country while some lost parts of their body to that unfortunately war front , many were not so lucky as they died in the process.
Although we may have not treated you fairly, Mutfwang said ,I want to acknowledge and very sincerely not have be so kind to the Legionnaires and retirees of military personnels promised his administration and the society to have change of heart which I hope we can do better.
He berated a situation of continues celebration of Armed Forces Remembrance Day as unknown soldiers which he described as the culture of laziness , added that by now a serious minded country like ours suppose to have known the numbers of her soldiers dead or alive instead of using derogatory words as unknown soldiers.
Mutfwang further said I therefore used my stay in government as the governor of plateau by the grace of God advocate better welfare for the retired armed forces personnels.
Stressed that as the country looked forward for 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration, is another opportunity not just launching the emblem, the country most truely begin to recognize our heroes past.
Further stressed that it has been sang in a song and Nigeria has not actually been able to have it an expression in the real sense of it.
He apologized on behalf of the APC administration in the last government in the state for unable to fulfill her promises to the Legionnaires for the whole of 8 years they held sway in power, but promised his administration will try her best , and from this year 2023 onward , we will begin constructive engagement with Nigeria legions and see how we will be able to make lives better for you people.
The governor however donated 10 million in support of the Nigeria Legion ,called on others to donate to uplift the hardship been face by ex -military.
Promised that his administration is going to look at the remuneration of the other arms of government , who are grossly under remunerated.
As he promised that his administration is looking on how we will improve all segments of live on the plateau.
Urgued the citizens of the state to pray and by their support and grace of God we will turn things around , plead with all to honor and support our senior citizens .
….. Asks EFCC to arrest him for voluntary confession of vote buying
Our Reporter
The Kwara State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed deep concern and condemnation over the recent admission by former APC National Chairman, Comrade Adam Oshiomole, regarding the deployment of substantial funds to influence the 2019 elections in Kwara State.
The concern of the party in the state is contained in a press release dated 21st December 2023 signed by it State Publicity Secretary Comrade Olusegun Olusola Adewara (Sholyments) made available to this medium in Jos Plateau State.
Oshiomole, an erstwhile National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and now a Senator representing Edo North at the National Assembly, Abuja, was quoted recently at a book launch to have said the APC under his leadership used money to dislodge Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki and his Party, the Peoples Democratic Party in Kwara during the 2019 general elections boasting this was his greatest achievement as National Chairman of the APC.
The Kwara PDP in a swift reaction through its State Publicity Secretary, Olusegun Olusola Adewara (Sholyments) while calling on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to immediately summon Oshiomole, also described the former APC Chairman as a symbol of shame to Nation’s growing democracy and a disgrace to Comradeship, noting that all these anti-democratic tendencies necessitated his humiliation out of office as APC Chairman.
“Our attention was drawn to a reckless anti-democratic statement credited to the disgraced former APC National Chairman, Mr. Adam Oshiomole, where he proudly declared that the APC, under his leadership, committed more than N1.2 billion to secure victory over Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki and the PDP in Kwara in 2019 general elections.
“As a Party, we feel such a revelation is not only affirming our position that there were no elections in Kwara in 2019 but a political coup targeted at Bukola Saraki using the federal powers and all state apparatuses to hound and intimidate Kwarans and imposed the current accidental leadership on the state in a coup detat style. We are vindicated by Oshiomole’s public admittance that the 2019 elections in Kwara were rigged to dislodge Saraki.
“However, we want to assert that Oshiomole’s public confession of indulging in vote-buying politics constitutes a serious breach of Nigerian law. It is disheartening that Mr. Adam Oshiomole, who currently holds a position as a Nigerian lawmaker, has unequivocally crossed the red line by attacking the political decorum expected of a responsible legislator. As a lawmaker, Oshiomole is duty-bound to uphold the values of democracy, champion the cause of justice, and represent the interests of the people. Regrettably, a figure entrusted with the responsibility of making laws for the nation has openly celebrated the subversion of the democratic processes through the undue influence of money.
“It is essential to emphasize that vote buying is a punishable offense under Nigerian law. We, therefore, urge the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to promptly initiate an investigation into this voluntary admission by Oshiomole, as it aligns with the legal definition of a punishable offense for which young boys and girls who were caught with just N50,000 at various polling booths were made to languish in various prisons while a national vote buyer who has openly confessed is being rewarded with a member of a hallowed chamber.
We also call on relevant parliamentary bodies to investigate Oshiomole’s conduct and hold him accountable for his actions, as he has not only undermined the credibility of the legislative institution but also eroded public trust in the democratic system. This egregious display by Oshiomole further underscores the need for comprehensive electoral reforms and the strengthening of institutions that safeguard the integrity of our democracy.
“It is truly disheartening to witness a national lawmaker like Oshiomole, who should serve as a role model for upholding democratic values, engage in actions that are not only morally wrong but undermine the very foundation of our political system. Oshiomole’s arrogant and ridiculous utterances, confessing to the use of money to win elections, epitomize the deplorable state of our democracy today.”
Association Of Local Government of Nigeria plateau state chapter
The Transition Chairmen in the 17 local government area of plateau state has equivocally lauded the transparency, accountability and willingness of his government to support the legions in the state.
You can see the way and manner the selection of beneficiaries across the LG over disbursement of the fund from the first Lady on her pet project “Renew Hope Initiative For The Elderly Support Scheme” recently flagged off in the state to assist the aged across the country including Plateau State.
The Chairman of Wase local government Alhaji Hamisu Mohammed who doubled as the Chairman of ALGON in the state revealed this in an interview with Journalists during the disbursement of money from the first lady Oluremi Tinubu to assist the elderly to celebrate Christmas and New Year festivity which coincided with Arm Force Remembrance Day celebration Emblem appeal Launch heralding 15th January 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration held at the New Government House Little Rayfield Jos 19th December 2023.
The Chairman said the beneficiaries in the first lady’s cash given was transparently selected from their respective local government through the local government chairman without the state which is before not possible.
That is to tell you that our governor Caleb Mutfwang is not just talking, but put it in action.
On the Emblem launch 2024 which is yearly ritual to mark the military who laid their live to ensure that the country remain one , Hamisu lauded the governor for donating generously towards the program which is an obvious indication that governor Mutfwang is not happy with the conditions of the Legion who were neglected by the past administration as confirmed that the pledges from the past administration of APC for 8 Years they held sway in government was not fulfilled.
He said, despite the governor inheriting over 200 Billion Naira from the APC past administration in the state ,he did not allow that to affect his electoral promises to the people of plateau state as you can see the numerous projects of the governor all Over the nooks and crannies of the State.
Hamisu advice the people of plateau to celebrate Christmas and New in Peace and accommodate those who didn’t have and assist those who didn’t have.
On his part the Chairman of Jos East LG Monday Kasa applauded governor Mutfwang for his demonstration of love to the Legion by donating generously towards the Arm Force Remembrance Day Celebration of launching of emblem.
He further said the governor also appreciated the role of the Legion for nation building and donate the sum of five million on behalf of himself and family and the same amount on behalf of the former governor of the state Jonah Jang who also a Legion.
However thank the wife of the president Oluremi Tinubu for impacting on the live of the aged through her pet project Renew Hope Initiative For Elderly Support Scheme.
The Chairman of Bokkos LG also Commended governor Mutfwang for his his stance as the people’s governor and carrying every body along.
He further thank the wife of Mr President for her good gesture to touch the live of the ages through her pet program Renew Hope Initiative.
Those in attendance at the occasion include former governor of the state , David Jonah Jang, past speakers of the house of Assembly, Commissioners and others too numerous to count.
The Plateau state governor has debunked the rumors making the around that the state government is making preparation to pay civil servants in the state 13th Month to ameliorate the hardship of the people after Christmas and New Year festivity celebration.
The governor said the rumor is the imagination of the fabricator of the rumors and speculations that has gone viral on the Internet.
The state government denial of the rumors is contained in a press statement dated 20th December 2023 signed by the Director of press and Public affairs to the Executive Governor Gyang Bere and made available to this medium in jos.
According to the statement which read in part said, the Plateau State government has been drawn to misinformation circulating, particularly among public servants, regarding the payment of a 13th month salary and an additional N20,000 monthly stipend. The government wishes to categorically state that these claims are entirely false and fabricated.
We urge all citizens to exercise caution and disregard such misleading information. These rumors appeared to be a deliberate attempt by some individuals to spread confusion and sow discord among our peace loving citizens.
For the avoidance of doubt, there is no plan for payment of a 13th month salary to civil servants. December salaries were already paid early on December 17, 2023 as a gesture of goodwill prior to the festive season.
Furthermore, the claim of an additional N20,000 monthly payment is completely unfounded. No such pronouncement has been made by the Governor or any authorized government official.
The Plateau State Government under the leadership of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang remains committed to its core values of transparency, accountability, and good governance. We will continue to prioritize the welfare of our public servants and address their concerns through established channels.
We appreciate the continued support and understanding of the citizens of Plateau State. We encourage everyone to rely on official government sources for accurate information and refrain from sharing or propagating fake news.
Tudun Biri village of Kaduna State which left not fewer than Hundred persons dead a group under the auspices of Autochthonous Ethnic Nationalities Community Development Associations CONAECDA has called the federal government to investigate the rational behind the bombing which that resulted to the killing of innocent citizens of the community.
As the call for investigation is imperactive because we believe that there is more to the Tudun Biri error than what is obvious to the public. Igabi local Government where Tudun Biri is located is one of the major hideouts of the
Yan-Bindiga terrorists tormenting Kaduna, Plateau and Zamfara States.
The call of the Association is contained in a press conference dated 15th December 2023 signed by the Secretary General of the Association Suleiman Sukukum and made available to this medium in Jos.
The press statement with the caption “The Tudun Biri Error” read in part:
We received with pains the recent collateral killing of over 100 Citizens of Tudun Biri village of Kaduna State on 3rd December 2023.
The bombing of the village which the Nigeria army described as an error is one among many
of such errors in the past 16 years of war against terrorist among which are the Boko Haram and the Bandits or Yan-Bindiga terrorist groups.
One of the major courses of these “errors” has been the imbedding of these terrorists in communities where
they terrorize civilians into silence or instances where the civilians become tacit supporters of the terrorists.
Another reason is the perception among Nigerians that some military officers use their offices to deliberately
injure communities against which they hold some form of grudges.
It is these reasons that often lead sections of the communities to accuse the Nigerian army of biases and of
deliberate attacks against their communities. The Bombing of the villages of the Bwatiye in Adamawa state, the
Bombing of Bama in Borno State and of Areas in Southern Kaduna are examples of such “errors”. Our
communities had previously called for detailed investigation of these errors; we therefore support the calls for
a detailed investigation, not only of the Tudun Biri incidence but of all previous incidences of “Bombing by error”.
The support of CONAECDA and its continued partnership with the Nigerian Armed forces meant that apart from
the active involvement of members of our communities in various Civilian Joint task force, vigilantes, hunters
and the NPF community police; we have consistently remain supportive of our sons and daughters serving in
the security agencies.
It is our responsibility as citizens to contribute in national discuss and to support the
security agencies while criticizing them where need be.
The error of Tudun Biri, appear however to be receiving an unprecedented attention, due in part to the religious
coloration that sections of the Nigerian Public try to portray. We are however compelled to plead for caution.
Though it appears that the current Federal Government is deliberate in its desire to respond to humanitarian
situations as is reflected in the assistance given to victims in the recent attacks on communities of the Mwaghavul nation in Plateau State and its response to the Bombing of Tudun Biri; those in Government need to be careful so as not to leave the impression that the lives of Nigerians are valued based on ethnicity, religion
or region.
We are compelled to call for caution because we believe that there is more to the Tudun Biri error than what is
obvious to the public. Igabi local Government where Tudun Biri is located is one of the major hideouts of the Yan-Bindiga terrorists tormenting Kaduna, Plateau and Zamfara States. The error of Tudun Biri should not beused as an excuse to hinder the Nigerian Armed forces from continuing their war against Yan-Bindiga terrorists
across the Nation and in Igabi Local Government Area.
The call for compensation for lives ost in Tudun Biri should only be considered in the broader picture of past
mistakes and potential future mistakes, which is known to be a reality during wars and is technically called
collateral damages.
While Victims of Tudun Biri should not be neglected but be supported to rebuild their lives;championing the
interest and rights of the victims of the Tudun Biri attack should not amount to neglecting thereality that
millions of Nigerians, Victims of the Terrorist groups are living in despicable conditions due to
Government refusal to recognise the difference between Yan Bindiga terrorism and the often projected herders
and farmers conflict.
Despite the seeming connection between Yan-Bindiga Terrorist and the Fulani herders, the
Government needs to clearly recognise the fact that millions of Nigerians are victims of the activities of the Yan
Bindiga Terrorists.
It is high time the Federal and State Governments, and the international community
recognize the activities of these terrorists, and immediately commence deliberate and comprehensive
rehabilitation Programme for victims.
We are glad that for the first time the Federal Government made an open pronouncement of its decision to
rebuild the destroyed Tudun Biri community and provide it with modern amenities. This is a step in the right
direction, however, Previous victim communities and the hundreds of displaced communities should come first.
It is disturbing that the Federal Government should chose the misfortune that befall the Tudun Biri Community
to announce yet another Fulani Herders centred programme called “Pulako initiative”.
We read on the pages of
newspapers explanation by public officers,including the Vice President,that this is a new initiative designed to
build ranches, houses and infrastructure as a soft approach to dealing with the so-called herder and farmers
conflicts.
It is unfortunate that our public officers have failed to realise that being public office is a trust and that public
trust is required for any public project to succeed.
The Federal Government’s lack of consultation, its persistent
use of “experts” and its refusal to build trust between Government and various indigenous communities whose
ancestral land is required for such failed programmes as Ruga; if repeated, will spell the doom of the Pulako
initiative.
We advise that any non-kinetic approach to the Yan-Bindiga Terrorists and the Herders farmers conflicts; should
have adequate inputs from the armed forces, the Traditional rulers, the cultural associations including Fulani
organisations and religious leaders. Though this path is difficult and remain torturous, it is the only way out.
We
therefore call on the Federal Government to document and make public what the Pulako Initiative is all about
so as to enable our communities make objective decisions on how to relate to the initiative.
Finally, we pray for the repose of the souls of the victims, healings for the wounded and comfort for those
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