The Factional All Progressive Congress APC, in plateau state,Hon Ishaya Itse has congratulate the New Governor of Plateau State, barrister Caleb Mutfwang and his Deputy Hon.josephine Piyo over their successful swearing in as governor and Deputy Governor respectively.
The Factional Chairman described the Caleb Mutfwang as governor of the state as God divine which is not by accident but God designed
Itse congratulary message is contained in a press statement dated 29th May 2023 and made available to this medium in Jos, plateau state.
He said with the wealth of experience Barrister Mutfwang has garnered both in law profession and general administrations over the years spanning through over three decades, I am convinced that the work of Governor will not be tiresome to him.
He added that Mutfwang will not only do well as governor , but the people of plateau state will beg him to contest for the position for 2nd tenure because he will perform credibly to the admiration of all the citizens of plateau state.
He called on the people of plateau to rally support for the New administration of Mutfwang and Piyo for the state to bounce back developmentally which has eluded it for the 8 years the APC Government held sway as governor
Itse however called on Dr.Nentawe Yilwada who contested with Mutfwang and lost in a keenly contested Governorship election, to shead his sword and Congratulate the New Governor and joined hand with him for over all development of the state.
He said the election has come and gone,it is time to join hands with those you contested election with for the interest of the state.
Hon.Itse use the congratulary message to advise the New Governor to extend an olive branch to those he contested election with for the interest of the state.
Plateau State Governor-Elect Caleb Mutfwang has expressed hope for the children in the State , Nigeria and the world over .
Mutfwang made the expression hours to his inauguration on Monday 29th May 2023 during the this year 2023 children day celebration message to mark Children Day.
Mutfwang message is contained in a press statement dated 27th May 2023 signed by Special Assistant on Media to the Governor-elect, Gyang Bere ,and made available to Journalists in Jos.
The Governor-elect, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang expressed his administration resolve to build a new Plateau with equal opportunities, where the less privileged children can divinely realize their dreams and purposes in life.
While congratulating children on their special day, Mutfwang pledged to create a conducive environment for children to pursue their dreams and aspirations to enable them contribute to the development of the State and the country as a whole.
He further described children as special gifts from God, who deserve distinctive parental and societal support to enable them climb to the top of their chosen careers.
And added that parents are expected to genuinely provide care, encouragement, support and ensure that they train their children to grow in the way of the Lord so that they can impact the society meaningfully.
Barr. Mutfwang said his policy thrust which is premised on “The Time Is Now” seeks to reinvigorate the educational sector and ensure optimal performance of children for the realization of a progressive Plateau.
He said there will be renewed hope, commitment and deliberate steps for children to grow in the state.
The Appeal Court sitting in plateau state on a matter between the embattled Speaker of Plateau House of Assembly Hon.Yakubu Sanda of the All Progressive Congress APC, on application of retrained order against his Political rivalry Hon. Nuhu Ayuba of people Democratic Party PDP, over the authentic Speaker of the state house of Assembly was today 26th May 2023 stalled by absence of Judges in the court.
As the three panel judges in the matter who resided outside the jurisdiction in federal capital territory Abuja , vehicle where reported to have developed mechanical fault on their way to attend the court sitting in plateau state.
The case between the embattled speakers , Hon.Abok Nuhu Ayuba of People Democratic Party PDP, and his counterpart of the All Progressive Congress APC,Hon. Yakubu Sanda over who is the authentic Speaker of the state house of Assembly ,was slated today 26th May 2023 to entertained the Perpectual injunction application of the APC, directing the court to stop Abok Ayuba from parading himself as the speaker of the state house of Assembly.
The application is to further restrained Hon.Ayuba to stop forth with from parading himself as the Speaker of the house and to preside on any legislative business of the house ,performing or parading himself as the speaker of the house of Assembly pending the dispensation of the application pending in the appeal court.
In an interview with members of PDP who were in court to give moral support to one of their own, Honorable Nuhu Ayuba whom at the time of filing this report is said not to be perturbed with the legal tussle because till otherwise,the judgement of the High Court still subsist until it is set aside by the superior court of law.
However stressed that as house members democrats they have forgive the then ruling party in the state despite the political heart aches they have caused the party and it members as opposition in the last 7 years they held sway in power.
“We’re are not God, God said we should forgive those who for one reasons or the other most have wrong us knowingly or unknowingly so will forgive them , they should go and sin no more.
On his part,the APC, embattled speaker Hon. Yakubu Sanda said he didn’t feel bad over the appeal Judge absent in court to rule on his Perpectual injunction to restrain the Abok led Speakership to maintained status quo pending the ruling of the court on the Perpectual injunction before it.
The counsel to the Appellate Ruba SAN said he didn’t feel bad that the court could not rule on his Perpectual injunction application before the court largely due to mechanical problem developed by their vehicles coming from Abuja to attend the appeal case .He said anything could happen to anybody at given time ,so the judges is not exempted.
It could be recalled that the appeal court sitting in the same jurisdiction earlier ruled in favor of Abok Nuhu on the expartie motion instituted against him by the Sanda led speaker.
The National and State House of Assembly sitting in plateau state has adjourned it sitting to Tuesday 30th May 2023,for pre-hearing.
As the tribunal promised to do justice to all the parties devoid of preferential or selective Justice irrespective of religion, tribal and political difference.
The Chairman of the tribunal , Justice Olumide stated this in his welcome address during the Inauguration of National and State House of Assembly held at the state High Court 24th May 2023.
He said the Inauguration of tribunal is the last lapse of election process that gives any aggrieved parties in the election to ventilate his/her grievance in a civilised way , within the confined of the law instead of resulting to self help .
Further add that the tribunal will be fair to all litigants and be given equal opportunity to ventilate their various thought.
Urged the lawyers as an official of the court to respect the court and avoid anything that would bring the court to disrepute, that the tribunal shall seat from 9am to 6pm Monday to Saturday and Sundays in some unavoidable circumstances.
He advised that in every contest ,there must be winner and looser , while the winner should be magnimous in Victory, the looser should take it in good faith as their is another time.
More so that the tribunal is not the last judicial bus stop to address this election matter at this level there is window for appeal, adviced any parties not satisfied with the verdict of the tribunal at the end of the day should approach higher court.
Responding on behalf of the bar ,P.A Akubo SAN, welcome the tribunal to the state the jurisdiction of the tribunal which is the home of peace and tourism, assured them of peaceful stay as they discharge their duty.
Promised of the Counsel cooperation with the panel to make the tribunal work seamless , appealed with the tribunal to adjourned the Matter for more one week to allow for filing and completion of processes to avoid hiccup when the tribunal finally commence in earnest.
Also appealed with the tribunal to review the proposed sitting days from 9am-6pm to avoid fatigue .
Akubo also appealed to the tribunal to prevail with the relevant authority so that all the tribunals scattered in the state are sitting in one place.This is because most of the lawyers are counsel to more than two election petition.
But the tribunal Chairman said all the request of the Senior Advocate of Nigeria SAN, Piaus Akubo shall all fall in their respective places when the tribunal Commence sitting in earnest.
The tribunal then adjourned Pre-Hearing sitting to Tuesday 30th May 2023 for the parties involved in the matter to exchange their process and harmonise same.
Candidate under Labour Party LP, Barrister Gyang Zi, who contested for Senate to represent plateau North Federal Constituency said he is equipped with enough fact he has presented before the election tribunal to assist him collect his stolen mandate from Hon.Simon Madkwom of People Democratic Party PDP.
Zi said he is optimistic to collect the mandate willingly giving to him by plateau North Constituency electorate because he has more than a lot to offer the people of the constituents.
Gyang Zi a practicing legal luminary that has cut an inch for himself was speaking in an interview with journalists during the Inauguration of National and State House of Assembly election tribunal held at the state High Court 24th May 2023.
He adviced his supporters to maintain calm because there is light after the dark tunnel and avoid anything that will bring the name of Labour Party LP, to disrepute and threatened the peace of the state in particular,and the Nation as a whole.
He said the recent dismissal of the local government election appeal at the supreme Court has put the people Democratic party PDP, in a very tight corner while it add credence to our case he maintained.
It would be recall that Barrister Gyang Zi contested the Senate seat to represent Plateau North Federal Constituency with the incumbent Senator representing plateau North Hon.Simon Madkwon.
But not satisfied with the Conduct of the election that returned the sitting Senator Hon. Simon Madkwon of the People Democratic Party PDP candidate winner, heard for Election tribunal to challenge the out come of the result.
The Governship Election Tribunal sitting in Jos plateau state capital, has reiterated it commitment to be fair to all parties in the matter without fear and favor irrespective of tribal, Political , above all ethnic difference.
Called on the parties to avoid any technicalities capable of delaying the tribunal sitting considering the generic nature of election matter which is time bound.
The Chairman of the tribunal, Justice Rita lrele Ifineh heading other two Justices give the advice on Tuesday 23rd May 2023 in her welcome address during the Inauguration of the state Governship Election Tribunal sitting at West of Mines Jos, plateau state.
She said Election Tribunal is the last electioral process that gives any aggrieved Candidate who is not satisfied over the election to seek redress in a laid down procedure within the confined of the law instead of resulting to self help which is contrary to the law.
Justice Rita reiterated the the tribunal willingness to do justice to all the parties according to the law because after the tribunal, prosperity will judge each one of us according to the role played in the matter.
Speaking on behalf of the bar,Dr. Kayode Olatoke SAN, who is the Counsel to Dr.Nentawe Yilwada of All Progressive Congress APC, promised that they will cooperate with the tribunal to achieve quick dispensation of the matter brought before it considering the generic nature of elections case.
He further stressed that on their part the complaint, they were ready to commence for the pre-hearing today, however also thank God that it has been postponed.
Promised the Counsel involved in the case maximum cooperation with the tribunal and avoid frivolous application capable of delaying the case.
In a separate interview with the Counsel representing barrister Caleb Mutfwang of People Democratic party PDP, Bawa SAN said they very much ready at all times.
The case has been Adjourned till 25th May 2023 for pre-hearing
The father of the former Bursar of Government Technical College, Saki, Oyo State, Prince Stephen Irinola Afolabi is dead.
The former Bursar, Prince Isaac Oyeyinka Afolabi announced the death of his nonagenarian father through a statement signed on behalf of the family on Sunday. He said that late Afolabi died on Saturday morning due to old age-related sickness.
He said “We announce the demise of the Afolabi patriarch, Baba Prince Stephen Irinola Afolabi of Oba Tuntun’s Ruling House, Isale Asa, Iree, Osun state in the early hours of Saturday, May 20, 2023, after a brief illness.
“Baba at different stages in his life worked as a chef, pharmacist, and farmer. He was a devoted believer and served God till death. He was a missionary and one-time leader of First Baptist Church, Oja-Namo via Iseyin in Oyo state.”
He described his late father as “a loving husband, caring father, community leader, and leader of thoughts. He was a cheerful giver and community mobilizer. He lived a peaceful life and was at peace with all men till death. He will be missed.”
“He had at different times and platforms led different groups, especially in the Baptist Churches where he had worshipped for over 80 years.”
He added that the deceased lost his wife to death on August 15, 2022.
Late Pa. Afolabi was survived by his children including Prince Isaac Oyeyinka Afolabi, Princess Adenike Aderemi (Nee Afolabi), Prince Peter Bolaji Afolabi, Prince Sunday Oladayo Afolabi, and Prince Olakunle Samson Afolabi. Others are Princess Oluwatoyin Afolabi (Married), Princess Folasade Afolabi (Married), and Princess Lydia Afolabi (Married).
The Human Capital Providers Association of Nigeria (HuCaPAN) in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment organized a one-day stakeholders meeting on international recruitment in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital with a view to stakeholders partner on improving international recruitment of migrant workers in Nigeria; address identified challenges in the industry and proffer solutions on way forward.
In his address, the President of the association, Dr. Olufemi Ogunlowo, represented by the Executive Secretary, Olajide Afolabi said that in December 2017, the government of Nigeria through the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment suspended the issuance and renewal of International Recruiters License and Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar for intending migrant workers.
This move effectively led to the suspension of international recruitment in Nigeria as a result of a National Assembly investigation report which revealed that quacks in the industry engaged in forced labour, human trafficking, and abuse of migrant workers.
The President said that the objective of the meeting was to among other things, highlight, discuss, and proffer solutions to issues affecting effective operations of international recruitment in Nigeria. He added that it was also to ensure full commencement of operations by international recruiters after the meeting and develop strategies for partnership between the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment and other Ministries, Departments and Agencies, and MDAs involved in the labor migration governance framework in Nigeria.
Other objectives of the meeting according to him, are to develop an action plan on the implementation of relevant guidelines “especially, the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for International Recruitment of Migrant Workers and cross-fertilize ideas on strengthening international recruiters’ engagement in labour migration and recruitment practices in Nigeria.
“As a responsible association, we are worried that despite the operational guidelines and frameworks, there has not been expected improvement in international recruitment, and this unfortunate development is allowing quacks in the industry to operate almost unchecked.
“Since immigration is a right and cannot be stopped, if official routes are closed, people will take to illegal routes which are detrimental to national growth and our industry,” he said.
Ogunlowo said that in the need to ensure smooth operation for international recruitment of Nigerian migrant workers, HuCaPAN partnered with the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment to bring all stakeholders engagement on effective labour migration governance discourse; improved institutional capacities and mechanisms for promoting effective labour migration as well as promote HuCaPAN contribution towards standardizing recruitment practices in Nigeria.
HuCaPAN has in recent years advocated for the standardization of recruitment practices in Nigeria through the effective implementation of the Code of Conduct for Private Employment Agencies (PEAs).
The Association also called for a guideline for international recruitment in Nigeria which said the meeting was providing the platform to cross-fertilize ideas on strengthening engagement in labour migration and recruitment practices.
Stakeholders at the meeting identified challenges confronting international recruitment which include delay in the process of application for Recruiters License and Renewal application; centralization of background checks by the Department of State Services (DSS) at the Headquarters, Abuja; lack of synergy between the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment and other Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) involved in labour migration governance framework in Nigeria and the inability of the Federal Government to send a memo to the embassies on the lifting of suspension on international recruitment among others.
In her goodwill message, International Labour Organisation, ILO Country Director in Nigeria, Ms. Vannessa Phala, said that ensuring that the recruitment of workers, including for international labour markets leads to decent work and the efficient functioning of labour markets remains a key feature in promoting social justice in the world of work.
Speaking through the National Project Coordinator, ILO, Mr. Austin Erameh, “In recognition of the need for adequate frameworks to support stakeholders, the ILO developed General Principles and Operational Guidelines for Fair Recruitment and Definition of Recruitment Fees and Related Costs.
“These tools present a comprehensive approach to realizing fair recruitment through development, implementation, monitoring, and enforcement of recruitment laws, policies, and practices which lead to fair and efficient recruitment and protect all workers’ rights”, Phala said.
Earlier in his opening remark, the Director Employment and Wages, Mr. John Nyamali represented by Dr. Sunday Onazi, Assistant Director, International Migration Division in the Ministry, called for synergy among the actors in international labour recruitment to achieve the set goal of safe and regular migration saying that no one agency can do it alone.
He said that “the promotion of safe and regular migration will address the issue of forced labour and human trafficking”.
He said that the government was doing everything possible to ensure that HuCaPAN gets a fair deal for its members to have a fair deal in their businesses.
In his goodwill message, the Chief of Mission, International Organisation for Migration, IOM, Mr. Laurent De Boeck represented by Ms. Elizabeth Poage says, “Cross-border recruitment is a vital part of facilitating international labour mobility when implemented fairly and transparently, it contributes to safe and orderly labour migration, which benefits, employers, migrants, countries of origin and destination.
He said “When international standards are not adhered to, the risks to migrant workers can be severe as fraudulent and unethical behaviour by unscrupulous labour recruiters can lead to conditions of human trafficking and forced labour.
“IOM is committed to supporting Governments to develop and strengthen effective mechanisms and tools that prevent and address exploitation by unscrupulous labour recruiters.
“This commitment is outlined in Objective six of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration which calls on member states to facilitate fair and ethical recruitment and safeguard conditions that ensure decent work”.
At the end of the one-day meeting, stakeholders agreed to work together to promote harmonious relationships and improve the international recruitment of migrant workers in Nigeria.
The meeting produced far-reaching recommendations including the proposed development of a guideline and action plan on international recruitment; the development of advocacy strategies on international recruitment; the creation of Desks (and recruit Desk Officers) on international recruitment at major international airports; Nigeria Immigration Service to pay close attention to prospective migrant workers with work visas traveling to Baghdad, Cairo, Kuwait, Bahrain, etc.; and organization of training on National Policy on Labour Migration, Code of Conduct for Private Employment Agencies in Nigeria, etc. among others.
Other stakeholders at the meeting include the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Immigration Service, the National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons and Other Related Matters NAPTIP, and the State Security Service (DSS). Others are the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, the Federal Ministry of Justice, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), the media, and international recruiters.
Dr. Nentawe Yilwada the governship Candidate of the ruling All Progressive Congress APC in just concluded Election in plateau state still keep hope alive as he said the court will help him to reclaim his mandate .
The former REC Commissioner in Benue State said he has unwavering confident on the tribunal which is the last process of all the electoral process where any aggrieved person go to seek redress.
Dr. Nentawe Stated this in an interview with journalists during the Inauguration of the Governship Tribunal Sitting in Jos , plateau state 24th May 2023,held at State High court West of Mines
Nentawe who is currently challenging the victory of Barrister Caleb Mutfwang of the People Democratic party PDP in the last election said it is his faint convision that the court who is know to do justice to all manners of persons irrespective of religion , tribe and ethnic is the last hope of man.
He further said that he is very hopeful to collect his mandate from the People Democratic party PDP, because my party and myself have a germane issue as our argument in the matter.
He called on his supporters , APC supporters to remain calm and be prayerful that there is light after the dark tunnel.
Dr. Was accompanied by party stakeholders , supporters .
However,the tribunal have been adjourned till Thursday 26th May 2023 for pre-hearing to herald the full swing commencement of the tribunal sitting.
Remaining resolute, focus and touching the lives of indigenes continues to be my priority.
The Director General, Unity Foundation, Alh. Salisu Yaro Maidankali made this known at an event in Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University ATBU, Bauchi, organized by the National Association of Plateau State Students NAPSS.
The DG pointed out that, adding value to human lives gives him joy and happiness, therefore he pledged to intensify efforts in human capacity building.
Further called on the leadership of NAPSS and the entire students of Plateau state to make sure that, they manage to learn any vocational skills, now that government no longer employed graduates.
Alh. Yaro Maidankali stressed that, Youths are vanguard of peace, therefore they should ensure that peaceful and harmonious coexistence is sustained.
The DG unity foundation frown at the people attacking innocents people, particularly, the ugly situation in Mangu, calling on the government and all the security agencies to intervene and safe souls.
He equally, called on the Journalists to ensure on-bias coverage of event and activities to promote peace and tranquility.
Adding that, journalists were the watchdog of the society and they shaped policies and programs of government, therefore, there is need for the Promotion of objectivity.
Church leaders under the auspacies of Plateau State Church Denominational Leaders and Spiritual Fathers,has Condemned in strong term the resurgence of killings in Riyom and Mangu local government of the state.
The Church Leaders and Spiritual Fathers Condemnation is contained in a press release dated 21st May 2023 signed by (Dr.) Stephen Baba Panya, ECWA President,Head of and For and on Behalf of Plateau State Church Denominational Leaders and Spiritual Fathers,and made available to this medium in Jos.
The Press statement which reads in part said we are very deeply saddened by the resurgence of mindless killings of innocent citizens, mainly Christians, in Mangu and Riyom Local Government Areas of Plateau State.
The killings which started in Mangu villages, Plateau state, Nigeria on Monday, 15th May 2023 by so-called unknown gunmen has claimed many lives and properties with many persons still missing. The villages affected include Fungzai, Hale, Kubwat, Bwoi and many other communities of Kombun District of Mangu Local Government Area and some communities in Riyom Local Government Area.
According to reports, about 130 people were killed, about 1000 houses and about 22 churches burnt, and about 22 villages affected. We the Church Denominational Leaders and Spiritual fathers on the Plateau, view this round of killings and destruction as devilish, barbaric and an act of genocide against innocent and armless villagers.
This again is another sad commentary on the unabated bloodletting that has engulfed Plateau State over the years without any meaningful attempt by Government at federal and state levels to decisively address the unfortunate situation.
The body used the statement to ask vital questions ranging from how long will this bloodletting continue?The persistent attacks and killings in Plateau state continue to raise a number of questions.
Who really wants to destroy Plateau State and why? Are the killers really ‘unknown’ gunmen and why do they always have sophisticated weapons and enough time to wreak havoc on innocent citizens? What has happened to those arrested in previous attacks?
Are the security agencies in Plateau really handicapped?If we must move forward as a peaceful, united and democratic nation, then these and many other questions must be answered through deliberate action by government to bring these killings to the end and restore peace and tranquility in Plateau State and other troubled parts of the country.
The Church Leaders and Spiritual Fathers however called
on the government and all security agencies to immediately stop this ongoing massacre and its spread to more communities.
” We also urge relevant emergency management agencies to urgently provide shelter and relief materials to the affected communities and bring them the much-needed succor. We implore spirited individuals, groups, and organizations to also come to the aid of these devastated communities.”
Further used the release to call on citizens to remain calm and peaceful in the face of this unwarranted persecution, and trust that government and its relevant agencies will immediately restore normalcy and build confidence of the people.
“We commiserate with families that have lost their loved ones and pray for God’s comfort, and healing and restoration to all those injured. “
Urged the church not to relent in praying to God for his divine intervention, inner strength and perseverance for the people of Plateau State. Let us hold on to God’s promises and fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:1-3). maintained.
Exactly a month ago, April 17, 2023, some communities of Mangu, Bokkos and Riyom were attacked with dire consequences following their trail. We had asked: Where was all of that taking the state to, given that no one was apprehended and brought to justice?
We had also asked why the attacks in Plateau State often took place in the wet season, when communities which are mostly agrarian prepare for their farms. It is no coincidence, neither is it mere happenstance; therefore, the assumption that it is a clash between farmers and herder is anything but ridiculous. It is banditry targeted at a people that have remained, at best, accommodating and peace lovers.
Coming from the cold
Haven’t the world been inundated with some laughable ‘facts’ that the state wants to remain an island to itself? Those who sell that know for a fact that it can only fly with their collaborators. No state in Nigeria has a mishmash of nationalities that have lived here for centuries without dislocating the colour of that configuration over time.
Those who have tried to convince the powers that be over the years to treat the state like a leprous entity will always confess that everywhere one goes, there are states whose animosity against others is far above what they have in Plateau State; that is if there is any of such.
There is no where that should be considered a candidate for attack, neither is it worth the trouble for a people to be pounded for no cause. Herein lays our worry for the treatment of communities in local government areas such as Kanam, Wase, Mangu, Bokkos, Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Jos North, South and East and Bassa. Indeed, it is a well documented fact that there is no local government area that has not come under attacks by bandits in the state in the last twenty two years.
There is no area listed above that the natives ever took arms against any tribe no matter how long they have been there. If that is the case, why have the bandits chosen to periodically take on them with such ferocious intensity, which leaves hearers of the messy news with mouth agape? And that is why many have asked; if this is not genocide, pray, define in your terms what it should be called?
The point being made is that, there is no friendly attack ever in the history of mankind. Any attack in Plateau that ends with the annihilation of a people in a community cannot be said to be a clash between farmers and herders.
For decades, it has been a recurring decimal, accounting for loss of precious lives and property without provocation. In most of the communities, the local people’s ancestral lands have been taken away. Today, as you read through this, the owners of such lands are either dead or are taking shelter in public structures or in uncompleted buildings barely eking a living, with a bleak future hanging over them.
It is important, and truly worth stating, what has the state not done rightly, so that its communities will be safe and protected from invaders. We know the invaders come at will to kill, maim and by dawn, the tale of woes they leave in their trail can only be imagined.
Theater of attack
The world should indeed be amazed with the number of villages which came under attack on May 16, 2023 in Mangu: Kubwat, Fungzai, Aloghom, Ntam, Ligit-Lubang/Sabon Layi, Jwakji, Washna, Jwak-Maitumbi, Murish, Kikyau, Danhausa, Gongong, Gyambwas, Kyampuus, Ntul, Gwet, Jwakchom, Larkas and Jwak Ras.
From the attacks, none of us is aware of the number of casualties; we can only make conjectures of what happened. Truth be told, the security agencies have not been willing to offer to the public the number of the death, what we have are just reports from the field; and to be fair they are scary.
Security agencies and news from the field
The only media that gave the number of casualties is The Nation, New Telegraph and Channels which reported 85 persons as number of those killed. Who knows, the casualties may be higher than what was reported. Whatever it is, the attacks on the Plateau are a cause for concern, what with the thicker consistency and outcome after each has ended.
It is understandable why the security agencies would not want to disclose how many people were killed. However, it is worse when we are fed with press releases from the security, when in actual fact, ‘the coordinated attacks, mass killing and burning down of several villages in Mangu local government for three days running by heavily armed terrorists has again brought the destabilization agenda against Plateau host communities’.
There is always an assurance from government and the security of being on top of the situation. While we are not oblivious of their contributions in the security architecture of Plateau, ‘the ease with which terrorists undertake their mission without a corresponding decisiveness by government and law enforcement agencies to defend vulnerable communities’ leaves much to be desired, even as many are genuinely worried that much is always expected of the security.
But perhaps for self glorification, they need to give us more to read of what was done to the victims during and after the dust has settled. There is a one way prosecution of crime now; it does appear that the ‘security agencies only prosecute crime against government (state), they ignore crime against the’ people. It is reprehensible to work against the communities and the victims; rather, we must find succour for them in these trying times that try the soul of Plateau.
Yet, we have a situation at hand; we are being inundated with the arrest of five of the attackers without them telling us the condition that the attacks have led the communities into. Even if some had been arrested in the past, pray, tell me what became of their fate. You can only hazard a truthful guess.
We have asked in the past, where did the attackers lodge, and who was responsible for bringing them? Did they arrive those villages with the knowledge of the community heads? What did they bring along when they settled in those communities? Is it not comfortable to conclude that it took long to plan the attacks? It is necessary to ask, as the attackers are certainly not from these parts; they must have been hired to kill and destroy.
It is not out of place to ask why the state has ‘refused’ to use the services of the moribund Operation Rainbow. While regions are insisting on protecting their territories with their security outfits, we have opened our flanks to the enemy as if we are in alliance with them.
It is this worrying aspect that confounds all men and women of goodwill. The gale of condemnatory statements arising from the attack cannot satisfy the communities presently, as we know it might not bring a fly to justice. Those who know are quick to point that the victims as the communities need assurance of their safety and protection.
There is nothing wrong in condemning an act against the people of Mangu, but there is more when the government walks the talk. When security personnel chase the attackers to nearby bushes, what is the guarantee that they may not be on their way back the next day? The people have continuously trusted God for a reprieve and judgment to be visited on their attackers; but while it may not come as expected, they are worried the attacks are yet to cease.
What role for Plateau Peace Building Agency
It is regrettable; several communities have been attacked in Plateau State with dire consequences. The numbers keep increasing over the years. But in its determined efforts not to have more of such and to keep its communities and peoples safe that an agency was created to restore sanity to victims.
We have repeatedly asked, of what need is an Agency without finance? Has the Plateau Peace Building Agency been adequately funded to carry out its activities in the last couple of years? As a Peace Ambassador of the Agency, this interrogation is against the enormous responsibility it is saddled with, which have not been effective due largely to paucity of funds.
The Agency must have visited communities which came under attack in the past. I am aware that the fifth item on the strategic document (Road Map to Peace) explicitly speaks to the issue of ‘Conflict Rehabilitation and Resettlement’ of victims of violent conflict; it is a known fact that the Agency is handicapped in more ways than one to meet this criterion.
It is a known fact that the law establishing the Plateau Peace Building Agency empowers it to coordinate all peace building activities by both state and non-state actors to guard against duplication of efforts; engage with old issues of conflict while preventing new ones from occurring anywhere in the state.
Most people in the state and indeed beyond who know of the existence and work of the Plateau Peace Building Agency are quick to point to its pioneering efforts in some of the communities which have come under attack. The question many have asked is: Has the Agency been able to make any impact in its interventions over the years?
Those who know say, the Agency’s effectiveness can better be measured by the amount of resources and of its commitment in those communities which have been attacked may have felt. Better still, its advocacy may be meaningful so long as changes are noticed in their condition after an intervention.
For the Agency to be effective, funding is crucial for the role it was set to achieve. It is in its effectiveness to meet up with the challenges of peace building and sustenance between peoples and communities that its role can be concretized. A look at its thematic/programmatic areas of the Road Map to Peace shows well documented concerns for research, coordination and partnership, natural resource management, peace education, gender and youth and post-conflict rehabilitation and resettlement.
Over the years, the Agency has intervened strategically to give confidence to victims of several attacks. The PPBA is reported to been accused by the State Emergency Management Agency of usurping its mandate. Call it an inter-agency rivalry, that is not supposed to be had both been adequately funded. Take for instance the last grants for the Rapid Conflict Assessment in Mangu and Bassa LGAs supported by USAID/OTI/NERI to render humanitarian services to victims of violent conflict in Bassa, PPBA allegedly got the bashing of SEMA.
There is indeed cause to conclude that all may not be well with the PPBA in respect to the organization of the Day of Forgiveness. As genuinely conceptualized by government; it is a day set aside by the Plateau State Government for citizens to forgive one another through which it can foster reconciliation and healing from the hurts of the past.
As an annual event, and even though it is under the purview of the Agency for its organization, there are question marks as to what has been happening. It is a known fact that the last edition took place because of support from its partners.
You are right to ask, what would have raised the issue on the Joseph Lengman’s led PPBA, when our attention should be on Mangu attacks. It is understood that the sustenance of peace is not a child’s play; it is only right, the PPBA must be allowed to play the role it was set to achieve: To give victims a sense of belonging. We would expect government to play a leading role in ensuring that resources are allocated for its activities. The Agency has the capacity for that role, even to deliver, considering its ever patriotic staff.
The outgoing Governor of plateau state, and the Chairman of Northern Governor’s Forum, Simon Bako Lalong has come hard on the state security over the continue killings of innocent citizens of Mangu LG of the Central Zone of Plateau State and it’s environs for over a week running now q d .
Urged them to stop parading themselves as trying their best when they have not arrested any of the perpetrators over the incessant killings which has rendered many homeless,widows and widower, further said until the security are able to made arrest, bring the perpetrators of these heinous crime to Justice , their best will be seen as not good enough.
Governor Lalong was speaking during the commissioning of refurbished Nigeria Union Of Journalists (Nuj) Plateau State Council ,18th May 2023 at the Council’s Secretariat Hill Station junction in Jos North LGC.
The Governor thank the citizens of plateau state for their unalloyed support for the APC, administration through out 8 years they held sway in power, and appealed with them to extend the same support to the incoming barrister Mutfwang led administration particularly in the area of peace and security which is very crucial to every development.
“Let me use this opportunity to thank the people of plateau State for giving me their mandate ,and supporting us for close to 8 years . Without their support and cooperation ,we could not have achieved the success we are celebrating today”.
Also extended his commendation to the fourth estate of the realm,the Journalist on the plateau , without the support they give to the administration , with their critical and positive reportage,we could have be able to receive feedback .
Lalong further stressed that is as a result of his administration partnership with the pen profession in the state that informed his reconstruction and upgrading the Nuj, Secretariat which was donated to the Union by the 1st Civilians Governor of the state , Chief Solomon Dashep Lar in 1982.
However urged journalists to continue to discharge their duties with all sense of responsibilities , diligence and patriotism for peace , progress of the Society.
And hope that the Mutfwang government will also carry the people along and avoid divisive tendencies that could destrupt continuity in Governance.
The Governor used the opportunity to correct the insinuations by the opposition Party, PDP, that APC administration in the state did not have any single project throughout their 8 years administration in the state.
He said the unveiling of the projects which focus on education
, security ,and general well-being of the people has demonstrated the need of the people and try our best to meet it according to the available resources .
He further revealed that some of the projects where initiated by our administration while others are those abandoned by the previous administration which we decided to continue with. Its our firm convision that projects started with people’s money will not allow to decay , because of political difference or political ego.
But regretted that within over time,some people decided to politise every thing , including developments and twist the good intentions of our administration to score cheap Political point.
“They claimed that our administration has not done any projects , however ,the invitation of the Press ,and the general public to witness the commissioning of plethora of projects scattered around the three Senatorial Zones of the state ,has vindicated us despite the continue Propaganda against our government.As we bowed out of office,we are not disturbed by those insinuations,the people knows the work we have done and prosperity will judge us kindly.”
Lalong appeal to the people of state to guide the projects jealously for the benefit of general public,not for the government or individual.
The projects Commission by Governor so far includes,Riyom water treatment, general hospital Riyom, legacy water bukuru, modern Press at the Nigeria standard newspaper and host of others.
18th May every year is set aside to mark International Museum day Celebration, and to appraise how far the Sector is fearing both national and internationally.
As the killings in Mangu Plateau central Zone continue on abated, youth under the auspacies of Plateau Youth Council has force the state government Simon Bako Lalong to cancel this year 2023 International Museum Day Celebration.
In plateau state central Nigeria the occasion may not hold because it concided with the killings of innocent citizens of the state which as at the time of filing this report, the dastardly act of the militias continued unabated.
The umbrella body of youth in the state has take it upon themselves to close the gate of the venue earmarked to mark this year celebration at the state old zoo premises.
One of the Youth leader who spoke with this medium on condition of anonymity, said they decided to stop the program because of the government insensibility to the killings of innocent citizens going on qzcin the state.
He further add that what is expected of sensible leader at these time when his people are being massacre, in some parts of the state to console with them is not merriment.
Stressed that next week , the body will stage father of all peaceful protest to draw the attention of international Community to the plans to exterminate the people of plateau state by group of people fighting hard to take over the state from the plateau indigenes.
As at the time of filing this report, the entrance of state Museum is under lock and key as no body is allowed in to carry out any activities related to the celebration.
It would be recalled that for the past three days , Mangu in Plateau Central Zone is under attack by suspected militias ,the attack has leave not fewer than 40 innocent people dead.
One after the other, 58 soldiers selected from various unit of the Nigerian Army (NA) in Jos filed out to collect their prizes from the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH), Major General Abdulsalam Bagudu Ibrahim at Headquarters 3 Division Auditorium Jos. The presentation the GOC said was in recognition of the hard work, dedication to duty and good conduct of the soldiers.
Presenting a cash gifts and brand new bicycles to the soldiers, General Abdulsalami Bagudu noted, the initiative was part of his vision to reward hard work and commitment to duty and also serve as means to motivate other personnel in the Cantonment to be more dedicated to their duty. He revealed that, it was not just hard work that earned the recipients the award but combination of hard works and character. He further maintained that character and attitude speaks volume of human personality.
“Never you think you are not been watched, you must be seen to represent the Army positively anywhere you are” he averred.
General Ibrahim warned that soldiers must not be found wanting, as anybody found to be indisciplined and engaged in misconduct shall definitely face appropriate sanctioned. He urged other soldiers to continue to work hard and aspire for the next award. He also thanked the COAS for leading an exemplary leadership of always rewarding outstanding performance and hard working personal of the NA.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Chief Of Staff Headquarters 3 Division NA, Brigadier General David Kurmi appreciated the GOC/Comd OPSH for making the welfare of troops and their family members a topmost priority in the cantonment.
He urged commanders at all levels to objectively select recipients of such gifts to encourage others to aspire to achieve the feats. Brigadier General Kurmi charged the recipient to maintain the standard of discipline and dedicate more of their energy to serving the country.
The event was anchored by a group photograph with the recipients of the award for the month of April.
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