The 25th February 2023 will ever remain fresh in the memory of the Governor of Plateau State Simon Bako Lalong,as a day he fall from hitherto political grace to grass which eventually cut short his Senatorial journey ,better put political dynasty.
Governor lalong who suppose to round off his 2rd term as governor of plateau state , like his other counterpart wanted to take refuge as member of the “Red” chamber , senator representing the Southern Zone of the state , crashed out as he was disgracefully disgraced by the Candidate from People Democratic party PDp retired AV Napoleon Bali emerged the winner of the keenly contested Senatorial seat .
According to the comment of some people particularly from his Constituent that the crashing out of Lalong from the political space is expected due largely to his abysmal low performance in the past Seven Years he held sway as governor with little or nothing to show for it
Napoleon Bali of the Peoples Democratic Party Polled 148, 844 to defeat his closest rival Gov. Simon Lalong of the All Progressive Congress Who Polled 91, 674. for the Plateau South Senatorial Seat.
Governor Laong also lost in his local government of Shendam to Napoleon Bali of the Peoples Democratic Party
The Honourable Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige, has commended the umbrella association of private employment agencies in Nigeria, the Human Capital Providers Association of Nigeria, HuCaPAN, for its cooperation in regulating outsourcing in the oil and gas sector.
Ngige made the commendation in his opening address at a Stakeholders Meeting for the Review of Guidelines on Labour Administration: Issues in Contract Staffing/ Outsourcing in the Oil and Gas Sector, held in Lagos.
He said that private employment agencies in the oil and gas industry understood the issues around contract staffing, hence the need to collaborate with HuCaPAN to regulate it. He appreciated HuCaPAN for its cooperation and efforts in addressing the labour issues in the industry.
He stressed that the registration of HuCaPAN as an employer union will help in the implementation of the guideline.
“HuCaPAN has now been registered as a full-fledged employer’s union.
“The compliance will be fully implemented through HuCaPAN.”, Ngige stated.
He explained that the Federal Government through the Ministry of Labour and Employment was extending the frontiers of interaction to Social Partners in the sector to create a more conducive environment for the maintenance of industrial peace and harmony in workplaces. He said that the Ministry in the wake of a plethora of complaints of unfair labour practices, collaborated with relevant stakeholders to develop the Guidelines for the Oil and Gas Sector, which had become a compendium for resolving industrial relations issues in the sector, and a review at this time was necessary as it will signify another milestone in the collective resolve to preserve the good working relations among all actors in the sector which is currently the most important annual lifeline to the National Economy.
He noted that the document to be reviewed was created from a collation of observations and recommendations of the Tripartite Technical Working Group (TTWG), and grey areas identified by stakeholders which were not covered by the 2011 Guidelines concerning issues arising from differences between permanent and fixed contract to permanent employment, unionization, and collective bargaining amongst others that are confronting the oil and gas sector. He added that this review will chart a new course in the sector in line with global best practices for sustained growth and development in the sector.
The Minister urged participants to give the meeting the serious attention it deserved and develop a document that will ultimately bring sanity to the sectors’ industrial relations space for the benefit of the nation.
The Minister of State, Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Barr. Festus Keyamo (SAN), in a welcome address, said that a review of the Guidelines will further assist the Federal Government and International Oil Companies (IOCs) in effectively addressing labour issues arising from contract employments/outsourcing occasioned by diversification of operators by some Oil Companies in Nigeria.
Keyamo maintained that the ministry, regardless of challenges that may be faced, will sustain its momentum in driving this particular process to ensure a peaceful and harmonious working relationship among all the players in the sector is reached.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Ms. Kachollom Daju mni, emphasised the importance of reviewing regulations in the ever-changing world of work to meet global best practices.
She said that it was with this in mind that the Ministry was reviewing the Guidelines on Labour Administration in the oil and gas sector for better efficiency.
She commended stakeholders for all their continued support in this process whilst wishing participants a fruitful deliberation.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC)has raised alarm over the shabby manner the electoral umpire INEC has has failed to Conduct the much awaiting general election held 25th February 2023 .
The union body saddled with the responsibility of fighting for the right and good working condition of its members in the country raised the alarm in a press statement dated the 25th February 2023 ,signed by it President Comrade Joe Ajaero and made available to this medium in Jos.
With the Caption “Is INEC Subverting Nigeria”,
The release which read in part ,we have had recourse to alert Nigerians earlier yesterday of our observations and reports that reached us from across the nation on the shoddy handling by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of their early Election Day activities.
We talked of the dangers it posed to the entire process and its outcomes if nothing was done timely and wondered why that should be so given the huge resources invested in the Commission towards this Election. We called for urgent action by the Commission and key national Stakeholders to ensure that we have free, fair and credible elections.
Unfortunately, the situation rather than getting better got worse as the day went on with heart wrenching reports from across the nation of vile activities of individuals associated with some Parties and utter collusion of INEC officials and Security agencies to compromise the Election and subvert the will of the people.
Using of thugs in Rivers state and in Lagos to mete out violence and intimidate voters in these states run counter to the tenets and practice of Democracy. The case of the now dishonourable member of the federal house of representatives from Rivers state captured on tape calling for the killing of certain people is not only abhorrent but is a recipe for further violence in our Polity.
The threats as captured of Mc Oluomo of the Parks and Gardens in Lagos state warning certain voters to stay away from the Polling centres across the state violates decency and negates the principle of democratic engagement.
The blood lettings, harassment, Ballot box snatching and wilful destruction of election materials especially in these two states even in the presence of members of the Security agencies and INEC officials cannot be interpreted any other way except that of collusion. It calls for urgent investigation and action to reassure the people of their safety as the election runs its course.
The inability of INEC to prevent the recurrence in this election of the ills of past elections speaks volume of its ill-preparedness for this election as can be demonstrated in the late arrivals of critical election materials to the Polling Units and the almost deliberate tampering of the BVAS in many Polling Units including the outright refusal of its operatives to upload results from the BVAS to the INEC Servers in total violation of the Rule of the election and INEC’s own election guidelines.
We are also alarmed of the activities of the Lagos state Resident Election Commissioner (REC) who may never have hidden his inclinations and dispositions to compromise this election in Lagos state before now and who from information received may currently presiding over the cooking of election results contrary to the choice of voters at the various Polling units across the state. If this is true, that may explain why Polling Unit officers were reluctant to transmit the BVAS reports for the Presidential elections to the official INEC Servers.
This is completely unacceptable and we want INEC to ensure that any cooked result from any REC is not only rejected but the offenders be made to face the full weight of the Law.
INEC must understand that not uploading the results to its Server expeditiously as expected creates avoidable crisis of confidence and imperils the entire process. We continue to express our deep concerns over the apparent manipulation of results in Lagos and Rivers states and demand that the real results as captured by the BVAS be uploaded without fail.
We feel embarrassed on the explanation of INEC that materials arrived late in some areas because of the distance between the localities and the storage centres. We know that Polling Units located very close to such centres were also heavily affected by INEC’s tardiness and apparent refusal to make them available as required.
We demand that INEC investigates the activities of one of its officials in the ICT department who may have been responsible for technically jamming the airwaves making it difficult for BVAS results to be transmitted to the Servers. He was a former Commissioner in Lagos State and his name is Femi Odubuyi.
It is important to restate that the beauty of democracy is in its participatory transparency which builds a belief amongst the people thus deepens the trust and confidence of the citizenry in its outcomes. When actions that negate these principles are allowed to fester then, this bond that keeps the people cohering is broken and may lead to social anomie.
A country like ours must deliberately build and cultivate these fine tenets so that all the tears and wears may be repaired encouraging national healing. What we therefore see may be a conscious attempt to undermine our nation and unleash further social crisis on a nation that is already tottering and at the verge of implosions.
The NLC feels compelled to warn INEC and the Security agencies of the dangers of subverting the sovereign will. They are the umpire in this election and must be seen as above board and acting within the ambits of the Law and its Guidelines. The deliberate frustration of the BVAS remains unacceptable and any result outside of what is transmitted or contained in it is not acceptable to Nigerians.
NLC calls on all Nigerian workers and citizens to be at alert to protect our nation from the hands of those who have foisted the current suffering on us and now clearly wants to subvert our collective will as expressed in this election cycle. It is our civic responsibility to protect democracy and indeed our nation.
We call on the Military and the Police to ensure the sanctity of the Ballot and protect the lives of the citizenry who they swore to protect with their arms. This is not only their constitutional duties bot also their moral obligations. We call on them to live up to this challenge and protect the process as enshrined in our statutes.
It is on this note that we call on the President of the Federal Republic, His Excellency Muhammed Buhari to rise to the occasion and call the electoral umpire (INEC) to order. The President ought to seize the redemptive power in this situation and demand that INEC returns to the Rule book for election conduct. It is only by doing this that he will reassure Nigerians of his innocence in this unfolding drama.
A nation at the precipice like ours cannot be stoking fires in its house filled with dry straws. INEC should not be the one that will strike the match. Our worry is that when a peoples will are subverted, they may be forced to take laws into their hands and the stage seem to have been set for such conflagration and all hands should be on deck to avert it. INEC may be doing more harm than SARS to our people if it continues on this present trajectory.
Once again, we warn that only an outcome that is adjudged by the people to be a full expression of their sovereign will can guarantee acceptance and peace. We must therefore in pursuit of these ensure that INEC stops this collusion and subversion across the country to deliver fair, credible and acceptable outcomes for this election.
We warn INEC and others not to allow this election to degenerate into a national security crisis. This is avoidable and it is only by allowing the sovereign will prevail that we can guarantee national peace. The belief that it is going to be business as usual should be discountenanced as the tension since after the casting of votes should be enough signal to anybody planning a heist of the vote. It is crucial that INEC samples the pulse of the people out there before embarking on any action. We will surely not keep quiet!
Nigerian citizens have spoken through their votes yesterday. INEC is a repository of their voices and conscience. It must give it free reign and expression! Suppressing it will amount to subversion! Subverting it poses a serious danger not only to our democracy but to our nation! The next call belongs to INEC and we await its action. It is either it sabotages our people and betrays the nation or it stands with the people! Anything short of announcing the result that reflects the true will of the people subverts the nation and will be resisted by the people.
As 2023 General Election heat up, the Igbo Community resident in Jos North local government of plateau state has thrown their weight behind the labour Party LP, candidates barrister Gyang Zi for Jos North Constituency in the Senate and his counterpart Honourable Daniel Asama for Jos North/ Bassa federal Constituency In the house of Representatives.
This they said that considering the track records of the duo , Gyang Zi and Honourable Asama will not disappoint the Igbo race when they eventually emerged winner as the lawmaker to represent the people at the Green and Red Chamber respectively come 25th February, 2023 election.
The endorsement of Gyang Zi and Honourable Daniel Asama by the Igbo Community resident in Jos North local government of the state was held at the newly renovated hall by the community located at Ejibe House Apata in Jos North local government of the state.
In an exclusive interview with journalists , the Chief of Igbo Community Chief Osas said the community has agreed to come out en- masse during Saturday 25th election to overwhelmingly vote for the two candidates and other candidates from the LP.
Chief Osas further said that the Igbo has also unanimously agreed to back one of their own who is vying for the seat of State House of Assembly which has never happened in the state since the enthronement of democracy in 1999.
He called on the Idi Igbo Community In Jos North in particular and by extension the state in general to cast their Votes for the LP Candidates which is cleared this point in time is the only credible Party , with credible candidates that cannot be disputed.
He however enjoined the Igbo not to take this opportunity which the Igbo Nation had been yearning for, for an Igbo man to become the number one citizen of Nigeria(President) since the country gained her independence in 1960 with kit gloves.
Chief Osas Called on them to come out and actively participate in execising their Civic responsibility by voting for the labour Party from bottom to the top .
In his response, barrister Gyang Zi commended the Igbo Community for their endorsement , and stressed that the endorsement is an undisputed confirmation that God has already elevate him to be at the Senate.
And added that the action of the community has demonstrated a bound of unity between the people of plateau state and the Igbos irrespective of where they are resident in the state and the nation in general.
Barrister Gyang Zi further add that among the candidate from other parties jostling for the same position ,he can say without menacing words that himself from the LP remain the most credible and acceptable.
On his part the candidate vying for Jos North/Bassa federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Honourable Daniel Asama challenged the Igbo that endorsement is just a stepping stone,but they should come out en- masse to overwhelmingly vote for LP from top to bottom.
And Promised they will not let down Igbo Community and other electorates who stood with us to achieved this course despite all odd.
High point of the occasion is prayers for the candidates to come out victorious as they head for the poll come 25th February 2023.
The Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government has asked Nigerians to ignore reports that it plans to shut down telecommunication networks during the presidential election.
The government, through the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), asked consumers to ignore such messages.
In a statement to Naija News on Thursday, Director Public Affairs of the NCC, Reuben Muoka, the commission described reports of plans to shut down the network as fraudulent and misleading information.
It stated that there is no plan to shut down all telecom networks and relevant ICT Units, including online transfer facilities of the banks.
The statement reads: “The Nigerian public, consumers of telecommunications services, and all bank customers are advised to ignore these or similar messages that insinuate deliberate network shutdown or disruption of services in the Nigerian telecom network.
“These malicious and subversive messages originated and are being circulated by fraudsters and unscrupulous elements in the society with the intent to cause chaos and panic among the populace.
“The Commission has received unequivocal assurances from all the service providers to the effect that all the network services are currently in optimal performance, and will not witness any deliberate shutdown or disruptions, especially at this very crucial period of general elections in the country.
“Therefore, all users of telecommunications and banking services utilizing network facilities are assured of continued optimal service delivery before, during, and after the general elections in Nigeria.”
The People Democratic Party PDP, in Plateau State has berated those incubating the campaign of hatred against the the party candidate, barrister Caleb Mutfwang that the court has nullify his candidature as the party Governship Candidate billed to hold 11th March 2023.
This is contained in Statement dated 23rd February 2023 signed by the Directorate of Media and Publicity Atiku-Okowa , Mutfwang-Piyo Campaign Council Pastor Yiljap Abrahim and made available to Journalists in Jos.
The statement which is Captioned,
Public Announcement Of Immense Importance, PDP Is Firmly On The Ballot,read in part.
The Plateau State Gubernatorial Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Barr Caleb Mutfwang wishes to assure all Candidates, members, supporters and admirers of the party that their party – the PDP is firmly on the ballot for Presidential and National Assembly elections coming up on Saturday,25th February. The PDP will also be on the ballot for the gubernatorial and house of assembly elections scheduled for Saturday 11th March 2023.
The statement further read that barr Mutfwang , the party’s Candidates won their tickets fair and square in an open, transparent and credible contest properly supervised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Therefore, there is absolutely no legal or political impediment to the participation of PDP and her candidates in these crucial polls.
And stressed that those peddling otherwise are only being mischievously clever in their own eyes and have no substance whatsoever.
Rather, the rumour peddlers are already in a panic mode having sensed right from the available signs that PDP is very poised for an unstoppable victory over their own preferred candidates.
However urged the party members and supporters to discard the false alarm that PDP will not be on the ballot and the lie that the candidates face having their victory annulled even after winning the election .
Called on the electorates to come out en- masse on Saturday 11th March and cast their vote confidently for the party candidates as Five-over-Five remains our strategic goal.
The Executive Governor of Bauchi State, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed has said, the Nigerian Army deserves commendation and not criticisms from Nigerians for keeping vigilance to secure the country against miscreants, charlatans and criminal elements. He made the declaration today 23 February 2023, while playing host to the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH), Major General Abdulsalami Ibrahim during a courtesy visit to his office at Government House Bauchi.
This assertion is contained in a press statement dated 22rd February 2023, signed by the Army Acting Deputy Director Public Relations 3 Div Lieutenant Colonel lshaku Takwa and made available to Journalists in Jos, Plateau state.
Governor Bala Mohammed noted that the Nigerian Army have gone extra miles to secure the lives of the people.
And stressed that as government, the security of lives and properties remained his top most priority. He further pledged his continuous support to the security agencies whom he described as the pillars upon which democratic structures are built.
While urging the security agencies to ensure peaceful conduct of the forthcoming general elections, Governor Bala Mohammed commended the NA for continuously remaining apolitical and impartial during elections.
Speaking during the courtesy visits to government and traditional rulers of Bauchi and Gombe States, the GOC and Comd OPSH, Major General Abdulsalami Ibrahim said the significance of cooperation and support to the security agencies in the wake of security challenges cannot be overemphasize.
He noted that the NA troops have remained resolute and professional in discharging its roles to contain with the challenges. He thanked the government and people of the area for their support that have always given the security agencies victory over the enemies. He noted the tremendous improvement in decimating the criminal elements.
While addressing the troops, General Abdulsalami warned that the soldiers have no business to do with the elections but to go to their respective pulling units and exercise their franchise. He charged the troops to always remain resolute, dogged and professional in the discharge of their roles.
Also speaking, the Deputy Governor of Gombe state, Dr Manasseh Daniel Jatau commended the NA for the huge sacrifices they are making to keep the country safe and united. He reassured of the support of the government of Gombe state to the security agencies towards routing out criminals out of the state.
The GOC and Commander OPSH, who was on a familiarization visit to troops locations also inspected facilities in 301 Artillery Regiment, General Support Gombe, 33 Artillery Brigade Bauchi and paid courtesy visit to Headquarters Nigerian Army Armoured Corps Bauchi. He also paid courtesy visit to the Emir of Gombe, Alhaji Abubakar Shehu Abubakar as well as the Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji Dr Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu and the Kolmani Integrated Development site.
As the general election for the Federal House of Representatives is a few days from now , group under the auspacies of The Christian Youth in Politics, in Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency, have endorsed the candidature of Hon. Muhammad Adam Alkali, for re-election into the Federal Constituency, comes 25th February, 2023.
The endorsement of Alkali by the Christian Youths in Politics, was made during a press conference, by the group Chairman Mr. Nyam Victor, held Wednesday evening, in Jos.
“We the Plateau Christian Youths in Politics Bassa/Jos North chapter has today…unanimously endorsed the candidature of Hon. Muhammad Adam Alkali…of the PRP for the Bassa/Jos North House of Representatives seat…” they said.
The group further stressed that their reasons for the endorsement was anchored on many projects done by Hon. Alkali across Christian and Muslim areas in the constituency.
They said Hon. Alkali has within three months in the green chamber, raised the vital bill for the creation of Federal College of Education Jengre, the bill seeking for the establishment of Federal University of Mining and Geosciences Jos, as well as the motion seeking for the rehabilitation of dilapidated bridges in Jos and Bassa LGAs.
“He further empowered over two hundred Christian and Muslim women after undergoing series of training on poultry farming and others with twenty thousand Naira each…” they said.
They added that the forgone reasons and others they unanimously endorsed Alkali’s candidature under PRP, while urging concerned constituents to vote for him.
Director General /Chief Executive of Industrial Training Fund (ITF),Sir Joseph Ari (kSM), has urged the Electorates to go all out and exercise their Civic Rights by making sure they come all out and vote for their candidate on Saturday 25th February and March 11th 2023 respectively .
Ari further add that he is very optimistic that the significance of this year 2023 to our democracy is not lost on us and urged all within the voting age bracket, with PVC to go out en- masse and exercise their franchise.
The DG stated this in his address during the closing ceremony of the 2022 ITF Skills yaz Intervention Programmes held on 21th February 2023 at the ITF Headquarters Multipurpose Hall, Jos plateau State.
He stressed that the coming out of all eligible registered voters will make possible emergence of credible Representatives , president and leader to pilot the affairs of the country for the next four years.
And warned them on the danger of not Voting yax by eligible voters during election, and adviced them to Shun any negative electoral process capable of shot changing the process like inducement ,vote buying and selling.
Ari disclosed that in plateau state,not fewer than
285 youths were trained in various skills like Solar Power Installation, Aluminum Fabrication , Tiling and Laying of Interlocking Block,Wig Cap Making and Integrated Farming.
He further state that he believed given the intensity and the very practical nature of training , which was 80 Percent practical and 20 percent theory,that the trainees are equipped with the necessary skills and attitudes for them to strive as employees or as entrepreneurs.
“Our commitment to skills acquisition is premised on the fact that it remains the most viable and sustainable solution to raising unemployment and poverty that have continued to defy the best efforts of Governmental and non governmental approaches . Indeed ,there are countless reasons to worry as Government ,and as institutions vested with the task of equipping Nigerians with the life skills for employability and entrepreneurship .”he maintained.
The DG thank the Governor of plateau state, Simon Bako Lalong for been very instrumental in the successes of the Industrial Training Fund has recorded in implementing its various skills acquisition Programmes over the years in the state.
And further added that as the governor of the state , he have contributed immensely to our training programmes ,as the government under your leadership has often sponsored and procured Start-up packs for additional trainees of our various skills intervention programmes.
The Governor gesture has enable us to impact more Nigeria Youths than we would have done without this strategic collaboration .
The ITF DG thank the supervising Ministers in the Federal Ministry of industry ,Trade and Investment ,Otunba Richard Adeniyi Adebayo ,and his counterpart the minister of State , Ambassador Mariam Yalwaji Katagum who has been tremendous source of inspiration for the implementation of various skills acquisition Programmes which has propelled us to achieved our set targets.
Sir Ari however use the opportunity to appeal to the state Government , Organized Public Sector (OPS), non-Governmental Organization , Politicans and other stakeholders to collaborate with the ITF in our efforts to training Nigerians .
He urged the beneficiaries , who where presented with the start-up pack ,to resolve to utilise the opportunity provided by the training, and consider the start-up pack as ticket to the world and an opportunity to meaningful contributions to the Nigerian economy.
The high point of the Occasion is the presentation of award to Governor Bako Lalong for being the only governor in the country established Peace Building Agency saddled with the responsibility of mediating between warring parties.
The agency that had helped to bring peaceful coexistence between religious, ethnic and other aggrieved group in the state since the assumption of office as governor of the state .
Another awardees of the DG is the Staff of the Fund Mr Williams Nukan for outstanding performance as head of training of the Fund.
In his response , Governor Lalong represented by the Deputy governor Sunny Tyoden ,praised Joe Ari for the award bestowed on his Principal, Governor Lalong as he described it as well deserved considering his efforts of restoring peace in the State since assumption of office in the state as governor stressed that the skills programmes introduced by the Fund has helped in arresting unemployment in the state in particular and Nigeria at large.
And add that the skills acquisition have been use by the state and federal government to reduce unemployment in the country.
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH), Major General Abdulsalami Ibrahim has directed troops to maintain maximum aggressive posture against criminals and enemies of the state. The Commander gave the directive during his maiden operational visits to Sectors and Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) of Operation SAFE HAVEN.
General Ibrahim who assumed the command of OPSH on 20th January 2023, commended the troops for their continued efforts in protecting lives and property of citizens where deployed. He urged them to safeguard Critical National Assets against attacks by armed criminals bent on destabilizing the economic and social life of the country.
The GOC who doubled as Commander OPSH instructed the troops to be combat ready in facing the challenges associated with insecurity and other crimes.
He further charged the troops to remain, committed, disciplined, dedicated and absolutely loyal to constituted authority at all times.
Meeting with traditional leaders, sister security agencies and relevant stakeholders during the operational visits, the commander said everyone must be involved in the security of the country. He pledged his support to other security agencies so as to deepen the existing cooperation between them and the military.
General Ibrahim stressed the need for peaceful coexistence and called for joint efforts in addressing pockets of violence driving communities and tribes apart. He insisted that offenders will not go unpunished while upholding the law and enforcing fundamental rights of citizens.
Various individuals who spoke during the visits, lauded the non-kinetic approach employed by OPSH in winning hearts of the populace in bringing peace to their communities. They applauded troops for reducing the tide of crimes in the general areas, which has resulted to growth within the communities.
The GOC/Comd OPSH was accompanied by the Operation Officer, Intelligence Officer and officers from Headquarters OPSH.
As 2023 general election is less than a week for now,the Chairman of Independent National Electoral Commission INEC, Yakubu has urged the electorates to”Identify Their Polling Unit”.
The message of the INEC boss is contained in a press statement dated Saturday 25th February 2023 , personally signed by him and made available to journalists said, As you are aill aware, the 2023 Presidential and National Assembly elections will hold on Saturday 25th February 2023, followed two weeks later by the Governorship and State Assembly elections on Saturday 11th March 2023.
In our effort to make voting more credible and result management more transparent, the Commission introduced a number of innovations facilitated by technology .
Professor Mahmoud further states that the commission expanded voter access to Polling Units by establishing 56,872 new ones, in order to give Nigerians a more pleasant experience on Election Day.
“As I have said repeatedly, the right to vote can only be exercised where there is a place to vote,arising from the recent mock accreditation exercise nationwide using the Bimodal voter Accreditation System (BVAS), some voters turned up at the wrong polling units.
This happened both in cases where voters have been migrated to other polling units by the Commission and even where they voluntarily chose new voting locations during the last Continuous Voter Registration (CVR).”
“We believe that there could other voters in the same situation. This challenge must be addressed so that it does not happen on Election Day.”
And stressed that in order to ease the process, the Commission is sending bulk phone text messages (SMS) to citizens voting in new poling units.
Similarly, he added that the register of such voters for each State has been sent to the Resident Electoral Commissioners for publicity, particularly through messages in local languages.
“Furthermore, the Commission is offering two unique ways by which all voters can locate and confirm their Polling Units before Election Day. This can be done by sending a normal text message or by simply visiting our website. The detailed
procedure is attached to this message and also uploaded to our website and social on the commission media platforms.
The Commission adviced voters can also send inquiries to our various public outreach plattorms shown in the attached procedure.
Urge all eligible voters to confirm their voting locations ahead of Election Day.
In doing so, you would be contributing to our avowed commitment to deliver credible, inclusive, transparent elections
Professor Mahmood Yakubu
Abuja, Friday 17th February 2023
ccc &inec.gov.ng
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Accredited Journalists and allied staff have the right to cover all election procedures within the respective jurisdictions for which they have been accredited. They are expected to strictly abide by relevant laws, INEC Regulations and Guidelines, Rules and Codes from relevant Regulatory Bodies as well as the ethics of journalism.
JOURNALISTS ARE TO:
a. Display their photo identification Tags issued by Commission at all times.
b. Be at polling unit from the opening of poll on Election day to observe all stages of the polling process – from voter accreditation, through the voting period , to the counting of ballot papers and pasting of results – provided they do not interfere with polling processes or compromise the voters statutory right to secrecy of his/her vote.
c. Move around the polling units as long as their movements do not obstruct the voting process or the work of the poll officials, interview voters, observers or other persons within the polling environment without interfering with the polling process
d. Observe of the deployment of sensitive materials and retrieval of used and unused sensitive materials after the polling processes.
JOURNALISTS ARE NOT ALLOWED TO:
(a) Film or take photographs of any individual within the polling zone without his/her consent.
(b) Film or photograph any voter marking a ballot paper.
(c) Photograph, acquire pictures, film footage or audio commentary that reveals personal details of the voter.
(d) Film, photograph or copy the Register of voters, voters card or any other document(s) as would infringe on the privacy of any voter
(e) Handle any polling material
LINE OF AUTHORITY/OBEDIENCE TO LAWFUL DIRECTIONS:
Accredited Journalists, like everyone else in the polling environment shall be subject to directives and control of the Presiding Officer.
INEC reserves the right to withdraw and revoke at anytime the accreditation of any journalist who defies the directives of any Presiding Officer or Authorized INEC official or who violates the provisions of law, regulation, code or professional codes of journalism practice.
Note:
a. INEC reserves the rights to withhold accreditation for any organisation or journalist whose professional identity could not be verified.
b. There shall be no manual accreditation.
c. Only accredited media representatives will be allowed free movements or access to polling units, collation centers or any INEC office facility.
d. Accreditation tags will stand as pass for both Presidential/Senatorial House or Representatives election of saturday, 25th February, 2023 and Governorship/State Houses of Assembly election of saturday, 11th March 2023
The Governor of Plateau State, Simon Bako Lalong has commended troops of 3 Division Nigerian Army for restoring peace and creating an enabling environment for cultural activities to thrive in the state.
Governor Lalong stated this on Saturday 18th February 2023 during the celebration of year 2022 West African Social Activities (WASA) held at 3 Division Physical Training Ground, Maxwell Khobe Cantonment Jos. The Governor commended the Nigerian Army for promoting and projecting the reach cultural heritage of Nigeria through its annual celebration of WASA which showcases cultural dances and other artistic displays.
He further appreciated all other security agencies, traditional rulers as well as the people of Plateau State for their efforts at ensuring peace, adding that the military could not have done it alone without their support and cooperation.
The Governor who was represented by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Major General Augustine Agundu retired, disclosed that the State will continue to support the military and other security agencies in the state to ensure that the state lives up to its slogan of being the “Home of Peace and Tourism.” He further noted that the Plateau was able to host the Festival of Art and Culture and other cultural activities across the state as a result of the current peace being enjoyed in the state.
He called on all stakeholders to support the military and other security agencies in the fight against all forms of violence and criminalities in state. This he said will accelerate development and encourage the sustenance of cultural activities in plateau state.
Speaking earlier during his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH), Maj Gen Abdulsalami Ibrahim said “ he is pleased with the level of cooperation among security agencies and members of the public in the state.” Adding that peace is very dear to all and urged the people of the state as well as stakeholders to continue to work together for peace and development.
He reiterated his determination to ensure peace in the Division area of responsibility. Maj Gen Ibrahim disclosed that on assumption of command, he visited and had discussions with key stakeholders within Plateau, Bauchi, Taraba Adamawa and part of Southern Kaduna states toward sustaining peace in the states.
He expressed his delight to see personnel of the Nigerian Army, their families and the people of Plateau State in a friendly atmosphere to celebrate and display their unique and rich cultural heritage.
He further added that troops’ welfare and reward of hard work form an integral part of his command. This no doubt was evident as the occasion was used to reward personnel who distinguished themselves in the professional discharge of their duties. While the neatest blocks in Phase One and Phase Two in the Cantonment were also rewarded with cows and cash prizes to further encourage good hygiene in the Cantonment.
He also used the opportunity to appreciate the Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya CFR for his support, motivation, exemplary and transformational leadership to the Nigerian Army which he described as a key factor in the successes so far recorded in the Division’s area of responsibility.
Highlights of the event were cultural performances by various cultural troupes and unique Quarter Guard drill display by soldiers wives (Magajiyas) as well as highly entertaining Tug of War contests which featured personnel of the Federal Fire Service, Nigeria Correctional Service, Federal Road Safety Corps and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps. Other are soldiers wives and National Youth Corps Members. The event also witnessed presentation souvenirs to dignitaries, beating of the retreat and lightning of the Camp Fire.
Dignitaries at the occasion includes heads of security agencies on the Plateau, commanders from other services, Principal Staff Officers as well as Commanders and Commanding Officers of 3 Division and Operational SAFE HAVEN. Others includes heads of government agencies and departments and retired senior officers as well as traditional and community leaders.
Facts have emerged indicating that the Governorship Candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang did not leave office as Chairman of Mangu Local Government Area in July 2015 with 10 months unpaid salary burden, contrary to a wild-goose-chase allegation being peddled by Governor Simon Lalong.
Mutfwang, who was elected into office as Local Government Chairman on February, 25 and sword-in on March 3, 2014, was adjudged by workers as the most worker-friendly Council Chairman who created a conducive working atmosphere for workers to carry out their constitutional responsibilities.
Governor Lalong had told the APC campaign trail in Pankshin that Barr. Mutfwang left office with unpaid salaries of 13 months while in Wase Local Government Area where the party flagged off its campaign. He also alleged that he has documents showing that Mutfwang left office with 10 months unpaid salaries.
But checks at the Local Government Service Commission revealed that in 2015, Local Government workers in Mangu received their January, 2015 salaries on the 29 January; received February salary on the 27 March and received March salary on the 6 June when Barr. Caleb Mutfwang was still serving his tenure, while April and May 2015 salaries were paid on the 16 and 25 July, few days after the tenure of Local Government Chairmen in the state was terminated illegally by Governor Lalong on 6 July, 2015.
It was learned that the Local Government Service Commission was entrusted vigorously with the responsibility of preparing and paying workers salaries during the period under review, and not local government chairmen as alleged by Lalong.
Investigations also revealed that the delay in the prompt payment of salaries at that period was as a result of the biometric screening exercise which was introduced by Plateau State Government to fish out ghost workers, in a move to sanitize the public service.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of NULGE, Mangu Local Government Area between 2010 and 2016, Comrade Bitson Alexander who spoke to our reporter on phone admitted that there was delay in payment of salaries due to biometric screening exercise and described as untrue the rumour making the rounds that Caleb Mutfwang left office with 10 Months unpaid salaries.
He said, “To the best of my memory, I collected my salary in January, 2015 and got that of February in the same Month. It was around March that we started experiencing delay in payment of salaries but the last salary I collected when Mutfwang was in office was March salary which was paid in early June 2015 while that of April and May were paid in July, few days after they were removed from office.
“To my knowledge, the salary that I did not collect was about two months before his tenure was terminated in July and the delay was probably due to the biometric exercise. I want to say that salary issues was handled by Local Government Service Commission through a centralized payment system, therefore the local government chairmen were not responsible for the delay in the payment of salaries.” He stated.
When his counterparts, Comrade Daniel Bitrus from the Medical and Health Union, who served in Mangu between 2015 and 2020, was contacted, he said he can’t remember that Barr. Caleb Mutfwang left 10 months salary arrears as being alleged on social media.
“I know that we used to have issues with payment of salary which is still there up till now. There are occasions that if you want to pay salary for this month, it has to stretch into the following month for about two weeks.
“Therefore, if somebody said Mutfwang left 10 months unpaid salaries, I don’t think he is realistic. I remember that Mutfwang too inherited one month unpaid salary of health workers and it was cleared during his time. He is somebody we know who is sincere and straight forward; we enjoyed harmonious working relationship with him as Chairman.” He stated.
Yet another union leader who served together with Barr. Mutfwang in office was comrade Isaac Dapul, Chairman Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT). He explained that he was elected in 2014 when Caleb Mutfwang was serving as Local Government Chairman and did not encounter any challenge on salary payment.
“Honestly, the issue that Barr. Caleb Mutfwang did not pay salaries for 10 months is not true. When I came in and met Mutfwang on seat, no strike was done and no protest was carried out during his tenure on account of lack of payment of salaries. The delay in salaries payment are things that are inherited from successive governments but it is not true that Mutfwang did not pay teachers or staff salaries for 10 months.” He stated.
It was observed that Local Government staff in Mangu LGA gave Barr. Mutfwang a rousing welcome during PDP town hall engagement with the people, where civil servants in the state were promised better working conditions and prompt payment of salaries.
Mutfwang described Lalong’s eight years in office as years of political turmoil for Plateau citizens with no dividends of democracy to campaign with ahead of the 2023 elections; saying Lalong is still wobbling with no project to his credit except selling deceit and deception.
Their was frightening political twist at the All Progressive Congress (APC), rally held in Shendam on Saturday 18th February 2023 as the Commissioner,Aids, Adviser , APC Excos and Party supporters boycott the rally .
Governor Lalong who was practically not happy over the development, was at the state of confusion not knowing what to do, but rather opted for the church first forgiveness and secondly for Thanksgiving with closed to empty church attendance.
As a result of the ugly development ,which appears very shameful, buses where dispatched out of Shendam town to lure or if possible force people of the community to attend the rally to filled the visibly empty chairs that was waiting to be occupied.
The member Representing Pkk in the House of Representatives , Yusuf Adamu Gagdi who was very angry at the empty rally couldn’t hesitate by rebuking Governor Lalong of not being in charge of his appointees and the APC in the state that gives them the effrontery undermining the authority of the Governor as the first citizen of the state.
You will recall the recent gale of decamping from the APC to other political parties in Plateau State.
The biggest blow was the Shendam LGA APC Chairman, Secretary and Youth Leader who moved from the APC to the Labour Party in Plateau State.
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