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By, giwa alex, Jos

Troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) on Operation HAKORIN DAMISA IV during several operations launched from 25 September to 4 October 2023 have arrested 91 criminal suspects in connection with kidnapping of University of Jos Students, attack on Takania Village, farm destruction, armed robbery, drug peddling and  cattle rustling amongst others.

 The notorious kidnappers; Bashiru Musa and Idris Abdulrahman who have been on wanted list of OPSH were arrested at Mista Ali village in Bassa Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State. The suspects during interrogation narrated that they were involved in the kidnapping of 7 students of University of Jos(UNIJOS) in July 2023. Items recovered from the suspects include one AK 47 rifle loaded with 12 rounds of 7.62mm special. 

The gallant troops acting on credible information  also arrested Mr Goma Abubakar and Jibril Abass in connection to the attack on Takania village in Zango Kataf LGA of Kaduna State where six persons were murdered in cold blood. The troops also arrested two notorious armed robbers/kidnappers Nasiru Ahmed and Isah Mamuda at Kok village in Barkin Ladi LGA while Manu Sale and Amir Shaba a notorious robbery syndicates operating along road Barkin Ladi – Mangu in Barkin LGA were also arrested alongside an armed robbery gang leader, Mr Shaibu Abubakar at NTV village in Barkin Ladi LGA. Similar, troops arrested two suspected kidnappers Abdullahi Abubakar and Musa Yakubu a.k.a Yellow at Amper checkpoint in Kanam LGA of Plateau State while trying to collect kidnapp ransome. Items recovered from the suspects include 1 cutlass, knife, 2 mobile phones and local charms.

While on mobile operations,troops at Bokkos LGA arrested two suspected cattle rustlers Abdullahi Ibrahim and Muhammadu Ori at Gwandu village in Bokkos LGA. The troops also foiled a cattle rustling incident at Maiyanga village in Bassa LGA and rescued 145 cows and handed over to the owners. During the operation, troops recovered 3  rifles, 12 rounds of 7.62mm special, 9 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition and 3 axes. Additionally, 57 cows were detained for grazing on farmlands at Rim village in Riyom LGA. Furthermore,troops thwarted an attempt to kidnap one Hon Magai Peter in his residence at Ruku village in Barkin Ladi LGA and another victim at Jeisey village.

 Troops’ superior fire power during encounter with the kidnappers forced them to abandon their mission and flee. Items recovered included 2 Bajaj Boxers  motorcycles. Troops also rescued two kidnapped victims, Miss Silva Hassan and Salvation Obadiah at Zangang Hill, Kaura village in Kaduna State. Also, 7 farmers were rescued at Jipun village, Pushit district of Mangu LGA from suspected militias while harvesting crops in their farms. However, one prime suspect, Ibrahim Isah was arrested in connection with the incident. While at Nimba forest in Riyom LGA, one Bukar Kaigama was rescued from kidnappers by the troops. Troops also intercepted a truck carrying 720 bags of Urea fertilizer with fake clearance documents. 

Four occupants of the truck were arrested and are currently undergoing interrogation. 

In a similar development, troops also arrested a suspected cultist, Mafeng Gwott at Legislative quarters in Jos North LGA and recovered a  pistol loaded with 9mm special ammunition. Troops also rescued a motorcycle snatcher from mobs at Gyero junction in Jos South LGA and handed him over to the Nigeria Police Bukuru Division for further action. OPSH troops equally arrested two herders in connection with willful destruction of  farmland at Gyero general area whilst rescuing  a herder, Sani Mahmuda who was earlier declared missing at Kwonga village in Jos East. Based on a tip off, troops conducted cordon and search operations in a criminal hideout at Zango Urban area of Unguwan Fulani Baya Dutse in Zango Kataf LGA of Kaduna State.Items recovered included one AK-47 rifle, 4 pistols, 4 motorcycles, cache of ammunitions and one AK – 47 magazine .

Within the week, OPSH also secured the conviction of 4 suspects; Kabiru Lawal, Sadiq Mohammed Dahiru, Umar Yusuf and Dauda Elkanah for criminal conspiracy, theft and  receiving of stolen property. Suspects were sentenced to 1 year 6 months imprisonment each with an option of fine. Also, troops arrested a suspect with cannabis sativa at Miango in Bassa LGA of Plateau State. Additionally, 67 persons were arrested in connection to violent activities around Bolari village and 7 locally fabricated rifles were recovered. Troops further recovered 3 mobile phones and other valuables items from suspected bandits at Garin Dogo village who fled with gunshot wounds on contact with troops.

In all, a total of 91 arrests were effected, 7 suspected kidnappers, 6 suspected armed robbers, 2 cattle rustlers arrested while 4 victims were rescued from kidnappers and 5 attacks on vulnerable communities deterred and 2 kidnap attempts thwarted. Troops also responded promptly to a total of 24 distress calls.

The Commander OPSH, Major General AE Abubakar appreciates the good people of Plateau, Bauchi and Southern Kaduna for the cooperation so far enjoyed and urges citizens to continually provide actionable information to troops, as they work tenaciously to protect lives and property. He assured the general public that the arrested suspects would be charged to court immediately investigations were concluded.

By,giwa alex,jos

A Concerned Nigeria has raised an alarm over the attitude of some Train Operators who are bent in short changing Nigeria Government by smuggling passages into the train without being receipted.

The Concerned Nigeria who preferred to remain anonymous in this report lamented that this ugly trend of  train operators is coming at a time the federal and state government are making efforts in ensuring that the rail transportation become alternative option to reduce the skyrocketed fares of other means of transportation in the country.

The anonymous Nigeria raised the alarm through telephone conversation with our correspondence in Jos, plateau state capital 4th October 2023.

Narrating his encounter with the saboteurs he said,”On my way to Lagos from Ibadan , some NRC employees lured us to board the train without tickets. Initially, they acted like they were taking us to the ticket counter only for them to lead us to the Railway without official ticket.”

He narrated further that “they  collected cash on transit,that the incident happened

On 2nd October 2023, my friends and I were going back to Lagos after a weekend getaway in Ibadan”.

We arrived at the Train Station around 03:40pm. While we were walking to the entrance of Obafemi Awolowo Train Station Ibadan, a uniformed NRC official approached us.

He asked if had the tickets and I told him we were on our way to get tickets. He then asked how many we are and I told him that we are five (5).

He told us to follow him. We were confident we could trust him because he was wearing a uniform and identified as a staff.

My friends and I followed him thinking he was leading us to the ticket counter only for us to pass through screening and head towards the Railway.

I immediately told him that we do not have have tickets to board the train but he said I shouldn’t worry that it would be sorted.

He handed me over to another uniformed staff who lead us to Coach 7. I told the lady the same thing that we do not have tickets and she said she was aware and it would be sorted.

I was so uncomfortable and unsettled so I asked two other persons if they had tickets.

I discovered every single person onboard coach 7 had no ticket and were lured in the same way.

At this time, I realized what was happening and became more uncomfortable.

I was about to step out to look for the ticket counter when I saw that it wae 3:55 pm.

While pacing and looking for a staff, I saw new people come into the train and I approached one of them. I asked him if he has a ticket and he said yes. I asked him when he got the ticket and he replied, “Just now”

This ruled out my assumption that we were too late.

I saw the uniformed staff that led us into the train and asked him about the tickets. His response was that we are a group of 5 so if we go to the counter to purchase the tickets we would not be able to sit together.

I was shocked. He couldn’t even make something believable up.

I went back to my seat. I still had my money with me so I would wait and see what happens next.

Few minutes after the train started moving, they started collecting cash from people on Coach 7

I paid N18,000 cash for 5 persons

Over 60 persons paid N3600 each without tickets.

However called on President Ahmed Tinubu led government to do something argently if not

 very soon, the new railway will be grounded and some people will turn around to blame truck owners for being responsible.

He stressed that this non receipted of fare paid by passages only affects the one coach, in few months if this is not checked, greed will set in and the gang will be collecting cash on Five coaches

By, giwa alex, Jos

The Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) and General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army (NA), Major General AE Abubakar today 3 October 2023, met with Fulani and Mangu stakeholders at Headquarters 3 Division, over the missing Ardo Adamu, the Ardo of Panyam in Panyam district of Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State. 

Addressing the stakeholders during the meeting, the Comd OPSH/GOC, said the stakeholders’ engagement was necessary to improve security within OPSH Joint Operation Area. He described the incident as unfortunate and warned the people not to take the law into their hands, while Operation SAFE HAVEN continues to work assiduously to unravel the circumstancesand bring all perpetrators to book. 

General Abubakar disclosed that there must be sincerity of purpose for peace to be achieved. He maintained that criminality should be jointly condemned if a peaceful society is to be established. While underscoring the importance of Operation HAKORIN DAMISA IV, the commander said the ongoing operation has achieved significant successes in Mangu general area and Plateau State at large.

The Comd OPSH/GOC called on leaders at all levels to work closely with security agencies in ridding the communities of criminal elements and external forces bent on wrecking havoc in the State. He reassured the stakeholders that OPSH will continue to be just and fair to everyone as far as maintaining peace on the Plateau was concerned. 

In his remarks, the Special Adviser to Plateau State Governor on Security, Brigadier General DD Shippi (Rtd), said the circle of violence in Mangu general area must stop for the peace process to yield good results. He reiterated that the Government of Plateau State was committed to a peaceful society and as such would consider every comments from the stakeholders helpful as inputs to the government’s agenda of policing the State effectively. 

Key stakeholders who spoke during the meeting agreed that grass-root engagement must be employed to solving the security challenges facing the State. They also agreed that reorientation of the people will help significantly in addressing the challenges, while leaders continue to preach peace to their subjects and in respective localities. 

Some of the dignitaries present at the meeting include; the Chairman Mangu LGA Transition Committee, Honorable Markus Artu, Special Adviser to Plateau State Governor on Security, Brigadier General DD Shippi (Rtd), Member Representing Mangu South in the Plateau State House of Assembly and Chief Whip, Honorable Bala Fwangje and Hon Member Representing Mangu North.Others include the Chairman OPSH 26-Man Peace Committee, Justice Daniel Longji (Rtd), Representative of Mishkagham Mwaghavul, State Chairman Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association, Chairman Mwaghavul Development Association amongst others. 

Highlights of the meeting included comments from Fulani/Mangu stakeholders and group photographs.

Our Reporter

The umbrella association for private employment agencies in Nigeria, the Human Capital Providers Association of Nigeria (HuCaPAN) on Sunday in Lagos felicitated with Nigerians at home and in the diaspora on the occasion of the 63rd independence anniversary.

HuCaPAN in a statement by its President, Dr. Femi Ogunlowo, said there were various challenges facing Nigeria but Nigerians are still hopeful of a better future.

Ogunlowo commended the resilient spirit of Nigerians for keeping the nation together as one despite the challenges noting that Nigeria has the potential to be great.

He said “Every sector of the economy has been affected by various government policies especially, fuel subsidy removal and currency floatation which has affected Nigerians and the economy.

“In the midst of these challenges, our sector, the outsourcing, is contributing to the economy through job creations, upscaling workers and job-seekers capacity and remittances of various forms of taxes.”

Ogunlowo called on the government to partner with the association in its economic recovery plans adding that “member companies of the association have more than 4.5 million workers on their payroll.

“As a responsible association, we have admonished our member-companies to review  conditions of service of their staff including salaries and emoluments so as to cushion the effect of the subsidy removal.

“Happy 63rd independence anniversary Nigerians”, Ogunlowo said. 

Human Capital Providers Association of Nigeria, HuCaPAN, is the umbrella organisation of registered/licenced recruiters in Nigeria, also referred to as private employment agencies, PEAs.

The aims and objectives of the Association, among others, are to develop and promote International Labour Organisation, ILO, Standards and ethical practices in recruitment, deployment and management of outsourced personnel in Nigeria.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Plateau State Governor barrister Caleb Mutfwang has admonished citizens of plateau state to continue having faith on Nigeria irrespective of the current economic, political and other anomaly that is happening in the country.

Assured the people of the state that plateau is practically in the hands of God that it’s brighter future can’t be extinguished the evils ones by no matter how they tried .

Mutfwang give the assurance during the 63rd Independence Anniversary Celebration held at Rwang Pam Township Stadium , Jos 2nd Oct 2023.

Mutfwang said  many things  most had happened to our beloved country Nigeria and still happening, which may not be pleasant to us,but that shouldn’t make us the premonitions to lost hope on the country, because there is hope for Nigeria, because there is light after the dark tunnel.

Assured the citizens of plateau  that the state will raise again no matter how the enemies working against the state tried , they shall fail.

Commended the security agents and para-military who participated on the parade to celebrate the day that had add colour to the, said their actions demonstrate high level of patriotism which is expected from Nigerians at this time.

Appreciated the students who defied the early morning rain to celebrate the occasion.

Stressed that it demonstrated the hope this young children have on Nigeria .

Urged the state citizens  and Nigeria at large,to emulate the Patriotism demonstrated by the schools children who defied the morning rain to participate on the match pass to celebrate the nation 63rd Independence anniversary despite all odds.

Those who graced the occasion include, the Commissioner of police , Representative of Goc 3 Div, Royal Father’s Plateau State Commissioners of various ministries, and other dignitaries.

Our Reporter

DR MARK MAIMAKO, a renowned humanitarian with varying nomenclatures of gesture who has demonstrated capacity for appropriating social, economic and cultural diversities, graced the Humanitarian Edition of The Plateau Social Media Award and was a recipient as 

BEST HUMANITARIAN FOR COMMUNITY SERVICE in the Fifth Edition of the Plateau Social  Media Award held at CLAPAI ORPHANAGE in Jos. 

The cardinal objective of the edition was to redirect the thinking faculty of the young minds in the way and manner they think about atmospheric and environmental pressure, and the methodologies to apply in mitigating the consequential effects on their psychoactive minds. 

Educating them on the need to embrace artificial intelligence was key to changing the narrative of their youthfulness for positive exuberance in their approach to societal engagements in line with global digitalization as a requirement of world-class technocracy.

Dr (Amb) Mark Maimako is an orphan and a philanthropist who has parted with his hard-earned resources for the comfort of others irrespective of age, lineage, tribe, existential cadre and or religious differences.

In appreciation of his recognition for the award as a recipient of Best Humanitarian For Community Service, Amb (Dr) Maimako said with all flashes of humour that he felt so highly dignified and cherished as a winner of the prestigious award. His indepth gratitude was immeasurable and knew no bounds and that he felt the encouragement and the challenge to do better. 

He left no one in any doubt that his choice was one of its kind and that his motivational ingenuity had been put on further pendulum swing for which he would forever remained thankful.

He encouraged the orphans at CLAPAI Orphanage to be strengthened by his story in the fact that what the good LORD had blessed, no situation, natural or environmental can put to test or change. He urged them to keep faith with destiny-divine and to draw inspirational strength in the reality that they would do even better than those who rose on the wings of absolute parental privileges. 

He however,  assured that their future were bright and warned that they would only propel into achieving greatness through self discipline and determination on target-based posture under God.

He prayed God to increase organizers in incremental wisdom of thoughts and in the knowledge identifying potentials in the society for recognition, and sought the grace and protection of God to lead everyone in safety to their respective destinations.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The former Minister  of sport Solomon Dalung has called on Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu led government to demolish the building currently housing the number one citizen of the country president, because it was not built in line with Federal Capital Territory (Fct) Master Plan.

As the indiscriminate demolitions of the houses mostly  that of  the natives who are the original owners of Fct by Mr president appointed minister of Abuja under the pretest of not following the master plans is out of wickedness and inhuman.

The former Minister of Solomon Dalung was speaking in telephone interview with journalists in Jos , plateau state capital on the state of the nation heralding Nigeria 63rd Independence Anniversary Celebration.

He said the state of the Nation under Ahmed Tinubu is lamentable as the people are facing excruciating hunger , kidnapping by bandits and large numbers of terrorist are ravaging North-East, North-West, South-West and the entire Nigeria.

Unknown  gunmen , Fulani herdsmen and whatever names they call themselves are still killing Nigerians right inside their home daily, dislocating them from their ancestral homes, and the government seems to be helpless as the people are forced to be a refugees in their country.

Although the present government of Tinubu inherited it from the immediate past government of  Mohammadu Buhari ,but Tinubu led government has not shown any commitments of the Challenges ahead of him as a president.

Tarok born former Minister of sports from plateau state, who is known for his bluntness when it come to state of the Nation, said the recent gallivanting of Tinubu from one country of the world to another is totally uncalled for ,he has no business traveling around ,he have to stay considering the enormous problems on ground.

Further add that Nigerians are dying occasion from hunger and starvation , berated the president over his last National Broadcast , which appeared to be an empathy the way and manner he presented it,but in the true sense of it,is mockery .

Dalung reiterated the president lacking the knowledge and has failed to demonstrate that he is aware that Nigerians under his administration are d daily due to serious hardship.

He lamented the bogus recent constituted cabinet by the president which he described as uncalled for when the people are under going serious hardship,he is appointing over 40 minister, and uncountable numbers of Senior Assistant (SAs).

” If Tinubu understand the magnitude of the problems of this country,he will not be traveling around the whole world at this critical time of the country,he didn’t have any business traveling far from Nigeria. He is traveling to United Nation (UN) conference that since it formation in 1914 ,it has been “Talk Show” without any meaningful thing has not ever come out of it”.

He questioned the rationale behind the president traveling instead of seating down and tackle the problems of the country head on.

He questioned the reason behind Ministers appointing 30 aide like the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs ,over 35 Aide which is helping to escalate the cost of governance when average Nigeria are dying of hunger and starvation.

He accused the president of deliberately inflicting more pains on the people of Nigeria while his Minister of Federal Capital Territory (Fct) Nyesom Wike is currently on rampage demolishing houses owned by the poor people on the pretest that they didn’t follow Abuja Master Plan why the president fold his hands watching the desperate Minister inflicting more pains on the people already wounded and in pain who are mostly the natives of Abuja.

Added that if the government is talking of violation of  Master Plan of Abuja ,the presidential Villa is not in the plan, the military barrack , and many of the estates scattered all over owned by power brokers in the country did not follow the Abuja Master Plan law but those properties where left untouched because they are owned by those that can not be touch.

Challenge the president  if he is sincere in his actions ,and not witch hunting,he should direct Wike to deploy bulldozer  and demolish the Villa , Military barrack and majority of Estates scattered everywhere because they are not in Abuja Master  plan .

He accused the former governor of River State,Nyesom Wike now Minister of (FCT)of causing common man pains when his children are enjoying abroad as those people have families and they are sacked from their ancestral home which is out of wickedness and inhumanity to man.

However described the current state of Nigeria for the past three months president Tinubu held sway   as president as hopeless , frustrating for the people of Nigeria.

Further adviced the president to seat down and borrow leave from the former president of Tarzanian who inherited the worst economy and decided to concealed all foreign trips and Conferences ,and was able to build schools , hospitals,and host of others .

By, giwa alex, Jos

The Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has send a stern warming to  traders in the state capital who has practically relocated their stores to the street, Tri-Cycle Operators & hitherto banned Motor Cycles, that the closing hours of Tri-Cycle in Jos Bukuru metropolis to obey the law or ready to face the  stiff law of the government.

 As he revealed to the operator of motor cycle that they should remember that the law banning the operation of motor cycles in the state is till enforce.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang revealed this in his speech during the Inter- Denomination service organised to mark 63rd anniversary of Nigeria Independence held at the (COCIN) headquarters in Jos, plateau state capital.

Mutfwang lamented how traders has practically relocated their stores to the streets instead of designated places for market but choose to be selling on the streets hence defacing the state master plans.

He said the government under his watch can not fold his hands and allowed the lawlessness to continue as it is not obtainable in any States of the federation, and our government under my watch will not allow it in the state.

Governor Mutfwang said asides the unacceptable action robbing the government unquantifiable revenues,  defacing the master plans of the State know for it home of peace and tourism ,it is now used by some unquestionable characters to perpetuate crime and criminality within the state and it environs.

The Governor stressed that the government is not unaware that the affected traders are struggling to earn a living , and appealed to them to do it in a decent manner ,and within the confine of the laws governorning the state. 

However adviced them to relocate to market legitimately designated for trading to avoid the wrath of the

 state government , as security agencies have been directed in few days from now to swing into action and clear Jos streets of illegal traders,and any person or persons arrested will be prosecuted in line with street trading law of plateau state.

” I am aware that they are struggling to earn a living, but I advice them to do so in a decent manner without violating the law of the land.”

” We are aware the challenges operations of Tri-Cycle and Motor Cycles Riders are posing in the state and it environs.

We are going to resort to the rules of law.”

” We are going to ensure that the law enforcement agencies in the state appropriately observe the law when carrying out their duties.”

He assured that in the coming days ,the government we reeled out plans not only to sanitize the business of Keke Napep causing security problems in the state.

“We want to appeal to our traders littered all over our streets selling their wares .

We shall be coming out in few days from now to ensure we recover our streets from Illegal trading,and ensure there is sanity in the state.”The Governor maintained.

However called for the cooperation of the citizens of the state ,for their understanding as the government carried out the proposed plans ,as the government cannot do it alone .

However urgued the citizens of the state to continue to pray for his government, for God to give us the Grace and Will to do that which is right.

“As we are going to do that which is right ,we will continue to make sure that we endeavoured to work with the rule of Justice , equity and good conscience.”

Governor Mutfwang urged the people of plateau and by extension Nigerians not to lost hope on Nigeria because there is light after the dark tunnel, they should view what is currently happening in the country as great things ahead.

Called on those in leadership positions that its time to rebuild the Nation Nigeria.

“There are many things that has happened in Nigeria that if it happened in other countries,by now they would cease to exist,but the Continues existence of Nigeria as an Nation is an indication that the hand of God is strongly on the country.”

By, giwa alex, Jos

The Council Chairman of Qua’an-Pan Local Government, Plateau state, Hon Ernest Abner Da’a has felicitated with Nigerians on the occasion of the Nigeria’s 63rd Independence celebration. 

As he acknowledged the economic and political challenges facing the citizens but appealed to them to remain steadfast and optimistic of the future given the array of measures put in place to turnaround the economy for the better.

Honorable Da’a statement is contained in a press statement dated 30th September 2023 signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Affairs, Stephen Sarki Musa, and made available to this medium.

“I urge you to strive to consolidate on the sacrifices of our founding fathers, towards building a new Nigeria; where justice and good governance shall prevail. Let our diversity be our stronghold not a divisive measure.”

“As we appraise ourselves, we should also be able to strategize as to how we intend to harness both human and material resources to better the living conditions of our people.”, the Chairman said.

Hon. Da’a commended the resilience of Nigerians, and expressed the hope that if we get our priorities right, we can lay claim of a closely knitted nation and turn the tide towards a stronger and vibrant nation.

He paid tribute to the founding fathers, who bequeathed the Nation to us and hope that our collective determination would lead to the consolidation on the legacies they left behind.

He commended the efforts of the security and law enforcement agencies, who he said, have been working hard to keep the country safe, and prayed for the repose of those who paid the supreme sacrifice in the defense of the country.

Da’a assured the people of Qua’an-Pan that the challenges faced are temporary and the years ahead shall be fruitful and reaffirmed optimism in the novel  agenda of the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which he added will see the Nation through in the years ahead.

The Council Boss wished the citizens of the Local Government a peaceful and rewarding Independence celebrations and prayed for more years of a united, peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.

By, Our Reporter

Transition of a Colossus of Munga, Catcheist Kiliyobas Kasum on 25th September 2023.

Catcheist Kiliyobas Kasum has been described as an egalitarian personality, a beacon of solid historical template, an elder of respectable calibre, per excellence.

A strong adherence to the word of God blessed with longevity, good sense of judgement and memory, an unrivaled integrity, commitment, dedication, trust and an astute unifier of men and purpose.

This can best described the life and time  of Catcheist Kiliyobas Kasum, born in 1918 to the Musda clan of the Munga people.

There are five groups of the indigenous Munga people based of the demography and settlement. The Catcheist Kiliyobas has lead both in the spiritual and secular fronts as he inspires both the laity and the clergy alike in the ways and ordinances of faith as well as encourage the munga community as well as the hoba people within his sphere of influence towards productive co-existence and communal integration.

A man renown by his prowess and astuteness in farming where in he weilds a remarkable penchant in producing food and cash crop from his own Fadama which is located some 2km from his house in Munga. He is reputedly known to spend most of his times and days within the Fadama as he demonstrates his love and passion for agriculture, nature, and the traditional lifestyle that promotes the art of self-sufficiency, ingenuity, creativity and a purposeful life.

Munga is a village located in the Hong LGA of Adamawa state. The home of the hoba (Kilba people) comprising of several clans which amongst one of the prominent is the Musda clan. 

Kubidaya over some 100 years ago is the patriachial lineage tree of the Musda clan. There a number of prominent sons and daughters of the land who have served the nation in many capacity past and present in the military, in the police, the civil service etc; there are several others who are clergy and have given a good account of their precedence.

Along side the five Munga groups, the “Hausa” community came sojourning later around 1978

Along side Isa Gajere, Isa Munga, and others including Catcheist Kiliyobas Kasum were the community of representatives that received the “Hausa’s” when they requested a place to stay in Munga. Initially they were rejected but upon consideration since land can not be physically taken elsewhere or moved away with according to a thought, they should be allowed and accommodated to stay in the spirit of the Munga people  but not without an injunction to maintain the status quo and not to plant any tree, sell any land possession, property or make any money enterprise with the gesture save for the purpose to live and make a living within Munga. And that was how the Hausa community came to be according to his narration and historical ordeal and account to his homeland which he gives an ascent to.

In his words as one who has seen several generations, in 2020 when the past administration instrumental by the out gone SGF, Barrister Boss Mustapha laid an over 20km road from Hong to Garaha passing through villages like Manza’a Munga and terminating in Garaha, he describes it as, even in the dream, no one has ever dreamt that a village like.

 Munga will have a world class fully asphalt road stretched from Hong the LGA to Garaha passing through Munga; and then the electricity was also a compliment to the prayers and aspiration of our forbears who prayed and wished that their labours some day will come to fruition.

Like the proverbial Simon is this man Catcheist Kiliyobas Kasum who has seen Munga in it’s afore days and privileged to see it in the 21st century as one of the elders who have seen the transition of the old to the new.

A legacy that reverberates and that must be sustained about this quintessential persona is the fact that, the eroding landscape of faith, light, justice, integrity, dedication and hard work; maintaining a tradition of our fathers in all culture, harmony, togetherness, respect, for good human civility and conduct; a social silhouette must be maintained perpetually 

The infrastructural development of roads, light, security, and other social amenities that has come to Munga are a testament that when a people are focussed to the ideals of their tradition and forbears then there will be so much to harness from for the betterment of it’s people and the future.

The colossus transitioned on the 25th of September 2023, at about 1:10pm with an interment few days after that saw the coming together of men and leaders sundry alike from the secular to the spiritual to witness and pay glowing tribute to a man worthy of double honour. Catcheist Kiliyobas Kasum is indeed a father to many, a grand and great grand father, an icon of hope and a new beginnings. 

He is survived by an eternal legacy of faith and an entire barrage of spiritual sons and daughters as well as his biological children, grandchildren and great grand children.

To Catcheist Kiliyobas we say, Adieu! Above above above only!!

By, Our Reporter

Transition of a Colossus of Munga, Catcheist Kiliyobas Kasum on 25th September 2023.

Catcheist Kiliyobas Kasum has been described as an egalitarian personality, a beacon of solid historical template, an elder of respectable calibre, per excellence.

A strong adherence to the word of God blessed with longevity, good sense of judgement and memory, an unrivaled integrity, commitment, dedication, trust and an astute unifier of men and purpose.

This can best described the life and time  of Catcheist Kiliyobas Kasum, born in 1918 to the Musda clan of the Munga people.

There are five groups of the indigenous Munga people based of the demography and settlement. The Catcheist Kiliyobas has lead both in the spiritual and secular fronts as he inspires both the laity and the clergy alike in the ways and ordinances of faith as well as encourage the munga community as well as the hoba people within his sphere of influence towards productive co-existence and communal integration.

A man renown by his prowess and astuteness in farming where in he weilds a remarkable penchant in producing food and cash crop from his own Fadama which is located some 2km from his house in Munga. He is reputedly known to spend most of his times and days within the Fadama as he demonstrates his love and passion for agriculture, nature, and the traditional lifestyle that promotes the art of self-sufficiency, ingenuity, creativity and a purposeful life.

Munga is a village located in the Hong LGA of Adamawa state. The home of the hoba (Kilba people) comprising of several clans which amongst one of the prominent is the Musda clan. 

Kubidaya over some 100 years ago is the patriachial lineage tree of the Musda clan. There a number of prominent sons and daughters of the land who have served the nation in many capacity past and present in the military, in the police, the civil service etc; there are several others who are clergy and have given a good account of their precedence.

Along side the five Munga groups, the “Hausa” community came sojourning later around 1978

Along side Isa Gajere, Isa Munga, and others including Catcheist Kiliyobas Kasum were the community of representatives that received the “Hausa’s” when they requested a place to stay in Munga. Initially they were rejected but upon consideration since land can not be physically taken elsewhere or moved away with according to a thought, they should be allowed and accommodated to stay in the spirit of the Munga people  but not without an injunction to maintain the status quo and not to plant any tree, sell any land possession, property or make any money enterprise with the gesture save for the purpose to live and make a living within Munga. And that was how the Hausa community came to be according to his narration and historical ordeal and account to his homeland which he gives an ascent to.

In his words as one who has seen several generations, in 2020 when the past administration instrumental by the out gone SGF, Barrister Boss Mustapha laid an over 20km road from Hong to Garaha passing through villages like Manza’a Munga and terminating in Garaha, he describes it as, even in the dream, no one has ever dreamt that a village like.

 Munga will have a world class fully asphalt road stretched from Hong the LGA to Garaha passing through Munga; and then the electricity was also a compliment to the prayers and aspiration of our forbears who prayed and wished that their labours some day will come to fruition.

Like the proverbial Simon is this man Catcheist Kiliyobas Kasum who has seen Munga in it’s afore days and privileged to see it in the 21st century as one of the elders who have seen the transition of the old to the new.

A legacy that reverberates and that must be sustained about this quintessential persona is the fact that, the eroding landscape of faith, light, justice, integrity, dedication and hard work; maintaining a tradition of our fathers in all culture, harmony, togetherness, respect, for good human civility and conduct; a social silhouette must be maintained perpetually 

The infrastructural development of roads, light, security, and other social amenities that has come to Munga are a testament that when a people are focussed to the ideals of their tradition and forbears then there will be so much to harness from for the betterment of it’s people and the future.

The colossus transitioned on the 25th of September 2023, at about 1:10pm with an interment few days after that saw the coming together of men and leaders sundry alike from the secular to the spiritual to witness and pay glowing tribute to a man worthy of double honour. Catcheist Kiliyobas Kasum is indeed a father to many, a grand and great grand father, an icon of hope and a new beginnings. 

He is survived by an eternal legacy of faith and an entire barrage of spiritual sons and daughters as well as his biological children, grandchildren and great grand children.

To Catcheist Kiliyobas we say, Adieu! Above above above only!!

By,giwa alex, Jos

3 Division Nigerian Army (NA) has graduated young soldiers trained on Basic Signal Communication Course for effective communication during military operations. The graduation ceremony which took place today 29 September 2023, also witnessed the presentation of gifts to retiring Master Warrant Officers of 53 Signal Brigade at Headquarters 3 Division Auditorium, Maxwell Khobe Cantonment Jos.

Speaking at the event, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division Nigerian Army( NA) and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH), Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar implored the young soldiers to use skills acquired to provide solutions and ensure effective communication of troops for operational successes . He warned the graduates to shun all forms of misconduct or actions capable of bringing the Army into disrepute when deployed to the field.

The GOC who was represented by the Chief of Staff Headquarters 3 Division, Brigadier General MK Sanda, affirmed that the training of the young soldiers was organized to further upscale the efficiency of troops of the division in properly addressing any emerging security threats in the area. 

The training he noted is in tandem with the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) command philosophy which is “To Transform the NA into a Well- trained, Equipped, and Highly Effective Force to fulfill our Constitutional Responsibilities in a Joint Environment”.

He noted that the young soldiers have acquired the best gift the Army will ever give to soldiers in their career progression. He charged them to put the knowledge gained into practice.

While congratulating the retiring Master Warrant Officers for their 35 years of selfless service to the nation, the GOC/Commander OPSH urged them to continue to be good ambassadors of the NA and the nation as they join their communities and families.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Commander 53 Signal Brigade, Brigadier General OAO Ojo noted that the training received by the students would further equip and build their competence and proficiency in handling basic signals operations in the field.

He further commended the graduating students for the discipline and professional conduct displayed throughout the training period.  He also appreciated the retiring MWOs for their meritorious service to the fatherland and wished them God’s favour in their future endeavors.

Delivering the course appraisal, The Chief Instructor, 53 Signal Brigade Major S Bappa said the graduands were trained on Computer fundamentals, English Language, French, Basic electronic, Voice procedure, General service knowledge and the rules and application of social media amongst others.

Highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of certificates to the graduands, gifts to the retiring MWOs and group photographs.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Group under the auspices o Indigenous Southern Kaduna Peace Advocacy has confirmed the killing of Six Persons in Takanai Village of Kaduna State , berated the leader of Atyap community development association Samuel Ache for peddling falsehood against the security Agencies capable of causing disaffection between the hitherto securities and the citizens of the community.

As the group has pass a vote of confidence on the security outfit operating in the area for their efforts in restoring peace in the community hitherto bedeviled by sporadic attack by militias.

The group condemnation is contained in a statement dated 27th September 2023 which was made available to this medium in Jos, plateau state capital.

According to the groups, called out the president of Atyap Community Development Association, Dr Samuel Ache, for allegedly spreading falsehood thus misleading the public on the recent attack in Takanai Village of Zangon Kataf Local Government Area by some criminal elements.

The peace-building organizations which confirmed that six persons were gruesomely killed in the attack, condemned the action of the perpetrators, describing it as senseless, barbaric, and inhuman.

The groups operating under the aegis of the Southern Kaduna Peace Practitioners Network (SOKIPEP) and Conference of Southern Kaduna Peace Ambassadors (CSKPA), respectively, commended security agencies for prompt response to the area following the dastardly act, thus averting deterioration.

While they insisted that security agencies, especially Operation Safe Haven’s immediate response to the area prevented what could have resulted in an unimaginable number of casualties and reprisals, the group tackled Dr. Ache for peddling falsehood thereby misleading the public to cause public hatred against security agencies.

In a joint statement on Thursday, signed by Rev.  Dauda Fadia, National Coordinator of  SOKIPEP, and Dr. Mathew Kure, National Coordinator of CSKPA, the groups while hailing security agencies for leaving up to expectations of the people of Southern Kaduna, particularly passed a vote of confidence on Operation Safe Haven.

The statement read: “We, the undersigned peace practitioners in Southern Kaduna, wish to condemn in the strongest possible terms the senseless killing of six innocent people in Takanai Village of Zango Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State.     

“Also, our attention has been drawn to an unfortunate and misleading press interview credited to the president of  Atyap Community Development Association,  Dr Samuel Ache yesterday 27/09/2023, on Channel Television news over the attack by suspected herdsmen on Takanai 1 and Takanai 2 of Zangon Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State,  which led to the unfortunate death of six persons in cold blood. 

“In the interview, our respected president ought to have known better or made proper consultation with key stakeholders in the community before responding to a press interview. Instead, he went to the press to dance naked in the marketplace by portraying a picture of officers and men of Operation Safe Haven, the military outfit saddled with security in the area, of negligence and misconduct, when in the actual sense the troops were the second savior of our people after God.

“Our investigation revealed that the troops did not only respond to the distress calls within 20 minutes, they also dominated the entire villages, repelled the attacks, and arrested two of the attackers with weapons and life ammunition from the scene. 

“The unfortunate casualties recorded were a result of the gorilla nature of the attacks which is difficult to predict. 

“If not for the prompt actions of the troops of Operation Safe Haven, Takanai 1 and Takanai 2 would have been burnt down completely due to the sophisticated and well-coordinated nature of the attack.

“How then can our community president make such terrible and misleading remarks about the troops who saved our people from massive casualties? “

According to the peace advocacy groups, “it is demoralizing and a sign of ingratitude for the community leader to have made the unfortunate remarks about the security outfit.”

“If not for the prompt actions of the troops, we would have recorded many casualties and properties to the attack.

“We are saddened by the statement coming from the president of Atyap Community Development Association hence the need to correct the misleading information in the public domain so that gullible members of the public won’t fall prey to it,” the statement said.

The groups insisted their assessment as indigenous peace-building organizations proved that security agencies, especially Operation Safe Haven, have performed their duties to the satisfaction of the Southern Kaduna people.

“It is therefore our settled opinion as peace workers on the ground in Southern Kaduna, based on empirical evidence that the troops of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), have performed professionally and gallantly in Southern Kaduna. We, therefore, pass a vote of confidence on the military outfit”, they reiterated in the statement.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The Plateau state House of Assembly  Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Jos, plateau state capital has declared the former majority leader in the plateau State House of Assembly representing Mikang State Constituency Honorable Daniel Naanlong and his counterpart Sunday Mark of Jos North West winner of 18th March 2023 plateau State House of Assembly of their respective Constituencies.

That as at the time the 3rd Respondent PDP nominated the 2nd Respondent Danjuman Azi and  Moses Sule Separately , the party lacked the legal capacity to do so because they are yet to comply with court judgement to Conduct legally recognized Congresses of PDP that is qualified for the nomination of the party’s Candidate to the 1st Respondent INEC.

Further held that all votes in favor of the the 2nd respondents in the said elections ,in the separate Constituencies are wasted votes urged the 1st Repondent INEC to withdraw the certificate issued to the 2nd Respondents and issue certificate to the Petitioners for duly the winner of the election to the separate Constituency.

This was the judgement of Justice Bello Mohammed Tukur led Election Petition Tribunal panel held 29th September 2023.

The judgement further read that, you cannot put something on nothing and expect it to stand , as PDP in the state did not have validly recognize party structure that can qualify it to nominate Candidate by 3rd respondent to 1st respondent INEC for Sponsorship because is yet to comply with court judgement.

The Tribunal however hold that the election that declared the 2nd respondents winner is nor and void and not know in law and thereby dismissed in favor of the Petitioners.

It would be recall that the Petitioners approached the Tribunal separately to Challenge the election of the respondents separately for non qualification to contest the 18th March 2023 State House of Assembly Election.

In their separate interview with Journalists Sunday Mark Petitioner representing Jos North -West Constituency thank his teaming supporters for standing by him when the petition lasted .

Commended the erudite judgement of Justice Bello Mohammed Tukur led panel for his meticulous judgement.

Further revealed that is not unaware that the respondent will appeal the matter , and pray that the judge that will preside over the case at the Appeal Court will have fear of God when they are sitting on the Appeal.

In another interview, Hon. Daniel Naanlong praise the Tribunal which is an indication that we are growing in an election matter because all election matter should be Challenge in court of law.

Said those who have stolen the mandate of APC at the poll are now facing Justice because the Tribunal have given us our mandate that was stolen in a day light.

Described the judgement as reflection that of the wishes of the people of MiKan Constituency that stood in scorching sun to vote for me.

Called on his supporters to pray for the Appeal that is ahead of us, but sure that with the erudite judgement of the Tribunal, sure that thr appeal will not be a problem.

By,giwa alex, Jos

3 Division Nigerian Army (NA) has graduated young soldiers trained on Basic Battle Course, with a call on the graduands to employ skills acquired to swiftly respond and deal with emerging threats to security of lives and properties of the  citizenry. The graduation ceremony held today 28 September 2023  at the 3 Division Auditorium, Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Jos.

The Special Guest of Honour, the  General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division NA and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH),  Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, speaking at the event noted that the scourge of insecurity in the country and the world at large requires consistent training to develop the capacity of troops towards safeguarding the  lives and properties of law- abiding citizens . He added that the training of young soldiers which is battle field specific becomes even more necessary to achieve envisaged battle field results. 

Represented by the Commander 3 Division Garrison, Brigadier General Michael Agi, the GOC  remarked that the NA has prioritized training as a means to equip its personnel with the necessary professional knowledge and skills in line with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy which is to “Transform the NA into a Well Trained, Equipped and Highly Motivated Force Towards Achieving Our Constitutional Responsibilities in a Joint Environment”.

Earlier in his remarks, the Division Training Officer(DTO), Colonel Aminu Aliyu revealed that the training received will further equip the young soldiers to face all forms of security challenges within the Division’s Area of Responsibility. He appreciated the GOC/Commander OPSH for his visionary leadership and strategic guidance especially in developing the curriculum for the training of the young soldiers.

Presenting the course highlight,  the Chief Instructor, 3 Division Training School, Major FA Akingboju said the young soldiers were adequately trained on  Tactics, Drill, Physical combat training as well as weapon handling and Field craft. 

The training curriculum included ethics, regimentation  and warrior ethos all aimed at  better preparing the young soldiers battle ready for the theater of operations.

The ceremony featured presentation of certificates to graduands and group photograph.