The people’s Democratic party PDP,has described the petition filed by the candidate of All Progressive Congress APC, Nentawe Yilwada against the governor elect Caleb Mutfwang on the platform of PDP ,as Sounds and fury that signified nothing.
That the Petition is dead on arrival and should be dismissed and be giving a befitting burial for grossly lacking in merit.
Governor Mutfwang urges came during the adoption of parties in the matter APC and adoption of final written address in plateau state election Petition sitting.
The 1st INEC,2nd Caleb Mutfwang and 3rd PDP represented by Emeka Etiba SAN, respectively urged the court to dismiss the Petitioner’s Petition because it constitute noise making and sound and fury Signifies Nothing ,dead on arrival and should be given befitting burial for grossly lacking in merit.
PDP Counsels copiously cited plethora of authorities to back his matter.The Respondents urgued the court to dismiss the petition with substantial cost.
Adopting his processes, the Petitioner Dr. Nentawe Yilwada urged the tribunal to allow the Petitioners Petition and grant all the reliefs sort.
However,the tribunal has reserved the case for Judgement ,the date to be communicated to the parties.
However, Petition against Mutfwang by NNPP, judgement is ongoing and Mutfwang is heading for victory.
Troops of 3 Division Nigerian Army and Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) have been charged to conduct themselves professionally while discharging their constitutional roles of defending the country in aid to civil authority through the use observance of International Humanitarian and Human Rights Laws.
This was made know today, 9 September 2023, by the Chief of Civil Military Affairs (CCMA), Major General Nasakhare Ugbo, during a sensitization workshop titled “Constitutional Responsibilities of the Nigerian Soldier Through Adherence to Humanitarian and Human Right Laws ” held at Headquarters 3 Division Auditorium, Maxwell Khobe Cantonment Jos.
The CCMA noted the complexities and volatilities of contemporary security challenges in the ever increasingly interconnected world which calls for the need for military personnel to conduct themselves within the ambit of appropriate laws and regulations while avoiding actions which might have negative implications on the lives of innocent citizens and their civil liberty.
He revealed that, as the Nigerian Army continues to engage herself in several operations across the country in collaboration with other security agencies, the need for troops to conduct themselves within the standard of discipline and professionalism cannot be over emphasized.
Major General Ugbo further charged troops to respect the citizens’ rights during operations as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Delivering his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division Nigerian Army & Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH), Major General AE Abubakar noted the need to sustain troops training especially on humanitarian and human right laws to avoid unnecessary litigations. He remarked that, the Nigerian Army placed high premium and interest on the training of personnel in tandem with the aspiration and Command Philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff. “This sensitization workshop is in line with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy, which is a catalyst to the successful conduct of our military operations.” he averred.
The GOC further reiterated that the troops of 3 Division and OPSH remain committed to the achievement of the vision of the COAS in tackling all forms of security challenges in the region within the ambit of the Constitution.
Delivering their lectures on “Understanding the Applicable Rules During Military Operations” and “Constitutional Responsibilities of the Nigerian Army Soldier Through Adherence to Humanitarian and Human Rights Laws”, the guest speakers, Dr Livinus Jatto and Major II Nibras enlightened the troops on International Humanitarian Law (IHRL) and human rights laws during military operations. They noted that the IHRL are specialized rules designed to reduce the effects of Armed conflict particularly on civilians and to limit the level of violence and arbitrariness.
Troops were also educated on the scope of IHRL which are Distinction, Proportionality, Accountability and Necessity for excellent Civil Military cooperation and legal status of a Soldier amongst others.
The event was attended by Principal Staff Officers at Headquarters 3 Division and Operation SAFE HAVEN, Commanders and Commanding Officers as well as soldiers from all the units and formations under 3 Division.
The lnter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), National body is set to investigate the recent judgements of presidential election Petition Tribunal involving president Bola Ahmed Tinubu of All Progressive Congress APC, Atiku Abubarkar of People’s Democratic Party PDP, and Peter Obi of labour Party LP candidates.
IPAC is a body set up by political like mind to monitor and adviced political parties particularly the party in power that seemed to be derailing from track of governance with the view of putting them to the right track of governance.
This was revealed to Journalists in an exclusive interview with the Chairman of IPAC, Plateau State Chapter, honorable Abubarkar Dogara recently in his office in Jos, plateau State.
Honorable Dogara who doubled as the Chairman of Social Democratic party (SDP),in plateau state said the steps taken by IPAC which he is not privy to give details as state chapter, is to unravel the recent appeal court judgement of presidential election of 2023 general election that has set the tongue wagging.
He stressed that the National body of IPAC is currently deliberating on the modalities which will take national body round the (36) State of the federation including federal capital territory Fct ,Abuja.
The IPAC Chairman in plateau state further added that when the planned tours are completed, they will make the investigation of their findings know to the journalists who would make it public to Nigerians.
He lamented the (5) man presidential election Petition panel’s judgement that upheld the election of Bola Ahmed Tinubu as winner of 25th February,2023 presidential election which didn’t expressed the interest of the majority of Nigerians because they where expecting a different judgement that would be acceptable to the generalities of the citizens of Nigerians.
However adviced the Petitioners in the matter , Peter Obi and Atiku Abubarkar to shun an acts capable of plunging the country into Crisis, and explore a democratic way to get Justice since there is still judicial window to appeal the matter up to supreme Court. The steps which the Petitioners according to fillers are already taken to ensure they get Justice.
Further adviced them to abide by the law of the land ,be patient with the final phase of the appeal of supreme Court.
“It is not wise for any person to create chaos or crisis because it will not bring the desired goals.”
Dogara adviced the judiciary to always be mindful of the feeling of the general public, Nigeria to be specific as peace is very important to ensure the judgement they are delivering is in line with the Constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The lnter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), National body is set to investigate the recent judgements of presidential election Petition Tribunal involving president Bola Ahmed Tinubu of All Progressive Congress APC, Atiku Abubarkar of People’s Democratic Party PDP, and Peter Obi of labour Party LP candidates.
IPAC is a body set up by political like mind to monitor and adviced political parties particularly the party in power that seemed to be derailing from track of governance with the view of putting them to the right track of governance.
This was revealed to Journalists in an exclusive interview with the Chairman of IPAC, Plateau State Chapter, honorable Abubarkar Dogara recently in his office in Jos, plateau State.
Honorable Dogara who doubled as the Chairman of Social Democratic party (SDP),in plateau state said the steps taken by IPAC which he is not privy to give details as state chapter, is to unravel the recent appeal court judgement of presidential election of 2023 general election that has set the tongue wagging.
He stressed that the National body of IPAC is currently deliberating on the modalities which will take national body round the (36) State of the federation including federal capital territory Fct ,Abuja.
The IPAC Chairman in plateau state further added that when the planned tours are completed, they will make the investigation of their findings know to the journalists who would make it public to Nigerians.
He lamented the (5) man presidential election Petition panel’s judgement that upheld the election of Bola Ahmed Tinubu as winner of 25th February,2023 presidential election which didn’t expressed the interest of the majority of Nigerians because they where expecting a different judgement that would be acceptable to the generalities of the citizens of Nigerians.
However adviced the Petitioners in the matter , Peter Obi and Atiku Abubarkar to shun an acts capable of plunging the country into Crisis, and explore a democratic way to get Justice since there is still judicial window to appeal the matter up to supreme Court. The steps which the Petitioners according to fillers are already taken to ensure they get Justice.
Further adviced them to abide by the law of the land ,be patient with the final phase of the appeal of supreme Court.
“It is not wise for any person to create chaos or crisis because it will not bring the desired goals.”
Dogara adviced the judiciary to always be mindful of the feeling of the general public, Nigeria to be specific as peace is very important to ensure the judgement they are delivering is in line with the Constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The Election Petition tribunal sitting in Jos , plateau State capital has dismissed the petition brought before it by the immediate past member of plateau state house of Assembly Representing Jos North-North in the state house of Assembly for lacking in merit and inability for the Petitioner to prove the case of forgery against Mohammed Adamu Alkali.
Hon.Baba Hassan of the All Progressive Congress APC in plateau state, is challenging the candidate of PRP in 2023 Jos North/ Bassa federal Constituency Mohammed Adamu on the ground that as at the time he contested for the election, he was not qualified because the primary school certificate he presented to INEC was forged.
In the tribunal’s judgement delivered on 31st August 2023, the three man election tribunal panel headed by Justice William Rotimi said the issue of forgery allegation is a serious crime that must be proven beyond reasonable doubt by the Petitioners.
Maintained that he who most allege, most prove stressed that in this case, the Petitioners Hon. Baba Hassan of All Progressive Congress APC practically abandoned his Petition at the mercy of the court.
The tribunal further said as against these background ,the panel will be left with no option than to dismiss the Petition of the Petitioner Baba Hassan for lacking in merit and inability for the Petitioner to prove the case of forgery against Mohammed Adamu Alkali.
And therefor dismissed the petition of honorable Baba Hassan against Mohammed Adamu boarding on alleged forgery of primary school certificate.
In an exclusive interview view with the Chairman of PRP in the state,Rabiu Lawal ,the party which produced Honorable Mohammed Adamu as candidate, the Chairman of the party in the state
vowed that the party PRP will stop at nothing till institute legal action against the Petitioner Baba Hassan for deformation of character .
The Chairman who is very happy over the judgement ,said forgery is a very serious offence in law, and the Petitioner could not prove the petition of forgery allegation against our candidate.
They didn’t have evidence to prove their case , that is the reason the tribunal dismissed the petition for lacking in merit , both the one filed by Baba Hassan ,and that of Hon. Daniel Asama of labour Party LP.
He used the opportunity to call on the Constituent in the state that the issue of defamation of character is a very serious crime that you can’t joke with.
And vowed that the party will institute legal action against the Petitioners with the view of claiming damages.
This will serve as a lesson to those who stock in trade, in character assassination for their selfish interest.
Ibrahim Mohammed aka Abu Malik , legislative Aid to Dr honorable Adamu Alkali of PRP in the 9th Assembly who doubled as his spokesperson, expressed his happiness over the judgement of the tribunal.
The judgement is not only for our principal, but to the good and peace loving people of Jos North/Bassa federal Constituency .
” When you open the Social media ,you will see how people are congratulating my principal “.
The Petitioners where not able to establish their case of forgery against my principal which is not just judgement delivered by one panel , but three Man Panel.
” All the judges concur to the judgement that the Petitioners failed woefully to prove their Petition beyond reasonable doubt that my principal forged his primary school certificate.”
This is a pointer to the fact that my principal didn’t not, and will not forge Certificate , more so primary school certificate just to contest election.
Malik reeled out the achievements of Mohammed Adamu Alkali who hold National Honor (OON) for the past 10 years,I see no reason while he should forge primary School Certificate just to contest election.
The legislative Aid to the former lawmaker said God has bless his principal ,and has acquired what needed to get through the Grace of God,he is rich living a healthy live , question what he is going to forge certificate for.
“What honorable Mohammed Adamu Alkali is currently doing is to help the less privilege , and this judgement today is a sign of relief for the whole world to know how the Petitioners were being referred to by the tribunal as an interloper , busy body who did not mean well for the Constituency.
However called on the people of the Constituency to wake up from their sleep and work for the progress of the Constituency irrespective of tribal , religious and ethnic differences.
Adviced politicians to work towards allowing the welfare of the people be the top most priorities in their mind.
He further add that his principal is in politics to touch lives of the citizens particularly those within his Constituency, which informed the on going projects going on in town like road construction, rehabilitation, general maintenance, installations of street lights and above all provision of transformer .
He said as for the party threatening to sue the Petitioners buj for character assassination, I think our principal will not stop the party from doing what they know is right for them as party , provided it’s within the ambit of the law.
But however stressed that his principal is a kind hearted man who may not subscribe to the steps being proposed by the party to sue for damages.
But however adviced that his principal should allow the length of the law to take his it course for some people to be thought a lesson.
And revealed that the principal is not over with the election case as they will test it at the court of Appeal against Musa Agah.
For Pentecostals resident in the Plateau State capital, Jos, the inauguration of the new officials of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) chapter at the Living Faith Church on Richard Road on August 27, 2023 should elicit some concerns.
Being one of the biggest auditoriums available in the city, it lived up to its billing by accommodating as many as those who were guests at the history making event of the Fellowship.
The lyrics of ‘To God be the glory’, great things he has done by Fanny Crosby first published in 1875 echoed all through the inauguration service. Later as the event progressed, members got to know more of why they had to sing the song.
The efforts in mobilization certainly paid off. Buoyed by the successes the out-gone officials had built in the last eight years, the Bishop Dele Olokotun-led Planning Committee put in all that was needed to bring all that matter in the Fellowship from the national headquarters; north central zone; state and local government areas of Plateau.
As colourful as it was planned to be, top on the list of guests was Mrs. Josephine Piyo, Plateau State Deputy Governor, who represented Governor Caleb M. Mutfwang; PFN National President; Bishop Francis Wale Oke; Prophet Isa El-Buba; National Vice President North Central; Rev Dr Akinnola Damilere National Administrative Secretary, Apostle Chris Bature, chairmen and representatives from states that made up the North Central Zone, Rev Fr Polycarp Lubo, state CAN chairman, who Bishop Wale prefers to call PenteCatholic chairman and Rev Dr NC Thompson, patron of PFN Plateau State.
Other leaders of the Fellowship who registered their presence included: Immediate Benue State chairman of PFN, Bishop Joseph Orinya, Archbishop Kurudu, Benue, Rev Promise Yohanna, Bauchi, Apostle Patrick Ifechukwu, Nasarawa and Rev Dr Femi Adetunji among others.
On account of what organizers wanted to achieve, more than just bringing guests from all fronts; they hardly forgot the labours of their past chairmen. Not all may have made it to the event; the fact that Rev Dr Kenneth Ononeze, Rev Dr Wilson Ezeofor, Rev Dr Sam Alaha, Rev Davou Chuwang were on hand was a signpost that all was well in the house.
It was a way of saying, the labours of PFN’s leaders since 1989 cannot be in vain. No wonder, they were asked to come forward to be appreciated the more, while the out-gone chairman read his speech. Equally appreciated for service rendered which has kept the Fellowship united are members of the Advisory Council as well as zonal vice chairmen and chairmen of the local government areas and members.
If you were Rev Dr Steven Dangana, Senior Pastor, Citadel of Peace Assembly, Jos; the out-gone chairman of the chapter, the joy written all over him, was indeed palpable. For the first time, the National President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Bishop Francis Wale Oke was guest speaker at an inauguration in Jos. That underscored the importance attached to the event, but more importantly how Plateau State chapter is considered in the Fellowship nationally.
At the heart of good leadership is the sacrifice to involve all by making sure they all played their parts in building the Fellowship in the state. No wonder, each time he called on members for financial support, they ‘responded with great joy like th e Corinthian Church, whose generosity compelled them to give out of their deep poverty for the work of the Lord’.
For the eight years during Dangana’s reign from 2015 until it happily ended Sunday, August 27, 2023, the basis for the success of the team was in the unity that pervaded the Fellowship membership and other churches through the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). The journey of the Fellowship found an encompassing and workable theme to drive its mission, by building and strengthening the structures from the ward level to the state.
To underscore the unity and togetherness of the Fellowship, one programme after another was churned out; starting with buying a property in Munchongopyeng; 35th Year Anniversary Celebration, where a number of fathers of the faith were honoured; the State Thanksgiving Service that brought the then Nigeria’s number two citizen, Prof Yemi Osibanjo; the State Recognition Award and Fund Raising Dinner; and humanitarian interventions in Bassa and Jos North.
The choice of the guest speaker, Bishop Francis Wale Oke was not lost. Being the fiery preacher that he has remained over four decades, the message was the word needed for the season. For him, champions are unstoppable; therefore, the time has come for a North-South Partnership where Christians in the south would be of help to their counterparts in the north in the spread of the gospel and other areas that would enhance the Great Commission work.
To bring this to fruition, a land that will serve as a citadel of prayer has been acquired to serve as the Fellowship’s headquarters. For the purpose of raising a prayer altar, and to get things running, Rev Dr Steven Dangana’s first national assignment, which was announced by Bishop Oke is to coordinate the partnership between Christians in the North and South.
The National Leader of the Fellowship paid tribute to the foundation laid by the Dangana-led executive committee. He affirmed that Dangana carried every leader in the course of his tenure; and that was evident by the presence of past leaders at the inauguration. That is the mark of distinction of a man who remained in front with a vision for the Fellowship.
Perhaps one of the happiest leaders during the inauguration was Apostle Isa El-Buba. There are many reasons; but having received a clean bill of health for stabilizing the zone to become one of the most admired from Bishop Francis Wale Oke was enough for El-Buba to walk and speak with a broad shoulders.
El-Buba praised the efforts of the out gone leaders represented by Rev Dr Steven Dangana, who, together with his team built and worked on what was positive for the chapter.
The handover after inauguration by him of the Rev Dunka Samuel Joseph Dechi Gomwalk-led executive to Bishop Francis Wale Oke was emotional by every stretch of the action on the podium. His wife, Pastor Elisabeth Dunka Gomwalk is women coordinator of the Fellowship.
They were given an elaborate charge: Hit the ground running following the roadmap and vision set at the national level. The tasks are enormous, yet they are able to be surmounted because ‘God will fulfill his divine will and purpose for PFN’.
Apostle El-Buba, speaking matter of fact, told guests Rev Dunka Gomwalk ‘represents a generation. His father laid the solid foundation of the defunct Benue-Plateau State. He represents in many respect, a movement in the spirit realm; that a new face shall come upon the earth’.
At this point, from where yours sincerely sat, Rev Dunka Gomwalk’s handkerchief must have become wet from drying the tears that dropped from his eyes. Who wouldn’t, after just being reminded of the pioneering efforts of his late father, Commissioner of Police, Joseph Dechi Gomwalk whom he knew for only eight years and the work he has been entrusted with by the Fellowship?
The late JD Gomwalk without a second thought was the path finder of the aspirations of the people of the Middle Belt. He paid the supreme prize for efforts directed towards lifting the people of the zone from emasculation and domination in 1976. He has since remained a reference point by the people he once superintended, and indeed governments that came after his.
For Rev Dunka Gomwalk, he has his work well cut out. He served in the last executive committee as state General Secretary; and would therefore wish to make a mark as they have been fired to do more. After receiving the blessings of a father with his team, he spoke to the guests as a leader should.
The Fellowship had prayed for Rev Gomwalk and his team. His church, Covenant Word Christian Centre International members were resplendent in the colour they chose to come and celebrate their spiritual father.
Rev Dunka Gomwalk told the Fellowship and guests that an honour had been bestowed upon him; as such he would build on the foundation that has been laid by past leaders. He therefore solicited for support from member churches of the Fellowship.
He promised, God helping his team, to unite the church while working closely with the Christian Association of Nigeria on the Plateau as well as drawing inspiration from the zonal and national leaderships of the Fellowship.
Six days after the inauguration, his sons and daughters at the Covenant Word Christian Centre International (CWCCI), which he started in March 2004 and he is Senior Pastor, were not done with the celebration. Hence, on September 1, 2023, the church held a befitting reception in his honour in the church auditorium. They showed that a prophet is with honour with his people.
The organizers made sure that almost all the leaders of the Fellowship that witnessed the inauguration came around to honour the new leader and servant of God. They came in large numbers, his family, even as his church members swarm around wearing grateful faces of the honour done them.
Speaking at the reception, a man known for shooting from the hip without missing and Anglican Bishop of Jos, Rt Rev Dr Benjamin Argak Kwashi said the gospel is in the family’s blood; having received it from their grandparents.
As a result, Kwashi prayed that Dunka will live and teach the gospel in season and out of it, even as the gates of hell shall not prevail against his work until Jesus returns.
Rev Kwashi praised the efforts of the past chairman, Rev Dr Steven Dandana, who, according to him has used his capacity to know people and relate well with them; in his quest to show the light of the gospel.
At the reception, an elated out gone chairman PFN Chairman, Rev Steven Dangana noted that the task of leadership is not in completing the tenure, but in finding the right successor. In this context that PFN has succeeded in the transition to have a new leader; and thus successfully retiring him; thus giving him the peace he thought should.
While praying that Rev Dunka would perform ten times better than what the old exco did in eight years, Dangana prays that ‘he will do spiritually what his father was not permitted to do physically, even as Prof Nenfort Gomwalk insisted that people did not understand that CP Joseph Dechi Gomwalk was way ahead of his time; a clear 47 years after he was dispatched from the face of the earth in circumstances that have continued to haunt those who carried out the act in 1976.
Nenfort Gomwalk, a Professor of Microbiology and former Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos; which Dunka’s father helped found noted that it was a thing of joy that God does not make a mistake as he usually picks certain families to carry out responsibilities in serving the people.
A new phase and chapter have been opened for the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Plateau State chapter. It is hoped that the prayers of members and the team’s commitment would drive its activities in the next four years.
The Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC), plateau state chapter,said contrary to insinuations from some quarters that the celebration of Governor Caleb Mutfwang Hundred Days in office is a jamboree and wast of already scared resources and time because there is nothing on ground for him to celebrate .
The Chairman of IPAC, in the state,Hon. Abubarkar Dogara frowned at the insinuations , said governor Mutfwang has a plethora of achievements to celebrate in his Hundred Days in as governor of the state in office that are visible for the eyes to see.
Honorable Dogara was speaking in an interview with journalists in his office along Muritala Mohammed way in jos, Plateau state capital 8th September 2023 regarding the governor’s 100 days in office.
Dogara who doubled as the Chairman of Social Democratic party (SDP) in plateau state, said Mutfwang was greeted with crisis, immediately he assumed office as Governor which affected most of the local government in the state .
“So many local government in the state where engulfed with crisis , Governor Mutfwang was able to handled it, and that along is something to celebrate .”
Secondly, the Chairman of (SDP) added, since the return of democracy in 1999,the promotion of local government worker who were due for promotion to the next levels of their professions were suspended starting from the last administrations for many years.
On assumption of Office as governor, within the space of Hundred days in office ,he lifted ban on promotions of local government workers which saw not fewer than Two (2000) LG worker promoted to the next level which has helped in boosting their economic status, he said that is worthy of celebration.
Thirdly the IPAC Chairman said the governor on assumption office as governor of the state, recognized the important of the Youths in Nation building. As against these back drop,he has been able to involve a significant number of the Youths in his appointment , which the Chairman said it was rear in the state since the coming of democracy in 1999 in Nigeria.
He further add that the governor Caleb Mutfwang led government unlike the previous administrations in the state, trying to run an open door kind of government with transparency and accountability unlike in the time past.
Said that not withstanding , IPAC will continue to monitor the activities of government and other oppositions in the state to ensure they keep to their manifestos to the people of plateau, by extension Nigeria.
This is important to keep the government on her toes because the governor made promises to people of the state during his lnauguration,the IPAC is going to follow him to ensure most of the promises are kept. To avoid Short changing the electorates that voted him and the people of plateau as a whole.
On the current hardship that is blowing across state,he said it not limited to plateau alone,but a global issues, further stressed for those in the state in the past 10 years or so, will know that the people of the state are going through serious hardship.
Added that the blame shouldn’t be on governor Mutfwang administration because this is policies hastily introduce by the present administration Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the removal of fuel Subsidy.
He adviced the governor to extend his tentacles to the major economic stakeholders in the state, those in the system of governance to teach him the intricacies on how to solve these whole economic crisis ,to revamped the economic of plateau state in particularly.
On the issue of palliatives given to 36 state and federal capital territory by the federal government , adviced him to make judicious use of the steps .
Called on Mutfwang led administration to follow the footsteps of Niger state government to ensure the distribution of the palliatives get to the grass root where those truly called the poorest of the poor resides.
Call on the State Governor to give PASIEC , body responsible for the Conduct of Election at the local government level to commence preparation for the Conduct of the Councils election in the state.
” Make an open door policy where all the political parties in the state will be a participant in the election.”
” And avoid outrageous price capable of scaring away any prospective contestant,warned that IPAC will no longer watch a situation where only one political party will sweep all the positions contested,as IPAC will no longer fold her arms the system which is not healthy to our democracy.”
Is not yet Uhuru for APC and it presidential candidate Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the outcome of the election Petition challenging the election that the tribunal affirmed his election conducted 25th February,2023.
The duo said though they have a firm confident on the nation judiciary, but the judgement delivered on the 6th September 2023 which affirmed Bola Ahmed Tinubu the winner of the presidential election conducted 25th Feb,run short of the people’s expectations.
Addressing a world press conference separately on 7th September 2023 in Abuja, the former vice president of Nigeria one of the Petitioners and candidate of PDP said,
Gentlemen of the Press
I am here today to give my official reaction to the judgment delivered yesterday by the Presidential Election Petition Court on the 2023 presidential election.
As you already know, I approached the court following the declaration by INEC that the APC and its candidate are the winners of the February 25, Presidential Election.
My decision to go to court is anchored in my belief that the court is the sanctuary of justice. The journey of my political career, as you know, holds so much to the courage and fearless decisions of our judiciary.
Indeed, I am no stranger to legal battles, and I can say that I have a fair idea of how the court system works. All through my career as a politician, I have been a fighter, and I must say that I have found the judiciary as a worthy pillar to rest on in the pursuit of justice.
The last presidential election in our country and the way it was managed by the electoral umpire, the Independent National Electoral Commission, leaves behind unenviable precedents, which I believe the courts have a duty to redress. Our gains in ensuring transparent elections through the deployment of technology was heavily compromised by INEC in the way it managed the last presidential election, and I am afraid that the judgement of the court as rendered by the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal yesterday, failed to restore confidence in our dreams of free and fair elections devoid of human manipulations.
Like I did say at the beginning of this legal battle when I instructed my lawyers to file my petition challenging the outcome of the presidential election, my ultimate goal in this pursuit is to ensure that democracy is further strengthened through the principles and processes of fair hearing.
Gentlemen of the press, I take great pains to tell you that the decision of the court of first instance on this matter utterly falls far short of that expectation. I am therefore here to tell you that, though the judgment of the court yesterday is respected, it is a judgment that I refuse to accept. I refuse to accept the judgment because I believe that it is bereft of substantial justice. However, the disappointment in the verdict of the court can never destroy my confidence in the judiciary.
Consequently, I have asked my lawyers to activate my constitutionally guaranteed rights of appeal to the higher court, which, in the instance, is the Supreme Court. It is my conviction that the electoral process in Nigeria should be devoid of untidy manipulations and that the outcome of every election should be a perfect reflection of the wishes of the electorate. I believe that such is the only way through which our democracy can have a manifest expression of its true meaning. Whether I prevail in this quest or not, the record of my effort in ensuring an order of credible elections in Nigeria shall remain for the future generations to evaluate.
On this note, I urge all my supporters to remain steadfast. I urge them to take solace in an immortal lesson I learned from my leader and mentor, the late Shehu Yar’Adua, that losing a battle is less important than losing the war. We might have lost a battle yesterday, but the war is well ahead of us. And I believe that with our hopes in God, we shall win the war of restoring confidence in our electoral system.
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen of the Press, I thank you for your attention.
The candidate for the labour party, Peter Obi also indicated his intentions to go and Challenge the judgement at the supreme Court.
The Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Jos, plateau state capital has reserved judgement for the petition brought before it by the immediate past Governor of plateau state ,Simon Bako Lalong and that of his counterpart Kanje Bawa (SAN),for judgement that will be communicated to parties by the tribunal.
The tribunal revealed this today 6th September 2023 during the Petitioners separately adopted their final written addresses at the election tribunal sitting in plateau state.
Simon Bako Lalong who is the former governor of the state , currently the Minister of Labour and Productivity, Contested for Senatorial seat for plateau southern Senatorial district on the platform of APC and lost to AVM Napoleon Bali of the PDP.
Lalong not satisfied with the out come of the election headed for the Election Tribunal to Challenge the return of AVM Napoleon Bali as duly elected member for the southern Senatorial district of plateau state.
His Petition is predicated on two grounds which includes that PDP the 3rd Respondent lack the structure to nominate the 2nd Respondent AVM Napoleon Bail to be sponsored by 1st Respondent INEC for election because as at the time the 3rd respondent nominated the 2nd Respondent ,the party lacked valid structure to do so because the party didn’t conduct Congress which is against electioral Act.
The second ground which Lalong Petition is predicated upon is that 2nd Respondent is not validly nominated by the lawful votes cast as the election was grossly short of electioral Act guarding the conduct of election.
As the election was characterized by malpractice,over voting , mutilation of election results and in many polling Units the recommended Bio Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) useage was not complied with.
Similarly,lbrahim Bawa SAN, of PDP, is challenging the election which declared the former Deputy Speaker of the house of Representatives in the 9th Assembly Rt.Hon.Idris Ahmed Maje of APC winner of house of Representatives to represent the good people of Kanam federal Constituency.
Kanje Bawa who is the Petitioner is challenging Ahmed Maje over the election of Kanam federal Constituency as the 2nd Respondent didn’t not scored the numbers of votes cast, that the election which bring the 2rd Respondent Ahmed Idris is fraudulent and the election is characterized by elections malpractice.
Adopting their final written addresses separately, the Respondents urgued the tribunal to dismiss the Petitions of the Petitioners for lacking in merit as the petitioners failed to prove that the repondent PDP is not having structure in the state to nominated the 2nd Respondent to be sponsored by the 1st Respondent.
The Respondents also want the court to dismiss the Petition because the issue of lack of structure which the Petitioners are holding on to, had long be settled by supreme Court Judgement that the issue of sponsorship and structure is an internal affairs of a party.
And further ruled that any attempted attempt by any body order than Party member to intervene, amount to meddlesome interloper, better put, busy body.
The Respondents urgued the court to dismiss the petition separately as the Petitioners failed to prove beyond reasonable doubt the grounds upon which their Petitions were predicated.
After arguments and counter arguments by both parties, (Petitioners and respondents),to convince the tribunal to see merit on their Petitions and arguments on the side of Respondents,the tribunal reserved the matter for judgement on a date to be communicated to parties.
The People Democratic Party (PDP),in plateau State has lauded the Gida , Gida governor Caleb Mutfwang for his achievements within his Hundred (100) days in office as the governor despite the teething Challenges.
Hon. Padur debunked the insinuations in some quarters that the governor has little or nothing to show as a mark of celebration for his Hundred (100) days in office as the governor of the Plateau.
The ruling Party Youth Leader in the state was speaking to Journalists in an exclusive interview at the premises of Plateau State High Court, venue of the sitting of Election Petition Tribunal on the 6th September 2023.
He said that as far as PDP is concerned on the Plateau, and by extension Nigeria as a whole, the party is performing Party, governor Mutfwang as he is know, is a man of principles , and man of his words.
He further said what the governor has done within the shortest period he assumed office as governor of the state is amazing, which some Doubting Thomas will not agree until they are unveil by the governor.
He said the performance of the governor Mutfwang will no doubt earn him second tenure as governor of plateau not just the hundred days in office we are talking about now.
“The governor is a silent achiever who have being working under ground without the knowledge of anybody, he had been bringing investors into the state for investment negotiation, added that as it’s now, some investors are presently in the state on the instance of governor Caleb Mutfwang.
The governor is trying everything possible to see that he deliver the dividends of democracy to the door steps of every plateau citizens.
“What Mutfwang is doing under ground for the benefits of average citizens of plateau will shock you he maintained. “
” You cannot stop the opposition for saying what they are saying, because is very difficult to come to team, particularly when you lose an election, shock most set in. “
He emphasized that with the governor hundred days in office, Caleb Mutfwang has done a lot ,he Commended.
On the Election Tribunal judgements in the state so far that has gone in favor of PDP ,he said he has pass a vote of confidence on the judiciary over the landslide judgements that had been entered in favour of the party (PDP), stressed that the judiciary is up and doing in given undiluted judgement in favor of the party.
“We are very happy, with the People Democratic Party PDP,in the state,by extension Nigeria in general .We know that what the judiciary is doing is in line with the Constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria.
He further add that the court know those who truly won the election,in respect to the issue raised regarding to the party in the state not having structure, and the candidates not validly nominated, he said with recent judgements in favor of the party so far ,is obvious that the party is having very strong structure , that the candidates who contested elections under the party,are all validly nominated contrary to the insinuations of the Petitioner upon the grounds which their petition were predicated.”
As it has turned out, he was very eager, in a great hurry, to set to work. That was what had informed the adoption of this catchphrase for the government from the onset: THE TIME IS NOW.
There is a ring of urgency about that now. Therefore, there would neither be delay nor procrastination for there was too much that had been left unattended to that needed to be done. That was why he made this solemn pact with the Plateau people on that fateful day of May 29, 2023: “We know you are expecting much from us. Today, it is not just my inauguration; it is our inauguration as it marks the beginning of our collective quest for a new Plateau”.
No doubt, the governor has set out in earnest towards living up to those noble words, now cast in stone. That is, despite the debilitating challenges he met on the ground in the first one hundred days of the emergence of THE TIME IS NOW administration.
Insecurity
Insecurity was the number one problem confronting the State when Governor Mutfwang assumed office. Thus, only two days after his swearing-in, he visited Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in Riyom and Mangu local government areas. That visit gave hope and confidence to the already despondent women and children who were abandoned for years in the IDP camps and he reassured them of the commitment of his administration to address their plights.
Plateau citizens and indeed the entire country still recall the massacre of more than 100 people that took place in some parts of Mangu Local Government Area on May 15, 2023. Others have since followed in Heipang and Kwi, among others.
The governor did not mince words about this ugly state of affairs when he assumed office. During his inauguration, he put these attacks in proper perspective and outlined the direction his government would take in bringing them to a definite end: “It is an undeniable fact that much blood has been shed on the Plateau for close to two decades now which has retarded the pace of our development. The time has come and The Time is Now, when we MUST say enough is enough,” he had declared.
“We must break this vicious cycle of hate and attacks and refuse to allow people to brand us negatively. That is not who we are. They even labelled such genocide as farmers/herders clash to the chagrin of the whole world. I wish to assure you that the government under my watch will be committed to peaceful coexistence and will work assiduously to secure the boundaries of Plateau State. Criminal elements/invaders hell-bent on destruction will be decisively dealt with.”
That was the first time in the last eight years that the government was taking such a tough and decisive stance against such carnage that had almost become a daily routine in some parts of the State. Moreover, it took no small courage for the governor to officially debunk, for the first time, the familiar narrative that had gained ground during the previous administration that what was happening in the State was a conflict between farmers and herders.
It was in the light of these that he interfaced with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who graciously gave him a listening ear and promised to do everything possible to help out.
The governor also had a one-on-one interactions with the National Security Chiefs when he visited the Defence and Army headquarters in Abuja on July 12, 2023. As a result, he extracted their firm commitment towards stepping up the campaigns, both kinetic and non-kinetic, against the perpetrators of these heinous crimes.
One of the outcomes of such initiatives was the relocation of the GOC, 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, Jos, who also doubles as the Commander, Operation Safe Haven, OPSH, to Mangu in the wake of the May 15 attacks. The presence of the other arms of the security apparatus was also beefed up in Mangu, Barkin Ladi, Riyom and Bassa local government areas.
During the August 21, 2023, meeting with Plateau Elders, Governor Mutfwang expressed his gratitude and shed more light on the results of these high-level interactions: I want to thank Mr. President and the Security Chiefs because they immediately swung into action and I want to particularly salute the new GOC and Commander of the Operation Safe Haven who came and demonstrated professionalism and didn’t stay in his air-conditioned office for close to a week, he was commanding the troops from the front.
As a further mark of the administration’s commitment to practically confront the hydra-headed monster of insecurity head-on, the governor has convened four Security Council meetings in the last three months. The fourth was held on Tuesday, August 22, 2023. These meetings are very crucial and strategic because they assess current situations on the ground and proffer immediate and long-lasting solutions, among others.
The State Government is further boosting the security architecture of the State by revitalizing the moribund State-owned security outfit, Operation Rainbow. The nation’s relevant security agencies would be fully involved in retraining its personnel. The governor has likewise appointed an experienced and renowned expert on Security and Homeland Safety, Brigadier-General Gakji Shipi (retired) as Special Adviser on Security to guide him appropriately in that very sensitive area.
The administration has unveiled the State Security and Information Center where citizens report security concerns through a toll-free line. It has provided an opportunity for the government to get prompt information on burning security issues in rural communities for swift intervention.
It has also set in motion policies towards ameliorating the conditions of the thousands of people forced out of their ancestral lands by the attacks and are currently living in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps and homes of friends and relatives within and outside the State.
On July 12, 2023, Governor Mutfwang visited the headquarters of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in Abuja where he made a strong case for the welfare of the IDPs. Based on the promises made by the Director-General, Mustapha Habib Ahmed, some relief materials have started trickling into the State. It is hoped that, soon, the tempo will pick up so that the victims of these attacks can get succour pending their relocation to their ancestral homes.
Also, the Agricultural Services Training Company (ASTC) has been fully mobilized to farming communities in Mangu, Barkin Ladi and Riyom local government areas to assist the farmers in continuing with the farming season which was abruptly interrupted by these attacks. Deploying 29 tractors, about 900 hectares of land have already been ploughed. This intervention is fully complemented by the security provided by the agro-rangers of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps.
Plans are underway to increase the quantum of land and extend the exercise into the dry season to enable farmers to continue to ply their trade even after the rains cease. Subsequently, the Plateau Agricultural Development Project, PADP, and other related government agencies have joined in these efforts.
The governor also undertook an official visit to the Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) in Abuja. He drew the Agency’s attention to the urgent need to fund schools that have been adversely affected by the conflicts in the State. Most of the schools have been destroyed and others turned into shelters for IDPs.
Unwieldy debt burden/civil servants’ strike and welfare
When the governor assumed office and critically looked at the true state of things, he realized that the situation was far worse than he and his team had imagined. The rot was so deep and widespread in the civil service that government documents were being typed and photocopied at business centres, not minding their levels of confidentiality.
Upon that, civil servants were owed salaries of five months, amounting to over N11 billion, which was one of the reasons that had forced them to proceed on strike. Worst of all, there was an unwieldy debt profile of over N300 billion and many other outstanding financial obligations hanging on the neck of the State government.
The Plateau State Polytechnic was on the brink of collapse as almost all of its courses were long overdue for accreditation. The State government had to source the required N200 million to bail it out. The Mutfwang administration had to raise close to N300 million to save the Plateau State University from having the accreditation of some of its core programmes withdrawn.
At inception on May 29, civil servants who had been on strike insisted that their February and March arrears must be paid before they could call off the strike. When the government met this demand, they resumed work. As we speak, the backlog of June salaries has been paid and it is expected that in a week, the July backlog will be completed and that of August will commence. The State government is certain of continuous and seamless payments because it already has July and August salaries in the bank. Clearing the backlog of salaries, and pension arrears is also on course.
Environment
Plateau State was once reputed to be one of the cleanest and most orderly States in the country, along the line, things changed as refuse heaps became a common sight in the Jos city centre, its environs and all over the State.
By the time Mutfwang assumed leadership on May 29, 2023, the entire State was choked with rubbish and chaos became the order of the day in our communities, our roads and streets. As a result, the government immediately declared a state of emergency on the environment.
Some appreciable level of sanity, cleanliness and orderliness was restored as the government galvanized the moribund environmental sanitation machinery of government into action. Refuse disposal trucks did battle with the mountains of refuse that had piled up in the Jos/Bukuru metropolis and other parts of the state. The administration also reintroduced the monthly sanitation exercise which the governor personally supervised. This has had very commendable outcomes.
Citizens still remember the road accidents caused by pothole-infested roads that led to the loss of lives in the Jos metropolis and outlying towns. To curb this dangerous trend, the State government has commenced work on the maintenance of roads in the Jos/Bukuru metropolitan area.
Potholes are being patched and overlaid with asphalt to facilitate free movement of traffic. At the moment, the deep potholes that dotted the Polo Roundabout road to the Police Headquarters have been fixed. Likewise, those at the Gold and Base Roundabout, Rayfield, Dadin Kowa, DB Zang junction Bukuru expressway, Gada Biyu to Farin Gada in Jos among many others. Full maintenance work will be adequately carried out after the rains cease.
Traditional institutions/Plateau elders
At the inception of this administration, the State’s royal fathers, under the aegis of the Plateau State Council of Chiefs and Emirs, paid Governor Mutfwang a courtesy call. Led by their Chairman, the Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Jacob Gyang Buba, these custodians of the people’s cherished cultures and traditions urged the governor to remain focused on leading citizens; prayed that the measures he had put in place to curb the security challenges worked; and pledged their support to always offer wise counsel to enable the State to regain its lost glory as The Home of Peace and Tourism.
On that auspicious occasion, the governor had told the royal fathers: “We have high regard for you as individual royal fathers and collectively as a Council. Therefore, we will always consider you as fathers of the land and always turn to you for wise counsel whenever necessary.”
To further buttress this fact, he reiterated that their attendance at the August 21, 2023 meeting was yet another testimony that the State government can always approach them for their sagely and fatherly advice on burning matters of the State whenever the need arises. He assured the elders that he would strive at all times to keep all channels of communication open between both sides so that whenever they feel they have the necessary input to make, they can reach out.
Appointments/retreat and onboarding
The quality and nature of a government’s appointees determine its success or otherwise because they are the drivers of State policy. Governor Mutfwang had set his mind on using young and vibrant technocrats to drive his THE TIME IS NOW agenda. It is these well-motivated and vibrant Young talents that have been propelling the machinery of the State in the last 100 days.
To further enhance their capacity, a six-day retreat and onboarding was organized for them beginning on August 18, 2023, at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, NIPSS, Kuru, Plateau State. In the end, participants resolved to improve funding to meet the demands of the State by exploring alternative sources of funding, reducing the cost of governance and improving revenue generation for effective project funding.
They also agreed to practice inclusivity and mainstream gender in all government policies and programmes and rise above the years of socio-economic, political and security struggles, build on the legacies of Plateau founding fathers and attain a clear identity to ensure holistic comprehension of THE TIME IS NOW mantra, among others.
Surely, they came away from that retreat with renewed vigour and determination to ensure the attainment of set objectives to take the State out of its present quagmire.
Conclusion
Granted, Governor Mutfwang has personally admitted that the situation his administration inherited was far worse than he expected. But he has so far demonstrated that he did not allow such a bleak reality to dampen his initial resolve to restore to Plateau State its lost glory.
That much he has amply proven in the first 100 days of his administration. On that score, it would not be amiss to declare that, for Plateau people, the next four years promise to bring showers of sustainable peace and giant leaps in economic and social progress. THE TIME IS NOW to build a united and prosperous Plateau.
Gyang Bere is the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State
The Nigeria police plateau state command has arrested not fewer than 30 Suspected Criminals for various Crimes in jos , plateau state capital.
Among those arrested include those alleged to have kidnapped 7 students of the University Of Jos, plateau state of recent.
The commissioner of police plateau state command Okoro Julius Alawari , disclosed this to journalists during press briefing at the command headquarters in Jos, plateau state.
The said you will be recalled that on 12th june 2023 at about 2200hrs, Seven (7) students of the University of Jos were kidnapped. The Command is pleased to inform you that one suspect one Salisu Adamu ‘m’ 30 years, of Minta village; Bassa LGA has been arrested in connection to the kidnap. Further investigation conducted by the Commander, Anti-Kidnapping Unit revealed that the suspect is an escapee of the recent Jos Prison Jail break of 2020.
He said the suspects has confessed to the crime and mentioned some of his gang members who are currently on the run.
But that efforts are being intensified with a view to arresting the fleeing suspects.
Also arrested are those with Culpable Homicide Suspects, said on 30th july 2023 at about 2230hrs a report was received at the Anglo-Jos Police station that one Fredrick Cirman ‘m’ of Zarmaganda area of Jos South LGA, had a misunderstanding with his friend, one Ajang Julius ‘m’, aged 30yrs and as a result, the said Fredrick Cirman stabbed his friend on the chest down and stomach with a knife.
The DPO Anglo-Jos division, SP Bethel Obara immediately led a team of Policemen and arrested the suspect. The victim was immediately rushed to the Plateau Specialist Hospital for medical attention where he was later confirmed dead by thie medical doctor.
Other groups arrested according to the police boss Armed Robbery, Culpable Homicide and receiving of stolen property which the command received a report at the Jengre Police division on 9th July 2023 at about 1230hrs, that one Jumai Emmanuel ‘f’ of Miango area of Bassa LGA chartered a driver, one Safiyanu Sulaiman ‘m’ to convey her goods from Saminaka market in Kaduna State, to Jos. That while they were traveling along Fuskan Mata forest, the driver pretended that the car developed a mechanical fault, but when he noticed that the passenger was calling another driver, he violently hit the victim with a log of wood on the head and she died on the spot.
“On 17th August 2023 at about 1830hrs, the said Safiyanu Suleiman ‘m’ was traced and arrested by the DPO, Jengre Division, SP Tyem Nanbol Cirdap while he was about to sell off the victim’s goods to one Sirajo Alhassan ‘m’. They were both arrested and on interrogation, the suspect confessed to the crime. Exhibits recovered from the suspects include the vehicle and some luggage belonging to the deceased woman. Discreet investigation is being finalized with a view to charging the suspects to Court.”
He further said that his men arrested said gang of alleged Criminals that has been on the wanted list of the police for awhile different Crimes in the state.Iteams recovered from the includes, Locally Fabricated Revolver Pistol and illicit Drugs,the incident the Cp said happened 16th August 2023 at about 1730hrs, when the Command received credible intelligence, which led to the arrest of two (2) alleged notorious and wanted criminals. The criminals were eventually trailed and arrested by the DPO “A” division CSP Obinna S. Okpuru and team at their hideout in Angwan Mata, Jos.
He gives the names of the suspects to include; one Shammah Emmanuel aka “Hit man” aged 20yrs and one Joseph Seth aka “Small Seth” aged 19yrs, all male of Angwan Mata, Gada-Biu.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects belong to ferocious syndicates terrorizing the Gada-Biu and Rukuba Road axis in Jos North LGA, and specialize in robbing unsuspecting victims of their phones and other valuable items at gun point. Exhibits recovered from the suspects include one locally made revolver pistol was recovered.
Add that investigation is still ongoing, and further developments will be communicated to the press in due course.
In similar developments, the CP Okoro said 19th August 2023 ,at about 0600hrs, one Danladi Gurumbagal ‘m’ of Bul village Jipal District reported at the Mangu Police Station that on 18th August 2023 at about 2230hrs, one Kanu Samuel ‘m’ of the same address came to his house and informed him that while on his way back from Chakfem district with his elder brother one Kanladi Dazun ‘m’ 50 years, of the same address, a group of unknown gunmen attacked them and killed his brother. On receipt of the report, the DPO Mangu division, CSP Solomon Danja led a team of Policemen to the scene where they discovered the body of the deceased without the head and private parts.
“Further investigation led to the arrest of the following suspects; Friday Yakubu, Longul Dabor, Sati Samuel, and Yakubu Barnabas, all ‘m’ of Jipal District,the issue still investigated” .
Other persons arrested are gang of Criminals who specializes in vandalization of Jos Electricity Distribution property and stealing of Armored Cables which he said happened 21st August,2023 at about 0230hrs, a distress call was received at the Rantya Divisional headquarters that gunshot sounds were heard around the transformer.
Immediately, a team of agile men led by the DPO Rantya division, SP Iliya Akawu rushed to the scene and arrested one Isa’ac Dung ‘m’ of adjacent Open University, Jos after he had vandalized and stolen armored cables of the JED transformer in the area. Investigation continues, future developments will be communicated to you in due course.
Other break through made by command in during the period under review is the case of defilement which the Commissioner of police said happened
22nd August 2023 at about 1800hrs, involving Lucky Luka, ‘m’ of Mabel Village Butura Ward reported at the Bokkos Police Station that on the same date at about 1400hrs, his two daughters namely, one Retyit Licky, 4 years and one Loveth Nehemiah 8 years were playing in the house of one John Mahana ‘m’ aged 63yrs of same address. The said John Mahanan deceived them and had unlawful carnal knowledge of the girls. On receipt of the complaint, the suspect was immediately arrested by the DPO, SP Agu Oliver C. and team.
Both the suspect and the victims were taken to the Cottage Hospital for medical examination where it was revealed that the 4 years old girl had an abrasion on her upper thigh and blood stained Vulva with a Turn Hymen, while there was proof of penetration in the vagina of the 8 year old by the penis of the suspect. Investigation is still ongoing.
Others involves Criminal Conspiracy,Rape and unlawful possession of fire arm at about 0530hrs, one Mohammed Usman Ango ‘m’ of Yelwa Shendam reported to the Shendam Police Station that on 20/08/2023 at about 2200hrs, four persons namely; one Asamu Ibrahim aged 21yrs and one Ali Hashimu aged 23yrs both ‘m’ of Yelwa Shendam, Plateau State and Wukari, Taraba State armed with guns, conspired and invaded his house in Yelwa Shendam, ransacked the house and not finding any valuables worth stealing, took his wife one Hajara Mohammed ‘f’ aged 28yrs to a nearby bush and raped her.
On receipt of the report, gallant detectives led by the DPO, CSP Danladi Ringjwat swung into action and arrested the suspects together with two others namely; one Usman Yahaya ‘m’ aged 22yrs, one Idris Adamu ‘m’ aged 22yrs both of Shendam and Kanke LGA.
Exhibits recovered from the suspects include; one Locally constructed AK47 rifle with five (5) 7.62 MM live ammunition, one locally made pistol with three live ammunition. In the cause of interrogation, the suspects confessed to kidnapping a certain Igbo man in Enugu city about two weeks ago and collected a ransom of N4,500,000.00 (Four Million, Five Hundred Thousand Naira).
They further confessed to having committed the offence together with four others, namely; one Mabe and one Puri, surnames unknown both ‘m’ of Enugu State now on the run. Efforts are being made to arrest the fleeing suspects. The case has been transferred to the State CID and the suspects will be charged to court on completion of investigation.
The command also revealed that the command under his watch also arrested Military personnel and prison escapee.
“A case of Criminal Conspiracy, Robbery, Extortion and Belonging to cult group was received at Anti-Cultism Unit on 26th August 2023 at about 1100hrs. “
The operatives of the unit swung into action and arrested one Usman Sarki ‘m’, 34yrs of No.1 Boundary Street Jos who confessed to having escaped from prison custody during the Jos jail break of December, 2020.
Thanks Further investigation on 30th August 2023 led to the arrest of Fredrick Ebrakumor attached to 3Div. Garrison Jos on operation at Maiduguri Borno state for conspiracy and Extortion of unsuspecting members of the public. Investigation is in progress, further developments the police promised will be communicated to Journalists in due course.
A professor of Political Science and Defence Studies at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Usman Tar, is also the Director of the Academy’s Centre for Defence Studies and Documentation. He is a member of the Board of Social Science Research Council’s African Peace-building Network (SSRC/APN), New York, USA. He was an Assistant Professor at the Department of Politics and International Relations and Director of Postgraduate Studies at the University of Kurdistan-Hewler, Northern Iraq.
He speaks with IMOLEAYO OYEDEYI on the endemic state of military coups in Africa and how the sit-tight presidents in the continent and the African Union and ECOWAS can rescue the deteriorating situation.
Ques : In the last three years, there have been seven military coups in Africa. What do you think is giving rise to this successive coup in the continent?
Prof Tar : The reasons we have the coups, in my view, are internal and external. We have political, socio-economic, and class issues. The political class in most African countries seems to have failed to deliver the dividends of democracy. Liberal democracy by its very nature is also known to be very good in terms of holding leaders accountable, because of the challenges of elections.
In most parts of Africa, elections are not properly conducted; the legal framework is not followed by the latter and the elite in their desperation sabotage and undermine the electoral process just to be in power. This gives rise to a gross competition for power among them and those that can win power at the end of the day try to use their positions to sustain themselves in power.
And many leaders too have usurped the electoral process to remain in power for too long. African leaders like Bongo, Kagame, Museveni, Biya, and many others have remained in power and clandestinely abused the electoral process to remain in power for years. So the political system, the way it is being run, seems to have failed. And people have been keenly watching. As a result, votes can no longer count and the electoral process is flagrantly abused, monetised, and commoditised.
At the socio-economic level, democracy seems to have failed. For those countries that are democratic and those seen as despotic, the governments seem to have failed in socio-economic development; poverty is endemic as people cannot hold onto their livelihood. In addition to this, the sectoral developments have also failed. In education, health care, transportation, and security, the same failure has been recorded. So, this has made many people angry. And the military, being part of the society, have been watching all the incidents. The military officers too have also felt the damaging consequences of the political and socio-economic failures of the government.
And don’t forget that the military officers we are talking about are the young ones who are very restless in holding leaders accountable and making the system work. And when you look at it from the class dimension, the military is seen as being part of the elites of African countries. And history has shown that whenever the political elites (the politicians) fail, the military does come to the rescue of the teeming masses.
But when they come, they stay in power. So it looks like the military rule of the early 1980s and 1990s is coming back. I think these are some of the issues internally.
Externally, there has been external influence of the Francophone. We all know the role played by France in the local politics of Cote’dVoire, Senegal, Cameroon, Niger, Chad and other countries. And it appears that most of these coups are taking place in Francophone countries.
This may be because France’s policies in African countries seem to be either working or derailing. We learned that in some of the countries, France funded the coups, but this remains an allegation. But in some of the countries, the coups have been against perceived imperialism.
But anyhow, we are looking at a response to or a demonstration of neo-colonial influence on the continent. And don’t forget that as part of the external factors, we have new players that are coming into the continent in terms of Russia and China. So, one won’t be surprised if some of these coups have a strong back-up from the new entrants like Russia.
Ques : However, some experts have argued that the military interventions that we have been having in Africa have been freeing the countries from French neo-colonial shackles. How true can this be?
Prof Tar : Well, to some extent, there can be arguments for that. This is because, in some of these countries, the influence of France is largely embedded. And France has funded and supported despots on the continent for too long, in some cases, up to 50 years as in the case of Gabon. In Cameroon, Biya has been in power since the early 80s and he is well in his 90s now. He has been ruling the country from Switzerland.
I think these are all externalities of the deep-seated nature of France’s neo-colonial rule in Africa. One will not be surprised that these coups are a reaction to the need to upstage and uproot the shackles of French neo-colonialism. But let’s not forget that most of these coups are in the Francophone countries.
We are yet to see these coups taking place in Anglophone and Saxophone countries. While the possibilities of this may be certain shortly, we only hope that the African leaders will sit up and put their houses in order, so that these spiraling coups will be curtailed, because there is no way military coups can replace democracy. So far, democracy has remained the best form of governance. A military coup is leadership by coercion.
So, it cannot be the final solution to Africa’s problem. We just need a democratic system that will be rooted in good governance. However, I believe the military coups were short-term reactions to French imperialism in Africa. But they are not the sustainable solutions to Africa’s problem.
Ques : But when you look at the efforts that have been made so far by ECOWAS and the African Union, is there any possibility that another military coup will not occur soon on the continent?
Prof Tar : Well, if the regional and economic projects sit up and if the African Union and continental bodies also sit up, I think we will find the solution to the problem. I believe what is needed now is for the African leaders to sit down and fix the political and economic malfunctioning system and also fix the social contracts.
This is because government and state relation is a social contract. But this contract seems to have collapsed in most African countries. The onus then lies on the leaders and the elites to sit down and make sure that the people are happy with the system. The leaders must ensure that the system works because democracy requires dividends. It is expected that in a democratic system, the people should have a feel of the dividends in terms of tangible economic developments and security of lives and properties. If these can be guaranteed and provided for the poor masses, I believe these endemic coups will be curtailed.
Ques : Recently, the Cameroonian, Rwandan, and Ugandan governments carried out some military reshuffle, which many people have described as some kind of panic move in reaction to the recent coup in Gabon; do you see this as an effective measure to prevent coup from happening in their countries?
Prof Tar : Yes, truly, some countries have carried out purges of their very senior military officers. We are talking about Rwanda, Cameroon, and Uganda. They have already retired hundreds of their very senior military men. But I think they are getting it wrong. This is because most of these coups were carried out by young officers. So we can see panic. But it is normal human nature, even if it is not a sustainable solution to the problem.
I think one of the solutions is to find all means to curb sit-tight syndrome in Africa. It is a situation whereby leaders, even when they are democratic, will amend the constitution and neglect the constitutional process to remain in power for as long as it takes. Even when some of these leaders have become physically disabled and imbecile, they still want to continue to rule.
Ques : So instead of the panic moves and entrenching good governance, what other solutions do you think African leaders should consider to save their heads?
Prof Tar : I think they have to consider consistent dialogue and deliberations, carrying their people along and creating channels to get well-articulated and patriotic public opinions. And they should also practise inclusive governance and make sure that democracy works for their people.
They should stop creating situations where elections become a laughingstock in their countries. This is because coups happened after the coupists had surveyed the public opinion, including the sentiments and frustration of the people. Any country where the people’s opinion is ripe will be a fertile ground for coups.
So if development is made to happen in real terms for the people, there won’t be public outcry. So, in the short term, African leaders need to sit up and develop a sustainable solution to the endemic poverty and unemployment of their people, among other problems. With this, I believe the problem will be curtailed, especially if they dialogue among themselves economically, politically, and in every other capacity.
Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has expressed his commitment to transforming Plateau into a state known for religious harmony, with the aim of fostering peace and unity within Nigeria.
Governor Mutfwang stated this during a courtesy visit by the leadership of New Life for All, led by the President, Rev. Panya Baba, at Government House in Little Rayfield, Jos.
He said his administration has taken deliberate measures to ensure inclusivity of all faiths and ethnic groups within the government, with the goal of building a united and prosperous Plateau.
Governor Mutfwang also recalled the security challenges that plagued the state before his formal inauguration on May 29, and highlighted the purposeful efforts his administration has made to restore the state’s lost glory.
Acknowledging the Church’s significant role in nation building, especially in areas like health and education, he praised New Life for All for their contribution to uniting the Christian community.
President of New Life for All, Rev. Stephen Panya Baba extended condolences to Governor Mutfwang for the unfortunate attacks on the people of Mangu and other parts of the state.
He commended the Governor for addressing the security situation and offered prayers for divine intervention.
Rev. Panya, who also serves as the President of ECWA, assured the Governor of New Life for All’s continued support for the government and the people.
Sometimes at the tail end of year 2022, a piece of news that took the corporate world by storm was the appointment of Mr. Alexander Goma as Ag Chief Operating Officer of Nigeria’s telco giant, Globacom.
This is not to limit him to a space, however to think that he is from Kanke in Plateau State, was heartwarming and a challenge to many who wanted a role model. Those who are privileged to have followed the track record of his career can only but marvel at the trajectory and breadth of his experience.
His rise may not be surprising; it is the quality of what he offers that has endeared him severally. But even more revealing is the number of corporate organizations he has worked for over the years. This is not to forget those he has mentored in the course of his tour of duty across the globe.
He scarcely had retired from Grand Cereals as its Managing Director than he couldn’t be allowed to take the deserved rest he needed, after he had created a niche in the corporate world. From his antecedence, people in his mold hardly have time for retirement; they are always figuring that enough may have been conquered; as such, he needed the test from other worlds.
He had reiterated this way, when I sought to talk with him sometime in September 2022 in a chat: I am retiring from Grand Cereals but might still be active for a while’.
The telecom industry may be entirely a different piece of cake altogether. But, if he has much to prove that he had a lot to offer yet, coming to Globacom was not an addition to his rich resume, it is evident that he has a lot to offer yet.
His stint in Globacom was short-lived, as he resigned within 6 months. He hasn’t spoken about why he chose to resign, but from those who know him, Alex they say, will not stay if there is a conflict of values.
Those who have worked with Alex Goma refer to him as the ‘General’ or ‘Professor’. Yours sincerely tried to get to the bottom of their reverence of him. The various assertions are revealing, as they tell a story to those meeting him for the first time what they stand to gain if they took after him.
Indeed, they are many and scattered in various organizations adding value to productivity, but particularly to the development of the nation’s economy. Why won’t they be rubbed of the same tendencies? It is said that, those who accompany loaders of cement bags will always have grey hairs also.
It is possible, you may want to know what has made Alex Goma become a General and also Professor while he lasted. The answers available in the thread of recommendations are instructive as they paint a picture of a man that has made the needed impact in the corporate world.
He has brought the necessary rigour and discipline meant to achieve huge success to tasks and of those working with him. Therefore, they always look forward to any assignment that he was involved in order to learn something from his experience.
For him to have flown the flag of success atop the corporate world in six countries that include: Egypt, Senegal, Ghana, Mauritania, Gambia and Nigeria couldn’t have been less tasking. He was prepared right from the day he set foot at his first work place: Highland Bottling Company Ltd as Quality Control Assistant in October 1991.
Determined to carve a niche and be the best in the corporate world, he reckon it won’t be a tea party; neither was he going to be given on a platter of gold. He was armed with the requisite education having attended University of Port Harcourt and the University of London for a degree in Biochemistry and Law in 1989 and 2016 respectively.
The door of success was opened soon after while transferring his capacities for excellence to Leventis Store as Store Manager in 1992. No wonder, Alex has straddled Nigeria’s corporate landscape and left his mark of success in companies like Guinness, PZ, Procter and Gamble, UAC etc.
Over the years, Alexander Goma’s expertise in general management, sales and trade marketing, customer service/logistics spans 6 countries in Africa, with dedicated ‘interest in building sustainable organizations that deliver results on a consistent basis’. This expertise resulted in him becoming a specialist in commercial strategy, customer marketing, customer service and logistics, distributor management, route to market planning.
You may say it is quite mouthful to have built and managed result oriented multi functional teams. Such have without doubt enabled him launch new brands, grown sales volume, market share, enhanced profitability and created leadership organizations over the years.
Above all, Goma has, without doubt ‘played major roles in developing sales capability programs and management trainee schemes to build a pipeline of future talent’. That experience in the development of distributors and their infrastructure is focused on direct retail selling, secondary supply chain and demand management’; apart ‘from enormous experience in retail chain stores operations as well as quality control in the beverage industry’.
It is possible he may have been asked severally on what he feels about constant job mobility and a long-term commitment to an organization by employees. Consider his ardent view about it: I personally feel staying with a company for a longer period can indeed offer several benefits compared to frequently switching jobs’.
That is true as there are some potential advantages attached to such a decision: Apart from job security, by staying with a company for an extended period, you establish a sense of stability and job security. You become familiar with the company culture, work processes, and expectations, which can lead to reduced stress and a greater sense of belonging’.
Secondly, he avers and truly so that ‘deep industry and company knowledge enables long-term employees often give them the opportunity of having deep knowledge of their industry and the specific workings of their company; particularly so, as one is able to ‘develop specialized skills, become a subject matter expert, and provide valuable insights and guidance to colleagues and management’.
Again, the facts that companies prioritize internal promotions and career developments for their loyal employees, opportunities such as these are most often pronounced. Those who are willing to stay for long ‘may have the chance to take on new responsibilities, lead projects, and advance their career within the organization’.
The above may not be all, they also include: Strong professional network, building strong relationships within a company over an extended period, enhanced benefits and perks for their loyalty, reputation and trust: One’s commitment and dedication to the organization can enhance credibility and open doors for future career opportunities.
Whether as the Ag Chief Operating Officer of Globacom or Managing Director in Grand Cereals; Corporate Strategy and External Affairs Director; Managing Director PZ Cussons Consumer SBU, Sales Director; Guinness Nigeria PLC (A Diageo Company), Head of Trade Marketing and Distribution; Country Manager Senegal; Gambia, Mauritania, Trade Marketing Development Manager; Regional Sales Manager; Customer Service and Logistics Projects Manager; District Manager North & West Nigeria; District Manager Ghana; Category Mgr Fabric and Homecare P&G Egypt; Customer Marketing Manager West Africa; Unit Sales Manager (North Nigeria); Sales Representative (Plateau, Benue, Nassarawa States); Store Manager Leventis Stores; there is no doubt that he has paid his dues and should be counted in the ‘A League’ without questioning.
For a man that is imbued with great and abundant skills that are capable of changing lives, since 2010, he has Facilitated a number of programs forcused on building capacity of fresh graduates and Mid career professionals, from the Lagos Business school, Afterschool Graduate Development Program( AGDC) to the LACE Foundation and a wide number of programs across the country.
There have been great recommendations that have come from numerous persons who are today shinning lights in different fields of human endeavours across Africa. For instance, Ademola Olugbenga Adeoye, Sales Director at Flour Mills of Nigeria had this to say of Goma: Alex led a demotivated and weather beaten 200 man Guinness Nigeria Plc sales team through one of the most turbulent phases in the business history. His resilience, focus and unrepentant belief in people and basic commercial fundamentals returned the business back to the Golden Era’.
He is, according to him, ‘a great leader who takes you to the trench and equally fights with you from the trench with an unusual gift for “Tasks Simplification” to deliver business objectives. He is one of the best I’ve ever worked with in my career’.
Omare-Ogah Ejiro had this to say about him: ‘Alex is a motivational leader who demonstrates uncommon insight in resolving business challenges. He engenders the qualities of courage and integrity within the organisation, as enablers of business growth.
He has a reputation for driving the fundamentals to deliver exponential results, and his genius is manifested in his ability to define those fundamentals. It is my wish that every upwardly mobile professional and aspiring business, finds the opportunity to experience the brand-Alexander Goma’.
Across the shores of Nigeria, Assante Tidiane, Business Unit Manager Ivory Coast Cluster at BIC said he ‘first met Alex during a workshop in Ghana on brand proposition statement development; he is such an amazing guy, very charismatic and knowledgeable in business management cutting across all areas such as consumer marketing, channel development and sales management. He is a mentor anyone who would want to sharpen his skills in the areas of consumer marketing and trade marketing should go after. I was impressed by the accuracy of his guidance’.
Muktar Ibrahim, a Trade Marketing & Distribution Specialist first met Alex in BAT; he sees him ‘as that kind of leader that can create a stunning transformation in an organization. He is very passionate at work and supportive; a self-effacing individual that always displayed a fierce resolve to do what needs to be done to move the business forward no matter how difficult.
‘Apart from encouraging teamwork, he is humble, selfless, and fearless. Alex carries no air of self-importance, yet creates superb results. I benefited a lot from his wealth of experience and would love to work with him again and again.
‘I knew Alex in the two years I worked for Procter & Gamble in sub-Saharan West Africa. He was result oriented, a team player who had an open-door policy, allowing younger colleagues to learn from his vast experience, work ethics and remarkable analytical/problem solving skills. He is intelligent, focused, driven, showed an enviable work-life balance and always had a healthy dissatisfaction for the status-quo (always wanting to step-change things for the better). Alex would no doubt prove to be an asset to any organisation he chooses to work for and I recommend him unreservedly to any work team’, so says Emeka Anene of Shell.
Mr. Goma Alex ‘is passionate at work. He is very willing to support and give advice to new joiner like me at that time in Nigeria. On one case during the launch of the project, i was very impress by his leadership and the way he push us to achieve our goals. His performance during the program was quite remarkable and that impressed us all.
‘I’m totally confident that Mr. Alex Goma shall definitely become a very valuable asset to any company in the World’ is the opinion of Serge Patrice Bossom, a sales director from Cameroon.
‘Alex is a result oriented and insightful leader who sees and encourages teamwork as the basis for continuous result and empowerment. He is renowned for high ethics, intelligence, handwork and fun to be. He has positively touched an appreciative generation of young trade and consumer teams, marketers and managers’ says Danjuma (Danjay) John-Ekele.
With all the recommendations built around his person and skills, it is little wonder he has risen to contribute by adding value in the tasks assigned to him. To serve as a link to encourage, Build Courage to Be Free to succeed authored by him is one of the tools left in print to mold young persons.
Currently, he is engaged in business consulting and training for organizations around business strategy, sales, marketing, and leadership.
Apart from that, he has accepted a role as Chairman of Tomato Jos Ltd, a tomato processing company based in Kaduna; as well as engaging in a part-time role as an Executive in Residence at the Lagos Business School.
Being engaged in all his official engagements over the years, one would wonder if he has time to relax. They say, all works without play, makes Jack a dull boy. His day is said to be made when he relaxes either playing golf,watching his favourite clubs Arsenal and Plateau United play to win.It is still surprising that he still plays football actively and is a member of Pro Leisure FC Jos, Belle United FC Lagos, Naija Gunners Lagos and Crest FC Lagos.
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