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By,giwa alex, Jos

The Federal High Court sitting in Jos , Plateau State Division  has strikes out the suit number FHC/J/CS/76/, filed by Ambassador Yohanna Margif Yilpwan against labour Party, and two others challenging the candidature of Dr. Patrick Dakum as the authentic governorship Candidate of the party in plateau state ahead 2023 General Election.

As the court ruled that the Plantiff Ambassador Yohanna lack the loco Standi to challenge the 2nd Respondent Patrick Dakum in the matter because he has never been a party to the said primary conducted by the labour party which produced Patrick Dakum.

Justice Docas Agishi of the Federal High Court plateau state Division stated this today 9th December 2022 in a Suit between  Yohanna Margif and Patrick Dakum   over who is the rightful candidate of the party for the state Governorship  2023 General Elections .

Justice Agishi further ruled that the electoral law of 2010 has put to rest by throwing more light in the grey areas which said any candidate that didn’t take part in an election lack the loco Standi to challenge what transpired in that very execise , otherwise lack the moral right to question the abnormalities that most had played out during the exercise.

The Justice Agishi further said that the exhibit before the honorable court has not only proved , but clear evidence that the plantiff Margif  resigned on his own accord and so he didn’t take Part on  the primary conducted under the watchful eyes of INEC which legalized the entire process.

She went further to state that even at the time under review,the plantiff has been expelled from the party , largely because his actions has continually dragging the name of the party into the mood as many criminal activities linked to Ambassador Yohanna Margif was very obvious.

The judge finally summited that

 with the crystal clear evidence before this honorable court clearly show that the suit filed by the plantiff is after thought and above all grossly lacking in merit and here by strike out.

The running mate to Dr. Dakum who doubled as Counsel in the matter, Edward Pwajok (SAN), in an interview with journalists said the Judgement is a landslide Judgement.

And added that now that court case is over, the party can now focus on aggressive campaign with the view of winning the Governship Election and others Positions both in the state and presidential position.

But decried that there has been unseen hands in the whole of the court squabble because we can not denied the fact that some powerful forces in Government were not involved

On his part the Counsel to the Plantiff said they will study the Judgement with the aim of testing it further at the appeal court. .

By, giwa alex, Jos 

The Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC), has re-arraigned a Jos base legal practitioner Gideon Ngwen at High Court Sitting in Jos, plateau state Division for breach of trust to the tune of 107million naira met for the payment of salary arrears of the staff of Plateau Radio Television Corporation (PRTVC) sacked during Jonah David Jang led administration.

The case which started in 2017 involved over 29 staff of PRTVC,who were unjustly lay-off by the last administration of Jonah Jang,  the matter was before Justice Christy Dabup who retired middle of 2022 after the mandatory age of Sixty years of service.

The case  in line with the rule of the court procedure was reassigned to new Judge, Justice Gang and start denovo(all over).

The case which is slated for re arraigment of barrister Gideon Ngwen, but the counsel told the court he has pending application of preliminary objection challenging the jurisdiction of this honorable court to entertain the hearing of this matter.

He further argued that since the matter is just for arraignment of  the Defendant applicant Gideon Ngwen, I suggest the court take the preliminary objection application along side with the plea to save the time of the honorable court .

The court granted the the oral application for the P.O to be taken by the court together with the Defendant applicant plea which was not objected  by  counsel to the Complainant applicant barrister S.E Okemeren

Justice Gang Adjourned the matter to 15th and 21st February,2023 for ruling on the preliminary objection brought by the Defendant Applicant and the commencement of the hearing on the substantive matter.

It would recalled that the Defendant Applicant was hired by the aggrieved staff of the state owned Radio/Television who were not happy over their  layed- off by Jonah Jang led administration which informed hiring the legal services of  the embattled barrister Gideon Ngwen.

On coming to power as Governor of plateau state,Simon Lalong administration decided that his administration  is set to embrace out of court settlement.

The government fulfilled his promise by paying the salary arrears of the affected over 29 staff of the corporation through their counsel,to the tune of 107 million naira barrister Gideon Ngwen , instead of disbursing the money to the affected client he allegedly converted it to his personal use.

All the effort for them to get their money from him proved abortive, which informed  jointly petitioning the financial agency , Economic Financial Crime Commission EFCC,who did investigation into the matter and Barrister Ngwen was arrested and subsequently arraign in court.

The case which had been in court since 2017 was initially before Justice Christy Dabup who retired this year 2022 ,and the matter was reassigned to another judge, Justice Gang.

In line with the High Court procedure rule the case has to start denovo(all over again)

The case is Adjourned to 15th and 21th February 2023 for ruling on the preliminary objection and contination on the substantive matter.

Our Reporter

Confusion said to have Hits Tinubu/Shettima Campaign ,as Atiku/Okowa Mocked Asiwaju’s Supporters Disillusioned, Abandoning the APC Campaign.

The Atiku/Okowa Presidential Campaign Organization mocks the Presidential Candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, following the intractable confusion that has hit his campaign.

Thisvis contained in a press statement dated 7th December,2022, issued by the spokesperson of Okowa/Atiku Campaign Organization  

Kola Ologbondiyan and made available to this medium in Jos.

According to the statement,the Spokesperson said ,Nigerians are not surprised that the central Command and coordinating structure of the Tinubu/Shettima Presidential Campaign is already collapsing with members becoming disoriented, completely disillusioned and crestfallen following series of unending criminal allegations.

Nigerians have become disconnected with the Tinubu/Shettima ticket given the exposure of smelly past and constant display of vacuity, incoherence and lack of vision by the APC Presidential Candidate.

The disenchantment which has continued to grow with the many unpresidential gaffes of Tinubu however came to its height after his embarrassing outing at the Chatham House on Monday where he exhibited a pathetic vacuity and lack of capacity to lead a nation as complex as Nigeria by directing questions put to him on economy, security, youth development and even about his personal life to others to provide answers.

Patriotic Nigerians in the Tinubu/Shettima Presidential Campaign are no longer at home with Asiwaju Tinubu’s inability to give a concise explanation to many scandals around him including the reported connection with narcotics syndicate for which he was made to forfeit a whopping sum of $460,000 through the order of a court of competent jurisdiction in the United States.

The Tinubu/Shettimah messaging has since become disjointed, disconnected and uncoordinated as its helmsmen are currently losing their voices.

It is pathetic that the Tinubu/Shettima APC Presidential Campaign has no record of performance to present to Nigerians given the disastrous seven and half years of the APC in office. It is more ludicrous that the Tinubu/Shettima’s shameful attempt to appropriate the achievements of other Lagos State governors are being poohpoohed by Nigerians. No individual can claim to have built Lagos!

Moreover, the Central theme of “Renewed Hope” has failed to gain traction among Nigerians including APC members as it is a direct irony of the reality of Asiwaju’s lack of vision and solution to the problems brought to our nation by his APC.

Such APC members are quietly leaving in droves and connecting with like minds in the PDP in the mission of the PDP and our Presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, to rescue and rebuild Nigeria from the misrule of the APC. 

On the other hand, Atiku Abubakar has displayed exceptional organizational skills, competence, capacity, presence of mind, coherence of thoughts and solution-driven vision to effectively manage the affairs of the nation; for which Nigerians across board are rallying with him as the next President of Nigeria.

Our Campaign counsels the Tinubu/Shettima group to note that the tide is completely against it in the quest by Nigerians, who had been at the receiving end of the incompetence, insensitivity and abysmal failure of the APC, to change the change, recover our nation and restore her prosperity.

By, giwa alex,jos

The Ezekiel Gomos Short Film Fund an initiative of Mr. Dimbo Atiya wishes to notify the general public that entry submission for the competition has been open for film makers within Jos, with the theme: “Zero to Hundred”.

The notification dated 5th December,2022 and made available to this medium further said ,

This is in honour of a man who has over the years invested in developing impactful business minds and entrepreneurs.

The entries for the competition will focus on stories that emphasis on the can – do spirit of taking something from nothing and making it grow.

“So it is on this premise that we are calling for entries from short film makers in Jos to send in a one-page pitch and synopsis of an inspirational story of growth, emancipation, success and sheer determination to see something grow from zero to hundred.”

Interested filmmakers are advised to send their pitch/synopsis to ndeegshortfilmfund@gmail.com

Submission commences today 5th and closes 10th December, 2022.

For more information call: 

08038382061

By, giwa alex, Jos

Court of Appeals sitting in Jos Division has upheld the power of state electoral umpire Plateau Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) exclusive power to charge fees for nomination forms.

As the court further ruled that the sale of Electoral nomination form by the Commission is constitutional that cannot be challenge by the defendant,and lack loco standi to do so.

People Democratic Party PDP, plateau state chapter , has earlier dragged the Commission to the state High Court challenging the charge of  nomination form by the Commission which they described as unconstitutional, capable of disenfranching prospectives condidate to run for position in the party but lack the financial backing.

And the High Court presided over by Justice I.I Kunda ruled that the Electoral umpire err in law to have put charge and other fees on nomination form which is undoubtedly capable of disenfranchising intended candidates that may not have the money to buy the form.

Not satisfied with the High Court ruling,the defendant challenged the High Court judgement at the Appeal Court for interpretation.

Delivering the Judgement today 5th December,2022,the court ruled that the charge and other fees on nomination form by the commission is constituational,not illegal as the party claimed in his filed suit.

  Today’s judgement has finally put to rest the controversy surrounding whether or not the electoral umpire has the exclusive power to charge ,and level any fees on nomination form.

Speaking to this medium in an exclusive interview, Counsel to PLASIEC Barrister Nantok said PDP had filed a suit challenging the power of PLASIEC to charge political parties for nomination forms and administrative fees.

At the High Court, the judge held that PLASIEC did not have the power to charge political parties for nomination forms and administrative fees.

PLASIEC appealed against the judgment of the High Court and the Court of appeal set aside the decision of the High Court.

The Court of Appeal held that PLASIEC has the power to charge fees for nomination forms. And that it was constitutional for PLASIEC to do so.

By,giwa alex, Jos 

APC stalwart in plateau state, barrister Festus Fuanter has advised those jubilating over recent Federal High court judgement in favor of APC Governship Candidate Nentawe Yilwatda on pre-election case filed by Danyaro Sarpiya, to see the matter involved two brothers  from the Same family ,action which now for sober reflection.

Appealed to all the aggrieved  Person or Persons to sheath their sword and accept the olive branch offered by the party leadership with the view for amicable settlement. 

Barrister Festus who is the immediate past Commissioner of Land Survey and town Planning, made the passionate appeal during the  weekend in an interview with journalists shortly after court judgement at the Federal High Court sitting in the state Division.

Festus further said that the All Progressive Congress APC, like other political parties ,is not unmindful that some members of the party are not happy because of one reason or the other , which is normal and their fundamental right, advised that they should not allow  to be over strench to the limit of destroying the party which they labour to build.

He further add that to ensure all aggrieved  members of the party are listening to,and their various complaint accommodated,the party leadership has set up 6 man committee in the three  geo -political zones across the country to deal with the situation . Stressed that this is not the time to rejoice, mocked  anybody  over the recent court judgement in favor of Dr.Nentawe,” we need to go back to drawing board  as member of APC, plan how we can come back and work together as family to win the election ahead of us.

Festus assured APC victory at the election as

members of the party has never lost any sleep Over the victory of the party in the forthcoming General Election 2023,as the  Federal High Judgement just delivered,the cost of Justice have being served, our hope is that the party win the election.

The former Commissioner however debunked the rumour making around  that the leadership of the party are planning to expel aggrieved members that took the party to court.

“Certainly not any serious party who want to win Election can not afford to chase any body out from the party , especially somebody who has contested election into high Position like Governship at the primary on the platform of the party.

“Is just the imagination of our opponents ,and appealed to all aggrieved members to come to round table with their supporters for discussion and amicable settlement.

“Like I said earlier,this is an opportunity to call everybody  back on round table and come along with their supporters for discussion,like I said,no serious  politician that  want to win election can afford to chase anybody out of the party.”

By, giwa alex, jos

The Federal High Court sitting in plateau state Division has on Saturday 3rd December, 2022 dismissed the suit filed by Danyaro Sarpiya of APC challenging the governship primary election conducted by the party that produced Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda Governship candidate of the party for 2023 General Elections.

The court held that Sarpiya can be best described as crying more than then bereaved because he has withdrawn his membership from participating in the primary , on that premise, he is no longer having Loco Standi to challenge what transpired during the election.

Delivery the Judgement which started some minutes after 5 pm , Justice Docas Agishi  help that the Claimant Applicant, Danyaro Sarpiya fragrantly disobey both the Electoral Act , and the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria which make it explicitly clear that any civil servant wish to contest election most resigned his appointment with the government Thirty days before the election which Sarpiya didn’t adhere to.

The court also ruled that the matter was status bar, which means that the suit filed by the  Claimant was filed out of time  contrary to the electoral Act that spelt out when  aggrieved person, Persons to approach the court after the election. 

The court however ruled that the grounds upon which  Sarpiya stand to challenge the governship election conducted by the party is sinking , porous and to say the least didn’t hold water,as against this background,is tucked out ,held that the primary conducted by APC, which produced the governship candidate Nentawe Yilwatda,is done in accordance with the electoral Act and the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

In an exclusive interview with the parties Counsel separately, barrister Ogbole (SAN) ,Counsel for APC said the Judgement is a landslide Judgement which the judge State very clearly of the position of law in the matter.

He further stressed that the case of the Claimant lack merit,the court lack jurisdiction to entertain the matter , the case is status bar and the court also held that the Claimant is a public servant at a time even before the election.

He stressed that Sarpiya approached the court without merit,records has it that he  withdraw from the race ,he was no longer a party in the contest under Section 84 subsection 14 of the electoral Act ,he lack Loco Standi to approach the court and challenge the matter.

So his case was dismissed of all the ground he  was challenging.

 On his part, the Counsel to the APC governorship  candidate , explained that the matter was brought to the court by the plaintiff Danyaro Sarpiya through originating sermont that he was short changed, and didn’t participated on the party primary conducted by the party  which produced the 2nd defendant Dr Nentawe as the party candidate.

He further explained that whey filed the matter on 7th June,2022 ,we come out with application to be joined in the matter because initially we were not joined in the matter. When they filed the matter initially only APC and INEC, because having taken the mandate

of the people of plateau state ,we should be joined on the matter.

The application he said the court graciously granted ,the matter proceeded and we where subsequently joined and asked the court to terminate the action .We have to come into the matter because is an action being contemplated ,in Section 84 Subsection 14 stated that you most be an aspirant before challenging such action.

“Sarpiya is not an aspirant that have participated in the election ,so therefore couldn’t have deemed to take the action of challenging or filing suit against the party challenging the conduct of the election”.

” The court also held that the plantiff been a civil servant ought have resigned from his employment Thirty days before election that he never did which was held against him.”

” The victory for our client which has showed he is line with the law,the entire Judgement is tired to Section 84 subsection 14 .

“An exhibit APC (1) written by Sarpiya that he has pulled out of the election ,if have pulled out of the primary,how then did you Come to court to challenge action you are not a part, that is what they held that by virtue of exhibit APC (1) he didn’t  take part in the primary , you are not aspirant .”

“We asked for a cost of 200 million,but my Lord in her wisdom and magnanimity granted One Hundred Thousand Naira which to us is still fair to serve as deterrent to people who come to court with flimsy cases trying to wast the precious time of the Court.”

By, giwa alex, Jos

The National Association of Nigeria Students (NANAS) has fixed Monday,5th December,2022 to embarked on peaceful protest across the country over what the body described as illegal arrest , molested and manhandled by Security agents acting on the instructions of Aisha Mohammadu Buhari.

The press Statement dated December 1,2022 signed by  NANS National President Comr Usman Umar Barumba and made available to this medium said:,

The National Students body said the peaceful protest to drum the unconventional release of their member Aminu Adamu Mohammed is imperative because all avenue for peaceful resolution fall on the deft ear of the first lady.
“Sequel to the exhaustion of all options available to us before confrontation
in seeking the freedom of one of us who was arrested in questionable
manner, tortured, molested, hurussed and detuined by agents of Government.

You are hereby notified of the decision of the leadership of the National”.

Association of Nigerian Students to proceed on a nationwide protest.

We have consulted and consolidated and neither yielded desirable results in
seeking the frecdom of AMINU ADAMU MUHAMMED, student of the
Federal University Dutse hence the protest shall commence as lollows:

Monday 5th December, 2022 Nationwide.

Please note that our demonstration shall continue until he is released

unconditionally.

The protest is against

Inspector General of Police; Usman Alkali Baba.

Wife of the President; Aisha Muhanmmadu Buhari.

Please note that injury to one is injury to all.

Be assured of the commitment of the leadership of NANS under my watch
to the protection and ensuring the rights and welfare of all Nigerian students.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Director General of the APC Presidential Campaign Council and Governor of Plateau State Simon Bako Lalong says the duo of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Jagaban and Senator Kashim Shettima will work for the interest of the Niger Delta particularly Bayelsa State that is one of Nigeria’s source of oil.

Speaking at the APC Presidential Campaign Campaign in Yenagoa Bayelsa State, the Governor said Bayelsa is the home of great people who are hardworking, peaceful, brilliant and loving. 

He said Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu knows the importance of the Niger Delta and Bayelsa State to the economy of Nigeria and has captured clearly the actions he will take to ensure that the people benefit more from the God-given resources that are found here. He is a man who believes in equity, fairness and justice.

He said more importantly, Asiwaju and Shettima know the challenges of the region particularly as it relates to the environment which explains why he was highly devastated by the recent flooding that engulfed most parts of the State and others. 

He explained that Tinubu is a man who has a lot of experience in the oil industry, business and administration which will enhance the safety and protection of the people and environment.

Asiwaju Bola Tinubu said he was elated with the rousing reception accorded him by Bayelsans which shows that they are fully behind the APC and are committed to making the party proud. 

The APC Presidential Candidate said his Renewed Hope agenda has encapsulated energy security and transition in a manner that will be economically, socially, and environmentally beneficial to the people. He said he will continue with the diversification of the economy started by President Buhari.

Speaker House of Representatives Femi Gbajabiamila said by voting for Tinubu, Nigerians will be voting for a brighter and promising future.

Minister of State for Petroleum Timipre Sylva said the people of Bayelsa have decided to go all the way for APC and Asiwaju because of his track record.

He said they did it before when they elected a Governor and will show again their passion for the party during the 2023 General elections. 

By, giwa alex, Jos

The 3 Division Training School on Thursday 1st December 2022 has graduated students trained for Fourth Quarter Basic Battle Course 4/2022 at the Small Arms Range Miango, Jos.

Delivering his remarks, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH), Maj Gen Ibrahim Ali, noted that the training of troops on basic battle drills was necessary to boost skills of personnel in battlefield in line with the Chief of Army Staff vision and mission.

General Ali reiterated that ‘Training’ is the hallmark of the Military profession, hence the need for the course to develop and equip the troops with requisite knowledge to respond effectively to emerging threats. He charged the graduands to make positive use of the knowledge gained on the field and to further develop themselves.

Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Divisional Training Officer, Brigadier General Sulaiman Adamu, represented by the Deputy Chief of Staff Logistics, Colonel MT Nagudu urged the graduands to put to good use what they learnt while discharging their duties professionally. He urged them to always  conduct themselves as good ambassadors of the training school.

The Divisional Training Officer further appreciated the General Officer Commanding and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN for his material, moral and logistics support towards the sucess of the training.

The ceremony featured Stripping and Assembling competition, presentation of certificates and group photograph.

. 

By, giwa alex, Jos

The Chief of Army Staff Annual conference is billed to kicked start on 4th December,2022 at lnternational Conference Center Kasarawa ,Sokoto state.

This was contained in a press Statement signed by the Director of Army Public Relations Brigadier General Onyema Uwachukwu and made available to this medium in Jos.

 According to the press Statement, said In our resolve to keep you abreast of the activities and programmes of the Nigerian Army ,I will through this press statement intimate you on the activities lined up for the forthcoming Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference 2022 with the theme: “Building a Professional Nigerian Army for the 21st Century Security Environment”.

The event is expected to commence from 4 December and last till 10 December 2022 at the International Conference Centre, Kasarawa, Sokoto State.

The release further state that,Customarily, the COAS Annual Conference will offer an avenue for reappraisal of the administrative affairs of the Nigerian Army, evaluate and comprehensively review ongoing operational engagements of the NA in all theatres of operations across the six geo-political zones within the year, among other key agenda. This will provide the NA an in-depth insight to take far reaching decisions that will be result oriented towards achieving its set objective of addressing the multifaceted security challenges in the country. 

The conference would also create an opportunity for the COAS to have a face to face interaction with all the General officers Commanding, field commanders and other senior officers to provide possible guidance on enhancing NA activities and operations.

Expectedly, Sunday 4 December 2022, will witness the arrival and registration of participants, while the conference will be declared open on Monday 5 December, 2022.The opening ceremony will feature a lecture titled “Proliferation of Regional/State Security Outfits in Nigeria: Challenges and Prospects” by Gen Martin Luther Agwai (retired), former Chief of Defence Staff.

On 6th December 2022, there shall be commissioning of various Nigerian Army Civil Military Cooperation projects in various communities in Sokoto State. Furthermore, the conference will review decisions taken at the Chief of Army Staff third quarter conference, while series of briefs and other updates bothering on various activities of the NA will be presented and deliberated upon from 7 to 8 December. The NA will also seize the opportunity to recognize and appreciate eminent Nigerians who have in no small measure supported the NA. On 9 December, the event will be wrapped up with a closing remark by the COAS Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya CFR. 

Suffice to say that, the NA has over the years demonstrated its capacity and zeal in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty against external aggression and giving aid to civil authority in mitigating internal security challenges in the country. This is further demonstrated in the purposeful leadership drive of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya (CFR) whose efforts have tremendously enhanced the capacity and dexterity of troops in the onslaughts against terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements in the country.

With his transformational and selfless leadership drive, troops have continued to decimate Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists in the North East, leading to the obliteration of terrorists high profile commanders, foot soldiers and their hideouts. This has led to mass surrendering of terrorists and their family members in droves. Troops have also maintained this feat, through their operational engagements in other theatres of operations in other parts of the country, with significant successes recorded. These feats would not have been achieved without the support and collaboration of law abiding Nigerians, sister services and other security agencies, the political leadership and the international community.

He however acknowledge that the fluidity of the threat situation requires dynamism to continually review our operational strategies. Hence, this conference offers a veritable platform to deliberate on ways and means through which the NA would continue to enhance national security. I, therefore, reiterate the commitment and resolve of NA troops to continue to discharge their duties professionally and proficiently within its constitutional mandate. We will also be resolute in upholding our values of courage, professionalism, sacrifice, respect, discipline and unflinching loyalty to duly constituted authority.

On this premise,the release stressed, I want to on behalf of the COAS Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya CFR appreciate the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari and indeed all Nigerians for their untiring support to the NA towards the pursuit of the restoration of peace and security to our great nation, Nigeria. Gentlemen of the Press, I acknowledged your partnership and continued cooperation with the NA in our quest to return peace to our dear Country.  Your Professionalism in carrying out your tasks as well as unbiased reportage has significantly enhanced our operations, Collectively, we shall actualize the desired peace.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The Chief of Army Staff Annual conference is billed to kicked start on 4th December,2022 at lnternational Conference Center Kasarawa ,Sokoto state.

This was contained in a press Statement signed by the Director of Army Public Relations Brigadier General Onyema Uwachukwu and made available to this medium in Jos.

 According to the press Statement, said In our resolve to keep you abreast of the activities and programmes of the Nigerian Army ,I will through this press statement intimate you on the activities lined up for the forthcoming Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference 2022 with the theme: “Building a Professional Nigerian Army for the 21st Century Security Environment”.

The event is expected to commence from 4 December and last till 10 December 2022 at the International Conference Centre, Kasarawa, Sokoto State.

The release further state that,Customarily, the COAS Annual Conference will offer an avenue for reappraisal of the administrative affairs of the Nigerian Army, evaluate and comprehensively review ongoing operational engagements of the NA in all theatres of operations across the six geo-political zones within the year, among other key agenda. This will provide the NA an in-depth insight to take far reaching decisions that will be result oriented towards achieving its set objective of addressing the multifaceted security challenges in the country. 

The conference would also create an opportunity for the COAS to have a face to face interaction with all the General officers Commanding, field commanders and other senior officers to provide possible guidance on enhancing NA activities and operations.

Expectedly, Sunday 4 December 2022, will witness the arrival and registration of participants, while the conference will be declared open on Monday 5 December, 2022.The opening ceremony will feature a lecture titled “Proliferation of Regional/State Security Outfits in Nigeria: Challenges and Prospects” by Gen Martin Luther Agwai (retired), former Chief of Defence Staff.

On 6th December 2022, there shall be commissioning of various Nigerian Army Civil Military Cooperation projects in various communities in Sokoto State. Furthermore, the conference will review decisions taken at the Chief of Army Staff third quarter conference, while series of briefs and other updates bothering on various activities of the NA will be presented and deliberated upon from 7 to 8 December. The NA will also seize the opportunity to recognize and appreciate eminent Nigerians who have in no small measure supported the NA. On 9 December, the event will be wrapped up with a closing remark by the COAS Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya CFR. 

Suffice to say that, the NA has over the years demonstrated its capacity and zeal in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty against external aggression and giving aid to civil authority in mitigating internal security challenges in the country. This is further demonstrated in the purposeful leadership drive of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya (CFR) whose efforts have tremendously enhanced the capacity and dexterity of troops in the onslaughts against terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements in the country.

With his transformational and selfless leadership drive, troops have continued to decimate Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists in the North East, leading to the obliteration of terrorists high profile commanders, foot soldiers and their hideouts. This has led to mass surrendering of terrorists and their family members in droves. Troops have also maintained this feat, through their operational engagements in other theatres of operations in other parts of the country, with significant successes recorded. These feats would not have been achieved without the support and collaboration of law abiding Nigerians, sister services and other security agencies, the political leadership and the international community.

He however acknowledge that the fluidity of the threat situation requires dynamism to continually review our operational strategies. Hence, this conference offers a veritable platform to deliberate on ways and means through which the NA would continue to enhance national security. I, therefore, reiterate the commitment and resolve of NA troops to continue to discharge their duties professionally and proficiently within its constitutional mandate. We will also be resolute in upholding our values of courage, professionalism, sacrifice, respect, discipline and unflinching loyalty to duly constituted authority.

On this premise,the release stressed, I want to on behalf of the COAS Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya CFR appreciate the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari and indeed all Nigerians for their untiring support to the NA towards the pursuit of the restoration of peace and security to our great nation, Nigeria. Gentlemen of the Press, I acknowledged your partnership and continued cooperation with the NA in our quest to return peace to our dear Country.  Your Professionalism in carrying out your tasks as well as unbiased reportage has significantly enhanced our operations, Collectively, we shall actualize the desired peace.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The Chief of Army Staff Annual conference is billed to kicked start on 4th December,2022 at lnternational Conference Center Kasarawa ,Sokoto state.

This was contained in a press Statement signed by the Director of Army Public Relations Brigadier General Onyema Uwachukwu and made available to this medium in Jos.

 According to the press Statement, said In our resolve to keep you abreast of the activities and programmes of the Nigerian Army ,I will through this press statement intimate you on the activities lined up for the forthcoming Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference 2022 with the theme: “Building a Professional Nigerian Army for the 21st Century Security Environment”.

The event is expected to commence from 4 December and last till 10 December 2022 at the International Conference Centre, Kasarawa, Sokoto State.

The release further state that,Customarily, the COAS Annual Conference will offer an avenue for reappraisal of the administrative affairs of the Nigerian Army, evaluate and comprehensively review ongoing operational engagements of the NA in all theatres of operations across the six geo-political zones within the year, among other key agenda. This will provide the NA an in-depth insight to take far reaching decisions that will be result oriented towards achieving its set objective of addressing the multifaceted security challenges in the country. 

The conference would also create an opportunity for the COAS to have a face to face interaction with all the General officers Commanding, field commanders and other senior officers to provide possible guidance on enhancing NA activities and operations.

Expectedly, Sunday 4 December 2022, will witness the arrival and registration of participants, while the conference will be declared open on Monday 5 December, 2022.The opening ceremony will feature a lecture titled “Proliferation of Regional/State Security Outfits in Nigeria: Challenges and Prospects” by Gen Martin Luther Agwai (retired), former Chief of Defence Staff.

On 6th December 2022, there shall be commissioning of various Nigerian Army Civil Military Cooperation projects in various communities in Sokoto State. Furthermore, the conference will review decisions taken at the Chief of Army Staff third quarter conference, while series of briefs and other updates bothering on various activities of the NA will be presented and deliberated upon from 7 to 8 December. The NA will also seize the opportunity to recognize and appreciate eminent Nigerians who have in no small measure supported the NA. On 9 December, the event will be wrapped up with a closing remark by the COAS Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya CFR. 

Suffice to say that, the NA has over the years demonstrated its capacity and zeal in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty against external aggression and giving aid to civil authority in mitigating internal security challenges in the country. This is further demonstrated in the purposeful leadership drive of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya (CFR) whose efforts have tremendously enhanced the capacity and dexterity of troops in the onslaughts against terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements in the country.

With his transformational and selfless leadership drive, troops have continued to decimate Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists in the North East, leading to the obliteration of terrorists high profile commanders, foot soldiers and their hideouts. This has led to mass surrendering of terrorists and their family members in droves. Troops have also maintained this feat, through their operational engagements in other theatres of operations in other parts of the country, with significant successes recorded. These feats would not have been achieved without the support and collaboration of law abiding Nigerians, sister services and other security agencies, the political leadership and the international community.

He however acknowledge that the fluidity of the threat situation requires dynamism to continually review our operational strategies. Hence, this conference offers a veritable platform to deliberate on ways and means through which the NA would continue to enhance national security. I, therefore, reiterate the commitment and resolve of NA troops to continue to discharge their duties professionally and proficiently within its constitutional mandate. We will also be resolute in upholding our values of courage, professionalism, sacrifice, respect, discipline and unflinching loyalty to duly constituted authority.

On this premise,the release stressed, I want to on behalf of the COAS Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya CFR appreciate the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari and indeed all Nigerians for their untiring support to the NA towards the pursuit of the restoration of peace and security to our great nation, Nigeria. Gentlemen of the Press, I acknowledged your partnership and continued cooperation with the NA in our quest to return peace to our dear Country.  Your Professionalism in carrying out your tasks as well as unbiased reportage has significantly enhanced our operations, Collectively, we shall actualize the desired peace.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The Chairman of Plateau State Correspondent Chapel who doubled as  Daily Sun Newspaper Correspondence in the state, Gyang Bere has emerged the First Prize winner of the 2022  Smile Train Media Award and Media engagement on National Surgical Obstetrics, Anaesthesia and Nursing Plan for Nigeria (NSOANP) and Cleft Care. 

Adenike Adebowale Tambe of Premium Times emerged Second Prize winner while Waliat Musa of Guardian Newspapers emerged the third winner Prize.

Vice President and Regional Director, Africa Smile Train, Mrs. Nkieruka Obi, who spoke at the event in Abuja, described the Awardees as critical media stakeholders of Smile Train who have worked assiduously in creating the needed awareness on Cleft Care in Nigeria.

She appreciated the media for adequate sensitization on Cleft Care and said Smile Train has sponsored surgical operations on several persons with cleft lip and palate following media awareness. 

Nigerian Society of Anaesthesiatists (NSA) in collaboration with world Federation of societies of Anaesthesiologist presented an Award of Excellence to Smile Train Nigeria for examplary leadership qualities, dedication, selflessness and meritorious services to the society, Mrs Obi noted that one is not necessarily born with courage but with potentials and said courage is needed to push for the attainment of one’s goals, said that is the typical example of NSOANP project.

“This is the 3rd fora we are having for Nigeria NSOANP implementation and stakeholders and Cleft Care, that even at the pick of COVID-19, this was being done and I can only attribute it to the level of commitment of everyone seated here, from the Federal Ministry of Health to the field officers to our partners and to the Smile Train team on ground.

“NSOANP implementation has become a flagship project coming out from Africa to the world and I am proud that Nigeria is taking the lead and I want to thank Prof. Emmanuel Emeh who insisted that the right thing must be done.

“When the NSOANP policy document was developed, we were just invited as casual stakeholders, when we got to that meeting in 2019 and we saw alot of opportunities and alot of potentials, we believe it was going to be something that will change the narrative of what Nigeria has offered the world and we decided to work together.

“I am proud to say that the Federal Ministry of Health has been super supportive, I have my own perception, with with the Ministry and I want to appreciate the Honourable Minister of health for taking the bold initiative to make things work.” She stated.

Fadekeme Oginni, Professor of Oral Maxillofacid of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), who presented the Award, commended Bere for working hard towards creating awareness on Cleft Care which assisted many victims to access free surgery.

She urged the Sun reporter to work more in creating awareness on Cleft Care as there are so many people who are battling with the condition that has no access to care.

Our Reporter

SaharaReporters learnt that violence is simmering as youths in Gombe State have accused President Muhammadu Buhari of deliberate plans to cede the Kolmani oil wells to Bauchi, instead of Gombe State.

The discovery of oil in two Nigerian northern states may have come with another gale of militancy if authorities fail to address the contentious issue of boundary around the oil site, between Bauchi and Gombe states.

SaharaReporters learnt that violence is simmering as youths in Gombe State have accused President Muhammadu Buhari of deliberate plans to cede the Kolmani oil wells to Bauchi, instead of Gombe State.

More so, there is controversy over the ownership of the Kolmani oil wells which is heightening to a point of tension, just over a week after President Buhari flagged off its exploration on the borderline between Bauchi and Gombe states.

The borderline communities on the divides have so far exchanged heated words over the ownership of the oil wells discovered around Kolmani area.

This comes despite assurances by both Bauchi and Gombe states governors; Bala Mohammed and Inuwa Yahaya that the communities should eschew violence.

Each community is now claiming exclusive ownership of the drilling sites.

President Muhammadu Buhari last week Tuesday flagged off the Kolmani Integrated Development Project along the Bauchi- Gombe border, the first of its kind in the zone.

Barrister Mohammed Abdullahi Inuwa, a lawyer based in Gombe, said “All the demarcated areas consisting of the drilled wells and wells yet to be drilled are parts of Gombe, that is Kolmani 2,3,4 and 5; all these areas are in Gombe, not Bauchi.”

“We are now speaking out because we learned that there are cover-ups; NNPC did so many things for Bauchi but nothing in Gombe. If the President says Kolmani is in Bauchi/Gombe, definitely he made a mistake and it is the conspiracy of NNPC,” he alleged.

However, Yusuf Mohammed Bako, a member representing Pali in the Bauchi State House of Assembly dismissed Inuwa’s claims in its entirety, saying, “The lawyer’s comment about Gombe’s exclusive ownership of the oil wells is a representation of ignorance and total disregard to history.

“It is confirmed that the place is not part of Gombe – it is historically part of Bauchi State. It is part of Alkaleri in Maimali district and all the villages surrounding the oil well are part of Alkaleri. Over 100 years ago, the traditional leaders of the area were answerable to Bauchi and pay their taxes to Bauchi.

“The President once invited the governors and officials of NNPC to London for an enduring resolution, which sources said informed official ground-breaking and both governors Bala Mohammed and Inuwa”, he said.

Bauchi State governor, Bala Mohammed had promised that “Bauchi would maintain a peaceful and harmonious environment to ensure that investors have the freedom to operate for the benefit of the two states.

“Oil discovery in Kolmani would not affect the relationship between Bauchi and Gombe states.”