Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has again pledged his administration’s commitment to enhancing collaboration between the Nigerian Army, the Plateau State Government, and community leaders to restore lasting peace in troubled areas within the state.
Governor Mutfwang stated this while receiving the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoheed Lagbaja, in Jos, following recent security concerns in parts of Mangu Local Government Area.
He assured continuous support for security personnel, affirming the administration’s dedication to boosting their morale and providing the necessary assistance for them to fulfill their constitutional mandate of maintaining law and order and restoring peace.
Governor Mutfwang expressed confidence in Lieutenant General Taoheed Lagbaja’s leadership capacity to address insecurity and criminal activities nationwide. He reiterated that security involves more than the mere presence of personnel and stressed the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders.
The Governor stated, “Restoring peace in areas affected by violence requires collaboration between the Army, the Government, and other security agencies. It cannot be left to the men in boots alone; we must work in tandem. Boosting the troops’ morale is one of the necessary actions we take from time to time.”
Governor Mutfwang condemned the recent security breach as needless and encouraged ongoing dialogue among community leaders, religious figures, and key stakeholders in rural communities.
Lieutenant General Taoheed Lagbaja expressed deep sympathy over the unfortunate incident and extended condolences to the affected families, injured individuals, and the Government and people of Plateau State.
He assured that the security personnel deployed to the state would impartially discharge their constitutional responsibility for the sake of peace and unity. He expressed the Army Headquarters’ readiness to address deployment gaps.
“The Army Headquarters has mobilized special forces from across the country to Plateau overnight, and I am here to give marching orders to the troops. Their mission on the Plateau is a serious one,” stated Lieutenant General Taoheed Lagbaja.
The Chief of Army Staff commended Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang for the proactive measures in addressing the situation and thanked him for the support provided to the troops. He pledged his commitment to working harmoniously with all stakeholders for sustainable peace in the state.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja has ordered joined troops of the 3 Division Nigerian Army and the Joint Task Force Operation Safe Haven to adopt more aggressive posture and decisively stamp out terrorists causing mayhem in Plateau and contiguous states.
Gen Lagbaja handed down the stern order today Saturday 27 January 2024, while addressing troops during an operational tour to Plateau, following a recent disruption of peace in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State. According to the Army Chief, “Go hard on those disturbing the peace of the Plateau and neutralize any terrorist annihilating people and burning or destroying property and other economic valuables”.
The COAS, who had earlier been briefed on the security situation by the General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander Operation Safe Haven, Major General Abdusalam Abubakar, acknowledged that the security dynamics on the Plateau are complex due to its political background, interwoven with cultural and economic sentiments. These he added, account for the prolonged duration of the conflicts and the escalation in its lethality.
Gen Lagbaja inspected the arms and ammunition recovered by the troops and commended them for not allowing the crisis to escalate to other parts of the state.
He assured that he is confident that the troops will be more resilient and leave no stone unturned in ensuring that peace and tranquility is restored on the Plateau and other troubled parts of the country.
The Army Boss therefore, charged the troops to live up to the expectations of all peace loving and law abiding residents of the Plateau, harping that trust is earned and the troops must do all within their means to maintain the trust of the people they are tasked to protect.
“Our Operations and activities must be in compliance with the rules of engagement and devoid of sentiments”, he emphasized.
He noted that he is aware of the difficulty and challenges confronted by the troops, as they legitimately carry out their duties, particularly, some of the weighty allegations being touted against them.
And clarified that though one cannot completely rule out the possibility of one or two cases of misconduct during operations, he guaranteed that the Nigerian Army and indeed the Armed Forces of Nigeria have an internal regulatory mechanism that does not permit considerations for ethnic and religious affiliations when deploying troops.
He urged the troops to remain disciplined, dutiful, responsive and responsible, adding however, that the full weight of the law will be brought down on any personnel found compromising.
Gen Lagbaja also paid a courtesy call on the Plateau State Governor Barr Caleb Mutfwang, where he expressed appreciation to the Government and good people of Plateau State for their effort in ensuring that peace reigns on the Plateau. He intimated that a marching order has been handed down to troops to sternly enforce law and order and to be decisive in tackling the security situation on the Plateau. He concluded that peace must reign on the Plateau and other troubled parts of the country.
Responding, the Plateau State Governor, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang disclosed that he had never doubted the capability of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies in delivering on their constitutional mandate.
Stressed that the civil populace has a role to play in enhancing security on the Plateau.
“As a government, we know that we have a responsibility to motivate them.The recent breach was totally avoidable and people must work harmoniously to regain peace and harmony,” Governor Mutfwang asserted.
The Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has relaxed the 24-hour curfew earlier imposed on Mangu Local Government Area of the state. The curfew is now to be observed from 4pm to 8:00am daily until further notice.
The review followed an improvement in the security situation in Mangu Local Government area, after strategic engagements with community leaders across faiths and ethnic groups within the council area.
The relaxation of the curfew in Mangu LGA imposed on the Community in the wake of security breach following genocide attack by same militias on the community is contained in a press statement dated 26th January 2024 signed by the Director of press and public affairs to the governor Gyang Bere and made available to this medium in Jos.
According to the statement, Governor Mutfwang said following remarkable improvement in the security situation and after due consultation with the State Security Council, the curfew has been relaxed.
However encouraged residence of Mangu Local Government Area to strictly observe the curfew and refrain from taking the law into their hands and urged security personnel to enforce the curfew to avoid breakdown of law and order.
Expressing gratitude for the cooperation received so far, Governor Mutfwang urged the community to maintain collaboration with security agencies to ensure the complete restoration of peace and order in the Local Government Area. He cautioned against complacency, emphasizing that the State Government remains resolute in preventing any act capable of disrupting public tranquility.
Governor Mutfwang encouraged citizens to actively contribute to the security efforts by providing credible intelligence to the relevant security agencies. He concluded that government is working round the clock to restore permanent peace in the State.
In an effort to halt the cycle of violence and restore enduring peace to communities affected by terrorist attacks, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang undertaken an assessment of the recent security breach in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Accompanied by heads of security agencies and key government officials, Governor Mutfwang toured the impacted communities, starting with Kwahaslalek, a village where numerous lives were lost, and Mangu metropolis, where homes and livelihoods were ravaged.
The Governor later paid a condolence visit to Mishkaham Mwaghavul, HRH Da John Putmang Hirse, at his Palace in Mangu. He expressed condolences to the bereaved families and the entire Mangu local government area, condemning the needless carnage.
He called for dialogue among community leaders to address divisive issues and prevent violence. Governor Mutfwang assured residents of government’s steadfast support. He emphasized the need for unity, urging the populace to resist individuals exploiting youths for personal gain.
“I want to assure the people of Mangu local government that the government of Plateau state will do all it can to ensure that external aggressors are kept away. We will also deal decisively with criminal elements among us. This is the time to preach forgiveness and unity,” Governor Mutfwang stated.
The Governor outlined government initiatives to combat drug-related criminal activities, and warned those profiting from the sale of drugs and narcotics. He pledged a strategic plan to tackle the menace of drug addiction in the state.
Responding to the Governor’s visit, HRH Da. John Hirse commended him for sympathizing with the affected people. He urged Governor Mutfwang to remain focused despite attempts to distract him, and emphasized the importance of dialogue in resolving conflicts.
Governor Mutfwang, after his assessment in Mangu, convened a meeting with stakeholders in Bokkos Local Government Area. He also visited Internally Displaced Persons who survived recent attacks, assuring them of the government’s commitment to facilitating their return home and fostering a speedy recovery.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists, Plateau State Council, has expressed deep concerns and sadness over the recurrence of unwarranted attacks and killings of innocent citizens in Mangu Local Government Area.
The Council commiserates with the people of Mangu, the government, and the people of Plateau State over these unfortunate incidents, which led to the loss of lives and destruction of property.
The Condemnation and commiseration is contained in a press statement dated 26th January 2024 signed by its Chairman Ayuku Pwaspo and the Secretary Mary Domtur and made available to this medium in Jos.
The statement further read that the State Council Of Nigeria Union Of Journalists(Nuj) is concerned that despite its reportage and programmes promoting interreligious dialogue and peaceful coexistence, the state is portrayed as a conflict zone, which puts it in a disadvantaged position globally.
However urged the federal and state governments to scale up efforts towards restoring peace in the affected areas through programmes and policies that provide good and inclusive governance for the growth and development of society.
Called on all security agencies to be professional and stick to the rules of engagement in the discharge of their duties of safeguarding the lives and property of citizens.
The Union advocates the need to strengthen the community policing architecture through Operation Rainbow to accelerate early warning and early response structures across communities in the state for prompt intervention to end the cycle of violence.
It urges traditional, community, and religious leaders to be sincere during peace dialogue forums to ensure resolutions reached are respected by parties in conflict aimed at bringing an end to the carnage.
The President of Church Of Christ in Nations Rev Dr. Amos Mohzo has decried the incessant genocidal attacks on some communities in plateau state that has claimed over 2,000 lives , prosperities destroyed and many families displayed.
The president of the church called on both State and Federal government as a matter of urgency to investigate those behind the incessant genocide attacks on defenseless communities of Mangu, Bokkos,Barkin Ladi and communities in the local Government with the view of bringing the Perpetrators of the hineous, Callous and unwarranted attacks to face the full wrath of the law.
The president of COCIN directives is contained in a press statement dated 25th January 2024 personally signed by him and made available to Journalists in Jos.
He further urgued both state and federal government to without delay provide humanitarian relief materials to Displayed Victims in separate Camps as their situation are pathetic without adequate facilities.
The statement which read in part,the president said chilling assault on the night of January 24, 2024, the peace-loving Christian community in Mangu Local Government Area fell victim to a reprehensible act of violence, leaving in its wake a trail of devastation.
Stressed that at the time of this release, the death toll has surged to a tragic 26, with the number rising steadily. The heart-wrenching aftermath includes incinerated homes, torched food barns, rampant looting, and a mass exodus of people, resulting in burgeoning Internally Displaced People’s camps in Mangu and Bokkos. Regrettably, the facilities in these camps are woefully inadequate to meet the pressing needs of the victims.
Our thoughts and condolences go out to all those who have lost loved ones, endured the destruction of their homes, and suffered immeasurable losses.
The Church of Christ in Nations stands in mourning solidarity with its members affected by this senseless violence. To those in pain, may you find solace in God’s grace, and be rest assured that our prayers are fervently aligned with yours during this trying time.
In the face of this unconscionable assault on innocent lives, I earnestly call upon the government to fulfil its constitutional duty of providing security to its citizens.
The unprovoked genocide against Christians in Bokkos and Ropp areas in December and now Mangu demands swift and resolute action.
The government must intensify its efforts to protect its people, and security operatives are implored to restore order and prevent further atrocities.
The persistent killings on the Plateau have endured for far too long without decisive government intervention to apprehend and prosecute the perpetrators.
We vehemently demand the arrest and prosecution of those responsible, ensuring that justice prevails and sending a resounding message that such heinous acts will not be tolerated.
In light of the staggering displacement of over 19,000 people in Bokkos and the fresh wave of displacement in Mangu, we urgently call upon the government and humanitarian agencies to provide immediate assistance.
The plight of these displaced communities necessitates urgent intervention for their resettlement in their ancestral villages. Time is of the essence, and proactive measures must be taken to alleviate the sufferings of these vulnerable populations.
Furthermore, we implore the government to empower the affected communities to establish robust vigilante groups for self-defence, granting them access to necessary resources to protect themselves.
The unprovoked massacres within the confines of people’s homes cannot be tolerated, and the government must act decisively to ensure the safety and security of its citizens.
We await a swift response from the government and the relevant authorities to end this nightmare and restore peace to the affected communities.
Operation SAFE HAVEN strongly condemns the violent attack and destruction of properties by youths in kerang communities. Not only did the community destroy and looted properties, but they also attacked Airforce Personnel enforcing the 24-hour curfew in Kerang Mangu, Plateau State.
We have successfully apprehended the perpetrators and seized a cache of dangerous weapons used in the attack.
The Condemnation of OPSH is contained in a press statement dated 25th January 2024 signed by the force Media and information Officer in plateau State Captain Oya James and made available to journalists in jos.
According to the statement, in a shocking act of aggression, the youth of Kerang Mangu launched an assault on our troops deployed to maintain peace and security during the curfew.
This attack, which included firing at the troops’ patrol vehicles, posed a significant threat to the safety of both the military personnel and the community at large.
During the subsequent operation to apprehend the attackers, the military successfully recovered a significant arsenal of weapons. The seized items include one AK-47 rifle, four locally fabricated automatic rifles, one locally made mortar bomb launcher, seven empty shells of 7.62mm, one empty shell of a cartridge, one pistol magazine, 36 Boris, three rounds of 7.62mm, and seven rounds of 9 x 19mm.
The Nigerian Military denounces this reckless and unlawful act of violence in the strongest possible terms. Such behavior not only endangers the lives of our dedicated troops but also undermines the peace and stability of the entire community. We are committed to upholding the rule of law and will not tolerate any attempts to disrupt the peace and security of the region.
We urge the peace loving people of Kerang and all citizens to refrain from engaging in acts of violence and to respect the authority of the state. The imposition of the 24-hour curfew was a necessary measure to safeguard the lives and property of all residents and it is essential that it be adhered to for the collective well-being of the community.
The military assures the people of Plateau State that every effort will be made to ensure the safety and security of all law-abiding citizens. We call for the cooperation of the community in providing information that may lead to the apprehension of any individuals involved in unlawful activities.
We remain committed to working in partnership with the people of Plateau State to foster a peaceful and secure environment for all. Thank you.
Not fewer than Ten Corpses has so far be recovered from bushes following renew genocidal attacks on Mangu local government Area of plateau state by persons suspected to be Fulani’s Militias ,as house and places of worship were razed down by setting them on fire.
As the police has arrested Eight suspects who allegedly participated in Christmas Eve attack as another Nine persons are currently in the custody of the police for their roles of aiding and abating in the attacks that had claimed not fewer than 3,000 persons, and many currently displaced now in the IDP, camp.
The renewed attacks on the communities of Mangu LG was revealed today Thursday 25th January 2024 during press briefing at the instance of the AIG Zones 4 Ebong Eyibio .
The AIG of police represented by the force spoke person plateau state police command, DSP Alfred Alabo said the command has successfully repelled an attack on villages in Mangu LGA of the State.
The statement which read in part said on the 24th January 2024 the command received intelligence concerning an attack which was targeted on the Ntam community and the ASTC Company, both of Mangu LGA.
Said teams of Police officers from the IGP Special Intervention Squad stationed at the ASTC in conjunction with the Area Commander Pankshin and the DPO swung into action and thwarted the attempted attack.
Stressed that in a separate incident, an attempt by some criminal arsonists in Panyam District to set fire on some worship centers was prevented by swift intervention from the police and with help from some elders of the Community.
Also in another development, to further strengthen the existing security architecture in Mangu LGA and ensure compliance with the curfew imposed by the government and prevent further escalation of the incidence which is almost snowboarding into an ethno religious crisis, I have ordered the deployment of additional Special Intervention personnel to Mangu LGA to be commended by the Area Commander, Pankshin, and restore normalcy in that area.
Add that the command is happy to inform you that the situation as at today 25th 2024 is under control and so far, Nine (9) suspects have been arrested. Exhibits recovered from them include dangerous weapons, such as machetes, kegs containing Petrol, and other items. The area remains highly secured by security forces and strict compliance to the curfew is being complied with.
Add that delegation from the Plateau State Government led by the Security Adviser to the Governor, heads of other security agencies, and leaders from both the Christian and Muslim communities, gathered at the Mangu Township Stadium and the Miskam Mwaghavul Palace in Mangu yesterday, 24th January, 2024 to deliberate and chart a way forward to put a stop to the menace.
However called on the leadership of both faiths to call their followers to order and ensure total compliance with the government-imposed curfew.
Although both warring parties have promised to comply in the interest of peace in their various communities.
Regrettably ,So far, over 10 corpses have been recovered from various locations, two injured persons currently receiving treatment at the hospital, one car and Ten houses were burnt down.
However the officers and men of Plateau State Police Command, commemorate with the government and good people of Mangu LGA over the loss of lives and properties as a result of these attacks.
Also make it clear to general public that the Command under his leadership and supervision will bear zero tolerance to any act of criminality, and will continue to intensify its efforts towards restoring peace, public confidence and normalcy within the State.
urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with the security agencies as we are working tirelessly to maintain peace and order in the affected areas.
By, giwa alex, Jos
Not fewer than Ten Corpses has so far be recovered from bushes following renew genocidal attacks on Mangu local government Area of plateau state by persons suspected to be Fulani’s Militias ,as house and places of worship were razed down by setting them on fire.
As the police has arrested Eight suspects who allegedly participated in Christmas Eve attack as another Nin persons are currently in the custody of the police aid and abating in the attacks that had claimed not fewer than 3000 persons, and many currently displaced now in the IDP, camp.
The renewed attacks on the communities of Mangu LG was revealed today Thursday 25th January 2024 during press briefing at the instance of the AIG Zones 4 Ebong Eyibio .
The AIG of police represented by the force spoke person plateau state police command, DSP Alfred Alabo said the command has successfully repelled an attack on villages in Mangu LGA of the State.
The statement which read in part said 24th January 2024 the command received intelligence concerning an attack which was targeted on the Ntam community and the ASTC Company, both of Mangu LGA.
Teams of Police officers from the IGP Special Intervention Squad stationed at the ASTC in conjunction with the Area Commander Pankshin and the DPO swung into action and thwarted the attempted attack.
Stressed that in a separate incident, an attempt by some criminal arsonists in Panyam District to set fire on some worship centers was prevented by swift intervention from the police and with help from some elders of the Community.
Also in another development, to further strengthen the existing security architecture in Mangu LGA and ensure compliance with the curfew imposed by the government and prevent further escalation of the incidence which is almost snowboarding into an ethno religious crisis, I have ordered the deployment of additional Special Intervention personnel to Mangu LGA to be commended by the Area Commander, Pankshin, and restore normalcy in that area.
Add that the command is happy to inform you that the situation as at today 25th 2024 is under control and so far, Nine (9) suspects have been arrested. Exhibits recovered from them include dangerous weapons, such as machetes, kegs containing Petrol, and other items. The area remains highly secured by security forces and strict compliance to the curfew is being complied with.
Add that delegation from the Plateau State Government led by the Security Adviser to the Governor, heads of other security agencies, and leaders from both the Christian and Muslim communities, gathered at the Mangu Township Stadium and the Miskam Mwaghavul Palace in Mangu yesterday, 24th January, 2024 to deliberate and chart a way forward to put a stop to the menace.
However called on the leadership of both faiths to call their followers to order and ensure total compliance with the government-imposed curfew.
Although both warring parties have promised to comply in the interest of peace in their various communities.
Regrettably ,So far, over 10 corpses have been recovered from various locations, two injured persons currently receiving treatment at the hospital, one car and Ten houses were burnt down.
However the officers and men of Plateau State Police Command, commemorate with the government and good people of Mangu LGA over the loss of lives and properties as a result of these attacks.
Also make it clear to general public that the Command under his leadership and supervision will bear zero tolerance to any act of criminality, and will continue to intensify its efforts towards restoring peace, public confidence and normalcy within the State.
urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with the security agencies as we are working tirelessly to maintain peace and order in the affected areas.
Plateau State Governor, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has strongly denounced the recent security breach that claimed numerous lives in Kwahaslalek community and various parts of Mangu Local Government Area. Expressing profound sorrow in a statement in Jos, Governor Mutfwang decried the escalating security challenges that resulted in the destruction of homes and livelihoods, by suspected hoodlums.
The Governor extended heartfelt condolences to the grieving families, the affected communities, and those injured in the unfortunate incidents. Governor Mutfwang further conveyed sympathy to the residents of Mangu Local Government Area and other affected communities, and urged them to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities for swift intervention.
However, he implored the communities involved to refrain from taking the law into their own hands, and restated the state government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the security of all citizens. He acknowledged the crucial role played by security agencies in restoring calm and called for continued collaboration between them and the government to provide maximum protection to all citizens.
In a stern warning, Governor Mutfwang asserted that his administration would not tolerate any further breakdown of law and order in any part of the state. He urged security agencies to intensify their efforts to guarantee absolute peace across the state.
While appealing for calm and patience from citizens of the state, Governor Mutfwang assured that the government is taking proactive measures to halt further destruction of lives and property.
The Nigeria Army has debunked the circulation of malicious video currently in circulation with the intention of spreading falsehood about Military Personnel.
The debunk of the malicious video is contained in a press statement dated 25th January 2024 signed by
Acting Director Defence Information Brigadier General Tukur Gusau and made available to journalists in Jos.
According to the statement,the military said the attention of the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has been drawn to a malicious video made by the Chairman Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Mangu Chapter, Reverend Timothy Daluk. The video has been circulating in the media, aiming to malign military personnel deployed to address the security challenges in the Mangu general area.
The video made baseless and untrue accusations, claiming that the military is biased and supports a particular group against others. We categorically state that these accusations hold no truth, are malicious and lack any reasonable foundation.
It is important to recall that on 23 January 2024, there was a breach of security in the Mangu municipal area, resulting in the Government of Plateau state declaring a 24-hour curfew. Troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN were reinforced in Mangu to enforce the curfew and bring the situation under control, thereby preventing its spread to other areas. The troops have carried out their duties professionally and in accordance with the rules of engagement. They have successfully arrested criminals involved in looting and burning of properties, as well as recovered weapons.
It is deeply disturbing that a religious leader, who is expected to demonstrate high levels of moral judgement and truthfulness, has resorted to spreading falsehoods about the military and its personnel. We want to reiterate that the military remains neutral, focused, professional and committed to its constitutional role of protecting the lives and property of law-abiding citizens. We will deal with anybody found disobeying the law, without bias or prejudice.
We therefore call upon the public to support the ongoing military operations aimed at decimating non-state actors operating in these troubled areas of the State. We will not be distracted by baseless accusations and remain steadfast in our commitment to restoring peace and security. We strongly caution individuals involved in making malicious comments against the military to cease from such acts. Henceforth, any person found spreading falsehoods will face constitutional redress, regardless of their status in society.
We sincerely appreciate the law-abiding citizens for their support and cooperation and assure the public of our unwavering dedication to preserving peace and security in the country. Thank you.
The immediate past Minister of Women Affairs Dame Pauline Tallen has taken her cry before God over the incessant genocidal attacks on plateau state and killing of not fewer than 2,000 innocent citizens of the state.
Prayed that God With his infinite Mercy will not allow the Perpetrators of the hineous, callous and unwarranted criminal attacks against the innocent people of the state go scout free by God , and must publicly be expose and brought to both human and God’s justice.
The former Deputy Governor of plateau state make the spiritual declaration in an interview with journalists during the grand commissioning of plateau Duncan Fertilizer company limited on the 24th January 2024 held at Larwin Heipang Barkin Ladi LGA, plateau state.
Tallen who was a guest at the historic occasion of the grand commissioning of Multi Billionaire Fertilizer Company in the state, lamented the constant attacks on some selected Communities in the state by Fulani’s Militias who did not wish the state well, but continue attacking to scare away the indigenous people from their ancestral Land so that they can possess it for their desperate economic and religious intentions.
She prayed for the restoration of peace on the plateau and exposed those blood thirsty Fulani’s Militias who want to claim the inheritance of Plateau State that was bequeathed to them by their forefather.
Thank God for the grand commissioning of Duncan Fertilizer Company in the state, applauded the brain behind the billionaires project , Godfrey Bawa for his vision, and for not allow the artificial insecurity been created by the enemy of state to scare him from sitting the project in the state that would provide employment for teeming youths of the state and by extension Nigeria at large.
She described him as one of the citizens of the state that has plateau at heart.
Stressed that the project is coming at a time when President Ahmed Tinubu is advocating for diversification from total dependency on crude oil as sole source of revenue earning for the nation.
However pray that the company will grow from strength to strength.
Bola Ahmed Tinubu led APC government has been challenged to leverage on science and technology education to help in boosting agricultural production for the country surging population to avoid acute shortage of food for teeming population in the nearest future.
This call for an urgent needs for APC led Federal Government to address the current skyrocketing agricultural price increases in the market ,and to provide employment for teeming youths currently in desperate search for white collar jobs that are difficult to come by.
The former Governor of Imo state and senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Owelle Rochas Okorocha handed down the advice during the Grand Commissioning of Plateau Duncan Fertilizer company limited 24th January 2024 held at Larwin Heipang Barkin Ladi Local Government of plateau state.
Okorocha who was the Chairman at the occasion said if there is anything the federal and APC government should focus more on, is agriculture especially given our ugly situations which our present circumstances brought to us as a nation, if we can emphasize more on agriculture and education , half of our problems will be solve.
He further adviced that the two key ministries this nation should focus on ,is food production, education and science and technology to help our agricultural production .
Commended the Chinese Nationals working in the company who takes the risk of going to the nook and crannies of the nation to help in developing the country.
Applauded the brain behind the project Dr. Godfrey Bawa Shitgurum for his foresight, stressed that what he has done is highly remarkable because one of the key success of live in Nigeria today is how to feed the increasing populations due to the raising of food items in the market.
Further add that there are numerous lucrative businesses which Duncan groups of company would have choose to establish which would have fetch more profit, like Disco Club and Hotel business, but decides to help his people, said is not just an investment, but a Philanthropist without cost of return.
One time presidential aspirant Okorocha thank the people of Heipang communities for allowing Duncan to invest on their community, but urged them not to see the investment as the property of Duncan, but see it as their investment because the community will be considered when it came to employment opportunities.
However appeal to Duncan groups of company to consider him during employment into the company and spear him 30 percent slot for the former graduate of Okorocha Education Foundation in the state.
Among the dignitaries who grazed the occasion includes , Governor of Plateau State, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, represented by commissioner of agriculture, former Minister of women Affairs Dame Pollen Tallen, chairmen of local government traditional rules and host of others.
High point of the event is official grand Commissioning of Duncan Fertilizer Company.
The crisis that engulfed the plateau state House of Assembly following Supreme Court Victory on issue of Structure, Nomination and Sponsorship by the People Democratic Party PDP which Appeal Court has earlier ruled in favor of APC and sacked all members of PDP lawmakers in the state house of assembly ,the situation is getting Messier with 32 members members are currently Jostling for the only 16 purported existing positions in the house.
This as the leadership of the house in the state said his hands are tight because there is new development of court injunction restraining him the speaker to swear in members that where issued fresh certificate of return by INEC mostly from APC after sacking PDP members on flimsy legal excuses of structure, nomination and sponsorship.
In an interview with journalists the speaker of the State House of Assembly Hon.Gabriel Dawan Representing Pankshin North in the house on the platform of YPP, at the old government house where the members are currently sitting due to on going renovations at the Assembly Complex, said the hands of the Lawmakers are presently tight because the house received order from the court restraining the leadership of the State House of Assembly to restrain from any activities concerning the house pending the determination of the court.
In his words, as you all are aware, the state house of Assembly had been on break , but to resume plenary business today 23rd January 2024.
We were so refreshed from the recess believing that God Almighty will take over the proceeding being the beginning of the year.
The house was taken aback when it was greeted with court process restraining it to embarked on any legislative activities involving the swearing in of the purported New members from the Court of Appeal judgement pending the determination of the court.
He said as it stance now, there is little or nothing the house and it leadership would do about the new development , because it has become the issue of interpretation of law which is going to be that is only the court that have the Jurisdiction to entertain to the matter who the rightful owner of the 16 seats being contest in the House, till the court made pronouncement , nothing the house can do about it.
In another separate interview with honorable Ishaku Maren,former Majority Members Representing Bokkos State Constituency, on behalf of the 16 House Members of PDP sacked by the Appeal court, said members are satisfied with the position taken by the leadership of the House because we suppose to led by example as Lawmakers not lawbreakers.
As you can see, we coordinate ourselves , we are harmonious in our approach , as against the backdrop, we agreed with the speaker to suspend all the house activities pending the determination of the court order he maintained.
On what is the next step forward, Maren said it is legal issue and should be left to the judiciary to deal with it legally because any contrary step will amount to disobedient to court order.
Sequel to resumption of coordinated attacks on mangu Local Government by some people suspected to be Fulani Militias,the Plateau State Governor Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has imposed 24 hour curfew on Mangu Local Government Area of the state with immediate effect, following the deteriorating security situation in the area.
The Governor imposition of curfew is contained in a press statement dated 23rd January, 2024 signed by the Director of press and Public Affairs to the governor of Plateau State Gyang Bere and made available to Journalists in jos.
Governor Mutfwang took the decision after consultations with the relevant security agencies. He stated that only persons on essential duties are allowed to move within the Local Government area until further notice.
He urged all citizens, especially residents of Mangu Local Government area, to comply with the directive and assist the security personnel by providing reliable information to restore peace and order in the area.
He lamented that some people are still determined to create an atmosphere of insecurity in the state, despite the government’s efforts to end the activities of terrorist elements.
He expressed his sympathy to the families of the victims and the injured, and assured them that the government will not relent in ensuring lasting peace in the state. He promised that the curfew will be reviewed as soon as the security situation improves.
Palpable crisis may just be brewing at Plateau State House of Assembly as 16 members of the Internally Displaced Members of the house by the unfortunate judgement of court of Appeal, are about to storm the Assembly complex to resume normal Plenary on Tuesday 23rd January 2024.
The 16 members on the platform of People Democratic Party PDP, where the ones where unilaterally removed from their offices as members of lawmakers by the Appeal Court Tribunal on grounds of Nomination, Structure and sponsorship which however over ruled by the Supreme Court in the case between Barrister Caleb Mutfwang of PDP, Vs Nentawe Yilwada in the Governorship election tribunal.
Speaking to Journalists on Monday 22nd January 2024, the aggrieved members said the grounds which their removal was anchored in the first place by the court of Appeal, Structure, Nomination and Sponsorship have been dismantled by the Supreme court which is the Apex court in Nigeria, as against these backdrop, their removal by the Appeal Court is non and Void of no effect .
The 16 embattled members use the briefing to send Stern warning to the illegal APC members to stay clear from the Assembly complex because they didn’t have any business there or have themselves to blame over meddlesome interloper.
Speaking with newsmen Monday in Jos, the PDP members warned their All Progressives Congress (APC) not to go near the House of Assembly because the Supreme Court by its pronouncement had invalidated the judgment of the Court of Appeal, which sacked them.
The spokesman of the 16 members, Ishaku Maren, said the Supreme Court had revalidated their ejection, which was wrongly taken away from them by the Appellate court.
Maren, who was flanked by other 15 members, said that as law abiding citizens, they are ready to resume work to represent the people that duly elected them.
He said, “As you can see the 16 PDP members, the Plateau State House of Assembly, all here to address the press regarding our resumption to duty tomorrow because our recess will be ending today ( Monday ), and by tomorrow,( Tuesday)we are resuming walking in earnest and we are confident to address the press by informing the general public that my members that is PDP family members in the State Assembly are in high spirits and are willing and ready to go back and continue with our constitutional duty willingly given to us by the electorates. So we are all ready for the resumption of work tomorrow.
They added that “You might be aware that while were on recess, there were two Judgments that were passed regarding the status of state House of Assembly and Plateau State as a whole.”
The first one was that given by the Court of Appeal, where they said that one cannot put something on nothing; that PDP in Plateau state has no structure and it was on that premise to that they sacked all the 16 PDP members and low and behold as we were on recess a superior court gave its own verdict regarding the same issue and in the judgment of the Supreme Court they said that the judgment that was brought before the Court of Appeal in its entirety was fraudulent and because of that the Court of Appeal lacked even the jurisdiction to entertain the entire matter.
“By that it shows that we are also referring to the same judgment that one cannot build something on nothing.”
They advised the governor not to interfere because they’re going to resist all pressure.
“The Court of Appeal members are deceiving themselves that they are coming to the house tomorrow to resume work but I’m confident to tell you that we are a product of democracy.
“We are validly elected by the majority of votes that were cast in our various respective constituencies and our constituents are willing and ready to accompany us citizens tomorrow because they voted for us and they are not ready to compromise that and that is why they are seeing us to the state Assembly tomorrow.”CommentLikeYou can also reply to this email to leave a comment.
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