Plateau State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Stakeholders have unanimously, pass a vote of confidence on Governor Simon Bako Lalong, over his good leadership on the Plateau and his pursuit for peace and security.
The Stakeholders also unanimously condemned the recent attacks in various areas of Bassa, Jos North, Jos South, Riyom, Mangu and Barkin Ladi Local Government where lives were lost and properties destroyed.
REALITY gathered that, the meeting held at the Victoria Gowon Hall, Government House Rayfield Jos was presided over by the acting Chairman of the APC, Hon. Enock Fanmak.
According to a press release signed by, Dr. Makut Simon Macham, the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State, dated 31st August, 2021, “the meeting condemned the recent attacks describing them as callous, unwarranted and barbaric”.
They said this has caused untold hardship to the people of the affected areas and the entire State especially, “when curfew was imposed on three Local Government Areas”.
The release added that, “While commiserating with the effected families, the APC stakeholders appealed to all citizens of Plateau State to rally round the Government and also encourage the Governor and security agencies to continue to work hard in arresting criminals and bringing them to justice.
“They expressed disappointment over the attempt by some politicians in the State, as well as, other interests outside to fuel the crises in a bit to make personal gains from it. This they said amounted to a great disservice to the people of the State who want to live in peace and enjoy their lives”.
Governor Lalong, while addressing the party faithful, thanked them for their support and loyalty, which he said was a major source of encouragement for the Government during this trying moment.
GOV. LALONG
He said the Government has taken measures to beef up security, follow up on dialogue, reconciliation and forgiveness, as well as make sure that those arrested for the attacks are prosecuted to serve as deterrence.
Thereafter, the party went into a closed door session to discuss other party issues relating to the Local Government congresses coming up soon.
The meeting came up with various resolutions towards holding peaceful Local Government congresses and resolving all differences arising from the exercise.
The stakeholders also passed a vote of confidence on Governor Simon Bako Lalong for good leadership on the Plateau and his pursuit for peace and security. They commended the Governor for his doggedness in handling the recent security situation and restoring normalcy.
The Motion was moved by Majority Leader of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Naanlong Daniel and seconded by Hon. Philip Dasun, House Committee on Information.
Former Minister of Aviation Chief Femi Fani Kayode says Governor Simon Bako Lalong of Plateau State is an example of tolerance, peace, unity and forgiveness, but he must put in efforts to fishout the Assailants killing and destroying.
He said the inclusive leadership style of Governor Lalong has set him apart, as a national icon.
Chief Fani Kayode, who was in Plateau State to condole with the Government and people, over the recent happenings, which led to a breach of peace that has been cultivated by Governor Lalong over the last six years said, “Plateau State is a melting point of the nation, whose history of accommodation, tolerance hospitality and serenity is globally recognized”.
According to a Plateau State Government press statement signed by, Dr. Makut Simon Macham, the Director of Press and Public Affairs to Governor Lalong, dated 31st August, 2021, the former Minister said, the recent attacks by criminals must not be allowed to give the impression of hostility between people of Plateau State, who have dwelt together in peace, despite religious and ethnic peculiarities. They are therefore not in any battle with one another, but facing instigation from influencers outside the State.
“Fani Kayode, blamed the attacks on foreign assailants, who are not only attacking Plateau State, but other parts of the country as well. He said they must be fished out and dealt with in order to stop them from destroying the nation”. The statement stated.
Fani Kayode, encouraged Governor Lalong to continue with his efforts to promote peaceful coexistence and also deal with criminals, who are killing and maiming innocent people.
Governor Lalong in his response said he was delighted with the visit of Chief Fani Kayode, who has been going round the country preaching peace, unity and reconciliation.
He reaffirmed his determination to continue to run an inclusive Government that takes care of the interests of all citizens no matter their backgrounds. This he said is what gave the State its fame and fortune over the years and gave it the recognition as the home for all.
The Governor appreciated all Nigerians that have expressed solidarity with the State during this trying moment and also condemned the narratives that seemed to fuel anger, tensions, reprisals and instability.
He said, “Despite this development, the State remains the destination of choice for many people from within and outside the country, as it still embraces diversity and goodwill”.
The Executive Governor’s of Edo state, Godwin Obaseki, that of Oyo state, Seyi Makinde and that of Abia state, Okezie Ikpeazu have assured the Governorship candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the fourth coming 6th November, Anambra Guber election, Mr. Valentine Ozigbo that, “he will emerge victorious”.
The three Governors in their separate speeches, at the launch of PDP E-registration, held at Awka, the Anambra state capital said the party would “reclaim its rightful position”.
Chairman PDP Committee on E-registration and the Governor of Edo state, Mr. Godwin Obaseki before the official lunching, while addressing party faithful said, “This is the first state we are lunching this movement. PDP is the only party in Nigeria. Other parties are ‘special purpose vehicle for election. With what the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is doing now, it will be difficult to rig an election”.
Obaseki, challenged party leaders, executives and ward heads to stand up to the task and deliver PDP.
Outlining the areas the Federal Government has failed, the number one citizen of Edo state insisted that PDP is the only saving grace not just to Ndi-Anambra, but to the entire nation.
The Governor of Oyo state, Seyi Makinde, in his address assured Valentine Ozigbo that, the entire South West are solidly behind him.
“Do not be afraid. PDP will be victorious. I am here to tell you that, we can win the governorship seat, don’t be discouraged. Expect me during your election”. Seyi Makinde, encouraged.
The Governor of Abia state, Okezie Ikpeazu, while speaking to PDP members said, “We must all start to demonstrate that, our destiny is in our hands. If we all do our responsibilities, victory is sure, but if we fail to take the bull by the horn, we will fail. This is a clarion call. We have the numbers and if we all come out em mass and register, Anambra will be ours”.
PDP’s Vice-Presidential candidate, at the 2019 general election and the former governor of Anambra state, Mr. Peter Obi in a vote of thanks emphasized that, PDP is fully ready.
He assured party faithful that, Ozigbo is the next governor of Anambra state.
Obi admitted that, the contest would not be an easy battle, but that he is optimistic that PDP would be victorious at the end of the day.
He said, “I assure you all that we are prepared. Go back to your wards and LGA’s and do the needful. No party is more prepared then PDP. Our party Governor’s and Senators are behind us”.
Head of PDP campaign in the fourth coming Guber election in Anambra state, Sen. Uche Ekwunife, earlier in her welcome address, urged all PDP faithful to be one.
She said, “We can only succeed as a family. United we stand, divided we fall. See yourself as the candidate of this election. The only way you can do that is to make sure we assume the position of authority. Contribute to the growth of the party. We have many challenges but they are surmountable”.
Anambra state PDP Governorship candidate in his remark expressed Joy for the support he has received so far, both from national and state level. He called on PDP faithful to continue to support him stating that he would never disappoint them.
The highlight of the event was Governor Okezie Ikpeazu officially presenting the E-registration cards to Mr. Peter Obi and Valentine Ozigbo.
The seat of the Speaker in the Plateau State House of Assembly (PLHA) is a jinx that has a Two-Year Tenure.
All Speakers to the seat have always emerged in line with the political interest of the Executive Arm. Precisely, the Governor. It therefore means that, the struggle of the incumbent Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abok Nuhu Ayuba, to remain in office is never different.
The story of the House, right from the days of, Prof. Dakum Shun, to Simon Bako Lalong and Peter Azi, have not been different. They were always in political battle to save their positions after two years on the saddle.
However, the major difference in the current struggle for, Hon. Rt. Hon. Abok Nuhu Ayuba, the Speaker of the Assembly is that he is realizing the “REALITY”, too late.
He has constantly alleged to the hearing of many in the political circle that, nobody can remove him from office since he has the support and ears of the Governor, Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong.
He has also said, nobody can remove those he has appointed except he is no longer the Speaker of the Assembly.
Even when reports have it that, some of his appointee do not meet the requirements to be appointed into certain offices, he grilled at the reporters with threats.
He also did not feel it was necessary to check the overheads allocated to the offices of his appointee, as he has the backing of the State Government and that of the Governor, as the number Three (3) Man in the state.
Rt. Hon. Abok Nuhu Ayuba, is selective in giving or granting access to media practitioners to see him, both officially and privately.
It is in the reign of the incumbent Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abok Nuhu Ayuba that, Journalists are more restricted to the Plateau State House of Assembly, as several motions have been moved to gag the media practitioners or limit them in the press gallery.
It is therefore surprising that, he has his tail between his legs now that the political pressure to ease him out of his office has began allegedly.
Funnily, he has chosen to come out to tell his story alongside that of his colleagues, on Channels TV when he alleged that the House was under lock and key in a bid to remove him from office.
Although the Executive arm through the office of the Commissioner of Information and Communication has come out strongly to deny the allegations made by Hon. Abok, the fact that the Lawmakers are on recess speaks volume concerning his allegation.
Secondly, the members were nowhere near the House, as at yesterday. So, the presence of the protesters, at the House who were carrying already made and designed placards, calls for investigation as to the person(s) that may have mobilized them to the venue.
The issues therefore left for determination are whether the Governor is not right to remove him now, as he constantly speaks of?
Is it that, the Governor has now been able to investigate the operation of his office and the Speaker is only telling the world a half truth?
Can the Speaker at this time, tell the world that, this is the first attack and killings in Plateau State and that is why the House is reacting or that he has a personal interest.
Can he also allow the world determine, if his silence in the face of the attacks on his colleague, who alleged that, the Plateau state Governor was allegedly sleeping when they paid him a courtesy call over the killings and arson in Jebu Bassa in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State, as a conspiracy against his colleague?
It is time the Speaker speaks and tells his story to the local media, who understand the environment where he operates first, before launching his grievances to the national and international level to curry sympathy.
It is no news reminding the Speaker of the praises showered on the Plateau State Governor by him, during Speakers Conference, which calls on him to explain what may have changed.
Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa state has dissolved the State Executive Council.
Governor Sule announced the dissolution at a special Executive Council meeting, held at the Government House, on Monday, 30th August, 2021.
He also announced the dissolution of his, Special Advisers and Senior Special Assistants, except for those manning humanitarian services and sustainable development goals.
The Governor thanked the appointees for their commitment and services rendered to the administration, stressing that, his administration would continue to count on their support in the future.
Speaking on behalf of the former appointees, Associate Professor Abdukarim Abubakar, who until now was the state Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, thanked the Governor for giving them the opportunity to serve the state and his administration.
Professor Kana, assured the Governor of their continued support ahead of the 2023 general election.
Stakeholders in Jos North Local government Area of Plateau state have assured Governor Simon Bako Lalong, in a meeting held at government House Rayfield that, they would increase surveillance within their communities to fish out those instigating the crises in the LGA, as well as, the perpetrators in order to maintain peace”.
THE MEETING
They also used the opportunity to warn those fueling the situation in Jos North through provocative statements to desist, as they would no longer watch and see people from outside the State instigating violence, while they bear the brunt.
Facts are that, hours after relaxing the 24-hour curfew imposed on Jos North Local Government Area (LGA), Plateau State Governor, Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong has been holding several meetings with stakeholders from the area to consolidate on efforts to sustain peace in the LGA.
GOV. LALONG
According to a Government press statement which captured one of the meetings, signed by Dr. Makut Simon Macham, the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State, dated 30th August 2021, Governor Lalong, while addressing the stakeholders, said the recent attacks in Jos North Local Government Area are very disturbing and have brought back sour memories that, have been almost forgotten.
He thanked the stakeholders for their roles in calming the tension, as well as, assisting security agencies to bring the situation under control. However, he told them that, “there must be deliberate efforts to ensure that there is no more violence”.
The Governor said his administration has done a lot to improve security in the State in the last six years through various avenues including, the Peace Building Agency. He asked them to take control of their areas as Government would not allow the breakdown of law and order under any guise.
Lalong regretted that, “the Government has been forced to use curfew as a last resort, but this can be avoided through dialogue and continuous engagement”.
He also assured them that, he would continue to uphold justice and fairness, which is the bedrock for peace”.
Earlier, according to the statement, the stakeholders had, expressed dismay over the recent attacks that led to loss of lives and properties leading to the imposition of curfews.
They said, most of the crises are pure criminality that, are usually exploited using politics, religion and ethnicity to the point of escalation.
According to them, “the time has come for all well meaning citizens of Jos North to come together and fish out criminals among them to be punished”.
The stakeholders assured the Governor that, “they will increase surveillance within their communities to fish out those instigating the crises as well as perpetrators in order to maintain peace”.
They also warned those fueling the situation in Jos North through provocative statements to desist as, “they would no longer watch and see people from outside the State instigating violence, while they bear the brunt”.
The efforts of Governor Lalong in restoring peace in Plateau State, over the past six years was also commended by the stakeholders situating their observations to the facts that, “there has been more engagement, empowerment of security agencies, equity and fair representation, and efforts to boost economic growth”.
Drug and substance abuse, fake news and hate speech were also raised as some of the most disturbing issues that are heightening tensions unnecessarily, which the Government must rise up to address.
More relief matters have began to enter Plateau state for the benefit of attack victims.
This REALITY gathered is as a follow-up to the broadcast made by the Plateau State Governor, Simon Bako Lalong in which he promised that “places affected by recent attacks in the state will be presented palliatives”.
Many, who were surprised by this action have applauded the Governor for, “matching words with action”, as the State Deputy Governor, Professor Sonni Gwanle Tyoden, today, led a high powered government delegation to deliver relief materials to survivors of the attacks”.
According to a Plateau State Government press release this evening, signed by Doman Wetkum, CPS to the Deputy Governor, Plateau State, dated 30th August, 2021, and made available to REALITY through the office of the Director of Press and Public Affair to Governor Lalong, Dr. S. Makut, the first port of call by the delegation was Yelwa Zangam in Jos North Local Government Area were scores loss their lives following last week’s attack on the community.
The release stated that, “The Deputy Governor, while presenting the relief materials to the survivors appealed to them to remain calm as government will do everything possible to ensure that they are well catered for”.
Professor Sonni Tyoden at Maingo
The delegation also paid a similar visit to the Brra Ngwe Rigwe, Reverend Ronku Aka at Miango, where Professor Sonni Tyoden sympathized with the Paramount Ruler over the recent attacks in the locality.
He noted that the Governor, Simon Bako Lalong is passionate about peace in the state, stressing that, “perpetrators of the dastardly act will be brought to book”.
Also, relief materials were also presented for onward distribution to those affected. The relief materials include, bags of rice, maize, cattons of indomie, Milk, toiletries among others.
There are strong indications that, most elders in Plateau State are on the run for castigating members of the State House of Assembly, for serving the Plateau State Governor, Simon Bako Lalong, with demands of the people of the state, over the unabated attacks and killings and the urgent steps expected of the Governor to take.
From an earlier briefing of the members of the State Assembly, the Governor of Plateau State is already given a 14 days ultimatum, to meet the demands or face an impeachment process.
However, REALITY just gathers that, youths in most local governments of the state have become infuriated by the stands of some self styled elder, who came out to shun and rebuke the members of the State Assembly.
The paper also gathered that, yesterday 30th August, 2021, would have been a black day, as some youths made move to lighting up the houses of some of these alleged elders, if not for the prompt intervention of security agents, who surfaced at the nick of time.
Some youths in Pankshin Local Government Area of Plateau State, you would recall in a rejoinder to the purported position of some elders, had come with insults as they described the elders as, “The Group” and have instructively ask them to publish their names, if they are not faceless.
According to their statement, while rejecting the said elders, the youths stated that, “The purported Elders and stakeholders of Pankshin LGA, Which will subsequently be referred to as “The Group”, claimed to be stakeholders and Elders of Pankshin LGA, This is flat-out incorrect, we challenge the group to publish names of everyone present in the purported meeting.
“To the best of our understanding, this is a group of political stooges, who are just displaying their level of ignorance on the true state of Plateau State and singing the songs of the Governor in a bid to secure the state Government’s sympathy in 2023 and also to protect their selfish Agenda.
“The Group claimed to sympathize, with the innocent people massacred within the Northern part of the State. It is on record that, the so-called Stakeholders and Elders of Pankshin, have not even for once by way of conduct or actions commiserate with the People of Bassa, Jos North, Barkin Ladi, Riyom ETC, before now.
“It begs the question what is the secret behind this fire brigade political approach? Or maybe, they have suddenly regained consciousness and are awake from their slumber”.
READ THE FULL TEXT BELOW:-
A REJOINDER TO THE PURPORTED WORLD PRESS CONFERENCE BY ELDERS AND STAKEHOLDERS OF PANKSHIN LGA IN RESPONSE TO THE PLATEAU STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY PRESS RELEASE.DATED SATURDAY 28TH AUGUST,2021.
The purported Elders and stakeholders of Pankshin LGA, Which will subsequently be referred to as The Group, claimed to be stakeholders and Elders of Pankshin LGA, This is flat-out incorrect, we challenge the group to publish names of everyone present in the purported meeting, to the best of our understanding this is a group of political stooges who are just displaying their level of ignorance on the true state of Plateau State and singing the songs of the Governor in a bid to secure the state Government sympathy in 2023 and also to protect their selfish Agenda.
The Group claimed to Sympathize with the innocent people massacred within the Northern part of the State: it is on record that the so-called Stakeholders and Elders of Pankshin have not even for once by way of conduct or actions commiserate with the People of Bassa, Jos North, Barkin Ladi, Riyom ETC, before now. It begs the question what is the secret behind this fire brigade political approach? Or maybe they have suddenly regained consciousness and are awake from their slumber.
3. The Group commended the Governor and security agencies on the Plateau for efforts made so far in curtailing the escalation of the Crisis, By this, the group have been betrayed by their obvious ignorance regarding the actual state and plight of people in the affected communities, it is on record that the Governor has not visited any of the epic center that was recently attacked and best he went to the hospital and other places which are safe heaven compare to what is happening in the affected communities, He did not attend the Burial and no high power delegation as Representative was sent as we saw in the case of the deputy Governor Sonni Tyoden escorted the Ondo indigenes to their State, while the Governor was on official assignment in Kano dinning with Buhari and other political Giants. While a Dusk to Dawn Curfew was imposed which has been the best strategy of the government and which has proven not to be the best strategy as people are still massacre in the most brutal and inhumane manner anyone can think of during Same curfew Hours.
The Group also praised the Governor who they claimed has tried exceedingly well, in the last six years to ensure that Plateau State enjoys Peace and stability, despite limited funds: the recent Happenings in the State do not represent these witless claims as it is on record that the Governor of Plateau State has under performing in terms of security if past and current statistics of casualties are anything to go by, as it only shows the recklessness, irresponsibility and Nonchalant attitude of the APC led government; the constant attacks on Bassa, Jos North and other parts of the states shows. That the Governor is helpless and has run short of ideas. He has indeed under performed.
The Group in a bid to Satisfy the Government of the day, Tend to discredit the ever-powerful, well articulated, and people-oriented World Press Conference on the state of insecurity on the Plateau by our Pro people and unintimidated House of Assembly which if properly evaluated with the lenses of Truth, equity and good conscience encapsulated the concerns of the good people of Plateau State and the dejected Masses in the villages, as it was devoid of any partisan, Tribal or religious connotations.
As a body of conscious people who believe in Posterity we humbly subscribe to the following:
That the House of Assembly under the stewardship of Rt. Hon. Abok recognized it’s a constitutional obligation to the people and as such cannot sit and watch the barbaric and continuous killing of her people without taking necessary parliamentary Actions as a responsible Arm of Government.
That the House of Assembly as an establishment of government and the umbrella that house All Plateau people through honorable members are saddle with the responsibility of not just making laws but ensuring its implementations as such the actions of the House of Assembly is not out of place as it conforms to the sacred obligation of government to protect life and property.
That the 2weeks Ultimatum given to the Governor is the step in the right direction, we appeal that it shouldn’t be compromised and failure of the executive to comply with the ultimatum should be visited with stiff rejection from the House of Assembly by way of putting words into action, the constitutional power to impeach the Governor should be enforced.
We want to commend our legislators representing us. The Plateau State House of Assembly, namely, Hon. Philip Peter Dasun, Pankshin North, and Hon.Henry Longs, Pankshin South, for taking the bold step of taking the Bull by the Horn and standing with the Oppress People at a time where posterity and history are watching. but just like Oliver Twist “we are asking for More legislative actions”.
We the Youths fully associate ourselves with the unbiased and nonpartisan decision of our members and we stand on the unshakable pillars of solidarity with the House of Assembly, that as an independent arm of Government they must continue to discharge their parliamentary responsibilities without fear or favor.
We the youths and ordinary stakeholders of Pankshin L.G.A. reject in totality the ill and anti-people world conference drafted by some misguided political elements parading themselves as Elders and stakeholders of Pankshin LGA. Who is standing with the oppressor of the people just to gain cheap political scores, indeed a fool at 50 is a fool forever! The Press Release did not in any way reflect the Wisdom, Incorruptible, Astute, and God-fearing ELDERS AND STAKEHOLDERS of our beloved Local Government. On this note, we declare them Persona Non-Grata S, As Albert Einstein Says ” whoever is careless with the truth in small matters cannot be trusted in important affairs'”. Knowing fully well that one of the signatories is an Aspirant for the position of senate 2023! We shall remind you, keep fraternizing with the oppressors.
Lastly, we plead to all patriotic citizens of Plateau State and Pankshin LGA to stand in solidarity and Unity with the House of Assembly as Martin Luther King Jr. will say, “We must learn to live together as brothers or we will perish together as fools”.
Solidarity Forever! Solidarity Forever! Solidarity Forever! Just like El Dorado Plateau State will rise like the Day and From the Ashes of Yesterday, We Shall Build a new Plateau of our Dreams… APOLOGIES TO Baba Paul Gindiri! J.D. Gomwalk! Solomon Lar.
The Plateau State Governments says its attention has been drawn to allegations made by the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abok Nuhu Ayuba, who appeared on Channels TV programme, this morning, Monday, 30th August 2021, claiming that the Assembly Complex has been sealed.
Despite the facts that the allegations of the Speaker has gone virile, the State Government in a press statement signed by, Hon. Dan Manjang, the Commissioner for Information and Communication, dated 30th August, 2021 said, “it wish to make it abundantly clear that, the Executive Arm of Government and the Governor is not aware or behind the purported sealing of the House, as it does not dabble into the affairs of another independent arm of Government”.
The Press text in part reads: “The attention of the Plateau State Government has been drawn to allegations made by the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abok Nuhu Ayuba, who appeared on Channels TV programme on Monday 30th August claiming that the Assembly Complex has been sealed.
“This false allegation has further been circulated on social media associating the Executive arm of Government and the Governor as being behind it.
“We wish to make it abundantly clear that the Executive arm of Government and the Governor is not aware or behind the purported sealing of the House as it does not dabble into the affairs of another independent arm of Government.
“It is on record that His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Simon Bako was the first Governor to implement full Autonomy for the legislature and Judiciary as well as Local Government in the country.
“It is therefore not possible for him to be associated with any action that will impede on the activities of the House which has its rules and conventions.
“The Governor remains the longest serving Speaker of the House in the history of democracy in Plateau State, understands the workings of the House, and has demonstrated uncommon respect to the leadership and members of the Assembly.
“To the best of our knowledge, the House of Assembly remains open for legislative business. The good people of Plateau State and members of the public are advised to ignore the allegation and refrain from dragging the Executive arm of Government and the Governor into the affairs of the House.
“Those who have any concerns should channel them to the security agencies and desist from peddling falsehood against the Executive arm of Government and His Excellency the Governor”.
The Governor of Plateau State, after visiting Yelwa Zangam village in Jos North local Government Area (LGA), where many were killed recently in an attack has decided to maintain the enforcement of the ban on Commercial Tricycle in Jos/Bukuru Metropolis in Jos-North and Jos South respectively.
The Governor, who disclosed this in his statewide broadcast yesterday, while informing the citizens of the state on the state of insecurity, after the widely reported violence within the last two weeks in the state, has also explained that, he took “a tour of Jos metropolis to see things for myself”.
GOV. LALONG
“I also engaged the security agencies to review the general security situation in the three Local Government Areas where the curfew was imposed, as well as, other parts of the State”. He added.
According to the Governor, “At the end of the review, Government took the following decisions:
The curfew in Jos North is to be relaxed. Beginning from Monday 30th August 2021, the curfew shall be enforced from 6pm to 6am until further notice.
The curfew in Jos South and Bassa is to also be further relaxed. As from Monday 30th August 2021, the curfew shall be enforced between 10pm to 6am until further notice.
iii. The Ban on Tricycles (Keke NAPEP) and hawkers remains in force within Jos/Bukuru metropolis.
The Plateau Economic and Investment Summit earlier scheduled for the 1st and 2nd of September 2021 has been postponed. A new date will be announced and communicated to all our invitees. We apologise for any inconveniences this postponement might cause.
The Governor in his statewide broadcast called on the citizens of Plateau State, to realize that as people, they are facing a very difficult moment and they must work together to overcome.
He said, “There is an obvious plan by those, who desire to see Plateau in perpetual crises to employ all divisive methods to achieve their objectives. We must not allow them to use politics, religion, and ethnicity to divert our attention from their criminal activities.
“My determination as your Governor is to ensure that, I encourage all citizens to embrace one another and use peaceful means to settle any disagreement. I shall continue to ensure that we build the capacities of our security agencies including the Operation Rainbow, the newly trained three thousand vigilantes, as well as our traditional institutions to be able to respond promptly and effectively to criminals so that we can enjoy peace and tranquility.
“I call on all citizens of Plateau State to work in synergy and promote the long standing ideals of accommodation, tolerance, love, hardwork godliness and forgiveness which we are known for. Plateau State remains the Home of Peace and Tourism”.
Plateau State Governor, Simon Bako Lalong has warned citizens of the state, to follow peaceful and lawful means of settling grievances in the state or face a showdown with government.
The Governor in a Statewide Broadcast on 30th August, 2021, said, “Those, who fail to follow lawful means to settle their grievances, should be ready for a showdown with Government”.
The Governor said, after the review of the security situation in the state personally, he has also ordered for relief materials for the victims of the various attacks in Jos-North, Bassa, Jos-South and Barki-ladi Local Government Areas.
Lalong further disclosed that, the assistance of the Federal Government is coming soon.
The broadcast text further in part reads: “Arising from my discussion with Mr. President, I had a meeting with the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, as well as, the DG of the National Emergency Management Agency regarding humanitarian assistance to the victims of the various attacks. I received commitment that very soon, relief materials will be delivered to us.
“Already, the State Government has procured relief materials, which are being distributed to the victims in various locations. On Friday, the Peace Building Agency also delivered relief materials donated by USAID to displaced communities in Bassa. We shall continue to partner with more humanitarian organizations towards alleviating the suffering of the victims.
“My dear citizens, our long term goal is to foster dialogue, collaboration, understanding and proactive dispute resolution mechanisms that will make it difficult for people to resort to criminality in the name of self-help and reprisals, whenever there is any disagreement. Those, who fail to follow lawful means to settle their grievances, should be ready for a showdown with Government as we will never tolerate killings and destruction of properties under any guise.
“During these trying times, I have watched with great disappointment the unfortunate comments and utterances of some citizens including religious, political and community leaders from within and outside the State who rather than calm nerves and join hands with the Government to ensure the quick restoration of peace, resorted to pushing out ethno-religious sentiments that further created tensions.
“Some sections of the mainstream and social media also chose to play to the gallery and fanned the embers of hatred and disunity.
“However, majority of media platforms performed their duties diligently and highlighted Government’s efforts in discharging its constitutional obligation of ensuring the safety of lives and property.
“I must commend people of conscience across different faiths, ethnic and political backgrounds that have remained objective, dispassionate and resolute towards condemning the criminal actions of the attackers and offering useful suggestions to Government on ways to improve public safety.
“I wish to thank friends of Plateau State from far and near who sent words of encouragement and played various roles in calming nerves as well as refuting false narratives about the wrong perceptions and exaggeration of the situation”.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) chapter in Plateau State has accused the Plateau State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of being behind the violence, killings and chaos in Jos and its environs.
This allegation was made by, Hon. Enoch Fanmak Ramnan the Acting Caretaker Committee Chairman of the APC, flanked by the State Secretary, Hon. M. Bashir among others in a press briefing yesterday, at the Plateau State UNJ Press Center.
In the APC press briefing text, dated, 28th August, 2021, the APC said it has noted with utter disgust and total disappointment the desperate attempt by some members of the opposition (PDP) in the State and elsewhere to use the unfortunate developments in the state to advance selfish and cheap political ambitions.
The APC said, “We must avoid the divisive tactics employed by enemies of the State to use religion, ethnicity and politics to jeopardize the peace of the State.
“In this regard, we note with utter disgust and total disappointment the desperate attempt by some members of the opposition PDP in the State and elsewhere to use this unfortunate development to advance selfish and cheap political ambitions.
“In particular, we have noted their unacceptable utterances and inciting comments on both the traditional and social media, which are carefully targeted at discrediting the Governor of Plateau State, Rt. Hon. (Dr) Simon Bako Lalong and portraying the Government as, uncaring, with the hope of reviving their faded glory, as a rejected political party in the State and country at large.
“We have a lot of evidence to prove this claim, but we can cite a few to expose to the people of Plateau State and Nigerians the hidden agenda of the PDP to use crises and the lives of innocent people, as a bargaining chip for political relevance.
“We will not allow this their futile dream to come true”.
READ THE FULL TEXT BELOW:-
Hon. Enoch Fanmak Ramnan Acting Caretaker Committee Chairman, Plateau State
PRESS CONFERENCE BY THE ALL PROGRESSIVES CONGRESS, PLATEAU STATE CHAPTER ON THE SECURITY SITUATION IN PLATEAU STATE 28TH AUGUST 2021
Gentlemen of the Press, we thank you for attending this Press Conference, which we have organized in order to brief you on the position of the All Progressives Congress in Plateau State, over recent developments in the State particularly, as it relates to insecurity.
First, we want to express the sincere condolences of the APC family to his Excellency the Governor of Plateau State, Rt. Hon. (Dr) Simon Bako Lalong, KSGG, as well as the Government and people over the recent attacks in Bassa, Riyom, Jos North, Mangu, Jos South Local Government Areas where many lives were lost and properties worth billions of naira destroyed.
We sincerely sympathize with the families of those, who were killed and pray that, God will grant their souls eternal rest. For those, who are injured, we pray that God will grant them quick recovery.
The events of the past weeks and months have put Plateau State in the news for the wrong reasons and clearly attempt to jeopardize the achievements of the APC administration under the able leadership of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. (Dr) Simon Bako Lalong, in the area of peace and security.
After about six years of relative peace achieved due to the vigorous efforts of the Governor, using the Plateau Peace Building Agency, we as a party are saddened by the activities of criminals and crises merchants, who are bent on turning back the hands of the clock.
The APC believes that, this is the time to come together as well-meaning citizens of Plateau State, to put to shame this group of people, who are bent on making Plateau a hot bed of crises.
The good people of this State desire to live in peace and pursue their legitimate means of livelihood without any fear of molestation or threat.
We want to specially commend the Governor, for his proactive steps in ensuring quick intervention towards ensuring that the situation does not go out of control. We believe the Governor has done his best, but is greatly limited because of lack of direct control of the security agencies that have to receive orders from their headquarters even after the Governor gives them directives.
We hope that, the National Assembly will do the needful by amending the Constitution to provide for State Police which will give Governors direct responsibility to bark and bite.
While we commend the efforts of the security agencies in the State for containing the situation and doing their best to maintain law and order, we urge them to go further and arrest all the perpetrators of all the killings across the affected LGAs and ensure that they are prosecuted expeditiously.
Nobody should be spared if he is found guilty, whether he is a perpetrator or sponsor.
The blood of those, who were killed in Miango, Dong, Kwi, Yelwa Zagam, Rukuba Road, Bwai among others, must never be allowed to go in vain. All lives are precious and matter!
At the same time, we call on our citizens to continue to support the Government and security agencies, as well as, communities and traditional leaders, to quickly restore normalcy within the affected areas while ensuring that, justice is done to everyone.
We must avoid the divisive tactics employed by enemies of the State to use religion, ethnicity and politics to jeopardize the peace of the State.
In this regard, we note with utter disgust and total disappointment the desperate attempt by some members of the opposition PDP in the State and elsewhere to use this unfortunate development to advance selfish and cheap political ambitions.
In particular, we have noted their unacceptable utterances and inciting comments on both the traditional and social media which are carefully targeted at discrediting the Governor of Plateau State Rt. Hon. (Dr) Simon Bako Lalong and portraying the Government as uncaring, with the hope of reviving their faded glory, as a rejected political party in the State and country at large.
We have a lot of evidence to prove this claim, but we can cite a few to expose to the people of Plateau State and Nigerians the hidden agenda of the PDP to use crises and the lives of innocent people, as a bargaining chip for political relevance. We will not allow this their futile dream to come true.
After the recent unfortunate attack on Yelwa Zangam village, the corpses of those killed were evacuated to the Plateau Specialist Hospital for proper handling. However, the members of the party and their cohorts forced their way into the hospital, harassed and intimidated the hospital staff and forcefully took away the corpses for a road show just to score cheap political points.
They proceeded to the Plateau State House of Assembly where they were clearly seen in broad day light executing their plans with their collaborators before finally carrying the corpses to dump at the Government House.
This is sacrilege against the culture and traditions of the land, as well as, the height of dishonor for the dead. Unfortunately, they failed to achieve their aim beyond grappling headlines and showing how inhuman they can be even to the dead.
Secondly, a Member of the Party representing Rukuba/Irigwe Constituency Hon. Musa Agah rather than be with his people in times of difficulty, after the killings in Bassa, ran to a radio station sympathetic to his party, to propagate lies against the Governor to the effect that he went to see him and could not because he was sleeping.
All this was a calculated attempt to rubbish the Governor and cast the Government in bad light, so as to, obtain political favour from the electorate and also hide his failure to his constituents, who already are dissatisfied with his representation. He has not done a single project for them and hardly goes home.
The same members of the PDP have also had a field day using the recent attacks as their gimmick for political survival by sponsoring and pushing out false narratives claiming that the Governor is against the “Plateau Interest” and as such should be impeached.
This is the height of irresponsibility and worst form of politics by people that are afraid of facing the electorate because they are being chased by their shadows and know that, they have nothing to offer to the people of Plateau State and Nigeria even in the area of security.
Governor Lalong has surpassed their records and they cannot swallow it.
No wonder, they have been vehemently trying to deny that there has not been peace in Plateau State since the coming into office of the Lalong led APC administration even when the facts are before them. Many of them who ran away from the State came back while those, who could not go out at night, now barely sleep in their homes.
Others now go into areas hitherto considered as “no go” areas without any hesitation as the State continued to witness the influx of economic investments; national and international conferences; as well as visit by tourists.
All these are achievements that the APC Government of Governor Simon Lalong has achieved which give them sleepless nights and they are desperate to trivialize.
They have gone to ridiculous low levels to accuse the Governor of being close to the President, as if that is a crime.
They forget that, during their time, they literally relocated to the Villa and had the misfortune of suffering defeat in the famous 16 is greater than 19 saga.
We are proud that our Governor, who is APC, enjoys good, healthy and mutual relationship with the President, who is the leader of our party in the country and has attracted many good projects and appointments to Plateau State. They are for the benefit of everyone including members of PDP.
We are also taken aback by their campaign of calumny against the Governor being the Chairman of the Northern Governors Forum, which they have been desperately trying to castigate.
They are trying to sell a dummy to the gullible that being Chairman of Northern Governors is against the interest of the people of Plateau State. This is a big lie that has no basis.
If they had the failed ambition to become Chairman of the 36 Governors during their era, what is wrong with Governor Lalong succeeding to be Chairman of 19 Northern Governors? This is a great political advantage to the State that is working in favour of the State today and will work tomorrow. Instead of being jealous and petty, they should thank God that their own in not only on the table, but leading it. We make bold to say that so far, Governor Lalong has not stood by to see any decision taken against the interest of Plateau State. Let them name one they can lay claim to.
They are quick to peddle lies that the Governor is not against open grazing whereas the facts are contrary. The Governor has championed the concept of Ranching which will replace open grazing as he was the first to embrace the National Livestock Transformation Programme. He has sent a Bill to the House of Assembly which when passed will outlaw the movement of cattle in any part of Plateau State. Rather than prevail on their members to pass the bill into law, they are busy spreading falsehood to gain political sympathy.
Let the people ask them to pressure their members at the House to do the needful.
The same unfounded narratives has been spread by them to the effect that the Governor is supporting land grabbing. This is totally false and very unfortunate because the Governor signed into law the Anti-Land Grabbing Bill into law this year. This provides the opportunity for anyone whose land is being claimed by another person to approach the courts for redress. As at this moment, the APC is not aware that the Governor has received even one petition from anybody or community that some aliens have taken their land. If and when he receives such report, our party is very sure he will act by directing the prosecution of such persons using the law he has put in place. Despite this, the PDP is continuously running propaganda and sentiments to win the hearts of the people.
We therefore wish to ask the good people of Plateau State to shine their eyes and not buy into the antics of the faded opposition party as they do not care about the lives of the people of Plateau State nor its heritage which they pretend to be fighting for. Their records are there to support the fact that they are only interested in power grabbing and sharing the common patrimony of the State.
Since PLASJEC came out with the election timetable, they have been restless because they know they will fail woefully. Rather than try to gain power through the back door by calling for the impeachment of the Governor which is impossibility and a laughable idea, we challenge them to test their popularity in the forth-coming Local Government Elections which have been set by PLASIEC. We assure them of a huge defeat any day anytime.
We also call on the good people of Plateau State to shun the manipulation of religion by some clerics who want to use the pulpit in the mosques, churches, or even in messages through the media to cause divisions and further escalate the situation. We want the security agencies to take action against such people and ensure that they are brought to book no matter their backgrounds. Plateau belongs to all of us irrespective of religious, ethnic and tribal differences. That is what our party the APC stands for and his Excellency Governor Simon Lalong is determined to ensure that there is justice and fairness for all which is the basis of peace and security and a guarantee for stability.
Let us not destroy our common heritage by allowing sentiments to override our consciences and responsibility to be our brothers’ keepers. Our common enemies are the criminals who seek to kill, steal and destroy not our religions, tribes or ethnic identities. United we stand and divided we fall!
God APC! God bless Plateau State!! God Bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria!!!
Hon. Enoch Fanmak Ramnan Acting Caretaker Committee Chairman, Plateau State
The people of Afizere, Angatu and Berom, in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State have reiterated that, they are the only indigenous ethnic groups in the Local Government and have excluded the Fulani and Hausa.
With the continued attacks being experienced in the Local Government, the youth groups of the claimants, have vowed to defend their land in the face of government failure.
“We, the three indigenous Ethnic groups of Jos North LGA, that is the Afizere, Angatu and Berom, wish to categorically rise against the killings, maiming and massacring of innocent of our brothers and sisters in cold blood within Jos and its environs.
“We frown at this heinous act of killing innocent citizens regardless of their faiths and where they come from”. Joseph Arin (Chairman Afizere Youth Movement), Deacon Moses Dawang (President, Anaguta Youth Movement) and Yakubu Dung Pam (Chairman, Berom Youth Movement) stated in a press statement.
According to the release, “Within the period of two weeks alone, over one hundred people have lost their lives in Jos North LGA, ranging from Attacks and counter attacks.
“The Recent skirmishes resulted in the killing of innocent people including the students of the University of Jos.
“The Major constitutional responsibility of Government at all levels is to secure the lives and property of her citizens, but with the killings in Dong and Yesterday’s attack and killing of over 36 innocent people in Yelwa Zangam, Government has not been able to secure her citizens”.
Adding that, “We want to state it clearly with equivocation that, these attacks, mowing of crops, land grabbing in Jos North is been perpetrated by the suspected Fulani Bandits, who graze their cattle on our crops, forceful seizure of our lands and subsequently launch attacks.
“With this sad developments, we are calling on our people to rise and defend themselves within the tenets of law, before we will all perish from the hands of the attackers”.
READ THE FULL TEXT BELOW:-
PRESS STATEMENT
THE GENOCIDE IN JOS NORTH AND THE URGENT NEED FOR SELF DEFENCE
BY: THE AFIZERE, ANAGUTA AND BEROM YOUTH (AFIANABER) JOS NORTH LGA.
We, the three indigenous Ethnic groups of Jos North LGA, that’s the Afizere, Angatu and Berom, wish to categorically rise against the killings, maiming and massacring of innocent of our brothers and sisters in cold blood within Jos and its environs.
We frown at this heinous act of killing innocent citizens regardless of their faiths and where they come from.
Within the period of two weeks alone, over one hundred people lost their lives in Jos North LGA, ranging from Attacks and counter attacks.
The Recent skirmishes resulted into the killing of innocent people including the students of the University of Jos.
The Major constitutional responsibility of Government at all levels is to secure the lives and property of her citizens, but with the killings in Dong and Yesterday’s attack and killing of over 36 innocent people in Yelwa Zangam, Government has not been able to secure her citizens.
We want to state it clearly with equivocation that, these attacks, mowing of crops, land grabbing in Jos North is been perpetrated by the suspected Fulani Bandits, who graze their cattle on our crops, forceful seizure of our lands and subsequently launch attacks.
Just yesterday, over thirty six people were massacred by these marauders in Yelwa Zangam and the brutal way they carried this heinous act, a bridge was destroyed in order to hinder securities access to rescue the community.
With this sad development, we are calling on our people to rise and defend themselves within the tenets of law, before we will all perish from the hands of the attackers.
All communities should intensify efforts and rejig the Community police, hunters and vigilantes. They should be properly equipt to carry their duties effectively, as well as, gather enough intelligence to prevent further unprovoked attacks.
To our greatest consternation, instead of Government to send adequate security agents to the affected areas, Soldiers and other securities were sent to Angwan Rukuba to molest innocent citizens.
We call on the Federal and Plateau state Government to beef up security around Bauchi Junction, University of Jos, TT and T Junction, Kunga, Gidan Mai Jegap and other volatile areas to forestall other occurrence.
Secondly, Relief Materials should be sent to the victims and Community of Yelwa Zangam.
Thirdly, the victims of the attacks or their families should be compensated. Those injured and receiving medical treatments, Government should pay their medical bills. All the burnt houses and the bridge should be reconstructed and the perpetrators, arrested and prosecuted.
The Executive Chairman of Langtang North Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State, Hon. Joshua Ubandoma Laven has said security report at his disposal indicate that people suspected to be terrorists have surrounded his Council Area, with a view to lunch a monumental attack on the peace loving people of the locality.
Laven, who briefed newsmen in Jos said that, at about 4pm on Thursday, terrorists were spotted coming to attack Tarok Nation particularly, Langtang North and Langtang South.
The Chairman, told newsmen that, he immediately got in touch with Forward Operation Base (FOB) Commander, representing Langtang and reported to him and he confirmed to him that, FOB was aware of the intelligent report.
“I immediately called the Area Commander in charge of Southern Zone of Plateau State and he informed me that, he received the same security report.
“He told me to alert the communities and let everybody keep vigil”. Hon. Laven added.
The Chairman further said he called the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Edward Egbuka and he confirmed to him that, they have told him what is going on, but as a local government, we should try and see what we can do.
“I appealed that, proactive measures be taken because, what has been happening in Jos started a long time ago, but proactive measures were not taken with the view to nip it in bud.”
“Yesterday our people kept 24 hours vigil”. Hon. Laven, further disclosed.
Laven, while expressing his worries said that, “We are calling on security agencies and government not to only confirm that they are aware of the influx of terrorists, but they should do something about it”.
The Chairman calls on the security outfits operating in the state to step up their game and come to the rescue of the people.
He said, the armless civilians cannot defend themselves and hence they are calling on security agencies to join hands with the Tarok nation to chase away the invading terrorists”.
“As a local government, we know that our first priority is to protect lives and property because, the first responsibility of government is to secure lives and property.
“We are calling on security agencies to come to our aid, but we are warning that, when they come they shouldn’t take side with one group especially the Invaders”.
He further stressed that, “When they come, let us go to the bush and chase the assailants because, we are the ones that they are invading. When the attack occurs, which the confirm to us that, it is imminent, they should not come and cage us, while the assailants are killing us.
“We do not have the weapons, but we have the might and wherewithal to assist security agencies to chase away these assailants. We know that security agencies have been stretched, but they need to deploy more personnel to Langtang, and not allow the innocent citizens to be killed,” he said.
He commended the Plateau State House of Assembly members for advising local governments to stop the recruitment of Teachers and instead engage vigilante to protect their communities.
Laven said that, people would only talk about employment when they are alive, while stressing that, “those that were killed in Bassa and other places will they wake up and work again?”
“Security is the paramount and the House of Assembly took the right decision. He also called on ethnic groups to unite and end the bloodletting in the state.
According to him, “if one ethnic group folds its hands that it is not their ethnic group that were being killed, after the killers are done with one, they would go after the other.
“Plateau should embrace themselves and know that their unity is paramount, cordial existence is the only way out of ugly situation”. Laven, added.
There are strong indications that, the Plateau State House of Assembly may soon put in motion, the impeachment of Governor Simon Bako Lalong, over the attacks and killings in the state that has calmed hundreds of lives of largely, women and children. The attacks and killings have also destroyed farmlands and properties worth millions of Naira.
The Plateau State House of Assembly (PLHA) has also resolved, to give Governor Simon Lalong, two weeks to address the demands put before him by the Assembly or face, the next action(s) on their table at the expiration of 14 days.
Address a World conference this afternoon, Hon. Dasun Philip Peter, on behalf of the House Committee on Information and the Assembly said, “It is only if the Governor does not address the demands of the House put before him that the House would jump to the next action.”
Adding that, “We strongly call on Plateau People to practically stand up and defend themselves and their communities, as the conventional security design is no longer guaranteeing our safety as a people.
“We call on the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong, to come up with a statement defending us as a People and to bring back renewed commitment to the cause of Plateau.
“We are still expecting, with high hopes, the President to also come up with a statement about the killings in Yelwa Zangam, just as he did in the killings of travelers along Rukuba Road and to also indicate a sign of justice or we will see him as being reflexive about the conflict in Plateau.
“As an Assembly committed to the yearnings and aspirations of our people, we deeply appreciate the calls made by Plateau people, both at home and in the Diaspora, for encouragement and tasking us to do the needful in order to save Plateau and its heritage.
“We also wish to put on record that we stand with Plateau people in this trying moment and assure them of our genuine commitment to the course of Plateau State”.
READ THE FULL TEXT BELOW:-
TEXT OF WORLD PRESS CONFERENCE ON THE PRESENT STATE OF INSECURITY IN PLATEAU STATE PRESENTED BY PLATEAU STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY ON 27th AUGUST, 2021 AT NIGERIAN UNION OF JOURNALISTS (NUJ) SECRETARIAT JOS
Hon. Dasun Philip Peter
Protocol
On behalf of the Plateau State House of Assembly, I wish to sympathize with the Government and People of Plateau State on the barbaric and dastardly killings that have been taking place in different communities of Bassa, Barkin Ladi, Bokkos, Jos North, Jos South, Mangu, Riyom, University of Jos Community and recently that of Yelwa Zangam. The House condemns all these killings in totality, all these killings are unacceptable and condemnable. We commiserate with the families of all those who lost their love ones during these attacks.
We commend the youths on the Plateau for sustained coordinated and organized campaigns against the killings and as well the courage to make it go viral by sending strong messages to the world using the dead bodies of the mayhem on the social media and the streets of Jos; the display of the corpses in the House is a sign that they recognized the authority of the House of Assembly as an institution that can speak for the people. We greatly appreciate that action.
As an assembly with people at heart, we call on Plateau State citizens to have confidence in us with renewed commitment as we have given two (2) weeks to the Governor to take action on the Resolutions the House has forwarded on security matters and how to restore peace.
We strongly call on Plateau People to practically stand up and defend themselves and their communities, as the conventional security design is no longer guaranteeing our safety as a people.
We call on the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong, to come up with a statement defending us as a People and to bring back renewed commitment to the cause of Plateau.
We are still expecting with high hopes, the President to also come up with a statement about the killings in Yelwa Zangam just as he did in the killings of travelers along Rukuba Road and to also indicate a sign of justice or we will see him as being reflexive about the conflict in Plateau.
As an Assembly committed to the yearnings and aspirations of our people, we deeply appreciate the calls made by Plateau people, both at home and in the Diaspora, for encouragement and tasking us to do the needful in order to save Plateau and its heritage.
We also wish to put on record that we stand with Plateau people in this trying moment and assure them of our genuine commitment to the course of Plateau State.
We also call on the Traditional Rulers to look inward and release the Local Security design to protect Plateau people as well as reinforce the Vigilante, Hunters and local wise men to defend our people. As a sign of commitment to this Urgent need for the People to protect themselves, the Plateau State House of Assembly has directed all Local Government Chairmen to suspend their planned recruitment of Adhoc Staff and instead recruit 200 Vigilante Personnel in each Local Government Area to boost and argument Local Intelligence Gathering
The Security Operatives are called upon to fish out the perpetrators of the mayhem and be punished according to the Law.
Information reaching REALITY indicates that the Anambra State Government is strategizing on the evacuation of students of Anambra State origin from the University of Jos (UniJos), following the sudden closure of the University by the authorities in the wake of the outbreak of attacks in Plateau State in the last few days.
The evacuation REALITY gathered, would now be handled by both the Anambra State Liaison Office in Abuja and GUO Transport Company Ltd, which has a strong operation in Jos.
According a Statement from the State Government the strategy “Is to make for greater efficiency”.
Other strategic plan by the Government in the statement signed by, C. Don Adinuba, the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment are as follows:-
Every student of the University of Jos from Anambra State who wants to return immediately to the State is required to go to the GUO station in Jos and present his or her student identity card as well as an identity card showing membership of the Anambra State Students Association of the University. An arrangement has also been made to pick up students who may not be able to leave the university campus. Any student who has any difficulty whatsoever can contact the Liaison Office in Abuja for immediate assistance.
The safety and welfare of the people of Anambra State, regardless of the place of residence, will continue to remain a priority of the State Administration.
PLATEAU STATE GOVERNMENT RE-IMPOSES 24 HOUR COURFEW ON JOS NORTH LGA AFTER ATTACK ON YELWA ZANGAM VILLAGE.
Plateau State Government has reinstated the 24-hour curfew earlier relaxed in Jos North Local Government Area following growing tensions arising from the attack on Yelwa Zangam village of the Local Government where people were killed and properties destroyed.
According to Governor Simon Lalong, the 24 hour will come into force from 4pm, today Wednesday 25th August 2021 until further notice.
The proactive decision became necessary following eminent threat to lives and properties within the Local Government Area and the need to forestall the breakdown of law and order. It will also enable security agencies deploy appropriately to maintain security as the search for the attackers of the villagers continues.
The Governor has appealed to the citizens of Jos North to cooperate with the Government by abiding to the 24-hour curfew commencing 4pm, 25th August 2021, as security agencies have been mandated to ensure that those who violate the curfew are arrested.
Also, the 6pm to 6am curfew in Jos South and Bassa LGAs still remains in place until further notice. Only people on essential duties such as health personnel, journalists, fire service and para-military and others, are to be exempted from the curfew but should carry means of identification with them at all times.
The Governor is calling for calm as he is seriously grieved by the attacks. He again sympathizes with the victims, but wants them to show restraint and allow Government to handle the matter to disallow hoodlums from taking advantage of the unfortunate situation to cause mayhem and destruction in the State.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
The Ruling of the Plateau State High Court not to have started hearing the Suit challenging the powers of the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) filed by the Plateau State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during the on-going Court vacation has been hailed by all parties.
Delivering the Court’s Ruling this morning, the Presiding Judge, Hon. Justice I. Kunda, said all the proceedings on 27th July and the Application moved on that day were in violation of Order 49 rules 4d and 5 of the Rules of Court.
He said the case was assigned to him by the Chief Judge (CJ) of the State and the CJ never indicated any urgency nor was the suit classified as a “Pre-election matter”.
Adding that, “for the matter to have been heard during the vacation, one of the party or both would have made a formal request through a Motion Exparte according to the rules and whatever the Court decides will stand.
He explained that, the rules of Court from his mind, is not in conflict with the provisions of Section 285 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (As amended).
Hon. Justice Kunda, has adjourned the hearing of the suit to the 13th day of September, 2021.
Reacting on the Ruling, Edward Pwajok (SAN), Counsel for the PDP said, no harm has been done as the Originating Summons the PDP filed is very much alive.
EDWARD PWAJOK (SAN) AND S. ODEY (Esq)
He commended the Judge for the ruling and the short adjournment.
Pwajok (SAN), while speaking to journalist at the Court premises explained that, “the Claimants should not be worried, as the Local Government elections’ date is still reasonably far and that hearing of the Originating Summons would take only one day and thereafter, judgment”.
PASCAL (Esq) COUNSEL TO PLASIEC
On his part, Pascal Mammot (Esq), Counsel to the Defendant/Applicant (PLASIEC) also hailed the ruling, but added that, “that was what we had stated to the Court”.
The lead Counsel of PLASIEC, G. S Pwul (SAN) was absent in Court for health reason, the Court was told.
