Surprise, as suspected thugs on Monday evening (yesterday), invaded the Collation Center for the Presidential and National Assembly elections for Plateau Northern Senatorial District at Jos North Local Government Council.
REALITY gathered that, the thugs chased away INEC officials before Party Agents could sign the results announced by the umpire.
An official of Jos North Local Government Council (LGC), who witnessed the disruption at the Collation Center, confirmed this development to Journalists on Monday.
The Council official (Name withheld) said, “Trouble started when the party agents were asked to sign the results for the Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency, as announced by the Returning Officer, Dr. Nehemiah Sanda, which indicated that the PDP candidate, Musa A. Agah won the election with 59337.
According to him, the Agent of the PRP’s candidate, who scored the second highest number of votes 58460, rejected the results and insisted that, no result sheets would be signed at the Collation nor the winner announced.
As the INEC officials were trying to prevail on the party Agent to allow them do their job, the thugs believed to be loyal PRP, invaded the Collation Center and chased INEC officials away and prevented them from declaring the winners.
“We don’t know what the thugs could have done if not that a Senior Police Officer, DC Afebuamhe, quickly came in and seized the election results.” He added.
The Returning Officer for the Presidential Election at the Collation Center, Dr. Lazurus Maigoro, on his part, also confirmed the disruption of the election exercise by the thugs to Journalists.
Maigoro said, “Yes, it is true that thugs invaded our Collation Centre, while we were doing our job. It is now up to INEC to know what to do next!”
The Presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi has won the election at the polling unit of the former Governor of Plateau state, Sen. Jonah Jang.
The former Governor, a chieftain of the Poeples Democratic Party (PDP) voted at his Rabin Du polling unit in Du “A” Ward in Jos South Local Government Area (LGA) of the state.
However, Obi scored 239 votes to beat the presidential candidate his party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, who polled 29 votes, while the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Ahmed Tinubu, scored only one vote
You would recall that Sen. Jang had earlier voted at the same polling unit.
My Dear people of Plateau, it is another election season.
1.The events of the last 8 years are instructive; we have had to go through tough times but we are presented with yet another opportunity to vote for those who will govern us in the next four years and perhaps beyond. As the resilient people that we are, we have had to endure hardships as were never envisaged in our dear country and State. In this 2023 general elections, every Nigerian has an inalienable right to vote and be voted. For those who are not candidates, it is our right to vote for candidates of our choice.
2.As the campaigns by the various political parties draw to a close, it is our responsibility to ensure a massive turnout to discharge our civic rights in voting our conscience. The political parties have thus far conducted themselves in an orderly manner and must be commended for holding rancour-free campaigns in selling their candidates.
3.The 2023 general election is indeed an all-important one in deciding the future of our dear country and State. Citizens must, therefore, be prepared to not only vote but safeguard their votes by ensuring that the elections are held in an atmosphere devoid of any conduct that will undermine their choices.
4.It is noteworthy to say that we have another opportunity on our hands to decide which turn our nation will take from here, I am calling on citizens to give this election the seriousness it deserves by following the directions of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which has thus far, displayed a commitment to giving Nigerians an election to be proud of.
5.Let me also call on all contestants that imbibe the spirit of good sportsmanship in accepting the outcome of the elections and joining hands with those who will be declared as winners to move our country and dear state forward. Elections are seasonal but our humanity and brotherhood are eternal, we should not allow momentary activities to distort our longstanding bonds of unity and oneness.
6.I am also happy that all the stakeholders in the elections – INEC, political parties, security agencies, CSOs, and the voting public have all shown enthusiasm in making the 2023 elections a success. We must not waver in our resolve to build a nation of which we all will be proud. We have another chance to show the world that Nigeria is a leader on the continent and a major player in global affairs. The conduct of this election will put us on the right pedestal to take our place of pride amongst the comity of nations.
7.History beckons! Let us not fail our dear nation and state. We are able and prepared to be part of history, let us make it happen.
The Plateau State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) may still continue to be in the legal struggle in determining who its governorship candidate is as the matter challenging the emergence of Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda as the party’s governorship candidacy has already hit the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
You would recall that, the matter, which commenced in suit No: FHC/J/C5/5/2022 at the Lower Court had its outcome challenged by Danyaro Sarpiya, with the support of over 12 Governorship Aspirants of the APC in Appeal No: CA/J/297/2022 at the Court of Appeal, Plateau State Division.
However, still being dissatisfied with the decision of the Court of Appeal sitting in Jos, delivered on the 9th of February, 2023, the Appellant (Sarpiya) has appealed against the decision of the Court of Appeal to the Supreme Court.
From the processes filed before the Supreme Court, REALITY gathered that, the Appellant at the hearing of the Appeal at the Supreme Court would be seeking the reliefs set out in paragraphs 4 of the Appeal.
You would recall that, the Court of Appeal has however, deferred from the Lower Court when it held that, Sarpire actually resigned from his place of work before the APC governorship primary in Plateau State.
REALITY also gathered that, at the hearing of the matter at the Supreme Court, the Appellant would be contending with the decision to score him votes at the APC governorship primary election, if he was not a candidate.
“HIS EXCELLENCY” HON. JOHNSON PODAR
According to the Spokesman of the APC Governorship Aspirants in Plateau State, “His Excellency”, Hon. Johnson Podar in a press statement made available to the media houses in Plateau State, he stated that, the Aspirants “will continue to back Sarpiya up to the final stage because, what is left now is for Sarpiya to prove that the matter was filed within constitutional and legal time”.
He described Danyaro Sarpiya as the hero of the party as he continues to make sure that, truth and justice prevails in the face of several challenges.
According to Podar, “The Supreme Court will put a final blow to determine the injustice occasioned during the APC primary election in the state, especially, now that the Court of Appeal only held that the matter was filed out of time”.
A group, the Concerned Berom Youths have called on the President of BYM, to step aside and join politics fully as he has deviated from the mandate of his office.
MR. SAMUEL
They made this call in a Press Statement made available to Reality Newspaper, signed by M. J. Samuel, saying BYM from inception has been apolitical.
the concerned group
“We are also concerned by the active involvement of the BYM President in amplifying the so call “endorsement” of the Labour Party Candidate.
“He has since abandoned his role of office and has taken the role of the Campaign Director General of the Labour Party Candidate. This is seen in his engagement with the stakeholders of Tudun Wada (Jishe) Communities on Sunday, 19/02/2023 where the BYM President openly announced to them that the Berom Nation have endorsed the candidate of the Labour Party.
“The BYM President has also taken the campaign to his CWC where he is making frantic efforts to compel them to endorse his preferred candidate. In a meeting of the CWC chaired by him on Monday, 20/02/23 at BECO Secretariat he practically tried to force members to endorse the Labour Party Candidate which was resisted by the majority.
“This act alone has desecrated the reputation of our organization, the BYM, which has remained apolitical over the years. We call on the BYM President to step aside and join politics fully since he has deviated from the mandate of his office.”
Mr. Samuel and others
The group went further to accuse Sen. I.D Gyang of being the invincible hand behind the recent developments.
“The relationship between the BYM President and Sen. I.D. Gyang whose Senior Legislative aide has declared support in Rim, Riyom LGA and many other places of the Labour Party Senatorial Candidate is an indication that Senator I.D Gyang is the invincible hand sponsoring the BYM President into this act of recklessness.” They alleged.
The group expressed dismay with the endorsement of candidates of certain political parties by BYM and Berom Ministers Forum (BEMFO), urging Berom Nation to vote for the candidates.
“The Concerned Berom Youths view with utter dismay the recent political developments that will eventually culminate into voting of next set of leaders in our country on February the 25th, 2023.”
“We appreciate the role of the Berom Ministers Forum (BEMFO) for consistently praying for our land and organizing the yearly WUSAL Berom which has gone a long way in advancing our spiritual growth.”
They called on Berom Youths to remain resolute and not to be intimidated and vote for candidates of their choice in the general election as they are aware that the BYM President is mobilizing thugs to intimidate the voters into voting his preferred candidate.
With less than 72 hours to the Presidential Election in Nigeria, ATIKU-MUTFWANG CAMPAIGN COUNCIL in Plateau State has exposed and raised alarm that, staff of INEC, who served under the Plateau state governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda in Benue State, have being deployed to the ICT Department of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
HON. HITLER
While calling on Nigerians to follow peaceful means of resolving issues during these trying times in the country, the group led by its Director General, Hon. Hitler Joshua Pwajok, took time to urge INEC to redeploy these alleged staff to a different state.
“We call on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to immediately redeploy Engineer Umar Mamuud Muhammad and others who were hurriedly deployed to Plateau, to be immediately redeployed out of the state to redeem itself as a neutral and unbiased umpire.
“That INEC as a commission should ensure that all standard protocols be adhered to safeguard the image of the commission”. The group urges.
The press briefing text in part read:-
HON. HITLER PWAJOK
Gentlemen of the Press, ladies, and gentlemen, it is with deep concern that the Atiku-Mutfwang Youth Campaign Council is addressing you 72 hours to the conduct of Presidential and National Assembly Elections.
We first want to empathize with Nigerians over the difficulties and frustrations orchestrated by an insensitive, incompetent, and clueless APC administration, compounded by an avoidable fuel and naira note crises. At this juncture, we urge Nigerians to avoid engaging in acts capable of jeopardizing national security and derailing our political process. We rather appeal that they direct their anger through constitutional means, at the polls by voting out the inept APC administration and return the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to power who have shown capacity and willingness to rescue our dear nation from the brink of total collapse that the APC has brought us to.
We have observed with keen interest activities and happenings surrounding the conduct of the 2023 General Elections, which if not addressed squarely can compromise the very integrity of the polls. This is the crux of our Press Conference.
It is public knowledge that shortly after the conduct of gubernatorial primaries of political parties, especially that of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Plateau State which produced Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda, a former Resident Electoral Commissioner of Benue State, presumed to be the anointed candidate of the incumbent Governor of Plateau State Simon Bako Lalong, certain activities calumniated leaving many questions desiring answers.
a) Was there an officially approved interstate transfer of staff by the Commission’s Headquarters? b) If there was, why will INEC be insensitive to redeploy staff of the commission from Benue State to Plateau State, particularly those who served under Dr Nentawe Yilwatda.
Considering these concerns, we hereby demand the following:-
i) We call on Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to immediately redeploy Engineer Umar Mamuud Muhammad and others who were hurriedly deployed to Plateau, to be immediately redeployed out of the state to redeem itself as a neutral and unbiased umpire.
ii) That INEC as a commission should ensure that all standard protocols be adhered to safeguard the image of the commission.
We are ready to monitor and examine the electoral process, the deployment of sensitive and non-sensitive materials, and monitor the performance of all gadgets for forensic review.
In conclusion, we therefore demand that INEC exonerates herself by ensuring that the neutrality of the commission is restored, to repose confidence in the process. This will go a long way in restoring assurance that the Commission still has the capacity and capability to conduct credible elections in Plateau State and Nigeria as a whole.
The Plateau State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has accused the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Hon. Idris Maje, who also hails from Wase in Plateau State of recruiting and importing unknown vigilantes to the state specifically to Wase Local Government Area (LGA).
The PDP in a press conference anchored by the State Publicity Secretary, Hon. John Akans (Ksm), who was flanked by Hon. Chocho, also expressed satisfaction that it has also identified the mole of the of the All Progressives Congress (APC) with their fold and has taken the party’s required constitutional steps to expel the mole from the party without disclose the name of the person.
L-R: Hon. Akans & Hon. Chocho
According to the PDP, APC’S stooping to “fabrication of fairytale and lies” only reflects fear and outright panic ahead of the coming polls.
Adding that, “We are reliably informed that, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ahmed Idris Maje is recruiting and importing vigilantes to Wase from neighbouring states with the intention to harass and intimidate voters during the election. We therefore call on the Commissioner of police to put the Deputy Speaker under watch, as his plans is to create unrest before and during the election”.
The chapter through Hon. AKans, has called on its members and the people of Plateau State to remain calm, while explaining the facts behind the write up against the party, which has gone viral in several social media platforms.
According to the press briefing statement, the PDP stated that, “For the umpteenth time, the confused and devastated leadership of the APC has come out to say that our great party will not be on the ballot of the 2023 General Elections. This messy write up has exposed the outgoing APC as the sponsor of the dirty work, produced from the figment of their illicit imagination and out of the shadow that, the ruling party is already jittery and afraid of defeat come Saturday 25th February and March 11th, as the comment made by Governor Lalong was made to prepare the minds of the APC members of the perpetual defeat their party is going to suffer on Saturday’s general election.
“We therefore call on all our members across the state to ignore the unfounded and unsubstantiated lies making round in the social media. These are nothing but cold signs of defeat by the APC, which is awaiting them in the coming polls.
“As we call on the electorates to remain calm in their determination to vote APC out for the betterment of their future, the party is as well ready to protect and defend their votes”.
READ THE FULL PRESS CONFERENCE TEXT BELOW:-
TEXT OF PRESS CONFERENCE BY THE PLATEAU STATE CHAIRMAN OF THE PEOPLES DEMOCRATIC PARTY(PDP)
20TH FEBRUARY, 2023
Protocols
Gentlemen of the press, eminent stakeholders of our great party, ladies and gentlemen
HON. AKANS
I bring to you greetings from this great family “the Peoples Democratic Party”, PDP, Plateau State chapter.
As we prepare for the much awaited general election on Saturday the 25th of February, the attention of the party has again been drawn to another, diatribe antics of the rejected, sinking and shameless All Progressives Congress, (APC) in the state of an attempt to deceive the general public about the state of affairs of our party.
We are aware of these mischievous antics by the outgoing ruling party, whose leadership is desperately out on a mission to create and paint an imaginary picture before the good people of Plateau in order to score a cheap political goal.
But, we are glad that, their plan is dead on arrival. It is common knowledge that peddling unsubstantiated lies about the PDP in the state has become part of the professional calling of the grossly demonic ruling party in the state. For the umpteenth time, the confused and devastated leadership of the APC has come out to say that our great party will not be on the ballot of the 2023 General Elections. This messy write up has exposed the outgoing APC as the sponsor of the dirty work, produced from the figment of their illicit imagination and out of the shadow that the ruling party is already jittery and afraid of defeat come Saturday 25th February and March 11th as the comment made by Governor Lalong was made to prepare the minds of the APC members of the perpetual defeat their party is going to suffer on Saturday’s general election.
The law is very clear. Section 42 (3) of the Electoral Act which makes it mandatory for all parties featuring candidates at the election to within 20 days verify whether or not their party logo is on the ballot. This position is well taken care of by the National Working Committee, NWC of our Party and has since been a settled issue.
As it stands today, we have no pending cases in court regarding the 2023 general Elections. Section 84 (5) of the amended Electoral Act 2023 which the party applied in generating its 3 man adhoc delegates for the emergence of all its candidates is not related to the Musa Agah’s case whatsoever. Musa Agah’s primary election was held under the old Electoral Act where statutory Delegates and 3 man adhoc delegates jointly participated in the emergence of the candidate (Musa Agah)then.
The party appealed against the judgment of Hon. Justice Kunda in PDP vs PLASIEC and is still pending at the court which no date has been fixed. PLASIEC has not filed it’s respondents brief of argument as we speak.
The appeal in that case is not related to the present elections. The issues concerning the case is in respect of exclusion of PDP from participating in the Local government Council election of 2021 and no other issue.
So where do all the lies emanate from if not enemies of the party within and the APC which has sponsored so much calumny against the PDP and dreaded its sight at any poll.
The party has long defeated the Lalong sponsored case of Augustine Timkuk against PDP & Ors both at the Lower and Appeal Court where an attempt at truncating the PDP Plateau State Chapter’s chances in participating in the 2023 general Elections was vigorously pursued.
The Constitution of Nigeria 1999 and the Electoral Act 2023 are clear on when to bring an action in a Pre- election matter and on who has a right to maintain an action regarding election.
As it stands today, we want to challenge any authority or persons to come up with the list of pending cases he/ she knows, the suit number and which of the Courts.
We are glad and confident that the citizens and other observers have since seen the potpourri of lies against the truth and reality on ground as perpetuated by the APC.
We therefore call on all our members across the state to ignore the unfounded and unsubstantiated lies making round in the social media. These are nothing but cold signs of defeat by the Apc which is awaiting them in the coming polls.
We have also traced the author and peddler of the lies and the mole has since been expelled from the party in his ward. We call on all our members and supporters to remain resolute in voting all our candidates from top to bottom 5/5. The party is very optimistic that, heavier defeat awaits the APC in the state and Nigeria. APC’S stooping to “fabrication of fairytale and lies ” only reflects fear and outright panic ahead of the coming polls.
We urged the APC to come to terms with the hard fact that the Plateau electorates, in making their choices will not be deceived by mere smokescreens of lies but would be led to those choices by a combination of antecedents of sound track records of 16 years of unbeatable achievements of the PDP.
We are reliably informed that the Deputy speaker of the House of Representatives Hon Ahmed Idris Maje is recruiting and importing vigilantes to Wase from neighbouring state with the intention to harass and intimidate voters during the election. We therefore call on the Commissioner of police to put the Deputy speaker under watch as his plans is to creat unrest before and during the election.
As we call on the electorates to remain calm in their determination to vote apc out for the betterment of their future. The party is as well ready to protect and defend their votes
The Presidential candidate of Zenith Labour Party, Barr Dan Nwanyanwu has submitted that, all governors making contrary broadcast against the Federal Government’s decision on the Naira notes redesigned and the deadline of the acceptance of the old #500 and #1000 naira notes be charged for treasonable felony.
Addressing party supporters at Lafia City Hall on Monday, Barr. Nwanyanwu alleged that, all those governors crying foul over the Federal Government’s decision are not doing it in favuor of the Nigeria Masses, but rather they are rejecting the policy as a result of the huge sums of money they have stolen, which is in the old naira denomination.
According to the Zenith Labour Party Presidential candidate, there are so many issues that these governors would have kicked against in favour of the common man such as the fuel hike, insecurity, which includes, armed banditry, kidnapping among numerous others, but they failed to do so because it did not affect them as the naira they have stolen in abundance.
He called all on Nigerians to be patient with the Federal Government’s decision on the Naira redesigned as it’s targeted at those that have skeletons in their cupboard.
Barr Nwanyanwu, called on the Federal Government to avoid treating some people in the society with kid gloves because, that has been the main reason why some state governors have grown Horns and currently feel they are the same with the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
He appealed and urged Nigerians that, come Saturday 25th February 2023, they should all turn out en mass and vote Zenith Labour Party, promising to bring back the pump price of petrol #100 per liter.
Barr Nwanyanwu, also promised to create job opportunities as well improved the welfare of the disabled in the society.
He stated that, it is possible to bring down the price of petroleum products by refurbishing broken down refineries and constructing new ones.
In an answer and question session, Barr. Nwanyanwu explained that, he recorded low turnout of supporters because, he does not hire or distribute money to people to gather crowd..
Earlier, in his welcome remarks, a senatorial candidate of the party, Mr. Cletus Ogah, told the Presidential candidate that, Nasarawa state is witnessing a relative peace and assured him of victory in the state.
Our correspondent reports that top ranking officials of the party were at the campaign meeting.
Again, Barr Samuel Bature has cautioned the people of Southern Kaduna and Nigerians at large, to be very careful in their preference of who becomes the next President of the country.
Barr Samuel Bature, who was cautioning Nigerians, his supporters and loyalists in Kaduna yesterday said, the seat of the President is laced with needed experience, qualification and influence, just as the job of a Medical Doctor.
He explained that, Nigeria is like a patient in the hospital, who needs proper hands, loaded with desired experience(s) to handle it, alongside, the diagnosed ailment(s).
While reiterating his words to REALITY he said, “Human potential is greater than human differential. You cannot be critically sick and chose a less qualified/non-experienced Doctor over a more qualified/more experience Doctor just because you are angry with the later or over the former.
“Just like the saying goes: There is no limit to the amount of good you can do only if, you don’t care who gets the credit”
SEN. TINUBU
You would recall that, REALITY had reported that, the presidential bid of Sen. Asiwaju Bola Tinubu (ABT) had a further boost, as a one- time Senatorial Aspirant of Southern Kaduna (Zone 3) Barr Samuel Bature has thrown his full weight behind him.
Barr Samuel Bature, had called on all his supporters, the good people of Southern Kaduna and his loyalists yesterday, to vote for the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu (ABT) in the February 2023, Presidential Election.
BARR BATURE
As a point of concern, Barr Samuel Bature had taken time to however, draw the attention of the APC and its presidential candidate to the plights of the people of Southern Kaduna.
The Legal Practitioner had urged the septuagenarian to immediately after been elected into office, take time to look into the multi-decade challenges confronting the people of Southern Kaduna Senatorial Zone 3.
According to Bature (Esq), “ABT is the only candidate that can promote Northern Minority’s Rights given his pedigree”.
The presidential bid of Sen. Asiwaju Bola Tinubu (ABT) has again gotten a further boost, as a one- time Senatorial Aspirant of Southern Kaduna (Zone 3), Barr Samuel Bature has thrown his full weight for his bid.
Barr Samuel Bature, from information reaching REALITY has called on all his supporters, the good people of Southern Kaduna and his loyalists, to vote for the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu (ABT) in the February 2023, Presidential Election.
Barr Samuel Bature
As a point of concern, Barr Samuel Bature has also taken time to draw the attention of the APC and its presidential candidate to the plights of the people of Southern Kaduna.
The Legal Practitioner has urged the septuagenarian to immediately after been elected into office, to look into the multi-decade challenges confronting the people of Southern Kaduna Senatorial Zone 3.
According to Bature (Esq), “ABT is the only candidate that can promote Northern Minority’s Rights given his pedigree”.
While making this known to our Correspondent in Kaduna today, Barr Samuel Bature reiterated that, “for decades, the problems in Southern Kaduna have persisted majorly because of little or no attention given by previous administrations.
“Joblessness/unemployment, incessant attacks by unknown Gunmen, lack of Scholarships, poor infrastructure (including bad roads, lack of power/electricity, poor health care facilities) to mention but a few, have continued to plaque the zone for so long”.
Bature also lamented that, there has not been any recent federal project located in the zone and the people have been conveniently excluded and sidelined from political appointments at federal and state level.
Barr Samuel Bature
The one-time Senatorial Aspirant pointed out that, the peaceful and loving people of Southern Kaduna strongly believe that, it is about time for the Presidency to be zoned to the Southern part of the Country and ABT happens to be the most qualified candidate for the exalted office.
“While many Nigerians may be skeptical about his candidacy due to his religious affiliation, we the peaceful people of Southern Kaduna are rest assured that, ABT will run an inclusive government given his outstanding political track record.
“Furthermore, ABT has demonstrated a high level of political and leadership qualities over the years and this has earned him utmost respect and relentless support from his own people.
“The one -time Lagos State Governor has indeed been able to build a formidable political system that has attracted a lot of attention locally and internationally.
“Owing to the unmatched political and leadership records of this great patriot, several undergraduate students in higher institutions within and outside the country view him academically within the stratosphere of political science, as a political dime-God, and has become a subject of a thesis titled: “Making of a Strong and Responsible Regional political leader in Nigeria: Bola Tinubu, as a case study”
Barr Samuel Bature
Barr Samuel Bature stresses that, a major paradigm shift is about to take place, and it is not out of place for some Nigerians to be skeptical and even resistant to it.
However, he pointed out that, it is unacceptable to insult or make a caricature of a respectable political candidate, who emerged as the flag bearer of a strong political party in a free and fair presidential primary election.
SEN. TINUBU
Bature in this exclusive interview with REALITY, further drew the attention of the next presidential hopeful, to the plight of the loving people of Southern Kaduna and other minority tribes in Nigeria. He pointed out that, there are so many competent Human resources among the minority tribes, who have proven track records and can add value to the next government.
Bature also affirm that, “the inclusion of minority tribes will go a Long way to promote the growth, unity and progress in a nation that has been divided along Ethno- cultural, political, and religious lines for decades”.
Adding that, “interfaith and intercultural dialogue under the supervision of a credible leader at the top is crucial for the attainment of the much needed peace and stability in the region and the country at large.
“Understandable, there are bad elements in the party, that is, those, who have made it a duty to drag the honest intentions and genuine goodwill of the party to shame and disgrace.
“The bad News for them is that, ABT is skilled in the artistry of identifying and fishing out party-Judas and hypocrites.
“ABT possess the ability to produce amongst others, a credible team of human potential that can lead the match to a new Nigeria”.
According to Bature, the Asiwaju’s leadership structure would bring to an end the promotion of tribal tattoos and religious sentiments.
“If anyone is aggrieved by the party’s strategy of winning elections it will be better for that person to leave than to remain and connive with the opposition against the interest of the party”. He posited.
Issues surrounding, the Eight (8) years administration of Sen. Jonah David Jang, as then governor of Plateau State seems not to have an end, as the Federal Government has reimbursed the state recently with the sum of N6.5bn for building, reconstructing and renovating federal infrastructure in the state.
The administration has also continually come under hard attack by the incumbent All Progressives Congress (APC) administration led by Governor Simon Bako Lalong, at any slight opportunity.
In its recent outing in Wase Local Government Area (LGA) of the state, the APC and Governor Lalong questioned the PDP and Sen. Jang, why they were unable to pay workers’ salaries, as the party (APC) emphasized on its ability and capacity to pay same.
However, in a swift response, Sen. Jonah Jang in a statement signed by his Media Aide, Clinton Garuba questioned why Governor Lalong speaks without tact.
“His outings at campaign rallies, both as DG of the APC presidential campaign and back home in Plateau state have been embarrassing. He speaks without the tact required of leadership and his utterances are akin to verbal diarrhea, words spoken without first weighing the gravity of what is said or lacking in communicative competence”.
SEN. JANG
According to the statement, “Former Governor Jang is not proud to have left unpaid salaries, but the most recent refund for the infrastructure executed by Jang to the tune N6.5bn is evidence that, he spent Plateau people’s commonwealth in their interest. The recent N6.5bn is only a part of the already refunded funds Jang administration spent in constructing federal roads.
“If Lalong has received such a huge amount, why then is he still owing salaries when there is no infrastructure to justify the spending of the equally huge allocation the state has received in addition to the mindless borrowings he has engaged in.
Adding that, “It is important for Governor Lalong and those who advise him to note that, the 2023 elections is a referendum on the 8 years of the APC in the saddle and if they do not have anything to show, they could simply admit failure and prepare to hand over the reins of power to another party.
“Many discerning hearts need not be surprised at the way Governor Lalong has used every opportunity he got to say disparaging things against the former Governor, having failed woefully to use the instrumentality of government to convict Senator Jang in a court of law over some trumped up charges of corruption. Plateau people saw how he petitioned Governor Jang to both the EFCC and ICPC and went further to line up government officials to bear false witnesses against Jang.
“Thankfully, at the end of the day the truth prevailed, as the courts spoke in very loud voice in defense of Senator Jang. Having lost all the goodwill of 2015 and taking Nigeria, Plateau State inclusive, through harrowing times, the only thing the party can do is to whip up sentiments, as it did in 2015.
“However, they have failed to realize that, Nigerians have seen them for who they truly are and will speak through the polls in a matter of weeks. Taking the Governor serious on his promise to deliver APC in all elections is like believing that, the Naira will be parallel to the Dollar as promised or that electricity would be stable. What one can say at this point is “believe the APC at your peril”. More still, “believe Lalong and have more disappointment”.
As Gov Simon Bako Lalong storms the Center stage to promote the Tinubu/Shettima APC Presidential Campaign at the national level, he has succeeded in extinguishing initial doubts being expressed about the likelihood that the high quality of governance which he is known for may suffer due to the demand of his responsibilities as Director General of the campaign council.
The governor has however kept proving over and over again that he is adept at multi tasking when it comes to providing good governance to his people and the nation as well.
Few days ago, the governor took time out from the grueling campaign trail to promote peaceful coexistence in his home state of Plateau by hosting what is now called the ‘Plateau Day and Day of Forgiveness and Reconciliation’ which has come to be celebrated annually since 2018 as part of efforts to sustain peace in the state.
The event which took place at the Rwang Pam Township Stadium Jos also marked the 47th anniversary of the creation of the State.
For Governor Lalong, the push to drive home one of the cardinal objectives of his administration which is to restore lasting peace in his state takes the cake as he understands that no development can take place in a rancorous atmosphere.
Recall that on assumption of office as Governor of Plateau State, Lalong resolved to restore the glory of the state in line with its popular slogan of ‘Home of Peace and Tourism’.
Having inherited a fractured state at the brink of collapse instigated by bloodthirsty warmongers who were exploiting the fault lines of ethnic and religious sensitivities, Gov Lalong initiated policies, programmes and an institutional framework to restore the state back to its lost glory.
Speaking on behalf of Plateau glorious stars, a former DG of the Nigeria Television Authority, NTA, Malam Yakubu Mohammed who was at the occasion, recalled his life while growing up in Jos and said the unfortunate events of the past have been detrimental to the image of the State but expressed delight that the Governor has done well to reverse the situation through inclusive leadership.
The former DG of NTA was not alone in preaching the message of peace as he was supported by various dignitaries who were at the occasion.
They include Sultan of Sokoto Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar who showered praises on Governor Lalong for his passion for peace and reconciliation which has restored calm and progress in Plateau State.
The Sultan said the initiatives put in place by the Governor have galvanised the entire state and brought together people who are no longer looking at one another with suspicion, bitterness and hatred.
Catholic Archbishop of Abuja Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama on his part said he was happy that the initiative taken many years ago has fully been implemented by the Plateau State Government under the leadership of Governor Lalong.
The Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Jacob Gyang Buba urged the citizens to put the past behind them and look forward to a greater future while Catholic Archbishop of Jos Most Rev. Ishaya Audu appreciated the Plateau State Government for adhering to the yearnings of the people and doing the needful.
Other dignitaries at the occasion include Emir of Askira, Alh. Abdullahi Ibn Askirama II, Emir of Kano Aminu Ado Bayero, former Military Administrator of Plateau State Gen. Lawrence Onoja, former Governor Fidelis Tapgun, CAN General Secretary, PIDAN President, Chairman Inter religious Council Prof. Pandam Yamsat, who all commended the Governor for toeing the path of peace and ensuring that criminals are not allowed to operate with impunity while reconciliation is going on.
GOV. LALONG
Governor Lalong on his part described the day as a forum to appeal to peoples’ conscience and embrace peace.
“Today, the deep-seated level of mutual distrust, suspicion and hate that once characterized social relations between people of different ethno-religious backgrounds across Plateau State has greatly reduced to the barest minimum. This is a result of the hours, days, months and years of work put in by the Plateau Peace Building Agency which we established backed by law, as well as the Inter-Religious Council that was also inaugurated with top leadership of the Christian and Muslim faiths deeply involved”.
The Governor explained that the Government has continued to remove the triggers for conflicts such as those related to farming and grazing and has sent a Bill to the State House of Assembly for the establishment of Ranching which will prohibit open grazing so as to tackle clashes between farmers and herders.
He then took a very significant step that will further guarantee peaceful coexistence in the state with his unveiling of the Gazette for the creation of New Districts and Chiefdoms in the state and the formal handing over of 32 schools established by voluntary organizations back to their original owners.
The occasion attracted advocates of religious, ethnic and traditional inclusion and elicited acclamations from a cross section that yearned for accommodation and inclusion in the scheme of things and the purely non-political occasion has been received with warmth.
It was meant to be devoid of politics, but it nonetheless provided political analysts the opportunity to express their opinions on the impact of the efforts of the Governor towards improving on the lot of the citizens in his state.
Consequently, the Governor has in several analyses of the event been eulogized as a leader with focus who does not forget his immediate responsibility even while answering a clarion call on behalf of the nation.
Political analysts quickly recall that as chairman of the Northern States Governors Forum, Lalong provided quality leadership to his colleague governors and at the same time served the state well with quality projects and good initiatives.
GOV. LALONG
As the DG of the Tinubu/Shettima Campaign Council, Gov Lalong is working round the clock to deliver on his mandate!
The comments made by the incumbent Governor of Plateau State, Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong, at the All Progressives Congress (APC) rally in Wase Local Government Area (LGA) recently, has been described by a former governor of the state, Sen. Johan Jang, as the outburst of a Day Dreamer.
Sen. Jang, who gave this description in a statement signed on his behalf by his aide, Clinton Garuba, also emphasized that, the comments of Governor Lalong, were directly aimed to disparage and cast the former governor of the state in bad light, as well as, scurry some favour for his anointed candidate.
However, Sen. Jang stated that, “This is nothing, but the last kicks of a dying horse”.
SEN. JONAH JANG
“One would ordinarily have dismissed the vituperations as the outbursts of a deeply frustrated person, who has taken a difficult task of marketing a bad product all in the need to stay relevant. It seems however that, Governor Lalong has just woken up from his slumber of almost 8 years and discovered he has spent these years doing nothing in the interest of Plateau people hence, the degeneration to, Day Dreaming. But for the misleading statements he made, there was no need to dignify him with a response since we knows that, anything outside his written speeches are not only disjointed, but profane babbling that makes no semantic sense…
“These are obvious sign that, Governor Lalong, is Day Dreaming in thinking that, the G5 PDP governors and allies including former Governor Jang are supporting the APC presidential candidate”. Sen. Jang added.
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GOVERNOR SIMON BAKO LALONG’S DELUSIONAL OUTING AT WASE; SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT
SEN. JANG
The attention of former Governor of Plateau State Senator Jonah David Jang has just been drawn to recent comments attributed to the Governor of Plateau State, Rt. Hon Simon Bako Lalong at the flag-off of the APC campaign rally, held at Wase Local Government Area of the state.
The comments, which sought to disparage and cast the former Governor of the state in bad light, as well as, scurry some favour for his anointed candidate and the APC is nothing, but the last kicks of a dying horse.
One would ordinarily have dismissed the vituperations as the outbursts of a deeply frustrated person, who has taken a difficult task of marketing a bad product all in the need to stay relevant. It seems however that, Governor Lalong has just woken up from his slumber of almost 8 years and discovered he has spent these years doing nothing in the interest of Plateau people hence, the degeneration to, Day Dreaming. But for the misleading statements he made, there was no need to dignify him with a response since we knows that, anything outside his written speeches are not only disjointed, but profane babbling that makes no semantic sense.
For someone, who has spent all these years as governor not doing what makes for the welfare and wellbeing of his people; in addition to the dismal performance in terms of basic infrastructure, healthcare, tourism, education and all the sectors necessary for the people, he should be hiding his face in shame rather than, trying to denigrate the former governor whose records of performance dot the Plateau landscape.
Obvious sign that, Governor Lalong, is Day Dreaming is in thinking that, the G5 PDP governors and allies including former Governor Jang are supporting the APC presidential candidate.
They have repeatedly said that, they do not have personal problems with the candidate of the PDP, but with the process that brought him up and the ensuing structural imbalance it has created in the party. Yes, the integrity group has disagreements with the PDP and their withdrawal of support for the PDP presidential candidate’s campaign does not in any way suggest that, they support the APC candidate.
Only Lalong and his fellow dreamers think so and will stop at nothing to mislead the public in order to get favorable feedback for a bad product they so desperately want to sell.
In the same vein, the governor has been struggling to no avail, to show that, he is in good terms with former Governor Joshua Dariye and that, the latter supports the APC candidates. Need we remind the governor once more that, this again is a figment of his imagination conjectured to put him in good stead with the Plateau people he long abandoned in pursuit of interest that clearly undermine the Plateau people he claims to govern.
The APC has done a good job of de-marketing itself that the opposition does not need too much time talking about it. Nigerians have been subjected to tortuous life never imagined and they are willing to express their anger through the ballot box. Thinking of delivering APC top to bottom by Lalong and his ilk is mere wishful thinking. No right thinking person will consider an extension of the present situation we have found ourselves in. That is the kind of hardship that Lalong & Co want to perpetuate, just in the name of seeking relevance.
Many discerning hearts need not be surprised at the way Governor Lalong has used every opportunity he got to say disparaging things against the former Governor, having failed woefully to use the instrumentality of government to convict Senator Jang in a court of law over some trumped up charges of corruption. Plateau people saw how he petitioned Governor Jang to both the EFCC and ICPC and went further to line up government officials to bear false witnesses against Jang.
Thankfully, at the end of the day the truth prevailed, as the courts spoke in very loud voice in defense of Senator Jang. Having lost all the goodwill of 2015 and taking Nigeria, Plateau State inclusive, through harrowing times, the only thing the party can do is to whip up sentiments, as it did in 2015.
However, they have failed to realize that, Nigerians have seen them for who they truly are and will speak through the polls in a matter of weeks. Taking the Governor serious on his promise to deliver APC in all elections is like believing that, the Naira will be parallel to the Dollar as promised or that electricity would be stable. What one can say at this point is “believe the APC at your peril”. More still, “believe Lalong and have more disappointment”.
His outings at campaign rallies both as DG of the APC presidential campaign and back home in Plateau state have been embarrassing. He speaks without the tact required of leadership and his utterances are akin to verbal diarrhea, words spoken without first weighing the gravity of what is said or lacking in communicative competence.
On the accusation of non-payment of salaries, which the governor has turned to a sing-song in the last seven years, and as one of his major achievements, let me state for the records that, the Jang administration left unpaid salaries of 4 months, which was later paid by the Lalong administration. In any case, former Governor Jang is not proud to have left unpaid salaries, but the most recent refund for the infrastructure executed by Jang to the tune N6.5bn is evidence that, he spent Plateau people’s commonwealth in their interest. The recent N6.5bn is only a part of the already refunded funds Jang administration spent in constructing federal roads. If Lalong has received such a huge amount, why then is he still owing salaries when there is no infrastructure to justify the spending of the equally huge allocation the state has received in addition to the mindless borrowings he has engaged in.
It is important for Governor Lalong and those who advise him to note that, the 2023 elections is a referendum on the 8 years of the APC in the saddle and if they do not have anything to show, they could simply admit failure and prepare to hand over the reins of power to another party. Had the Governor spent his time working for the Plateau people and their interests, he would have had several projects to showcase as bait to wooing the electorate not the needless whining about what he met on ground in 2015.
It is unfortunate that 2015 as it were, seems to have been a better place for Nigerians than what the APC has unleashed and want to continue to unleash on Nigerians.
Governor Lalong should stop referring Plateau citizens to what happen in 2015 and market himself and his so called candidate, through his performance of his nearly 8 years administration.
“The people are watching and they will hold you accountable at the poll for your inept leadership, under performance and the shame you have brought to Plateau”.
Governor Lalong and his ilk must stop day dreaming and start preparing to take their place in political oblivion after Nigerians have sent them there for the pains and agony they have inflicted on them.
The Federation of Muslim Women of Nigeria (FOMWAN) Jos chapter has celebrated the 11th World Hijab Day with the theme: Progression and not Oppression, with many Muslim women in attendance.
The chapter from records has taken the Hijab Day as an obligatory to be celebrated annual. Also from records, the celebration starts on the 1st of February and ends on the 4th of same month, with a lot of programs to mark the day. Most times, different facilitators are invited to educate people on the importance of Hijab among other contemporary issues.
During the recent celebration in Jos, the Amira, Hajia Kaltime Auwal, welcomed the participants and urged them to be patient and to listen to the information the facilitators have to deliver.
The program start with the recitation of the Holy Quran by some of the students present at the event.
The Director Centre for Conflict Management and Peace Studies,at the University of Jos Prof. Danny McCain, has called on Plateau state Gubernatorial Candidates to embrace peace by accepting the results of the forthcoming general elections as former President Goodluck Jonathan did in 2015.
Prof. McCain stated this in a town hall meeting for Gubernatorial Candidates participating in the March 11, 2023, general elections in Plateau state organized by the University of Jos and Voice of America (VOA). The meeting held on Wednesday 1st February 2023 at the faculty of Social Sciences auditorium, Naraguta Campus University of Jos.
Prof. McCain sighted the case of president Jonathan Good Luck after the 2015 Presidential election where while in office as president accepted the results of INEC and congratulated President Muhammad Buhari as the winner.
“Only one of you will become the governor of Plateau State during this election. I pray that those who do not win will follow the outstanding tradition of your former President, Goodluck Jonathan and graciously accept the will of the people.
He said “The primary speakers today will be the candidates for governor. However, I want to help set the tone for this meeting by making three statements related to peace and elections.
* Peace is secured and maintained through an abundance of information.
*Democracy works best when there is mutual respect and compromise to accept the convictions of others.
*Democracy matures and peace is promoted when losing candidates demonstrate grace, dignity, and respect for the will of the people and the law of the land.
The Vice-Chancellor Prof. Tanko Ishaya in his keynote address also encouraged the candidates to take advantage of the presence of the University of Jos on the Plateau.At the end of the various speeches the candidates in an agreement signed a pledge to respect the rule of law and accept the outcome of the elections.
The Federation of Muslim Women of Nigeria (FOMWAN) Jos chapter has celebrated the 11th World Hijab Day with the theme: Progression and not Oppression, with many Muslim women in attendance.
The chapter from records has taken the Hijab Day as an obligatory to be celebrated annual. Also from records, the celebration starts on the 1st of February and ends on the 4th of same month, with a lot of programs to mark the day. Most times, different facilitators are invited to educate people on the importance of Hijab among other contemporary issues.
During the recent celebration in Jos, the Amira, Hajia Kaltime Auwal, welcomed the participants and urged them to be patient and to listen to the information the facilitators have to deliver.
The program start with the recitation of the Holy Quran by some of the students present at the event.
The first facilitator, Hajia Rashida Aminu Abdulmalik, talked about the importance of Hijab and the ethics that surrounds the wearing. She said hijab is meant to cover the body and not to expose the body, while advising that, women should try to wear them in an appropriate manner.
The second speaker, Hajia Saadatu Adam Abdullahi made more emphasizes on the importance of Hijab, while the third speaker, Madam Kaneng Tabitha Pam –hwovo, explained why she loves and appreciates the Hijab, as she shared flyers for more information.
The last speaker Hajia Khadija Ibrahim Ogah, (a Lab Scientist) talked about the awareness, sensitization of polio, eradication of polio and cancer screening.
She talked about ways in which one can get infectious disease like cancer and also the symptoms of this deadly disease.
She made emphasis and advised parents to try and make sure their children are well vaccinated. She said her profession did not stop her from being a Muslim and also to wear her Hijab as a crown.
On their part, pupils from FOMWAN presented a talk show on the importance of Hijab and how they feel about wearing it.
The program ended with the presentation of Hijab to some students and to other participants.
