Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has stressed that there is no local government area in the state that is under the control of bandits and terrorists, despite the security challenges bedeviling the state.
Governor Mutfwang disclosed this at an interactive session with journalists at the New Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos, on Tuesday.
No Plateau Local Government Area is under the control of bandits. But before now, Wase and Kanam LGAs were, and they have been pushed out by the military,” Mutfwang said.
According to the governor, contrary to what the outside world is made to believe, Plateau is relatively safer than other states in the North, emphasizing that despite pockets of violence witnessed in some local government areas, the government has made progress in ensuring peace in the state
The governor further reiterated his support for state policing, explaining that such an initiative will go a long way in preventing incessant attacks and the killing of innocent persons.
While reiterating his support for state police, he also promised to revamp Operation Rainbow to complement the efforts of Operation Safe Haven and other security agencies in the state.
In a significant gesture of collaboration for peace and security, Major General Folusho Oyinlola, the newly appointed General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander of Operation SAFE HAVEN (Comd OPSH), paid a courtesy call on the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, at the Governor’s office in Little Rayfield, Jos on Tuesday 4 February 2025. During the visit, the GOC reaffirmed his commitment to a fair and just approach in addressing the state’s security challenges, aiming to foster a peaceful environment for all citizens.
In his address, Major General Oyinlola emphasized the necessity of maintaining and building upon the achievements of his predecessor in ensuring stability within the Joint Operations Area (JOA) of Plateau and its neighboring regions. “Our priority is not just to maintain the existing peace in the state but also to enhance it, ensuring that all parties involved feel secure and supported,” he stated.
The GOC’s remarks underscored a people-centric approach to security operations, which he defined as the combination of kinetic strategies—more traditional military engagements—and non-kinetic initiatives focusing on community engagement and dialogue. “The operations in Plateau State require a multi-faceted approach,” he added. “We must involve all stakeholders and ensure that their voices are heard in our quest for lasting peace.”
Governor Caleb Mutfwang while welcoming the GOC, expressed his appreciation for the GOC’s visit and pledged the full support of the state government to aid in his mission. “We consider you a critical partner in progress, and together we aspire to return Plateau State to its pre-crisis status, a land renowned as the true home of peace and tourism in Nigeria,” Mutfwang stated, underscoring the partnership between the military and the state government in addressing security concerns.
The governor also acknowledged the efforts of the immediate past GOC, attributing the peaceful Christmas celebration of 2024 to his dedicated interventions. “His contributions to peace and security were paramount in ensuring a harmonious festive season for our communities,” stated Mutfwang.
Highlighting the dual nature of the security challenges in the state, the governor noted the importance of employing both hard and soft approaches. “A multi-faceted strategy is essential to not only combat violence but also to promote understanding and cooperation among our communities,” he reiterated. Governor Mutfwang called on the citizens of Plateau State to embrace peace and work collectively towards a more secure future, reassuring them of the state government’s commitment to peaceful coexistence.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor of Plateau State, the Secretary to the State Government, honorable commissioners, and members of the Plateau State Executive Council, along with commanders and staff officers from the 3 Division and Operation SAFE HAVEN. The occasion was marked by the presentation of souvenirs and a group photograph, commemorating the collaborative spirit between the military and the state government.
Major General Oyinlola’s visit to Governor Mutfwang signals a renewed commitment to peace and security in Plateau State. With the GOC’s assurance of fairness and the governor’s support, there is hope for a more secure and harmonious Plateau, where the communities can collectively thrive and restore their historic legacy as a beacon of peace and tourism in Nigeria. As both leaders echoed the need for unity and proactive measures, the future looks promising for the people of Plateau State.
ALIYU DANJA Lieutenant Colonel Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations 3 Division Nigerian Army
HRH Nde Solomon B. Sekat, the 9th Ngolong Kor,Headquarters of GUNG DISTRICT,Pankshin Local Government Area has died at the age of 100 years.
Prince Rotdunna Sekat, the son of the late Monarch, in an official statement released on Monday, said their patriarch, who was admitted in the Hospital before his demise, died on Saturday 25/1/2025 in a private Hospital in Jos.
He was 100 years of age and 51 years on throne as Ngolong Kor.
“My father was a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights, and unselfish love.
“My brothers, sisters, and I shared him with the rest of the family and Kor Community through these common beliefs.
“The Kor as a community is our family because of the way he brought people together, and we thank you for honoring his memory by continuing to live these shared beliefs,” Prince Rotdunna Sekat said.
The late Ngolong Kor, was a minner,trader and a farmer before ascending his father’s throne as Ngolong Kor in 1974 after his elder brother, Nde Fwatkum D. Sekat who served as Ngolong Kor from 1960-1974 abandoned the throne for his trading business.
Under his reign as Ngolong Kor, Nde Solomon B. Sekat led Kor Community to construct Kor – Pankshin Road,organizes the first Pus Kang Kor, and he lobbied and attracted the construction of LGEA Primary School, and a PHC Clinic. Under his reign, Government Secondary School Kor was established.
My father’s departure is a great loss, not only to us the immediate family and community but to the entire Pankshin and the Ngas Land at large. His reign was marked by wisdom, peace, and total commitment to the development and unity of his people. He was a father to all, a bridge between generations, and a leader whose dedication to justice and fairness earned him the love and respect of many.
My father was a custodian of our rich cultural heritage, a beacon of hope for his people, and a true patriot whose leadership brought progress and harmony.
His wise counsel, humility, and deep love for his people will be greatly missed. The void he leaves behind will be difficult to fill, but his legacy of selfless service and commitment to the well-being of his people will continue to inspire us.
My father had decided against “additional medical intervention” following a series of brief hospital visits, Prince Rotdunna Sekat said in a statement. His Royal Highness will be laid to rest this February as preparation for his burial is in top gear.
Plateau State University has received a tractor donation from the State Government, strengthening its commitment to expanding agricultural training and production programs. Vice Chancellor Professor Shedrack Best commended Governor Caleb Mutfwang for the donation, which aims to enhance the university’s agricultural capabilities.
The tractor donation is part of the Governor’s agricultural transformation plan, specifically the Agro Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscape Project. The initiative seeks to improve agricultural training and production across the state. Governor Mutfwang on January 20 expressed his administration’s commitment to mechanize agriculture in Plateau State, lamenting only 0.05% is currently mechanized.
“We aim to take away the hoes and cutlasses and bring technology to meet the food needs of Plateau State,” said Governor Mutfwang, represented by Samson Bugama, the State’s Commissioner of Agriculture. The Governor announced plans to acquire more tractors, power tillers, and establish state plantations to encourage youths in agriculture.
“Last year, we cultivated 6,000 hectares but this year we’re looking at cultivating 15,000 hectares for vulnerable communities, schools in particular. So one of the things His Excellency has asked us to do is to go around secondary schools and cultivate their land just so we can build interest in agriculture,” the Governor said.
“But the first thing we need to do is strengthen the institutions that help our young people to learn agriculture and takeaway the drudgery that comes with agriculture,” he said.
The university was among five institutions to receive tractors donated by the World Bank. Despite receiving only one unit, the university’s excitement was palpable. Vice Chancellor Best highlighted the university’s agricultural resources, including a dam, the Agricultural Services and Training Corporation (ASTC), and vast land.
“Our young students will be excited to see these machines. They will use it for learning. It will motivate them and there are other agricultural resources around us,” said Prof. Best.
“We are a rural university and we are located at the hub of agriculture. A lot of farming activity takes place there,” Professor Best said.
“So whether it is in research or in actual tillage of land or in animal husbandry, in all the areas, when we bring our faculty of Agriculture which is young and ambitious and growing into place, we believe that we have a lot to contribute including to other agencies who have benefited today from this gesture,” Professor Best stated.
*Masara Kim*
Acting Public Relations Officer
Plateau State University, Bokkos
In a bid to tackle Nigeria’s pressing democratic challenges and foster grassroots participation in leadership selection, Otunba Segun Showunmi, the convener of the National Opposition Movement Coalition, “The Alternative,” has unveiled the movement in the South-South region. The unveiling took place during a regional town hall meeting held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Thursday, January 16, 2025.
Addressing an audience comprising political leaders, elder statesmen, women leaders, youth groups, and advocacy organizations, Showunmi emphasized the urgency of reorienting democracy in Nigeria. He called on citizens to unite in deciding the future of the nation, urging them to actively engage in political processes and hold leaders accountable.
“The best among us must step forward to lead the rest of us,” Showunmi declared, stressing the need for visionary and capable leadership. He highlighted the importance of fostering an inclusive dialogue, where diverse viewpoints are encouraged without descending into chaos or undermining the nation’s unity.
“We can’t be a nation that interprets opposition responsibility to mean encouraging chaos or demarcating the country,” he stated. Instead, he called for a constructive opposition that offers viable alternatives to governance while working to address the nation’s challenges, including economic struggles and political instability.
Showunmi expressed concerns about the diminishing role of civic responsibility among Nigerians, urging citizens to remain committed to democratic principles. He underscored the importance of identifying quality leaders not only at the presidential level but also in the legislative arm, emphasizing that a functional Senate and House of Representatives are vital for good governance.
“Our focus should be on what kind of leaders we want, who we need, and how to inspire citizens to participate actively in democracy,” he said. He also called for reforms within political parties, advocating for inclusivity and transparency in party primaries.
Veteran actress and Rivers State Labour Party Chairman, Hilda Dokubo, echoed Showunmi’s sentiments, urging citizens to focus on grassroots issues. “Rivers State is in our hands; it is what we choose. Let no one distract us,” she said. Dokubo also highlighted the region’s economic contributions and the need for equitable distribution of resources.
Hon. Bright Ngola, National Coordinator of the Niger Delta Right Advocate, emphasized the role of a strong opposition in providing checks and balances. “Without a quality opposition, the same issues will persist even after the 2027 elections,” he warned, urging for a reawakening to end the cycle of suffering.
Chief Solsuema Osaro, Rivers State chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), called for harmony among opposition parties. He emphasized the need for ideological unity to inspire confidence among Nigerians and create a robust opposition capable of challenging the status quo.
Other political party chairmen who where present at the townhall meeting including, Hon Ben Ogbobula of Zenith Labour Patty, Hon Jim Jaja of NRM and Hon Godson of NNPP, also echoed Showunmi’s call for a strong opposition. A recurring theme at the meeting was the need for greater inclusion of women in politics. Participants criticized the limited roles assigned to women in political parties and called for reforms to increase their participation in decision-making processes. “How can women excel as CEOs of banks but be sidelined in political leadership?” one speaker questioned.
The South-South town hall meeting is part of a nationwide series of regional gatherings under the banner of “The Alternative.” Previous meetings have been held in Abuja, Plateau, Bauchi, and Kano, with plans to expand to other regions. The goal, according to Showunmi, is to create a national paradigm shift in democratic conversations.
“This is not just about politics; it’s about reawakening our consciousness for the common good of Nigerian citizens,” he stated. The movement seeks to empower citizens to take ownership of the political process, emphasizing the need for unity, transparency, and a collective vision for the nation’s future.
As the conversation continues, Showunmi urged Nigerians to prioritize competence and integrity in leadership selection. He noted that while 2027 may seem distant, the groundwork for meaningful change must begin now. “The earlier we start searching for the character that will lead us, the better,” he said.
The event concluded with a commitment from participants to work together in building a strong, unified opposition capable of offering Nigerians credible alternatives in governance. With the South-South region now onboard, “The Alternative” movement continues its march toward reimagining democracy in Nigeria.
Nrs Ndak Zuhunnan, Project Manager of the Immunization Plus and Malaria Progress by Acceleration Coverage and Transforming Services (IMPACT) Project, on Wednesday 15th January, 2025 reaffirmed the project’s commitment to significantly reducing infant and maternal mortality rates, aiming for a healthier, more productive, and prosperous population in Plateau State. This statement was made during a presentation of the project’s scorecard by the Project Manager during the State visit of Dr. Ndiamé Diop, World Bank Country Director for Nigeria.
Nrs Ndak highlighted key challenges faced by Plateau State prior to the project’s implementation, emphasizing the project’s focus on increasing antenatal clinic attendance, ensuring skilled birth attendance, and promoting immunization uptake to minimize under-five mortality rates. The project aims to reduce under-five mortality from 132 to 79 per 1,000 births by 2030 and improve the utilization and quality of immunization plus and malaria services statewide.
Key achievements according to him include training support for the 17 Local Government Areas, stakeholder engagement, renovation of delivery rooms, provision of laptops for digital reporting, and distribution of motorcycles for emergency response and vaccine delivery. Integrated supportive supervision and mentorship programs have also been conducted across 207 facilities to enhance quality care.
He also stated that the project has awarded contracts for the renovation and revitalization of 82 Primary Health Care Facilities across the Local Government Areas in the State.
IMPACT Project Vows to Decrease Infant and Maternal Mortality Rates as Governor Mutfwang Hosts World Bank Representatives 16 Jan IMPACT Project Vows to Decrease Infant and Maternal Mortality Rates as Governor Mutfwang Hosts World Bank Representatives Nrs Ndak Zuhunnan, Project Manager of the Immunization Plus and Malaria Progress by Acceleration Coverage and Transforming Services (IMPACT) Project, on Wednesday 15th January, 2025 reaffirmed the project’s commitment to significantly reducing infant and maternal mortality rates, aiming for a healthier, more productive, and prosperous population in Plateau State. This statement was made during a presentation of the project’s scorecard by the Project Manager during the State visit of Dr. Ndiamé Diop, World Bank Country Director for Nigeria.
Nrs Ndak highlighted key challenges faced by Plateau State prior to the project’s implementation, emphasizing the project’s focus on increasing antenatal clinic attendance, ensuring skilled birth attendance, and promoting immunization uptake to minimize under-five mortality rates. The project aims to reduce under-five mortality from 132 to 79 per 1,000 births by 2030 and improve the utilization and quality of immunization plus and malaria services statewide.
Key achievements according to him include training support for the 17 Local Government Areas, stakeholder engagement, renovation of delivery rooms, provision of laptops for digital reporting, and distribution of motorcycles for emergency response and vaccine delivery. Integrated supportive supervision and mentorship programs have also been conducted across 207 facilities to enhance quality care.
He also stated that the project has awarded contracts for the renovation and revitalization of 82 Primary Health Care Facilities across the Local Government Areas in the State. The Project Manager credited the successes achieved thus far in the project to the steadfast commitment and support provided to the IMPACT Project by Governor Caleb Mutfwang. He praised the Governor of Plateau State for prioritizing healthcare and for making available counterpart funding.
The Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, while welcoming the World Bank Team, reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to fostering strategic partnerships that drive sustainable development within the State. Governor Mutfwang commended the World Bank’s Country Director, Dr. Ndiamé Diop, for his unwavering commitment to Africa’s development since assuming office. He assured the World Bank Team of his administration’s readiness to collaborate with institutions that add value to the State and its citizens. Governor Mutfwang noted that “the kind of understanding, collaboration and synergy we are developing I can see it moving us to the right direction where we can be able to achieve the development objectives as set out in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Charter so that we can be able to maximize the opportunities that are at our disposal” He expressed disappointment over the World Bank’s insufficient participation in the State’s affairs in the past, attributing this to the State’s inability to provide effective leadership that could deliver targeted results, and pledged to rectify this situation. He stated that the present Administration is committed to ensuring that all projects executed in the State offer value for money. “What I can tell you is that we have been able to re-energize our focus in terms of delivery for every project we are involved in” He said his focus is to lift the People of the State out of poverty and make them prosperous. The Governor undertook to execute projects that would yield enduring benefits for the State and its Citizens.
In his initial remarks, World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Dr. Ndiamé Diop, acknowledged Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s partnership, ensuring the World Bank’s sustained support for projects in the State. He applauded the Governor’s outstanding leadership. Dr. Diop noted that the State provides the World Bank with opportunities to enhance its project portfolio and develop more effective support strategies.
The World Bank Team applauded the Governor for bringing together a skilled team to administer all World Bank-supported projects in the State.
“From the interaction we have had so far, you are always proactive and candid in sharing your feedbacks with us. So we are here to interact on the portfolios of ongoing projects and see how better we can come up with impactful interventions to the State” The World Bank Team also underscored the necessity for the State to uphold global standards in project execution and committed to providing further interventions for increased impact.
The event also featured presentations from the World Bank-supported projects in Plateau State such as the Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation, and Hygiene (SURWASH) Program Plateau State, The Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment, (AGILE) Project, Nigeria COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) programme, Rural Access & Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), Social Engagement for Budgetary Accountability (SEBA) and Agro-Climatic Resilience Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL).
Plateau State University Bokkos (PLASU) has secured approval from regulatory authorities to launch six new academic programs, marking a significant milestone in the university’s effort at expanding its academic offerings.
The new programs include degrees in Medical Sciences (MBBS), Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharm D.), Statistics (B.Sc.) and Religious Studies (B.A); as well as the endorsement of professional bodies for its programs in Law and Nursing Sciences. The development was announced by the Acting Vice Chancellor/Chairman of the university’s senate, Professor Shedrack Gaya Best during the 92nd Regular meeting of Senate on January 10, 2025.
Prof. Best credited the achievement to the unwavering support and commitment of the State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang to the university’s progress.
“The result is that now we have gotten approval from the National Universities Commission (NUC) for all of these programs,” announced Prof. Best.
The NUC gave PLASU the green light to proceed with these programs, following resource verification visits to assess the university’s preparedness last year.
Additionally, the Council of Legal Education and Nursing Council have formally approved the newly established Law and Nursing Science programs respectively.
Prof. Best expressed gratitude to the regulatory authorities for supporting the state government’s efforts to promote learning at PLASU. He also pledged the management’s commitment to staff welfare for optimal productivity.
“The stability of the academic calendar depends on the quality of academic relationships within the university,” Prof. Best acknowledged.
“As long as it is within the purview of the university and the management, there is nothing of a welfare nature that belongs to any union that this management is sitting on.”
Prof. Best appealed for patience over delays in implementing the new national minimum wage for staff of the university.
“I know that the way to stay in peace with people is to give them what is due to them. That is the principle of management. But some things are of a process nature,” said the Acting VC and Senate Chairman.
“The minimum wage involves a process. It has commenced for civil servants, but the university is outside the civil service system. However, we are doing our best negotiating with officials at the state level,” he said.
In other developments, the senate received reports on the resumption of academic activities after the Christmas and New Year breaks.
Efforts to improve campus security are also underway, including the issuance of ID cards and approval of access to hostel accommodation for appropriate categories of students.
As PLASU continues to expand its academic offerings, it remains committed to providing quality education and promoting a safe and secure learning environment.
*Masara Kim* Acting Public Relations Officer _Plateau State University Bokkos_ January 13, 2025
Former House of Representatives member Hon. Musa Bagos has called on Plateau State’s youth media enthusiasts, particularly online media practitioners, to embrace challenges, pursue excellence, and obtain professional certifications to enhance their credibility and opportunities. Bagos made the remarks during a courtesy visit by the Plateau Bloggers and Online Media Association (PLABOMA), led by its Chairman, Matthew Tegha.
The visit aimed to strengthen collaboration, celebrate Bagos’ contributions to Plateau State, and explore strategies for promoting positive narratives about the region through digital media.
Bagos commended PLABOMA’s role in reshaping Plateau’s image, describing its members as pioneers of the next generation of communication. He urged them to uphold unity and professionalism, transcending political, religious, and ethnic divides. Highlighting the power of technology and digital media, Bagos encouraged practitioners to leverage their platforms to showcase Plateau’s potential and promote its culture and development.
“You have revolutionized communication in Plateau State and positioned yourselves as key players in its development,” Bagos said. “However, to fully harness the opportunities ahead, you must pursue professional certifications, such as those from the National Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), to build credibility and access greater opportunities.”
Bagos further warned against partisanship, urging members to remain objective and focused on advancing Plateau’s collective interest. “Your credibility and objectivity are your greatest assets. Stay true to the Plateau agenda, and let your work promote unity, peace, and development,” he added.
In his remarks, PLABOMA Chairman Matthew Tegha praised Bagos for his unwavering commitment to youth empowerment, justice, and equity during his tenure as a lawmaker. Tegha outlined the association’s mission to promote positive narratives about Plateau State and sought Bagos’ support for capacity-building programs to enhance members’ skills in ethical reporting and digital media.
“Your contributions to nation-building and youth empowerment align with our vision to project Plateau positively to the world,” Tegha said. “We are committed to leveraging online media to build bridges, promote peace, and showcase Plateau’s rich culture and potential.”
During the visit, Comrade Friday Bako, a former PLABOMA chairman, lauded the association’s role in reshaping Plateau’s narrative and fostering unity. He also commended Bagos for his developmental strides and consistent dedication to the state’s progress.
Alex Audu, a PLABOMA Trustee, highlighted Bagos’ impactful community initiatives since 2013, describing him as a role model of persistence and leadership. Audu urged him to maintain his focus on empowering citizens and uplifting communities.
The visit culminated in the presentation of a special recognition award to Hon. Bagos for his legislative impact and contributions to human capital development. Bagos expressed gratitude for the honor and reaffirmed his commitment to collaborating with PLABOMA and other stakeholders to advance Plateau State’s growth.
The visit emphasized the shared commitment between Bagos and PLABOMA to harness digital media as a tool for positive transformation in Plateau State, fostering unity, peace, and sustainable development.
On behalf of myself, family, staff and management of the Plateau State House of Assembly, I wish to extend my deepest condolences to His Royal Majesty, the Ngolong Ngas, Nde Jika Golit on the passing of his beloved wife, the Queen of Ngas Land, Maran Esther Jika Golit.
We are deeply saddened by this irreparable loss and we share in your moment of grief. Maran Esther Jika was an exceptional woman who left an indelible mark on the Ngas community. Her legacy will continue to inspire and uplift future generations.
As the legislative arm of the government of the State, we recognize the significant contributions Maran Esther Jika Golit has made to the Ngas community and the State as a whole, and we honor her memory. May she rest in perfect peace with the Lord.
May God grant you the strength and fortitude to bear this loss, and may you find comfort in the memories you shared with your beloved wife. Please accept our sincere condolences.
Signed: Rt. Hon. Dewan, K. Gabriel, _Speaker, Plateau State House of Assembly_
In a move address Nigeria’s growing democratic challenges, Otunba Segun Showunmi, convener of the National Opposition Movement Coalition (NOMC), “The Alternative,” a platform aimed at fostering grassroots consensus for the selection of future leaders. Speaking at the North West Regional Town Hall meeting in Kano State on Thursday, the former Ogun State governorship aspirant highlighted the need to reorient democracy and empower ordinary Nigerians to take charge of the nation’s political destiny.
Showunmi’s address resonated with themes of reformation, inclusivity, and the urgent need to refocus the political discourse from tribal and religious sentiments to national interest and service delivery. He criticized the current political recruitment processes, describing them as a “cult of human personality” rather than ideologically driven systems. According to him, the absence of clear ideological distinctions among political parties has eroded public trust and allowed the nation’s democracy to falter.
Showunmi lamented the growing disillusionment among Nigerians, noting that citizens are increasingly dissatisfied with governance. “Instead of political parties championing ideologies, they are now built around individuals. This has created instability, as any issue affecting a leader now affects the entire party,” he said. He further explained how past political systems in Nigeria, such as those led by Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, and others, were founded on clear ideological principles, unlike the current era where parties and candidates are indistinguishable.
He also warned against the tribal and religious divides dominating political conversations, emphasizing that the focus should be on addressing fundamental issues such as poverty, inflation, unemployment, and the role of government in serving the people. “Our democracy is in danger of being reduced to a conversation about tribe and religion, rather than tackling the national questions of service, governance, and the duty of government to its people,” he said.
Showunmi unveiled “The Alternative” as a nationwide movement aimed at reclaiming democracy and empowering citizens to take charge of the electoral process. The movement will engage citizens through town hall meetings, focus groups, and dialogue sessions to identify a consensus candidate for the presidency. This candidate will be presented to a political party for onward campaigns, ensuring they emerge as the people’s choice.
“This movement is not about forming another political party or creating a messiah figure,” Showunmi explained. “It’s about citizens coming together to decide what they truly want and working collectively to ensure their voices are heard. The best among us must step forward to lead the rest of us.”
The NOMC has already held similar town hall meetings in Jos, Bauchi, and Kano as part of its efforts to galvanize support and domesticate the ideals of “The Alternative.” The movement was first launched on November 25, 2024, in Abuja, with the goal of reviving Nigeria’s democracy and preventing the country from becoming a failed state.
Showunmi decried the influence of money in Nigerian politics, accusing “moneybag politicians” of suppressing democracy and exploiting citizens’ economic hardships for electoral gain. He cited instances of vote-buying, where citizens sell their votes for items as trivial as noodles, salt, or meager sums of money. “Imagine people given the power to decide the fate of their leaders, selling it for a plate of spaghetti or N1,000. That cannot be right,” he said.
He warned Nigerians to be vigilant and reject politicians who use their wealth to manipulate elections, stressing that democracy must serve the people, not the elites. “We are here to reorient citizens, reminding them that democracy belongs to them. They must internalize it, protect it, and use it to secure their future,” he said.
The town hall meeting featured contributions from prominent stakeholders who echoed Showunmi’s call for change. Hon. Jafaar Sani Bello, a former governorship aspirant in Kano, emphasized the need to move beyond tribal and religious sentiments in leadership selection. “Leadership is not about religion or ethnicity; it’s about serving the people. Nigerians must elect leaders who prioritize the collective good,” he said.
Hajiya Khadija Dahiru, a prominent women’s advocate, urged women to actively participate in the electoral process and ensure their votes count. “Women must take their rightful place in shaping the future of this nation. Our votes must matter,” she said.
Hon. Aminu Ashiru Kwalam from Jigawa State also stressed the importance of citizens consciously selecting competent leaders. “The people must become the deciders of the leadership they deserve. This requires deliberate effort and vigilance to ensure their votes truly count,” he said.
Saidu Bello, National Coordinator of Atiku Abubakar’s Forum, highlighted the need for political education among the youth, urging them to study Nigeria’s history to make informed decisions in future elections.
In his closing remarks, Showunmi reiterated the urgency of reclaiming democracy and bridging the gap between the government and the governed. He urged Nigerians to embrace “The Alternative” as a platform for dialogue, consensus-building, and change. “This is about all of us. It’s not about one individual or group. Together, we must ensure that our democracy works for everyone,” he said.
As preparations for the 2027 elections begin, “The Alternative” offers a new hope for Nigeria’s democracy, placing the power of leadership selection firmly in the hands of the people. Whether this ambitious movement can achieve its goals remains to be seen, but it has undoubtedly sparked a crucial conversation about the future of governance in Nigeria.
Freelance Reporters 