GOVERNOR LALONG ORDERS SECURITY FORCES TO APPREHEND ATTACKERS IN BOKKOS; PRAISES SECURITY FORCES FOR RESCUING KIDNAPPED VICTIMS IN WASE.
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has ordered security forces to immediately confront attackers threatening the lives of people in villages around Bokkos Local Government Area.
Governor Lalong who described the recent spade of attacks on some villages leading to loss of lives as unacceptable, said the attackers must be fished out and not allowed to go unpunished.
On Saturday 8th October 2022, gunmen attacked Kuliyas Village in Butura, Bokkos killing 4 persons including the village head. This is coming after other reported isolated killings in other villages of Follo, Karara, Bokkos, and Mangor as well as the kidnap of some students at All Nation’s Academy who were eventually rescued by security forces.
Meanwhile, the Governor has commended security forces whose combined efforts together with Vigilante and hunter groups ensured the rescue of 10 persons kidnapped by bandits in Bashar, Wase Local Government.
He praised the prompt action of the Police, Operation Safe Haven and community watch groups who gave the hoodlums a hot chase and ensured that all the kidnapped persons and other stolen items were recovered.
The Governor says this level of criminality must be addressed wholistically by the security agencies in collaboration with the traditional and community leaders leveraging on the structures of community policing and vigilante groups.
He warns criminals that his administration will not allow criminals to return the days of darkness to the State under any guise.
Governor Lalong sympathised with the families of the victims and assured them that those behind the attacks will be made to pay for their actions.
He also called for vigilance among the citizens and timely passage of intelligence and information to security agencies to proactively prevent such attacks.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 10th October 2022.
GOVERNOR LALONG PRAISES PLATEAU UNITED FOR VICTORY OVER ESPERANCE OF TUNISIA
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has praised Plateau United Football Club for beating Esperance of Tunisia 2-1 in the CAF Champions league match played at the National Stadium Abuja on Sunday 9th October 2022.
Lalong who was at the stadium to cheer the team to victory, said he was impressed by the quality of play and team work which saw Plateau United coming from one goal behind to beat Esperance 2-1.
Speaking with journalists after the match, the Governor said the Government will give all support needed by the team to continue the good work in the return leg in Tunis.
He also commended the coach and management of the club for ensuring that the team continues to make the State and Nigeria proud.
Minister of Sports Sunday Dare and NFF President, Plateau State Commissioner for sports Daniel Dung Dalyop, Commissioner for Works Victor Lapan and Chief of Staff to DG APC Presidential Campaign Council Yakubu Dati were among guests that watched the football encounter.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 9th October 2022.
GAGDI FELICITATES WITH NURSE DANLAMI SAMBO OVER HIS APPOINTMENT AS ACTING PROVOST, COLLEGE OF NURSING, VOM
The reward for hard work and dedication is to get higher responsibility and more feathers to the cap.
The appointment of Nurse DANLAMI SAMBO as the Acting Provost of the prestigious Plateau State College of Nursing, Vom is a confirmation of his commitment to the service of his fatherland and a beacon to serve at the echelon of your career to continually mentor young brains to make flourishing career in nursing services.
Danlami Sambo is a refined gentleman and one of the best brains Kanam is blessed with, and by extension, Plateau State. I am optimistic that you will make Kanam proud and merit a confirmation as a substantive Provost of the college soonest.
As I identify with your lofty attainment, let me use this medium to appreciate your recent visit to Gagdi Foundation Headquarters in Jos, to thank me for MY EFFORT IN YOUR R APPOINTMENT and to also identify with the organization, shortly after your appointment as acting Provost of the institution.
You can always count on my support, anytime the need arises to offer other assistance, as I wish more strength to your elbows to lead the institution to higher heights.
Let me use to opportunity to thank the Executive Governor of Plateau State for finding you worthy to be appointed and for listening to me whenever I present the request of my people. And this is the reason why I shall continue to be LALONG BOY!
Once more, congratulations and best wishes in the daunting task of revolutionizing Plateau State College of Nursing, Vom.
Signed: Rt Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, (Dan Malikin Kanam), Member representing Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency and Chairman House Committee on Navy
GOVERNOR LALONG PRAISES IRIGWE NATION FOR PROMOTING PEACE AND RECONCILIATION; SUPPORTS FUND FOR REBUILDING DESTROYED IRIGWE COMMUNITIES
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has promised support for the rebuilding of communities destroyed in Irigwe land of Bassa LGA as a result of attacks and violence that bedevilled the area in recent past.
Governor Lalong while speaking at the Otu Rigwe Cultural Festival held at the Rwang Pam Township Stadium Jos, said the event which encapsulates the celebration of the culture and traditions of the Irigwe nation, brings to fore the resilience, hardwork and peaceful nature of the Irigwe people.
He said “My happiness is that by holding this event today, it is clearly being demonstrated that efforts of the Rescue Administration and the sacrifices of the Irigwe nation are yielding fruits that everyone can see. From the array of cultural displays here and the excitement on the faces of the people, it is evident that there is no alternative to peace. Let me therefore specially congratulate the Brra Ngwe Irigwe Rev. Ronku Aka (Rtd) for his doggedness towards pursuing the path of peace and reconciliation despite the enormous pressure and setbacks his people have passed through. Similarly, I wish to appreciate the President and leaders of the Irigwe Development Association for also sustaining the search for peace and encouraging the people to look forward to a greater future despite the turbulence and losses of the past”.
The Governor said for him, the event is a vindication of his commitment to ensuring that the people of Irigwe land get back to their life which is reputed for harmony, peace, love and productivity. It is also an affirmation of the significance of the signing of symbolic Expression of Commitment to Peace between the Irigwe and Fulani which took place on 13th July this year.
“Today’s event which also features fund raising for the rebuilding of ravaged communities is yet another right step towards consolidating the peace that is gradually returning to Irigwe nation. Let me assure you that apart from the Government playing its role, it will work with other non-governmental institutions and donor agencies to ensure that the restoration of livelihoods and healing of past challenges is accelerated. Just as I have always emphasized, no development can take place in an atmosphere of violence, acrimony, mistrust and agitation. That is why as you would recall, development which had been stalled for a long time started returning to Irigwe nation when we laid the foundation for a massive Housing Estate for workers in Irigwe land sometime this year. We are optimistic of continuing in this direction and also ensuring that government projects which were stalled because of insecurity resume without delay”.
Chairman of the occasion and former Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Martin Luther Agwai said the Otu Irigwe Cultural Festival provides a window of hope for the people to put behind the agony they have gone through in recent years of attacks and violence.
He commended them for embracing peace and cooperating with the Governor to find solutions to the lingering crises. He also said their efforts to rebuild destroyed communities through community efforts is worthy of emulation and sustainance.
President Irigwe Development Association Prince Robert Ashi said the Otu Irigwe Cultural Festival could not hold over some years because of the level of insecurity in Irigwe land. However, the efforts of the Governor of Plateau State have brought back substantial peace to the area leading to the organisation of the event.
He said the funds to be raised will be used to assist displaced persons whose houses, farmlands and other means of livelihood were destroyed by terrorists. Orphans, widows, and other displaced persons he explained will be taken care of from the proceeds of the fund raising.
The Brra Ngwe Rigwe Rev Ronku Aka expressed gratitude to Governor Lalong for his personal commitment and passion for the restoration of peace in Irigwe land which led to the signing of a peace agreement between the Irigwe and Fulani.
He said without the personal commitment and resilience of the Governor and security agencies, the attainment of substantial peace in Irigwe land that has began to attract development to the area.
In appreciation of the Governor’s efforts, the Brra Ngwe Irigwe bestowed the title of Neche Srarina Rigwe (Ambassador of Peace) on Governor Lalong.
The GOC 3rd Armoured Division and Commander Operation Safe Haven Maj. Gen. Ali received an award of recognition for his determination to tackle insecurity and for being impartial to all citizens irrespective of tribe, religion and other considerations.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 8th October 2022.
APC VICE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE & DG PCC RECIEVE EU AMBASSADOR TO NIGERIA
The Vice Presidential Candidate of the APC Senator Kashim Shettima and Director General of the PCC and Governor of Plateau State, Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong on Thursday 6th October, met with the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria Ms. Samuela Isopi at the Tinubu Campaign Headquarters in Abuja.
Ambassador Isopi said she was at the Headquarters of the Tinubu/Shettima Campaign Office as part of her routine engagement with various stakeholders including political parties ahead of the 2023 general elections.
She said although the EU Mission to Nigeria has no role to play in terms of supporting any candidate or party, it has been working closely with those involved to ensure that the general elections go smoothly and the citizens exercise their franchise freely.
Both the APC Vice Presidential Candidate Senator Kashim Shettima and Director General of PCC Governor Simon Bako Lalong assured her that the APC as the ruling party is doing all possible to work within the guidelines of INEC especially with the commencement of campaigns.
They welcomed the Ambassador to the Headquarters of the Tinubu/Shettima Campaign and expressed the readiness of the APC Presidential Campaign Council to support any initiative that will ensure that the elections go without any challenges. The meeting which continued behind closed doors was also attended by the Deputy DG Operations Adams Oshiomole, Deputy DG Administration Hadiza Bala Usman, Secretary of the PCC Hon. James Faleke, and Chief of Staff to the DG PCC Hon. Yakubu Dati, Mr Wale Edun, Director of Finance, Mr. Christopher Tarka, Deputy Secretary.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau and DG, APC Presidential Campaign Council. 7th October 2022.
The APC Gida-Gida, a political group in Plateau state,has approved the appointment of some of its members into various positions for the purpose of coordinating the activities of the Organization throughout the State.
The appointments followed the submission of a report of a Committee which was unanimously adopted by Congress.
A statement from the Convener of the Support Group Hon. Helen Henniet Wapmuk gave the names of the following as those appointed :
1–CHAIRPERSON; Mrs Regina Naantuam 2–SECRETARY; Hon. Victoria Dalap 3–ORG-SEC./MEDIA CONSULTANT; Golepji David Wambutda 4–WELFARE; Nanko Bigun 5–TREASURER; Hajiya Farida Usman Bala 6–PRO 1; Julcit Moses 7-PRO 2; Hon. Jessica Izang
The following appointments for various zonal coordinators were also approved;
NORTHERN ZONE Hon Mrs Naomi Agwon CENTRAL ZONE Hon Mrs Lucy Joel Gompil SOUTHERN ZONE Hon. Haj. Safiya .A. Saidu
In the same vein, the appointment of those to pilot the activities of the support group for various local government areas as Coordinators and Co-Coordinators were also made as follows:
While congratulating them for the various appointments, Hon Helen Wapmuk urged them to utilize their wealth of experiences and expertise in discharging their responsibilities judiciously, assuring that the party will wax stronger beyond 2023.
She said the APC GIDA-GIDA will commit its effort in ensuring that the Candidates of the All Progressive Congress, APC, are successful at the polls in the forthcoming elections.
She further called on all Women and Youths across the state to join the winning train of the APC in order to boost the rising fortunes of the Party.
Signed ;
Hon. Helen Wapmuk Henniet Convener APC Gida-Gida Plateau State Chapter.
GAGDI 2023: WUS GAK, AS A NEW SLOGAN SURFACES ON THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL
This is not the first time that a slogan would emerge on the campaign trail of the Rt Hon Yusuf Adamu Gagdi for PKK 2023.
One which emerged only this week was when he paid a surprised visit to Tuwan in Kanke LGA on October 4, 2022; where his supporters urged him not to relent but to increase the tempo without ceasing.
Translated in Ngas- WUS GAK or in Hausa- WUTA KAWAI, his supporters meant for him not to backpedal; as the coast of the challenge needed more of such actions until he arrives at the National Assembly in 2023.
Being propelled by the people of his constituency, it is encouraging that their faith in him has never waned; rather, given his progressive and populist representation, they have continued to reap the good things that such has brought to the various communities of PKK.
To urge him not to relent is an excellent indication of trust and confidence in a man who has always meant well to the constituents.
Because it is in God that we always trust, WUS GAK, GAGDI! Let the fire 🔥 not cease!
“CHIEF S.D. LAR TAUGHT US POLITICS OF INCLUSION, PRINCIPLES AND BRIDGE-BUILDING” GOVERNOR LALONG.
President Muhammadu Buhari has described late Chief Solomon Daushep Lar, former Governor of Plateau State as a politician whose passion for the people remained paramount throughout his political journey.
The President who was represented by Secretary to the Government of the Federation Boss Mustapha unveiled the autobiography as well as the Solomon and Mary Lar Foundation and Institute in honour of the late Political leader, said Lar remained committed to democratic ideals during his lifetime leaving behind worthy legacies that have endured.
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong who was Chief Host of the event, disclosed that his preference for politics of inclusion and Bridge-building is a result of the mentoring he got from the first civilian Governor of Plateau State Chief Solomon Daushep Lar.
Lalong said like Baba Solomon Lar, he is not perturbed by criticism of his governance style which downplays exclusion, tribalism and religious bigotry.
He said “Personally, Chief Solomon Lar groomed me among many others in politicians and taught us so much about politics. One of the key things to highlight about Baba Lar are his politics of Principles; Inclusion; and Bridge-building. Although he stood by his principles in the opposition NPP, nevertheless he reached out and had friends across other political parties including the then ruling NPN and people from various parts of Nigeria. Some of his friends include people like Abubakar Rimi, Dr. Jim Nwobodo, Chief Bisi Akande among others”.
He recalled that In delivering service to the people, Baba Lar practiced and taught the principle of balance, inclusion, excellence and fairness. In his time, Plateau became home to people from all over Nigeria and foreigners because he never allowed ethnicity to becloud his search for capacity and excellence. He appointed non indigenes into very senior positions in Government because of their capacity. Among them is Justice Obi Okoye as Chief Judge of Plateau State and Mrs. Akinrinade, Commissioner of Finance. Mr. Chris Abashia, a Fulani man was his Special Adviser on Political Matters while in the Plateau State House of Assembly, an Urhobo man Chief Okporido was the Chief Whip.
This he said was the reason why he has adopted the philosophy of the late Political sage to ensure that Plateau State once again returns to its position as the Home of Peace and Tourism and a destination for all Nigerians and foreigners alike.
“Today, our Rescue Administration has continued to work hard to restore such legacies of Baba Lar in ensuring that Plateau State heals from wounds of its ugly past. Despite the criticism and attacks against me on appointments, rebuilding Jos Main Market, Peace Building and reconciliation among others, I have remained resolute because of the realization that even Chief Solomon Lar that we are eulogizing today faced such criticism over his decisions. However, posterity has vindicated him and he is now receiving accolades. My duty is to continue to appeal to our people and Nigerians not to politicise everything, but preach love, unity and peace”.
He said Baba Lar as he was fondly called, was a politician whose faith in God and belief in the tenets of democracy and freedom impacted his conduct at all times. Little wonder, he earned himself the name “Emancipator” because of his style of governance which endeared him to the grassroots in the then Plateau State that also included current Nasarawa State.
Chairman of the occasion and former President Goodluck Jonathan said Chief Solomon Daushep Lar was a great Nigerian who opened his arms to people from diverse backgrounds and also ensured that politics benefited people at the grassroots.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar said the legacies of Chief Solomon Lar are numerous and worth celebrating for a political colossus of his calibre.
APC National Chairman Abdullahi Adamu and his PDP counterpart Senator Iyorchia Ayu said the event is coming at a time when political activities are in top gear in the country which brings an opportunity to reflect on the ideals he stood for and profusely defended, being one of those who played very important role in birthing the restoration of the democracy.
Widow of Chief Solomon Lar, Ambassador Mary Lar said she was highly elated by the honour done to her husband who stood for unity, love and selflessness throughout his political career.
She said the foundation and institute will vigorously pursue his ideals and also work towards ensuring that his mentoring legacy is sustained.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 6th October 2022.
DOKPAI ROAD: THE PEOPLE MATTER, INTERVENTIONS IN PKK BY RT HON GAGDI ARE CONTINUING
Ordinarily, at the venue of any wedding, political statements often don’t carry significant weight. Many are wont to think that they may be statements delivered on the spur of the moment.
However, while celebrating the marriage solemnization betwee Justin Dimka and Anne Suwa on October 1, 2022 at Kabwir in Kanke, the Rt Hon Yusuf Adamu Gagdi did not only attend; but he made a statement that jolted a number of people, as well as reassure them of his good intentions towards the people as always.
Those who know him well are wont to believe that he is a man of character; he says it and ensures that it comes to pass.
Having provided a number of projects in most communities of PKK in the last three and half years, it is not surprising that the Gungji-Shiwer-Dokpai road has been brought up on the burner, as yet another addition.
That is a milestone for the constituency. It is also an addition to the many initiatives that have been executed by Gagdu since he he arrived at the Green Chamber three and a half years ago. It has been an experience celebrated by all who cherish anything good for the constituency.
These are just what to expect again during his second term come 2023. This, we can confirm because it is in God that we always trust.
GAGDI FELICITATES WITH CECILIA YILKORA ON HER APPOINTMENT AS COMMISSIONER FOR TOURISM
The reward for dedication and loyalty is manifest in the appointment of Hon. Cecilia Yilkorah as a member of the Plateau State Executive Council as the Commissioner for Tourism, Culture and Hospitality.
Hon. Cecilia has been a steadfast party woman who has paid her dues in the growth of the All Progressives Congress, not only in her Kanke LGA, but the state in general through women mobilization and charitable activities.
It is on this premise that I join thousands of your well wishers to congratulate you on this milestone and wish you success in this tasking responsibility of nation building.
I never doubted your ability to deliver on this mandate,having worked closely with you as one of my most trusted aides in the past three years.
Like the aphorism, ‘a golden fish has no hiding place’, your sterling qualities are sparklingly astonishing. I pray this appointment serves as a springboard to greater responsibilities ahead.
Once more, congratulations!
Signed: Rt Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, (Dan Malikin Kanam), Member Representing PKK and Chairman House Committee on Navy.
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