ADDRESS BY H.E. RT. HON. (DR) SIMON BAKO LALONG, KSGG TO THE CITIZENS OF PLATEAU STATE ON THE ENDSARS PROTESTS AND BREAKDOWN OF LAW AND ORDER IN JOS NORTH AND JOS SOUTH LGAs. 20TH OCTOBER 2020

1. My dear citizens of Plateau State. I am addressing you today on the recent developments in our State following the #ENDSARS protests that have been going on across the country and in some parts of the State.
2. Government has watched closely these protests which are normal in a democracy that guarantees the rights of citizens to ventilate their grievances over any matter.
3. However, it is rather unfortunate that in the past few days, the #ENDSARS protests which began as peacefully have gradually degenerated to the situation where hoodlums have attacked and molested innocent citizens who are going about their normal businesses.
4. This development took a new turn on Tuesday 20th October 2020 when the protests led to the destruction of properties, cars and looting of business premises along the Ahmadu Bello way as well as the burning of a place of worship along Gyero Road in Bukuru. In addition, three deaths have been recorded.
5. Based on this scenario, I summoned an emergency Security Council Meeting to evaluate the situation and take decisive actions to stop further escalation.
6. Having received briefing from security agencies and after a careful assessment of the situation, Government is left with no choice than to impose a curfew to stop further loss of lives and properties.
7. Accordingly, I have directed the imposition of a 24-hour curfew in Jos South and Jos North Local Government Areas with effect from 8:00 pm today Tuesday, October 20, 2020 till further notice. By this directive, all forms of protests are hereby banned in the two Local Governments Areas of Jos North and Jos South.
8. Furthermore, all public and private businesses are to shutdown activities immediately while parents are strongly advised to rein in their children, youth and wards to forestall further breakdown of law and order. Only those on essential services will be allowed to move around to their duty posts.
9. Security agencies have been directed to ensure that the curfew is enforced as defaulters will be arrested and prosecuted.
10. While the Government of Plateau State concedes to the constitutional rights of its citizens to undertake legitimate protests, it cannot sit and watch hoodlums take the law into their hands to cause mayhem on innocent citizens and the entire State.
11. I wish to reiterate the resolve of our administration in working assiduously to maintain the peace that the people of the State have laboured hard to build over the years.
12. Let me again call on the protesters to pursue the path of constructive engagement and dialogue since the Government has started implementing their demands.
13. Only yesterday, I inaugurated the Judicial Panel of Inquiry on police brutality and other related extra-judicial killings in Plateau State, headed by Justice Philomena Lot, a retired Judge of the High Court of Plateau State. This was also followed by strategic engagement with different groups and organisations.
14. As the panel prepares to commence its sitting, it will be helpful for all those who have complaints against members of the disbanded SARS and other police units to take their complaints to the panel for necessary action. Our administration will also do everything possible to implement the outcome of the panel’s recommendation as it applies to its jurisdiction.
15. Fellow citizens, these are difficult times that call for unity and understanding which is needed to enable us overcome the current challenges in our march to nationhood. We have to stand together and avoid any act that could jeopardize our collective existence and the future of our children.
16. As your Governor, my administration shall continue to support the agitation for a wholistic reform of the policing architecture in our country as well as advocate for further reforms towards the rapid implementation of community policing which I have strongly canvassed for.
17. Plateau State cannot afford to slide back to the days of crisis which we have substantially put behind us thanks to the collective efforts of all citizens, security agencies and relevant stakeholders.
18. God bless Plateau State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
19. Thank you.
    Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Simon Bako Lalong, KSGG.
    Executive Governor, Plateau State
    20th October 2020.

Dear Lagosians,
I have watched with shock how what began as a peaceful #EndSARS protest has degenerated into a monster that is threatening the well-being of our society. Lives and limbs have been lost as criminals and miscreants are now hiding under the umbrella of these protests to unleash mayhem on our state. As a government that is alive to its responsibility and has shown a commitment to the movement # ENDSARS , we will not watch and allow anarchy in our dear state.
I, therefore, hereby impose a 24-hour curfew on all parts of the State as from 4pm today, 20th October,2020. Nobody, except essential service providers and first responders must be found on the streets.

By Prince Sekat, Jos

The department of State security service has invited the General overseer of the EBOMI Prayer Ministry to answer questions over His participation in Sunday’s prayer walk.

The clergy man arrived the Plateau State office of the DSS Command in Jos at about 10am Tuesday 20/10/2020 this morning….

Details to come shortly

By Jatmak Solomon, Jos

The Director-General of the Plateau State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency PLASCHEMA Dr. Fabong Jemchang and the management team of the Agency started a tour of the 17 Local Government Areas of the State for the sensitization and enrollment of residents into the State Social Health Insurance scheme.


It would be recalled that the Governor of Plateau State Rt Hon Dr. Simon Bako Lalong flagged off enrolment into the State Social Health Insurance Scheme on the 15th September, 2020 at Government House Rayfield Jos.

Dr. Fabong Jemchang while Speaking to critical stakeholders, farmers, CAN, JNI, Market Women, Artisans and many more at the Pilot Local Government Areas of Shendam, Langtang North, Kanam, Bokkos, Bassa and Jos South to enlighten them on the significance and benefits of the Social Health Insurance Scheme. He said all farmers and villagers will be enrolled across the 17 Loal Government Areas of the State.

He said the Agency had trained those who will step down enlightenment and also ensure full implementation and enrollment of farmers into the scheme in the rural areas of the State.


He revealed that persons above the age of 65, pregnant women, children under 5 years, the physically and mentally challenged, and the Internally Displaced Persons are registered with the Agency under the Plateau State Equity Health Plan, and shall be treated in any hospital in the state at no Co’s to them.

“We have organised several town hall meetings with critical stakeholders at the State level, now we are moving round the Local Government Areas to enlighten stakeholders to ensure proper awareness for the enrollment of farmers and villagers and we started with six pilot Local Government Areas, two each from the three Senatorial Zones of the state”.

He said the Agency was established in June of 2019, and have consulted 84 various stakeholders across the State.

Chairman of Shendam Local Government Council Hon. Alex Miskoom Nantuaam commended the Director General and his team for the good gesture and assure the Agency of the LGs full support towards enlightenment of the farmers and various stakeholders to enroll into the scheme.

Hon. Nantuaam also commended Governor Simon Lalong for his visionary leadership and appreciate the Plateau State House of Assembly for the speedy passage of the Bill that created the Agency.

By Kankimes Al-Ghazali Moh’d

The political space of Nigeria has over the decades churned out quite a good number of leaders since the nation attained independence. Some leaders had manifested various antecedent trays, whilst a few of them have done well, a vast majority have only been self centred.

However, Rt. Hon Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, the Member Representing Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency and Chairman House Committee on Navy, tall, elegant and handsome, dark and unblemished in the magisterial lithe and athleticism of folkloric Kings and heroes, soft-spoken, with clear, unfettered, excellent diction and oratory, his brilliant smile like sparkling sun radiating from crystal clear eyes and embellished by the clean-shaven glistening scalp and the rich luxuriant growth of a well groomed beard transforming gloriously into a sagely spread of wizened grey brushes.

Gagdi has been dominating and handling quite carefully the political dispensation of Kanam and PKK by extension since 2015.

X-raying the life and activities of a very versatile, all-round, exceptional, multi-talented and broad-based character like Gagdi, is not only an uphill task, but also one which is bound to make one to be lost as to how and where to begin.

However, it is in this light that I decided to project this icon whose threat to the enemies of democracy is not only effective but also infectious.

Having monitored him very closely for about six years to note his unique feats, I came to understand Abraham Lincoln, the foremost world leader, properly when he stated, “In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.”

The story of Gagdi has been told and heard by majority of Plateau sons and daughters, but permit me to say more about this exceptional icon who has touched lives positively and still doing so.

Yusuf Adamu who served as a Personal Assistant, State Assembly member and now the National Assembly Member is a leader par excellence whom many youths and grassroots politicians look up to. He is a stylish man, great orator, full of wits and idioms, jovial and quite amiable.

From his early years in politics to date has remained focused and unwavering in his determination to provide selfless service to ordinary Nigerians as a politician whether in the Nigerian State Assembly where he earned a reputation as a progressive and broad minded legislator whose views were always respected or in his present position as a Federal legislator where he brings in words and actions, integrity, panache, compassion and intellectual dimension to bear in tackling tough issues of his constituency.

His impacts on lives that cross his path need not be overemphasized. His philanthropic gesture helped many less privileged ones to pay their external examination levies, secured permanent jobs to over 260 youths and supported the less previleged through his various empowerment programs.

He is principled, a rare gem and a man who is not given to too many words, but would only reiterate if need be for the purpose of emphasis. He is a dogged fighter, honest, trustworthy, an embodiment of good virtues. He is a recipient of numerous awards which I cannot completely mention.

He has all what it takes to produce a sound, caring, vibrant and humanitarian leader like himself. He has brought up many leaders and helped many destiny in the aspect of politics and others.

Only men of this nature can bring new and investible innovation into the political domain for betterment of all. He is a politician with depth of knowledge on how various human talents could be harnessed and put to use so as to achieve the desired goal. He is also a consummate leader who believes in calling a spade a spade.

Gagdi is a real and extraordinary person with outstanding determination, to making Nigeria a better place for us to live. Gagdi to date, has left no one in doubt that his loyalty lies, to the country, his constituents and to the leadership of the Green Chamber.

“A good and potential leader does not sit on the fence. He makes his decision clear” Gagdi has always been honest and transparent to his followers in the epoch of storm.

Gagdi has spent the last fifteen years of his life in creative and dynamic public service. He has from his days as a State Assembly Member representing Kantana Constituency , enabled clarity of thought and pioneering great and outstanding vision in all aspects of governance. He keeps enlivening his vision and focus and has met the yearnings and aspirations of his electorate.

He is a visionary, highly respected politician with unbiased and outright commitment and determination who always aims at satisfying the yearnings and aspiration of his electorates irrespective of religious or ethnic variations.

I don’t know what more he needs that God hasn’t given him. Gagdi personal ability and capacity determine the result he gets, honor and respect he is given. He build up himself to the level where he is known today. Greatness is shut up in his bones. He carry the genes of impact, excellence, courage, glory success, hope and faith.

Kankimes Al-Ghazali Moh’d writes from Kanam L.G.A of Plateau State(Princekam75@gmail.com)
Long live Yusuf Adamu Gagdi
Magnificent live Danmalikin Kanam
Long live Hero of our time

BREAKING: I WILL PERSONALLY ATTEND THIS YEAR’S POBA CONVENTION.HRH EMIR OF KEFFI.

His Royal Highness, The Emir Of Keffi, Alhaji Dr Shehu Chindo Yamusa III,has said by the grace of God he will be present at this year’s National Convention of his Alma mata,Pankshin Old Boys Association, POBA.

He disclosed this cheering news when he received leadership of the Association led by its President, Steve Abar at his palace in Keffi,Nasarawa State.

Yamusa showered accolades on the leadership saying their efforts in bringing old boys together yearly has restored the glory and unity of the association.

He said the convention dates,11th,12th and 13th December will be alright for him to move his team to Jos the Plateau State capital as that will further cement the long standing relationship between Plateau State and Keffi Emirate Council in particular and Nasarawa State in general.

He commended sponsor of this year’s POBA National Convention, Hon Komsol Alphonsus Longap for the sacrifice to lift the Alma mata to greater heights.

National President, Pankshin Old Boys Association, POBA Steve Abar had earlier on informed the Emir that they were in Keffi as usual to pay the traditional homage and inform him of the upcoming convention.

He thanked the Emir for sponsoring the last convention which was very successful as such this year’s will be better.

The meeting with the Emir agreed to use this year’s convention to remember the five POBA members who died on their way from the convention in Keffi last year.

It also agreed families of the deceased members will attend the convention where an endowment is to be launched for them.

REMARKS BY H.E. SIMON BAKO LALONG, EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF PLATEAU STATE AT THE INAUGURATION OF THE JUDICIAL PANEL OF ENQUIRY ON POLICE BRUTALITY AND OTHER RELATED EXTRA JUDICIAL KILLINGS IN PLATEAU STATE HELD AT GOVERNMENT HOUSE LITTLE RAYFIELD JOS ON 19TH OCTOBER 2020.
PROTOCOLS

1. It is with great delight that I address you today at this very important event which is the inauguration of the Judicial Panel of Inquiry on police brutality and other related extra judicial killings in Plateau State.
2. This very crucial event has become necessary because of the current developments in our nation occasioned by the ENDSARS movement which is a response to the complaints of alleged atrocities committed by some members of the defunct Special Anti-Robbery Squad of the Nigeria police against the citizens.
3. Let me first add my voice to the condemnation and genuine cry of the many Nigerians and indeed citizens of Plateau State who have suffered one form of humiliation, intimidation, harassment and loss as a result of the activities of bad elements within the disbanded SARS and other units of the police force.
4. Indeed such horrific stories have brought us to where we are today that the Federal Government dissolved SARS in response to the demand of protesters from various parts of the country. The protesters have presented a 5-point demand to the Government for the disbandment of SARS; Punishment of culprits; Compensation for victims; Setting of panels to investigate all atrocities and improving the welfare of the police.
5. It is in furtherance of the implementation of these demands that we are gathered here for the inauguration of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry to investigate complaints of police brutality and related extra judicial killings in Plateau State by SARS and other police units.
6. This Judicial Commission of Inquiry is to receive and hear complaints from all victims who have any complaint against the SARS and other police units with the view to ensuring that they obtain justice.
7. Accordingly, pursuant to Section 2(1) of the Commissions of Inquiry Law, Cap 25, Laws of Northern Nigeria, 1963 and by the powers vested in me, I have approved the constitution of a Judicial Panel of Inquiry to hear Complaints by Victims of Police Brutality and Other Related Extra-Judicial Killings in Plateau State.
8. The Membership is as follows: (i) Justice Philomena Lot (Rtd.) – Chairman
   (ii) CP Garba Patrick (Rtd.) – Member
   (iii) Ezekiel Dauda Daschen – Member
   (Youth Representative)
   (iv) Mrs. Rauta Dakok (Rep. Ministry of Justice)- Member
   (v) Mrs. Kiyenpiya Mafuyai – Member
   (Rep. of Human Rights
   Commission)
   (vi) Dr. John Jinung – Representing Civil Society
   (vii) Fatimah Suleiman – Representing Civil Society
   (Viii) Mr. Cornelius Shiolbial – Perm Sec. Cabinet & Special Services (Secretary)
   9. The terms of Reference of this panel are:
      (i)To receive and investigate Complaints of Police Brutality
      and related extra-Judicial Killings in the State.
      (ii)To evaluate evidence and draw conclusions on validity of Complaints and,
      (iii)To recommend Compensation and other remedial measures.
9. This Committee has Six (6) months to conclude its assignment and submit its.
10. With the setting up of this Judicial Panel of Inquiry, it is expected that all those who have any complaint of misconduct against any officer of the defunct SARS and other police units will channel their grievances to the Committee for investigation and further necessary action.
11. Let me therefore appeal to the protesters, particularly those who have cases, to vacate the streets and direct their energies towards the panel of inquiry in order to have their cases investigated so that they can obtain justice. That way, government will continue to address the other issues raised by the protesters as rapidly as possible.
12. At this point, I wish to commend majority of the protesters for their civil conduct during the protests. However, I want to draw their attention to the fact that the agitation is gradually being hijacked by miscreants who are taking advantage of the situation to commit crimes. Some citizens are already witnessing harassment from this category of people.
13. Government is willing to continue the process of dialogue and engagement with leaders and representatives of the protesters if and when they make themselves available, to further de-escalate the situation and ensure that their demands are met. I urge them to heed the voice of reason and resist being used by politicians and clandestine interests that are bent on undermining government and thereby testing its will.
14. Furthermore, the continued blocking of roads and denying other law abiding citizens access to their offices and business destinations is hurting the economy of the State and will at the end be counter-productive particularly now that we are trying to recover from the impact of COVID-19. Besides, this blockade is hampering access to other States since Plateau is a major transit route to other parts of the country.
15. Fellow citizens, these are difficult times that call for unity and understanding which is needed to enable us overcome the current challenges in our march to nationhood. We have to stand together and avoid any act that could jeopardize our collective existence and the future of our children.
16. I will also like to use this opportunity to correct the misconception asserting that the Northern Governors Forum under my leadership wants the return of the scrapped Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). This is far from the truth as there is no way the Northern Governors will call for the resurrection of an already scrapped SARS as approved by the President and announced by the Inspector General of Police.
17. Rather, what I and my colleagues have emphasized was the need for deeper and wholistic reform of the entire policing architecture in the country. We are of the opinion that despite the condemnable atrocities by some members of the dissolved SARS, there are some among them that were good and performed their duties diligently, and as such there should not be blanket condemnation.
18. What we also pointed out was the fact that some Northern States benefited significantly from the disbanded SARS in the fight against insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes. I wish to reiterate my deep personal support for the agitation of a wholistic reform of the policing architecture which has commenced with the scrapping of SARS. As Governor, I will also continue to advocate for further reforms towards the rapid implementation of community policing for which I have strongly advocated for.
19. Finally, I call on all our citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with government and security agencies to frustrate any attempt by individuals or groups to scuttle the substantial peace that we have been enjoying under the cover of ENDSARS protest or any other guise. Peace remains our cardinal goal and we will not compromise it.
20. For members of this judicial panel, I congratulate for your appointment to serve our State and the nation at this critical time. I challenge you to be thorough, diligent and fair to all those that will appear before you in order to ensure that justice is served to all parties without any bias.

[MEMBERS WILL RISE TO BE INAUGURATED]

22. On this note, it is my honour and privilege to inaugurate the Judicial Panel of Inquiry on police brutality and other related extra judicial killings in Plateau State. I wish you success in your assignment.
23. God bless Plateau State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Simon Bako Lalong, KSGG.
Chairman, Northern Governors Forum
& Executive Governor, Plateau State
19th October 2020.

• “I will continue to be a Peace Ambassador Nationally and Globally” – Rev. Yakubu Pam

The Executive Secretary Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) Rev. Dr. Yakubu Pam was decorated as Gwom Suga (Chief Warrior) Tahei Gyel District Jos South LGA, Plateau State by the Dagwom Rwey Jos South LGA, His Royal Highness Da Amb. Nga Dangyang at the Grand Reception in his honour organized by Tahei Community.

Performing the coronation ceremony, the Paramount Ruler described the NCPC Boss as a Hero and someone who is contributing immensely to the peace, growth and development of the area, Local Government, State and Nation at large.
He appreciated President Buhari for finding their Son worthy to be appointed in his administration.

Rev. Yakubu Pam appreciated the people for finding him worthy of the title. He said he will continue to be an Ambassador of Peace Nationally & Globally. He urged the people to be agents of peace as no development can be achieved without peace. He shared memories of his humble beginning in the community.

In his remarks, the Gbong Gwom Jos HRM Da (Dr) Jacob Gyang Buba said the calibre of dignitaries speaks volume of the goodwill the Celebrant enjoys across the Nation urging him to perform well and not disappoint the trust and confidence reposed in him. He called for fervent prayers by the people for him to succeed. The paramount Ruler said the position is a stepping stone to greater ones to come and admonished the Celebrant to remain humble to please God. He charged the Youths who he described as future leaders to remain security conscious and vigilant.

In his exhortation, Da Rev. D. D. Pam who read from Esther 1:15 spoke on the topic “Your background cannot determine your destiny” charged the celebrant to discharge his duties with the fear of God.

Deputy Govenor of Plateau State, His Excellency Prof. Sonni Tyoden said the appointment of Rev. Pam didn’t come to the State as a surprise considering his roles to Nation building.
He described Rev. Yakubu Pam’s appointment as well deserved saying he is a square peg in a square hole.

Chairman of the occasion, Hon. Dachung Choji, the Management Committee Chairman of Jos South LGC expressed satisfaction with the appointment of the NCPC Boss saying he is an illustrious Son who is doing the State proud.

ALGON Chairman Plateau State, Hon Ezekiel Vuelgap described the celebrant as impact maker.

Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Chairman Plateau State, Rev. Fr. Polycarp Lubo described the Celebrant as a worthy Ambassador.

The event which held at Dahwol Vwanah Tahei Gyel Jos South LGA featured song ministration from various groups, Cultural Dances and playlet titled “Pathway to Peace”

The event was well attended by Long Gomei, Emir of Wase, Long Tel, HRH Da Patrick Mandung, HRH Pam Abolo, Rep. Edward Pwajok SAN, Sen. Hezekiah Dimka, Sir Joseph Ari, Hon. Fom Gwottson, Da Gyang Dudu, Da DSP(Rtr) Dung Dalyop, Hon. Mafeng Gwallson, Hon. Bala Fwanje, Amb. Gideon Dung Dandareng, Hon. Emmanuel Danboyi, Hon. Sunday Dangyang, Hon. Emmanuel Dung (Gibok), Hon. Paul Dalyop Choji, Prince Yerima Dangyang, Ngo Hannatu Dantong, Hon. Ayuba Pam Dangwong, Hon. Samuel Chollom, Prof. Yakubu, top Management Staff NCPC, other prominent politicians, clergies, traditional leaders etc.

The Corporate Affairs Commission, CAC, has cancelled and withdrew the certificate of registration of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, NYCN, over the registration of some over age individuals as members, Board of Trustees, BoT.

CAC in a document obtained by our correspondent, Sunday, noted that the trustees, Dickson Aheh Akoh, Oscar Davide Kalu, Shola Oladeji and others aged above 35 years of age were ineligible to continue to serve as trustees.

The authentic National Executive Council, NEC, was recently confirmed, as a High Court of Federal Capital Territory, in a judgment delivered by Justice O. A. Musa on 12th, August 2020 suit number FCT/HC/BW/CV/181/2020, declared Amb. Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubo as the duly elected President of the council.

CAC in a letter with reference number COM/SPM/2020/044 dated 9th October 2020 signed by Dr. Femi Ogunlade for the Registrar General addressed to the acclaimed Chairman, Board of Trustees titled “Re: Consent of the Board of Trustees to Northumbria Solicitors to File New Constitution of the National Youth Council of Nigeria With Corporate Affairs Commission,” revealed that it has cancelled and withdrawn the registration of the association on just and equitable ground.

The letter read in part: “The commission also notes that the composition of the membership of Council is in default of the National Youth Policy and the constitution of the Association which prescribe maximum of 35 years to be eligible for election into any office.

“By the above, the following trustees who are above 35 years of age and whose names appeared on the certificate of registration of the association issued on 3rd November 2017 are ineligible to continue to serve as trustees.

“Consequently, the commission has cancelled and withdrawn the certificate of registration of the association on just and equitable group.

“You are therefore enjoined to submit the original certificate of registration.”

PRESS RELEASE

NORTHERN GOVERNORS FELICITATES WITH GEN. GOWON AT 86

The Northern Governors Forum has described former Head of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon as a distinguished Statesman, Gentleman, Prayer Warrior and Bridge Builder who has spent most of his lifetime working for the peace, unity and progress of Nigeria.
While felicitating with the former Nigerian leader on the occasion of his 86th birthday, Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Plateau State Simon Bako Lalong said General Gowon remains one of Nigeria’s finest leaders whose exemplary lifestyle of humility and enormous sacrifices towards nation building and global peace is well recognized.
Governor Lalong said General Gowon has continued to provide inspiration to the nation’s leadership and development trajectory through his commitment to the unity, peace and progress of the country right through his military career till date.
He also acknowledged that the former Nigerian leader has continued to take particular interest in the development of the Northern region particularly at this time when it is facing serious challenges such as poverty, insurgency, banditry, and illiteracy.
While wishing the celebrant good health, God’s grace and divine strength, the Northern Governors urged Gen. Gowon not to relent in deploying his wealth of experience and knowledge in the pursuit of unity and national integration despite the challenges the nation is passing through.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the
Executive Governor of Plateau State & Chairman Northern Governor’s Forum.
18th October 2020