PRESS STATEMENT

GOVERNOR LALONG CONSTITUTES JUDICIAL PANEL ON POLICE BRUTALITY AND OTHER RELATED EXTRA JUDICIAL KILLINGS IN PLATEAU STATE.

The Executive Governor of Plateau State, Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong has approved the appointment of members of the Judicial Panel of Inquiry to investigate complaints of police brutality and related extra judicial killings in Plateau State with a view to delivering justice for all victims of the dissolved Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) and other police units.
This is in line with the recommendation of the National Economic Council (NEC) for the establishment of State-based judicial Panels of Inquiry by Governors to hear complaints and ensure accountability in the operations of police units in their States.
The panel is to be headed by a retired Judge of the Plateau State High Court Justice Philomena Lot. Other members are: CP. Garba Patrick (Rtd); Mr. Ezekiel Dauda Daschen (Youth Representative) Mrs. Rauta Dakok (Rep. of Attorney General’s Office); and Mrs. Kiyempia Mafuyai (Rep. of Human Rights Commission).
The terms of Reference among others are to receive and investigate complaints of Police Brutality or Related Extra Judicial Killings; evaluate evidence and draw conclusions on validity of complaints; as well as recommend compensation and other remedial measures.
While congratulating members of the Committee for their appointment, the Governor challenged them to be thorough, diligent and fair to all those that will appear before them in order to ensure that justice is served to all parties without any bias.
The committee is expected to carry out its assignment within six months and submit its report.
Meanwhile, the Governor has thrown more light on his remarks during an interview with journalists at the Presidential Villa Abuja where he was alleged to have said that Northern Governors want the return of the scrapped Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).

The Governor explained that there was no way the Northern Governors will call for the resurrection of an already scrapped SARS as approved by the President and announced by Inspector General of Police.
What he simply conveyed in the interaction with State House Correspondents was the need for deeper and wholistic reform of the entire policing architecture in the country where he stressed the fact that despite the condemnable atrocities by some members of the dissolved SARS, there are some among them that are good and performed their duties diligently, and as such there should not be blanket condemnation. This is why he cited the examples of some Northern Governors who testified that the disbanded SARS contributed significantly to the fight against insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes in their States.

For the avoidance of doubt, the Governor reiterates his deep support for the agitation of a wholistic reform of the policing architecture which has commenced with the scrapping of SARS and will continue to advocate for further reforms such as the rapid implementation of community policing for which he has been a strong advocate.


Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
18th October 2020.

Governor of Plateau State, Barrister  Simon  Lalong has approved the appointment of members of the Judicial Panel of Inquiry to investigate complaints of police brutality and related extra judicial killings in Plateau State with a view to delivering justice for all victims of the dissolved Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) and other police units.

A statement signed by  Dr. Simon Macham Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor and made available to newsmen in Jos said that This is in line with the recommendation of the National Economic Council (NEC) for the establishment of State-based judicial Panels of Inquiry by Governors to hear complaints and ensure accountability in the operations of police units in their States.

The panel is to be headed by a retired Judge of the Plateau State High Court Justice Philomena Lot. Other members are: CP. Garba Patrick (Rtd); Mr. Ezekiel Dauda Daschen (Youth Representative) Mrs. Rauta Dakok (Rep. of Attorney General’s Office); and Mrs. Kiyempia Mafuyai (Rep. of Human Rights Commission).

The terms of Reference among others are to receive and investigate complaints of Police Brutality or Related Extra Judicial Killings; evaluate evidence and draw conclusions on validity of complaints; as well as recommend compensation and other remedial measures.

While congratulating members of the Committee for their appointment, the Governor challenged them to be thorough, diligent and fair to all those that will appear before them in order to ensure that justice is served to all parties without  any bias.

The committee is expected to carry out its assignment within six months and submit its report.

Meanwhile, the Governor has thrown more light on his remarks during an interview with journalists at the Presidential Villa Abuja where he was alleged to have said that Northern Governors want the return of the scrapped Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).

The Governor explained that there was no way the Northern Governors will call for the resurrection of an already scrapped SARS as approved by the President and announced by Inspector General of Police.

What he simply conveyed in the interaction with State House Correspondents was the need for deeper and wholistic reform of the entire policing architecture in the country where he stressed the fact that despite the condemnable atrocities by some members of the dissolved SARS, there are some among them that are good and performed their duties diligently, and as such there should not be blanket condemnation. This is why he cited the examples of some Northern Governors who testified that the disbanded SARS contributed significantly to the fight against insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes in their States.

For the avoidance of doubt, the Governor reiterates his deep support for the agitation of a wholistic reform of the policing architecture which has commenced with the scrapping of SARS and will continue to advocate for further reforms such as the rapid implementation of community policing for which he has been a strong advocate.

PRESS STATEMENT

UN RESIDENT COORDINATOR VISITS GOVERNOR LALONG

The United Nations Resident & Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Edward Kallon has visited Plateau State to meet with Governor Simon Lalong on enhancing collaboration in areas of development.

Kallon who is on a two – day official visit to assess the situation in Plateau State, said his pre-occupation in the country is to promote development particularly through the States.

He informed the Governor that the UN through its agencies will continue to carry out development projects in the State in key areas that impact on the lives of the people particularly at the grassroots.

He said he will engage with key Government officials in the State to get a picture of development challenges where the UN can step in. He also said the engagement will enable him also examine the progress of current programmes and how they can be made to succeed.

He further explained that the visit affords him the opportunity to strengthen relations with both Plateau State and the Northern Governors Forum, promising to use his office to advocate for development of the region.

Governor Lalong in his response expressed appreciation for the interventions of the UN in Plateau State which he said has impacted the lives of the poor and vulnerable. He acknowledged the efforts of the agency and his team in various interventions in the North East and Nigeria as a whole.

He also told the UN scribe that Plateau State has continued to sustain peace through its efforts using the Peace Building Agency. He asked for the assistance of the UN in strengthening the agency.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
16th October 2020.

I write to correct a misgiving trending in the social media by some mischief makers who have cashed in on the End SARS protests to promote falsehood against His Excellency, the Deputy Governor, Professor Sonni Tyoden.

I find these allegations demeaning to the personality of the Deputy Governor who is a promoter of peace and justice.

The allegations which include “Police Escort of the Deputy Governor shot a live bullet at a peaceful protest. #Jos Protest…..and the Deputy Governor just passed and ordered them to shoot” These statements are just imaginary.

First, I want to make it very clear that His Excellency the Deputy Governor, Professor Sonni Gwanle Tyoden never had an encounter with End SARS Protesters in Jos, the Plateau  State capital.

Second,  the Deputy Governor, Professor Sonni Tyoden was in his office as early as 10am Thursday morning where he had two separate virtual meetings until 3pm when he left the Old Government House Rayfield for another function at New Government House, Little Rayfield.

Those who know the official residence of His Excellency,  the Deputy Governor will attests to the fact that it is just a two minute drive to his office. So, these allegations are untrue and fabricated to satisfy the conscience of the writer’s paymasters.

                
  Doman Wetkum.
Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor.

PRESS STATEMENT

PLATEAU GOVERNOR DIRECTS REOPENING OF SCHOOLS

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has directed the re-opening of all public and private primary and secondary schools across the State from 30th October 2020.

This follows the engagement with all stakeholders and setting up of mechanisms for observing COVID-19 protocols in all schools in the State.

By this directive, schools are to resume academic activities for 3rd term and ensure they operate within the guidelines issued by the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 for the safety of students and teachers.

Already, various trainings and engagements have been held to orientate school principals and teachers on basic operational requirements. Similarly, the management of schools have been mandated to clean, fumigate and re-arrange the school environment preparatory to the resumption.

Meanwhile, all grade six students are to resume schools between 19th-23rd October to prepare for the First School Leaving Certificate and National Common Entrance Examinations.

All heads of public and private schools with huge population are also advised to consider staggered school attendance to avoid going against COVID-19 protocols relating to social distancing.

The Governor also directed that all exchange students who have arrived from other States should be accommodated pending the resumption date.

He appreciates the support and collaboration of Traditional Rulers, Parent Teacher Associations, School Based Management Committees and urges them to continue to step down the COVID-19 compliance advocacy at the grassroots.

In the meantime, arrangements are ongoing to facilitate the resumption of tertiary institutions in the State.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press &Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
15th October 2020

PRESS STATEMENT

PLATEAU COUNCILORS DONATE PALLIATIVES TO TACKLE COVID-19.

The Plateau State chapter of the Nigerian Councilors Forum, has donated some items to the State Government as part of its contribution at tackling the corona virus pandemic in the state.
During the presentation to Governor Simon Lalong at the Government House, Little Rayfield Jos, Chairman of the forum, Mr. Silas Ishaya said the Forum was happy with the efforts and steps taken by the Government in combating the virus.
He said the group has followed closely the initiatives of the Governor who is the Chairman of the Plateau State Task Force on Covid-19 from the initial stage till now when the situation is gradually easing down.
Hon. Ishaya said the donation by the 325 councilors in the state was to complement Governor Lalong’s efforts as well as contribute to the State Endowment Initiative which has gone a long way in boosting the capacity of the State to handle the situation more effectively.
According to him, the Forum is very happy with the Governance style of Governor Lalong who is passionate about peace and has carried everyone along despite differences in political orientation, religion and ethnicity.
He assured the Governor that the Forum will continue to support the peace initiatives of the Governor as he has continued to open up Plateau State to the world and more investors are coming in to find business opportunities.
In his response, Governor Lalong thanked the councilors for their visit and donations describing it as a gesture that will go a long way in assisting the fight against COVID-19 in the State. He asked the councilors to step up the sensitization of people at the grassroots on the pandemic so as to ensure testing and compliance to protocols.
He urged them to be committed to their duties and their cooperation to ensure the progress of the state, saying they were closest to the grassroots and therefore knew the people’s challenges.
He also called on them to work toward developing community policing in their respective areas, reminding them that they were responsible for the security of lives and property in their areas before other authorities were informed.
Also speaking at the occasion, the Speaker of the Plateau House of Assembly, Nuhu Abok, thanked Governor Lalong for his leadership style of inclusiveness and peace efforts.
He prayed for the governor to find lasting solutions to the pockets of attacks in some communities for the success of his administration.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the
Governor of Plateau State
15th October 2020

Mrs Lucy Chindaba’s Campaign Gets Major Boost As Alhaji Abubakar Sadeeq Plaza Donates 1million Naira..


The campaign council of Mrs Lucy Chindaba for the National President of the National Association Of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) was thrown into euphoria yesterday the 14th of Oct 2020 at CRUDAN event center Bukuru Low-cost, the Venue of the inauguration of the campaign council and the unveiling of Campaign materials in the forth coming NAWOJ elective convention at Minna.

The event had the chairpersons and Secretary of the 19 northern states who are by the virtue of their positions delegates, stakeholders within the zone, friends and supporters from the southern and eastern parts of the country that flee in to be part of the program.

Proud sons and daughters of the Plateau, all Invited guests, traditional dealers and seasoned members of NUJ were on ground for the ground breaking event.

The Chairman of the occasion Alhaji Abubakar Sadeeq Plaza, welcomed all who had traveled wide and near to be part of the event, he congratulated the campaign team for their commitment to better Journalism and the pride of the Women in the field. He charged to go all out and fire from all cylinders to ensure the victory of Mrs Lucy Chindaba as her records during her time as the National Secretary remains unbeatable. He assured them of his commitment in whatever way that will lead to the victory.

The Secretary to the Government of the State, Prof. Danladi Atu, represented H.E Rt. Hon. Barr.Dr Simon Bako Lalong, at the event. In his speech, the Chairman of the northern governors forum said that the candidacy of Mrs Lucy Chindaba is PLATEAU PROJECT and urge all and sundry to give her the necessary support as she is high on the ratings. He assured the campaign team of his unflinching support to ensure that she gets the prestigious seat.

HRH. Dr. Mohammed Sambo Haruna, the Emir of Wase, who was the royal father of the day showered encomiums on Mrs Lucy Chindaba saying that she is a daughter of the Plateau in whom they are proud of.

He prayed and blessed her and pleaded those present to go back to their respective states and preach the good news about Mrs Lucy who is a performer in all she has ever laid her hands on.


The Chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Sadeeq Plaza then donated the sum of N1 million for the flag off of the campaigns and pledges more commitment.

Different Cultural troupes danced to the entertainment of the guests with performances in different Plateau Dances. Band boys were on hand playing the loud sounds of the trumpets and the clanging sounds of the cymbals…


It was a good show for the PLATEAU PROJECT, Mrs Lucy Chindaba who is on course for victory in MINNA..

By Jatmak Solomon, Jos

The Plateau State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) has sacked 122 primary school teachers discovered to have gained employment with fake certificates.

Prof. Mathew Sule, Chairman of the board disclosed this during a press briefing on Tuesday in Jos.

Sule said the development followed the intense screening exercise recently conducted by the board for teachers in the state.

He explained that the decision to sack the erring teachers was in consonance with the public service rules of the state and the guidelines of the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN).

“In line with the directives by the TRCN that teachers without requisite qualifications should be disengaged, we conducted series of screening for our teachers.

“Of the over 15, 000 teachers in the 2,537 public primary schools in Plateau, we have discovered that 122 have presented fake certificates to us.

“We followed all due process, including visiting the schools they claimed they have graduated from and found out they did not actually attended those schools.

“As a board, that is poised toward quality teaching and learning at the basic educational level, we decided to dismiss them,” he said.

The chairman said some of the affected teachers had claimed ignorance of their alleged criminal acts, while some owned up.

According to Sule, Gov. Simon Lalong had in 2017 graciously granted pardon to over 2,000 teachers who had similar challenges, but were made to provide authentic certificates.

He explained that the educational system would not have the desired quality if unqualified teachers were allowed to remain in the system.

“We cannot get the desired quality in teaching and learning if we don’t have trained and quality teachers.

“The quality of a learner is a replicate of the quality of teacher

“So, I want to call on learning institutions to put all measures on ground to curtail such sharp practices,” he urged.

The chairman also advised teachers who don’t have the requisite and genuine qualifications to go and obtain it, adding that the board would not compromise on quality.

GAGDI CONGRATULATES ELECTED NULGE EXCO

The member representing Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency and Chairman House Committee on Navy Rt. Hon Yusuf Adamu Gagdi congratulates the Nigeria Union Of Local Government Employees (NULGE) for conducting a peaceful Congress which ushered in an executive to pilot the affairs of the association.

Gagdi lauds the sounding victory of the new exco and most especially the President Comrade Arandong Yohana Makwin at the election held at the 9th Quadrennial Delegates Conference of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees held at the Pankshin Youth Center on Tuesday, October 14, 2020.

Gagdi appreciates the delegates for comporting themselves decently and in order, and for exhibiting conduct that indicates that the interest of the workers at the Local government councils which the union is standing to protect is the most important beyond all forms of trivialities.

He also gave kudos to the Union’s electoral committee for organizing a credible, free and fair election, and to the security agencies which ensured that orderliness was enthroned and maintained.

The Member urged Comrade Arandong Yohana Makwin and his newly elected team to be humble and magnanimous in victory, and serve the best interest of the generality of all in the union.
While admonishing all those that contested to accept the outcome of the Elections as the will of God through the Delegates,urging them join hands with their Elected Colleagues for a more dynamic , prosperous and result driven State NULGE.

GAGDI MEDIA TEAM

MESSAGE OF APPRECIATION

It’s with great joy that I, Jamda Bapina Joseph write to appreciate you my Boss Rt Hon Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, member representing the great people of Pankshin Kanke and Kanam LGAs, for your show of love and leadership towards me a common man from your constituency, which reached its crescendo in finding me worthy for enlistment in your long list of youths who have benefited from your employment drive. I am most grateful to have been considered as I am not the most or only educated person from your constituency nor the person who showed you love most, nor the person who canvassed votes for the most. This show of love is one I will NEVER forget. Thank you so much sir.
With my experience at the exams/interview all I can say is your river of influence runs VERY DEEP. Indeed PKK is in safe hands, I therefore call on all youths from PKK and beyond to join hands with the Rt Hon member and give him maximum support he needs to carry our dear constituency to greater heights.
Thanks to all who took out time to celebrate with me, may love always bind us together.
Once more thank you sir.