PRESS STATEMENT

NORTHERN GOVERNORS MOURN KOGI CHIEF JUDGE, HAMA BACHAMA

The Northern Governors Forum has condoled with the Government and people of Kogi State over the passing away of Justice Nasiru Ajanah Chief Judge of Kogi State who died at the age of 64.
Chairman of the Forum and Plateau State Governor, Simon Bako Lalong, in a statement, described the death of Justice Ajanah as a great loss to his immediate family, the people of Kogi State, the Judiciary and nation at large.
He said “Justice Nasiru Ajanah served the nation with integrity and honesty as he administered justice without fear or favour. As a life bencher a member of the Presidential Implementation Committee on Financial Autonomy of State Judiciary and State Legislature, he left behind a legacy of hardwork and commitment that will continue to inspire the younger generation particularly in the judiciary where he spent most of his years”.
He prayed God to grant the deceased eternal rest and comfort the family at this difficult moment.
Similarly, the Northern Governors has expressed shock over the death of the Hama Bachama and paramount ruler of the Bachama Kingdom, Homun Honest Irmiya Stephen who died on Sunday June 28th 2020 at the age of 66.
In a message of commiseration on behalf of the Forum, Governor Lalong consoled with the family of the late monarch; people and Government of Adamawa State; and the Bwaytie nation over this sad development.
He described the late monarch as a unifying factor who worked for the peace, stability and development to his kingdom, Adamawa State and the nation at large.
Lalong recalled the years of service of the late monarch in the Nigerian Army where he worked in different parts of the country and in various capacities to ensure that Nigeria’s territorial integrity is defended.
He asked the people of Bachama Kingdom to be consoled by the good legacies he left behind and the development efforts he attracted to his community.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham, ANIPR
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of
Plateau State & Chairman, Northern Governors Forum.
29th June 2020.

TEXT OF PRESS BRIEFING BY PROF. DANLADI ABOK ATU, SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNMENT OF THE STATE & COORDINATOR, PLATEAU STATE COVID-19 TASK FORCE. 28TH JUNE 2020.

1. Gentlemen of the press, you will recall that his Excellency, Rt. Hon. (Dr) Simon Bako Lalong, Executive Governor of Plateau State and Chairman of the Covid-19 Task Force, addressed you on 11th June 2020 where he announced the lifting of the total lockdown earlier imposed on the State until further notice.
2. At that briefing, the Governor laid out the conditions for the lifting of the lockdown based on the fact that the citizens are to henceforth take responsibility for their health and the health of others.
3. Let me remind you that the Governor lifted the total lockdown after widespread consultations with key stakeholders which included: CAN, JNI, Marketers and Traders Association, NURTW, Union of Tricycles Operators, Hotel, Recreational and Catering Services Association, Plateau State Traditional Council, NLC, TUC, NUJ, NBA, NMA, National Association of Nurses and Midwives and other professional Health Workers, PIDAN, NCWS and Plateau Youth Council.
4. If you remember, the following directives were given by the Governor during that briefing:
   i. That the curfew imposed by the Federal Government from 10pm – 6am will continue to be observed until further directives are issued.
   ii. That there shall be no entry whatsoever, into public offices, banks, markets, stores, tricycles and vehicles without wearing facemasks. Violators of this order will be arrested and taken before the mobile courts.
   iii. Cultural festivals, anniversaries and large-scale gatherings remain banned.
   iv. Ban on commercial motorcycles will remain in force, except Dispatch Riders and other essential service operators.
   v. The ban on illegal Sunday markets on Ahmadu Bello Way, and Bukuru Metropolis remains in force.
   vi. Churches and Mosques with large spaces shall be allowed to accommodate more than 50 worshippers under strict observance of the use of facemasks, social distancing, hand washing, use of infrared thermometers and use of sanitizers.
   vii. That all public places like Markets, Shops, Hotels, Restaurants that fail to comply with the hygiene or sanitation regulations, social distancing as well as use of facemasks shall be penalized and where appropriate, bear any cost or penalty as would be specified.
   viii. All public places like Markets, Shops, Hotels, and Restaurants that fail to comply with the hygiene or sanitation regulations, social distancing as well as use of facemasks shall be shut down and the owners prosecuted.
   ix. The inter-state borders shall remain closed with greater enforcement.
   x. All Schools are to remain closed.
5. Now after this development, we have had cause to issue press statements expressing serious concern over the flagrant disregard for some of the guidelines announced by the Governor by many citizens and organisations.
6. In particular, Government viewed with dismay the non-compliance with regards to the wearing of face masks, social distancing, hand washing and the use of sanitizers and others outlined earlier.
7. This necessitated us issuing another press statement on June 22nd to warn against this uncooperative attitude and caution that Government may be forced to take more drastic measures to enforce compliance.
8. We have since commenced enforcement and as you are aware, last week we sealed some places and arrested violators. This was the pilot phase where we measured the impact of our Strategies.
9. Gentleman of the press, Government has equally been worried about the increase in the number of cases in the State even as we test more people. This means that the risk of COVID-19 is still very high, and as such, we cannot relax.
10. That is why the Chairman of the Plateau State Covid-19 Task Force, Governor Simon Lalong has directed that we redouble our enforcement efforts across the entire State with SPECIAL EMPHASIS on 6 of the Local Government areas with the highest prevalence of corona virus cases.
11. Therefore, commencing from tomorrow, Monday 29th June 2020, the enforcement teams will wage a robust action on defaulters whether citizens or organisations particularly in the 6 Local Governments which include Jos North, Jos South, Barkin Ladi, Mangu, Kanam and Kanke.
12. It should be understood that the next phase will see other Local Governments also witnessing the type of enforcement and enlightenment that we shall launch tomorrow.
13. This enforcement will go simultaneously with public education campaign by Health Educators to further enlighten the citizens on the dangers of the disease and what to do to be protected.
14. It is important to make it abundantly clear that this action is not in any way aimed at stigmatizing people living in these Local Government Areas or affected communities, but an exercise targeted at ensuring their safety and containment of the pandemic.
15. I am stating this upfront because we are aware of the mischief by some individuals and groups who specialize in spreading falsehood and trying to discourage people from abiding to government directives.
16. We shall remain focused on ensuring that we protect our citizens from the Corona Virus pandemic. All we continue to ask for is the cooperation and support of all citizens towards defeating the disease.
17. Let me register the profound appreciation of His Excellency, Governor Simon Lalong, the Executive Governor and Chairman of the Covid-19 Task Force, to all well-meaning citizens and organisations who have consistently complied with the guidelines issued in the fight against the pandemic.
18. At this point, I invite the Commissioner for Health, to brief you on the current statistics of the disease in the State, including the five local government areas I mentioned.
19. Thank you.
    Prof. Danladi Abok Atu
    Secretary to the Government of the State and Coordinator, Plateau State Covid-19 Task Force, June 28, 2020.

PRESS STATEMENT

“WE MUST SUPPORT THE JUDICIARY TO SUSTAIN UPHOLD THE RULE OF LAW” GOVERNOR LALONG.

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong says all Nigerians must support the
Judiciary particularly Judges in the dispension of justice and the sustainance of the rule of law which is key to the survival of democracy.
Governor Lalong said this at the valedictory court session in honour of the retiring President, Plateau State Customary Court of Appeal Hon. Justice Julia Asabe Kyentu who is retiring after attaining the age of 65.
Lalong who praised Justice Kyentu for serving the Judiciary meritoriously, described her as a superb judicial officer who contributed immensely to the development of the bench and bar.
He said “For those who know Justice Julia Kyentu either within or outside the courtroom, the experiences may vary, but the testimony of her integrity, hardwork, intellectual capacity and judicial depth is the same. Hon. Justice Julie Kyentu has over the years not only demonstrated her deep knowledge of the law and its application to the dispensation of justice, but has also shown courage to administer justice without fear or favour, affection or ill will”.
Lalong said as a woman, Justice Kyentu is among the roll call of distinguished Plateau daughters who have broken the ceiling to establish the fact that women are more than capable of performing any function in society if given the opportunity.
He urged both members of the bar and bench to do everything possible to safeguard the integrity of the Judiciary which is not only the hope of the common man as commonly referred to, but the hope of democracy, good governance and societal development.
He assured that his administration will continue to support all efforts at deepening reforms in the judiciary to make it more effective.
Chief Judge of Plateau State Hon. Justice Yakubu Gyang Dakwak described Justice Kyentu as an astute judicial officer who put in her best in delivering justice to all manner of persons without fear or favour.
He said the Plateau Bench will miss her greatly and the vacuum created will be difficult to fill.
Commissioner of Justice and Attorney General Chrysanthus Ahmadu and the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association Jos Branch, Barrister Yakubu Bawa, described the retiring justice as a women of dignity and integrity who never succumbed to pressure from various quarters to subvert the cause of justice.
They said her faith in God and adherence to the constitution and oath of office enabled her to carry out her assignment and finish without blemish.
Justice Julia Asabe Kyentu while responding, thanked God for the opportunity the privilege to serve in the Judiciary in various capacities reaching the peak as the Preaident of the Plateau Customary Court of Appeal.
She said her experience over the years has reaffirmed her belief that God orders the steps of all his children and uses them in the way and manner he deems fit. She said despite all challenges, she was leaving the bench very fulfilled, hoping that those she is leaving behind will take the Judiciary to the next level.
Meanwhile, Governor Lalong has approved the appointment of Justice Sati Patrick Dabit.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham, ANIPR
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
27th June 2020.

PLATEAU STATE CARETAKER PUBLICITY SECRETARY FELICITATES WITH LT. COL CHIEF SG FWANJE ON HIS BIRTHDAY.

TRIBUTE TO A ROLE MODEL OF MY TIME. CHIEF COL. SAMUEL GULONG FWANGJE

B A R D E N M A N G U

If anyone claims he knows you more than I do should raise his hands and never talk.

You are a quintessential and a dogged fighter of humanity.

You are a flowing river for the less privilege double cap Conel. A military Conel and a civilian youth general.

As we the cry….

You can be so engaging as a father and a friend of honour at the same time. The day this state and country try you with leadership the will know that some certain things has been kept hidden which is not worthy prey.

If anyone claims he knows you more than I do should answer this questions.

1. How many languages does Col. SG Fwanje Speaks.
2. Make noise in the south and shut…. ( complete the statement )
3. As we the cry….. ( complete )
4. Who those he resemble in his family ?
5. What can you easily identify him in his speech ?
6. Where was he first celebrated in his political start point.

What SG Fwanje Stands for.

SAMUEL GULONG FWANJE.

S A M U E L

S – Simple and sound

A – Available to all.

M – Man of honour and humility.

U – United and undiluted.

E – Endures every challenge.

L – Living for all irrespective of party affiliation

G U L O N G

G – Giver to all

U – Universal Friend

L – Lover of people

O – Our Friend and your Father

N – Never proud

G – Gold in the hands of his enemies.

F W A N J E

F – Free and famous

W- War lord to the less privilege.

A – Alutaristic for the sake of the deprived.

N – Not an enemy but a friend.

J – Jovial and accommodating.

E – Embraced as many as he meets.

What else do you know more that this about this highly distinguished leader of our time.

You will leave long a continue to be productive.

You will continues to be celebrated as one among your equals.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO A SERVING POLITICAL LT GENERAL SG FWANJE FAFH ( FATHER AND FRIEND OF HONOUR ).

BARDEN MANGU WE ARE PROUD OF YOUR STRIDE KEEP THE FLAG FLYING

Life and time as the truest agents of the earth have built grounds so soft and hard, bitter and aromatic, painful and pleasurable, for the understanding of hearts so ready to take from them,lessons, dreams, hopes, exploits and all that some man needs to be great like some tree getting all in the mangroves!

Sir, just like a mangrove tree, you have quite been an example to make. You have taken the “not to be taken”, you have blessed those who even cursed you, you have forgiven and looked with joy those who still hunt you, you have stand to pursue that which matters to the people not to yourself, you have but laughed when many around you seem to be enough in a joyful sleep. These and many some characters I see everyday.

Even as a sole which like a beast you were trained, softly and comely are your ways, as though you are some woman trained to love in the most perfect means.

I hail a retired colonel, simple like a teacher,
I hail a father, loving like some heavenly make ups,
A hail I silent achiever and a public figure.

In all, my prayers are that, the Lord continue to keep you, bless you more and stage you the pristin water as we drink always!

Happy birthday to a retired colonel known a teacher!

As you work on sir, my bid

Prince Sekat

The YANDAR NGAS

PRESS STATEMENT

NORTHERN GOVERNORS MOURN FORMER OYO GOVERNOR, SENATOR AJIMOBI.

Plateau State Governor and Chairman, Northern Governors Forum Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong has expressed deep shock over the demise of former Governor of Oyo State, Abiola Ajimobi.
Governor Lalong in a condolence message on behalf of the Forum described the late Ajimobi as a man of integrity who served the people of Oyo State and Nigeria with excellence.
Lalong said the sterling leadership qualities of late Ajimobi and his role in the formation of the All Progressives Congress endeared him to many party members which led to his appointment as Deputy National Chairman, South.
He recalled the contributions of Governor Ajimobi to the oil and gas industry in Nigeria during his career where he made significant impact on its growth and development.
Governor Lalong consoled with the wife of the late Governor, Florence, children and entire family, asking them to take solace in his rich legacies and accept the sad development as the will of God.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham, ANIPR
Director Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
25th June 2020.

PRESS STATEMENT

NORTHERN GOVERNORS FELICITATE WITH SPEAKER GBAJABIAMILA; GOVERNOR SANWOLU; AND AMB. KINGIBE.

The Northern Governors Forum has congratulated three eminent Nigerians, (Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila; Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwoolu; and elderstatesman Amb. Babagana Kingibe) on the occasion of their birthdays, recognising their contributions to to National development.

Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Plateau State, Simon Bako Lalong in a congratulatory message described Speaker House of Representatives Femi Gbajabiamila who clocked 58 as a great Nigerian who has continued to promote development particularly through his legislative experience.

He commended the Speaker for standing up for ordinary Nigerians by giving direction and quality leadership to the green chamber which has led to the passing of laws that have promoted good governance, peace and tranquility.

On Governor Babajide Sanwoolu of Lagos State who turned 55, the Northern Governors saluted his courage and pragmatic leadership style which has enabled the nation’s commercial capital to continue to play a pivotal role in national development.

The forum while wishing him more years of success, asked him not to relent in his commitment of serving the people of Lagos State and the nation with integrity, compassion and excellence, in line with his campaign promises.

For elderstatesman, Ambassador Babagana Kingibe, the Forum congratulated him for attaining the age of 75 and also commended his sense of loyalty, patriotism and commitment to Nigeria.

Governor Lalong said “Ambassador Kingibe has transversed the political landscape of the country, and making his mark on the international stage, making congent contributions to the socio-political development of Nigeria in various capacities over the years. We celebrate his dexterity and passion in promoting National unity, peace and good governance”.
The Governors while wishing him many more years of good health, peace and God’s divine protection, asked him to continue to avail the nation his wealth of experience and wisdom.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham, ANIPR
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
25th June 2020.

Jatmak Solomon,Jos

Group in Plateau state operating under the aegis of Inspired Southern Zone Youths on Sunday drummed support for a female Professor of French Language at the University of Jos, Nora Daduut for the forthcoming Plateau South Senatorial seat .

Our correspondent report that the seat became vacant following the demise of the senator representing the senatorial district at the National Assembly, Ignatius Longjan .

The group in a statement signed by Miss Angela Barde and made available to newsmen in Jos reiterated that Prof Nora Daduut stands out tall and deserves to represent the people at the Senate as she has done excellently well in the academia .

She disclosed that they are prepared to mobilize thousands of their supporters who are mostly youths and women from across the Plateau South Senatorial District especially as it has to do with their representation in the upper chamber of the National Assembly.

“We have so much confidence for Prof Nora Dadduut .”

“We are so confident that she would provide quality representation at the national Assembly if she is given the opportunity .”

The group also disclosed that one of the reasons they are prepared to follow Prof Nora is that she is synonymous with excellence. “she is not only a hard worker but a master planner whom observers believe stands a better chance with the growing strength and popularity of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in the state.

“Prof Nora has created a lot of landmark achievements in the academia ,and can be best described as an assurance to the people of Plateau south and if given the mandate would provide quality representation, offering the desired change as well as expand the network of her community through improved health care, education and wealth creation in rural communities thereby cutting down on the social and economic deprivations faced by the people.”

“Our membership as a group span across all the local government area of the senatorial district, the group have mapped out plans to embark on massive grassroots rally to all the local government areas for Prof Nora .

PRESS STATEMENT

PLATEAU GOVERNMENT THREATENS LOCKDOWN DUE TO DISREGARD TO COVID-19 GUIDELINES.

The Plateau State Government says it views with grave concern the rise in the rate of infection of the Corona virus in the State following the ease of lockdown exercise. This it says is essentially is due to the flagrant disregard to the laid down protocols as it affects this dreaded monster, by a sizeable population of the State.
The Government therefore warns that it will not hesitate to restore the lockdown earlier lifted by Governor Simon Bako Lalong as it views with dismay the non-compliance with regards to the wearing of face masks, social distancing, hand washing and the use of sanitizers.
Commissioner for Information and Communication Dan Manjang in a statement in Jos said Government has it on sound authority that some worship centres, markets, motor parks, commercial vehicles, tricycles (KEKE NAPEP) are at the forefront of this flagrant violation.
He said “in view of the foregoing therefore, Government hereby states categorically that such unbecoming attitude stimulates government to contemplate severe measures to address and arrest the situation. This could include among many, a total lockdown of the State, for a longer period, and the indefinite sealing of such premises who refuse to adhere to the guidelines”.
He reminded the citizens that Government by this announcement, wants the public to remember that there is an Executive Order duly signed by His Excellency, Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Simon Bako Lalong, KSGG, Executive Governor of Plateau State, to prosecute violators before the law.
He said the Government does not want to be pushed to taking any decision that will further hurt the people and hereby appeals to all law abiding citizens of the state to obey the COVID-19 protocols as spelt out by the State in order to curtail the disease and save lives.

Dan Manjang,
Hon. Commissioner,
Information and Communication,
Plateau State.
22/6/2020