NASARAWA GOVERNOR VISITS GOVERNOR LALONG OVER RECENT ATTACKS; SAYS PLATEAU REMAINS A HOME FOR ALL

Nasarawa State Governor Engr. Abdullahi Sule has led a high powered delegation to Plateau State to commiserate with the Government and people over the recent attacks in the State.

Governor Sule who led the delegation comprising of traditonal, religious and Government officials from Nasarawa State said the visit was necessary because Plateau State remains a natural home for all Nigerians, especially the people of Nasarawa State who were part of the old Plateau State.

He sympathised with the people of Plateau State particularly those who lost loved ones, properties, animals and farm crops. On behalf of the Nasarawa State government, he delivered an official condolence letter and an undisclosed cash donation to assist those affected.

The Governor said it was painful to see the rich history of Plateau State known for its hospitality, serenity, tolerance and excellence being jeopardized by criminal activities using religion, ethnicity and politics.

Sule recalled with Nostalgia his growing days in Jos where people were united and loved one another irrespective of their differences. He wondered how people allowed politics of hatred and religious bigotry to take pride over peaceful coexistence and humanity.

Responding, Governor Simon Lalong thanked the Government and people of Nasarawa State for their support and solidarity which affirms the eternal bond that exists between the two States.

He told Governor Abdullahi Sule that what happened in the recent attacks was pure criminality which must not be given any other name for convenience or cover up. He said the security agencies have made arrests and those arrested will be diligently prosecuted.

Lalong decried the misuse of the social media and some part of the traditional media by some citizens particularly the youth who propagate falsehood, panic and hate speech. He said this has led to the de-marketing the State.

He however expressed appreciation to good Nigerians and people of Plateau State who contributed to dousing tensions and ensuring the return of calm.

Thereafter, the meeting went into closed door session where further deliberations were held with traditional, religious and community leaders and the two Governors.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
2nd September 2021.

PLATEAU YOUTHS GROUP APPRECIATE GWANI MUHAMMAD ADAM ALKALI OON FOR DONATION OF T-SHIRTS AND FACECAPS IN SUPPORT OF GOV. SIMON BAKO LALONG

The #Lalong Must Succeed group appreciates Alh. Gwani Muhammad Adam Alkali OON for donating face t-shirts and caps to their group during the solidarity protest embark upon in support of Governor Simon Bako Lalong tagged:#Lalong Must Succeed.
In a Press Release in Jos the Plateau State Capital, the group said Alh. Gwani Muhammad Alkali OON is a a man of peace who believes in the oneness of the citizens of Plateau State, during the donation, he urge youths to eschew violence and live in peace with one another inrespective of religious tribal and party differences.
In his words, the philanthropist said Plateau people should think Plateau and act Plateau.
The group thank him immensely for the donation and pray for God to bless him abundantly.

The resurgence of violent attacks and unstable security in Plateau State has drawn grieved the Youth Wing Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN) Plateau State Chapter.

YOWICAN expressed dissatisfaction over the attacks, killings and destructions of crops in certain communities in Plateau State.

The body said the attacks are highly condemnable and unacceptable by every human line of thought as no one has the right to take the life of another. They call on all Plateau citizens to eschew violence and promote peaceful coexistence.

In a press text jointly signed by YOWICAN Chairman Plateau State Deacon Pharm. Markus Kanda, the Vice Chairman Barr. Panmak Lere and Secretary Pastor Nehemiah Nanmwa emphasized the need for the security agencies to be responsive to every distress call, especially such confirmed dangers as delay in the face of such calls and attacks serve as a respite for the criminals and provide them ample opportunities of escape from the scene of attacks.

It called on the State government to as a matter of urgency set up a committee to take stocks of the level of destruction of crops, lives and property in all the troubled parts of Plateau especially Jos North, Jos South, Jos East, Bassa, Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Bokkos and Mangu LGAs in order to garner and provide adequate relief materials for the victims to prevent famine, hunger and starvation and to also reconstruct or renovate houses destroyed and ensure the victims are peacefully resettled in their communities with adequate security measures to forestall possible future attacks.

It futher drew the government’s attention to the existence of illegal occupants of houses and properties in such communities as some marauders proceeded to occupying the lands and properties of their victims.

The full text reads;

TEXT OF WORLD PRESS CONFERENCE ON THE RECENT MASSIVE RESURGENCE OF VIOLENT ATTACKS AND UNSTABLE SECURITY IN PLATEAU STATE PRESENTED BY THE YOUTH WING CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (YOWICAN) PLATEAU STATE CHAPTER, ON THE 1ST SEPTEMBER, 2021 AT THE CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (CAN) SECRETARIAT, JOS SOUTH LGA, PLATEAU STATE

Protocol

The Youth Wing Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN) PLATEAU STATE as vanguard of peace, advocates of good governance and religious tolerance have not withheld any wise counsel from the government and the peace loving people of Plateau State through all times and seasons and shall continue to dispassionately discharge it’s civic and moral duties accordingly.

1. YOWICAN had sued for peace and calm on the Plateau especially given the recent resurgence of insecurity and unprovoked attacks on Plateau communities as well as the destruction of lives and properties of our people. These attacks are highly condemnable and unacceptable by every human line of thought as no one has the right to take the life of another. We continue to call on all Plateau citizens to eschew violence and promote peaceful coexistence.

2. We have noticed with a glimpse of joy the measures taken by the State Government recently in concert with the clarion call made by the Plateau State House of Assembly, to speak in defence of the Plateau people and this is indeed highly commendable and we do hope to see more of this synergy going forward, to ensure that lost hope of the citizens is rekindled and sustained.

3. After the unfortunate incidences that bedevilled Plateau State in recent times, with particular reference to attacks on the Irigwe people in Miango villages in Bassa LGA, some commuters along Rukuba Road and the Anaguta people in Yelwa Zangam both in Jos North LGA (where a total of over 150 lives have been lost), the Plateau Legislators called on the Executive at all tiers of government- Federal, State and Local Governments to discharge their functions to ensuring the security of lives and properties of her citizens as well as the defence of the land from Marauder’s and Jihadists who by all means have made frantic efforts to kill on and evict the people from their ancestral lands. It is natural to expect Government to be proactive in their response and to also be seen to be handling citizens fairly because no life is more superior than the other. We encourage a continuous synergy between the Executive and Legislative arms of government to be maintained and improved upon.

4. YOWICAN has noted that the government of Plateau State under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Barr. (Dr) Simon Bako Lalong has taken measures to addressing the ills bedeviling the people as beckoned by the Legislative Arm to visit the people of and victims in Yelwa Zangam. His instruction for the establishment of a Police Post and rehabilitation of the bridge linking the two communities of Yelwan Zangam and Kunga 1 as well as facilitating the burial of the deceased persons is hereby appreciated. The delivery of relief materials to the victims of the attacks and commitment to settling the medical bills of the victims in the hospitals among other things will greatly be appreciated. We hereby encourage the government to remain responsive to demands from it’s arms and the people and act swiftly when the need arises so that confidence of the people on government will not decline beyond this low point. The government should replicate this gesture and good governance measures in all the troubled areas in Plateau State.

5. The government of Plateau ( all arms) in good synergy will always do greatly and achieve better things for the Plateau citizens as can be seen in the synergy between the Executive and Legislature in the establishment of Mobile Police Barracks in Shendam and Garshish, Air Force Base in Kerang, Peace Building Agency, Peace Watch Tower in Dutse Uku and Inter Religious Council among others , aside Enacting the Anti Land Grabbing and Anti Kidnapping Laws including the Autonomy Laws to grant the arms of government full and independent expression of their statutory powers. We encourage this display of tact and understanding in governance for the greater interest of Plateau State.

6. YOWICAN reiterates its support to the clarion call made my the Legislature as the full compliment of the representatives of the people and do confirm that the protection and welfare of the Plateau people is the duty of government. The government at all levels in the state should be palpably seen to rise to the occasion for this is primarily the duty of every government and we sincerely hope government will be sincere and committed to the protection of the people and her heritage, especially against Invaders and Jihadists that have seemingly found comfort and encouragement in the previous silence and carefreeness of the government suggested by it’s body language and silence.

7. YOWICAN appreciates the Plateau Youths for their doggedness in voicing out their plights and grievances naturedly and in a non violent manner – especially in support of a right call to Plateau survival and self determination and by committing themselves to holding government accountable for it’s actions and inactions. This surely is the Plateau Spirit which seemed to have been lost over a long time and we are hopeful that this commendable unity and resolve will not cease after Plateau gains victory over her challenges.

9. We have however noticed some persons, including elders, youths and particularly politicians (within and outside the state) whom society estimates as responsible but who have unfortunately chosen to follow the path of dishonour to politicize and scorn the united Plateau spirit against bad governance or the silence of government that had prevailed before now in the face of great onslaught on Plateau people. We call on such persons or groups by whatever name or office they are called or known to desist from such cheap eye-service and show of shame, as the lives (living or dead) of Plateau people deserve honour and dignity and must be maintained with every sense of reverence.

10. The peace loving people of Plateau State, especially the Youths are unreservedly identifying with their representatives in the Plateau State House of Assembly under the leadership of the Honourable Speaker, Rt. Hon. Ayuba Abok and charge the Honourable members with the mandate of continuing to speak with one voice for the peace, well-being, good governance, protection and self determination of the Plateau people. The legislative Arm should also be very weary of any double standard as Plateau people are watching and shall hold them accountable with every sense of duty. The government is encouraged to grant expression to the well-meaning Laws made to safeguard the people and the land dispassionately without fear or favour.

11. YOWICAN condemns the silent killings and mowing down of crops still on-going in the midst of the curfew imposed on Jos North, Jos South, and Bassa LGAs and calls on the government of Plateau State to consider and address the plight of the victims noting that their source of livelihood has been destroyed. We also call on the security agencies to double up their efforts in achieving total calm and through credible information gathering, arrests and prosecution should be done to bring perpetrators to answer for their crimes according to law. We appeal to them to be professional in the discharge of their duties knowing fully well that God in heaven sees all things done even in secret. We hereby call on law abiding citizens of Plateau State not to take the laws into their hands nor resort to actions that will be provocative but to conduct themselves at all times in the exercise of their constitutional right to self defence within the ambit of the law.

12. We will also emphasize the need for security agencies to be responsive to every distress call, especially such confirmed dangers as delay in the face of such calls and attacks serve as a respite for the criminals and provide them ample opportunities of escape from the scene of attacks

13. We call on the state government to as a matter of urgency set up a committee (if that has not been done) to take stocks of the level of destruction of crops, lives and properties in all the troubled parts of Plateau especially Jos North, Jos South, Jos East, Bassa, Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Bokkos and Mangu LGAs in order to garner and provide adequate relief materials for the victims to prevent famine, hunger and starvation and to also reconstruct or renovate houses destroyed and ensure the victims are peacefully resettled in their communities with adequate security measures to forestall possible future attacks. In this wise, we draw the government’s attention to the existence of illegal occupants of houses and properties in such communities as some marauders proceeded to occupying the lands and properties of their victims. This cannot be allowed to go unaddressed and unpunished under the extant laws.

14. We call to the attention of the Plateau State Government the rumours taking turns on perceived impeachment of the Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly and intimidation of the Honourable members, by whatever means possible for the measures taken by the House under his leadership in the defence of the interest of Plateau people. Plateau Youths shall resist strongly any attempt to disorganize the Plateau House of Assembly. We belief that the Governor means well for the people and will not allow himself dance a strange dance at a time the Plateau Spirit of Unity and brotherliness has been revived rather, being a former presiding officer of the same House a few years ago, he should understand and appreciate the place of checks and balances within the bounds of the law. Times of politicking and party cowardice has ended since election in 2019 and now is a crucial time to close all ranks and solidify good governance and the protection of the land irrespective of ethnic, religious or party affiliations.

15. While we call on well meaning citizens (within and outside the state) to lend their voices in solidarity with the Plateau people and heritage, we encourage the Plateau State government to create more national and international contact and network and collaborate for the well being and protection of Plateau State as Martin Luther King Jr said “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about the things that matter”

16. We look forward to seeing greater synergy in Plateau State at all levels of government and also from all and sundry as Peace is everybody’s business and we must all be deliberate in partaking in the process – everybody knows that anybody could do all the important things that somebody should do, everybody knows that anybody could do all the good things that no body did.

God bless the Youth Wing Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN)
God bless the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN)
God bless Plateau State
God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria

Signed

YOWICAN Chairman, Plateau State
Deacon Pharm. Markus Audu Kanda

YOWICAN Vice Chairman, Plateau State
Amb. Hon. Barr. Panmak Mark Lere

YOWICAN Secretary, Plateau State
Pastor Nehemiah Nanmwa Michael

CHIEF OF DEFENCE STAFF IN PLATEAU; SAYS CITIZENS MUST WORK WITH SECURITY FORCES TO RESTORE PEACE

The Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Lucky Irabor has visited Plateau State to assess the security situation and interact with key stakeholders on how to ensure lasting peace in the State.

General Irabor on arrival paid a courtesy visit on Governor Simon Lalong at the new Government House Rayfield Jos where he explained that he was in the State as part of the mandate from President Muhammadu Buhari for the Armed Forces to do everything their schedule of duty to ensure that perpetrators are fished out and such attacks do not happen again.

During the stakeholders meeting held at the Victoria Gowon Hall, General Irabor said the meeting will afford him the opportunity to listen to the concerns and suggestions of all participants on the way forward.

He explained that the military can work to confront criminal elements working against the security of lives and properties, but real peace is only obtainable when the citizens make deliberate efforts to live with one another, adhere to norms, and laws as well as expose criminals amongst them.

The CDS also clarified the merging of the duties of Operation Safe Haven and the 3rd Armoured Division which he said was done to give the Commander wider latitude and resources to deploy whenever there is any emergency. He said it was a great advantage which must not be misconstrued.

He appealed to the people to cultivate trust with the Armed Forces and use all necessary channels to report any misconduct from the lowest to the highest level. He assured that no personnel will be allowed to go away with any act that runs contrary to the regulations of the Armed Forces.

Governor Simon Lalong while appreciating  President Muhammadu Buhari for his concern over the recent developments in the State, welcomed the CDS for his visit.

He said the situation has been stabilised but more work needs to be done both in terms of law enforcement and peace building.

The Governor reiterated that the people of Plateau State are peace loving and accommodating, and wish to have stability to pursue their living peacefully.

The meeting thereafter went into a closed door session.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
1st August 2021.

PRESIDENT BUHARI APPROVES CABINET RESHUFFLE

President Muhammadu Buhari has approved a reshuffle in the cabinet formed on August 21, 2019.

In a statement to cabinet members during the Federal Executive Council meeting on Wednesday 1st September, President Buhari announced that Mohammed Sabo Nanono, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, and Engr. Sale Mamman, Minister of Power were leaving the cabinet.

In the same vein, Dr. Mohammad Mahmood Abubakar, Minister of Environment, was redeployed to assume office as the Minister of Agriculture & Rural Development, while Engr. Abubakar D. Aliyu, Minister of State, Works & Housing will now be the Minister of Power.

The President said the changes were sequel to the “tradition of subjecting our projects and programs implementation to independent and critical self-review” through sector reporting during Cabinet meetings and at retreats.

He added that “these significant review steps have helped to identify and strengthen weak areas, close gaps, build cohesion and synergy in governance, manage the economy and improve the delivery of public good to Nigerians.”

Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 01, 2021

____________________________

The full text of the statement is reproduced below:

On Wednesday 21st August, 2019 the current Federal Executive Council was sworn-in after a rigorous retreat to bring returning and new members up to speed on the accomplishments, challenges and lessons drawn from my first term in Office and to emphasise the 9 priority areas of government for the second term.



2. Two years and some months into the second term, the tradition of subjecting our projects and programs implementation to independent and critical self-review has taken firm roots through sector Reporting during Cabinet meetings and at Retreats.



3. These significant review steps have helped to identify and strengthen weak areas, close gaps, build cohesion and synergy in governance, manage the economy and improve the delivery of public good to Nigerians.



4. I must commend this cabinet for demonstrating unparalleled resilience that helped the government to navigate the disruption to global systems and governance occasioned by the emergence of COVID-19 shortly after inauguration. The weekly Federal Executive Council meetings was not spared because the traditional mode was altered.



5. As we are all aware, change is the only factor that is constant in every human endeavour and as this administration approaches its critical phase in the second term, I have found it essential to reinvigorate this cabinet in a manner that will deepen its capacity to consolidate legacy achievements.



6. Accordingly, a few cabinet changes, marking the beginning of a continuous process, have been approved. They are as follows:



Ministers Leaving the Cabinet:



I. Mohammed Sabo Nanono, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, and

II. Engr. Sale Mamman, Minister of Power.

Redeployment:

I. Dr. Mohammad Mahmood Abubakar, Minister of Environment, to assume office as the Minister of Agriculture & Rural Development;

II. Engr. Abubakar D. Aliyu, Minister of State, Works & Housing assume office as the Minister of Power.

7. In due course, substantive nominations will be made to fill the consequential vacancies in accordance with the requirements of the constitution.

8. I have personally met with the departing members to thank them for their contributions to discussions in cabinet and the invaluable services rendered to the nation. Today, effectively marks their last participation in the Federal Executive Council deliberations and I wish them the best in all future endeavours.

9. Finally, I wish to reiterate once more, that this process shall be continuous.

10. I thank you all and May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

IRIGWE/FULANI LEADERS MEET AGAIN; AGREE TO SIGN PACT ON PEACEFUL COEXISTENCE

For the second time within two weeks, leaders of Irigwe land and fulani community met with Governor Simon Bako Lalong in an effort to find lasting solutions to the recurring violence in some areas of Bassa Local Government.

The meeting which was held at the Government House Rayfield Jos, had the representatives of the two sides under one roof who presented their positions on how best to achieve lasting peace and security in the area.

Both sides who had earlier met with the Governor separately, expressed readiness to forgive one another where they have suffered injustice in the past as well as come back together and coexist under a peaceful atmosphere.

They also agreed to further sit together and fine tune issues that are causing the conflict before they come up with a final document.

Governor Lalong after listening to them said while Government will do its part in ensuring that criminals are arrested and prosecuted, the responsibility of living in peace lies with the citizens who must come together and identify the criminals.

He assured them that he will be glad to go to Irigwe land and witness the signing of the agreement when it is fine tuned. The Government he said will play its part in implementing whatever pact is signed.

He directed the Peace Building Agency to follow up and midwife the process.

While that is being awaited, the Governor assured them that those affected and displaced will recieve palliatives from the State and Federal Government while other measures to assist them rebuild will further be strengthened.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
1st September 2021.

IZERE NATION VISITS GOVERNOR LALONG OVER RECENT ATTACKS; COMMEND HIS EFFORTS AND WARN AGAINST POLITICISING INSECURITY.

Leaders of the Izere nation in Jos East Local Government, the home of the incumbent Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly were at the Government House in Rayfield Jos, on Tuesday 31st August 2021 for a solidarity visit to Governor Simon Bako Lalong over the recent attacks in some parts of the State.

Led by the Adagwom Izere, HRH Rev. Isaac Azi Wakili, serving and former political office holders, community leaders, former Minister of Transport, youth representatives and academicians from the Chiefdom, the delegation condoled the Governor and people of the State over the recent attacks that claimed lives and properties.

They said they were at the Government House to appreciate the efforts of the Governor in addressing the situation and restoring normalcy within a very short time. They praised the steps taken to de-escalate the situation and save lives.

Adagwom Izere told the Governor that the people of his kingdom remain solidly behind him because they know his efforts in promoting peace, reconciliation and tackling crimes which have ensured the return of relative peace to the State in the last six years.

He asked the Governor not to be deterred by the criticisms and vilification of those who want to use the tragedy for political gains, saying such actions are not healthy for the peace and progress of the State.

The Royal Father assured the Governor that the people of Izere nation remain great partners of the Rescue Administration and will not allow anybody to cause crises or take advantage of such developments to discredit the Government for political purposes.

Responding, Governor Lalong said the visit was reassuring and another affirmation that people of Izere nation and most citizens of the State are lovers of peace and supporters of the Rescue Administration which is working to build a safe, secure and inclusive society.

He thanked the Royal Father for always being proactive and supporting Government in its efforts to build a better Plateau.

Lalong said the actions of a few people from the Izere nation will not jeopardize the harmonious relationship that exists between him and the people of Izere land.

He thanked the delegation for choosing to stand with the progress of the entire State rather than be dragged into political games that seek to escalate the tensions and paint Government bad for political purposes, using the recent unfortunate attacks as a launch pad.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to Governor of Plateau State.
1st September 2021

PLATEAU APC STAKEHOLDERS DENOUNCE RECENT ATTACKS; PASS VOTE OF CONFIDENCE ON GOVERNOR LALONG

APC Stakeholders in Plateau State have unanimously condemned the recent attacks in various areas of Bassa, Jos North, Jos South, Riyom, Mangu and Barkin Ladi Local Government where lives were lost and properties destroyed.

The meeting held at the Victoria Gowon Hall, Government House Rayfield Jos was presided over by the acting Chairman of the APC, Hon. Enock Fanmak.

The meeting condemned the recent attacks describing them as callous, unwarranted and barbaric. They said this has caused untold hardship to the people of the affected areas and entire State especially when curfew was imposed on three Local Government Areas.

While commiserating with the effected families, the APC stakeholders appealed to all citizens of Plateau State to rally round the Government and also encourage the Governor and security agencies to continue to work hard in arresting criminals and bringing them to justice.

They expressed disappointment over the attempt by some politicians in the State as well as other interests outside to fuel the crises in a bit to make personal gains from it. This they said amounted to a great disservice to the people of the State who want to live in peace and enjoy their lives.

Governor Lalong while addressing the party faithfuls thanked them for their support and loyalty which he said was a major source of encouragement for the Government during this trying moment.

He said the Government has taken measures to beef up security, follow up on dialogue, reconciliation and forgiveness, as well as make sure that those arrested for the attacks are prosecuted to serve as deterrence.

There after, the party went into a closed door session to discuss other party issues relating to the Local Government congresses coming up soon.

The meeting came up with various resolutions towards holding peaceful Local Government congresses and resolving all differences arising from the exercise.

The stakeholders also passed a vote of confidence on Governor Simon Bako Lalong for good leadership on the Plateau and his pursuit for peace and security. They commended the Governor for his doggedness in handling the recent security situation and restoring normalcy.

The motion was moved by Majority Leader of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Naanlong Daniel and seconded by Hon. Philip Dasun, House Committee on Information.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
31st August 2021.

FANI KAYODE PRAISES GOVERNOR LALONG; CALLS HIM A PEACE MAKER
Former Minister of Aviation Chief Femi Fani Kayode says Governor Simon Bako Lalong of Plateau State is an example of tolerance, peace, unity and forgiveness whose inclusive leadership style has set him apart as a national icon.
Chief Fani Kayode who is in the State to condole with the Government and people over the recent happenings which led to a breach of peace that has been cultivated by Governor Lalong over the last six years, said Plateau State is a melting point of the nation whose history of accommodation, tolerance hospitality and serenity is globally recognised.
He said the recent attacks by criminals must not be allowed to give the impression of hostility between people of Plateau State who have dwelt together in peace despite religious and ethnic peculiarities. They are therefore not in any battle with one another, but facing instigation from influencers outside the State.
Fani Kayode blamed the attacks on foreign assailants who are not only attacking Plateau State, but other parts of the country as well. He said they must be fished out and dealt with in order to stop them from destroying the nation, he said.
He encouraged Governor Lalong to continue with his efforts to promote peaceful coexistence and also deal with criminals who are killing and maiming innocent people.
Governor Lalong in a response said he was delighted with the visit of Chief Fani Kayode who has been going round the country preaching peace, unity and reconciliation.
He reaffirmed his determination to continue to run an inclusive Government that takes care of care of the interests of all citizens no matter their backgrounds. This he said is what gave the State its fame and fortune over the years and gabe it the recognition as the home for all.
The Governor appreciated all Nigerians that have expressed solidarity the State during this trying moment and also condemned the narratives that seemed to fuel anger, tensions, reprisals and instability.
He said despite this development, the State remains the destination of choice for many people from within and outside the country as it still embraces diversity and goodwill.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
31st August 2021

Group petitions EFCC, accuses Latep Dabang, suspended Plateau APC chairman of stealing N593 million Party funds

The suspended Caretaker Chairman of All Progressives Party in Plateau State, Latep Dabang, has been reported to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for allegedly stealing N593 million from the party.

The APC stakeholders made the report through a petition to the anti-graft agency, dated August 6.

It would be recalled that The Plateau chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) had suspended  Letep Dabang for alleged anti-party activities, in a letter signed by Sen. John Akpanudoedehe, Secretary, Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee.

According to the petitioners, the embattled former chairman stole the money through arbitrary withdrawals of party funds.

“We want EFCC to commence immediate investigation into the alleged criminal financial mismanagement levelled against Latep Dabang for his seven years tenure of office from 2014 to 2021 for possible prosecution for financial crimes,” the petitioners stated.

“All the actions of the suspended Caretaker Chairman are contrary to the spirit of democratic ethos and value and social justice contract with the party faithfuls and this has a serious negative impact on the operations and credibility of the Party.”

When Mr Dabang was asked to comment on the allegations, he told our reporter on the telephone: “I am in a meeting. Please call me back.”

He did not respond to subsequent calls and text messages from the reporter.

Below is the full statement;

PETITION TO INVESTIGATE  LATEP DABANG OF MASSIVE CORRUPTION, FINANCIAL FRAUD AND ABUSE OF OFFICE AS ALL PROGRESSIVES PARTY

August, 6th, 2021

Executive Chairman
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)
Abuja

We the Stakeholders of the All Progressives Party wish to forward to you for Investigation the many acts of Corruption Financial Fraud and sins of Latep Dabang, who was at the saddle at the All Progressives Party, Plateau State for past 7 years,”

Alleged Corrupt Practices

*Arbitrary withdrawals of Party funds from the accounts of the party at United Bank for Africa PLC  in Contravention of Procurement Laws and Extant Financial Rules and above his Financial Limits ,

• The Palliatives donated by Party faithfuls intended to assist Internally Displaced Persons  was converted to his personal use.
• Excessive increase in administrative operational expenses” extra budgetary expenditures on hotel accommodation and under disclosure of expenditures on hotel expenses, diversion of funds, amongst other.

Perpetrating a gigantic, unconstitutional accounting fraud, deliberately cooking the books to mislead the  State Executive committee.

Various expenditure incurred by the suspended chairman on behalf of the Party  for which a whopping N313 million naira was paid without supporting documents .

In all, at least a mind-boggling N200  million  of  the Party’s ’s financial transactions between 2018 and 2019 could not be traced, documented, or explained.

All the actions of the suspended Caretaker Chairman are contrary to the spirit of democratic ethos and value and social justice contract with the party faithfuls and this has a serious negative impact on the operations and credibility of the Party.”

We want EFCC to commence immediate investigation into the alleged criminal financial mismanagement levelled against Latep Dabang for his seven years tenure of office from 2014 to 2021 for possible prosecution for financial crimes.

This is submitted for urgent Investigation in National Interest

Best Regards

Chief  Daniel Chollom
Alh Mohammed  Maisauti
Comrade John Joshua

Cc. Maimala Buni, NationalChairman, Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee.
Cc. Rt Hon Simon Lalong, Governor of Plateau State
Cc. Rt Hon Idris Maje Wase, Deputy Speaker, Federal House of Representatives
Cc. Dame Pauline Tallen, Hon Minister of Women Affairs, FRN
Cc. Transparency International
Cc. Chairman ICPC
Cc. Commissioner of Police, Plateau State
Cc. Directorate of State Services, Plateau State Command