WORLD PRESS CONFERENCE BY ELDERS AND STAKEHOLDERS OF PANKSHIN LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA IN RESPONSE TO THE PLATEAU STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY PRESS RELEASE ON PRESENT STATE OF INSECURITY IN PLATEAU STATE. DATED THIS DAY, SATURDAY  28th AUGUST, 2021.

Protocol

1.         We the elders and stakeholders of Pankshin Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria held our regular meeting today being Saturday 28^th August, 2021 at the residence of Professor John Wokton Wade, mni residence and resolved on germane issues of State and national concerns.

2.         After observing one minute silence in honour of those who lost their lives during all sectarian attacks in Plateau State, we wish to sincerely extend our heartfelt condolences to the Government and good People of Plateau State on the recent security infractions in some communities of Plateau state that led to unprovoked killings of innocent lives, destructions of farmlands and hard-earned properties, thereby truncating sources of livelihood of the affected fellow citizens. We also commiserate with the families of the lost ones. These actions are highly unjustifiable and condemnable, especially the most recent Yelwa Zangam in Jos North LGA massacre. We sincerely share in their pains and sensitivity of Plateau people.

3.         It is unfortunate that the people of Plateau State will continue to experience unprovoked attacks on our communities by “unknown herdsmen” that will, hopefully, one day be known to the whole world.

4.         We therefore, commend the Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. (Dr) Simon Bako Lalong, KSGG and all the security agencies on the Plateau for the efforts made so far in curtailing the escalation and aftermath spiral effects of these attacks.

5.         It is to our knowledge that the introduction of Plateau State Inter Religious Council, which the Executive Governor has implemented and the Five Years Road Map to Peace and Security and several other initiatives.

6.         The Governor has also tried, exceedingly well, in the last six years to ensure that Plateau State enjoys some reasonable level of peace and stability, despite limited funds, shortage in logistics support, slow in security interventions and other challenges. 

7.         With the unfortunate incidences that lead to death and destruction of lives and properties of some Communities listed above, and the tremendous and commendable efforts of the Governor and his cabinet as well as Security Council in restoring peace and confidence, we noted with concern the nature, quality and contents of the “World Press Conference on the state of insecurity in Plateau State….” by the Plateau State House of Assembly on Friday 27^th August 2021. Specifically, we note the following:

a.  We note and appreciate the right of individuals and groups in exercising freedom of speech. We however note that in parliamentary parlance, first motions on the floor of the House are advisory to the Executive and not an issue of ultimatum and subject to a press conference and or release.

b.  The legislative arm should not be seen to usurp the role of the Executive at the expense of their constitutional duties. For example, Employment and Security matters, amongst others are known world over as the function of the Executive and giving directive to the Local Government Chairmen to recruit vigilantes is an affront on the executive and exercise in futility, as responsible citizens of this country, we take exception to that.

c.   Similarly, it is worrisome and embarrassing that instead of being seen working in tandem with the Executive, especially in this most trying period, the Press Conference went as far as giving the Governor ultimatum of two (2) weeks to take action on certain motions of the House.

8.         It is incumbent on us the electorates and good people of Pankshin LGA to hold our elected representatives accountable, given that they are sent on special constitutional mandate for the common good and not to be combative and seen to be running a parallel government with the Executive arm as portrayed in a recent world press conference by Hon. Philip Peter Dasun, Chairman, House Committee on Information in the Plateau State House of Assembly.

9.         Consequently, we the elders and major stakeholders of Pankshin Local Government Area denounce the conduct of our Legislators representing us in the Plateau State House of Assembly, namely, Hon. Philip Peter Dasun, Pankshin North and Hon. Henry Longs, Pankshin South for taking such inimical actions in a world press conference without reverting to the constituents for input and consent.

10.    Arising from some of our germane observations on the contents and representations made above, we, the elders and stakeholders dissociate ourselves with such tactical and strategic blunders that clearly portray conflict of interest between the Legislature and Executive.

11.    Gentlemen of the Press, we the elders and major stakeholders of Pankshin LGA hope and pray that all these perennial killings, wanton destruction of farmlands and properties shall also pass away and Plateau State shall rise again, strong, viral and egalitarian where every citizen will coexist in harmony and tranquility.

12.    Finally, we appeal to elders and all Citizens of Plateau State that we join hands with the Governor to see to it that this ill that has fallen on us be put to an end in its totality. We don’t have any other State than Plateau. This is time for reasoning and not blame shift. We are all brothers and sisters who should be able to resolve our issues and avoid external people tampering with our collective interest.

13.    Thank you and may God bless our dear Plateau State.

Long live Pankshin LGA

Long live Plateau State

Long live Nigeria.

 Signed:

HON. DIKET PLANG

On Behalf of Elders and Stakeholders of Pankshin LGA

PROF. CJ DAKAS MOURNS PLATEAU BLOGGER, VOU LOISINTA PWOL

Prof CJ Dakas, has commiserated with the family of Plateau female blogger, Miss Vou Loisinta Pwol, who died on Saturday in Jos.

Dakas in a statement on Sunday described the demise of Pwol as a shocking death that had robbed Plateau State of a talented young social media entrepreneur who carved a niche for herself among her peers by impacting positively on the society using her online media outfit,”The State Of Plateau”.

According to him, the sudden death of Pwol was a sad occurrence and a big blow to the state and particularly the social media where she distinguished herself and which he would encourage the younger generation to follow in her footsteps and change the society’s narratives for good.

“Vou Loisinta Pwol was a recurring name in the social media space and made her mark as an online blogger who had shown interest in all that were for the good of Plateau State,Nigeria and humanity.

“I have personally and severally read some eye-catching and memorable stories on her online platform which stories were the hallmark of professional journalism, as they were accurate, factual, credible, balanced, objective, reliable and responsible.

“I therefore wish to send my sincere condolences to her immediate family, the media, particularly the Online Bloggers Association in Plateau State, Plateau youths and pray that God grants her soul eternal rest,” Dakas said.

While urging all who mourn her to take solace in the fact that death is an inevitable end for all mortals, Dakas prayed that God would raise more of her kind who would take on the challenges of today, despite life’s obstacles, and fill the huge vacuum created by her exit.

DAYYABU GARGA SENDS CONDOLENCES ON DEMISE OF LATE VOU LOISINTA.

I received the sad news of the death of Miss Vou Loisinta Pwol with very mixed feelings yesterday.

This sad event occurred at a time the very pragmatic and enterprising young woman was contributing so much to the course of Plateau State as a media personality of repute through her online platform,”The State Of Plateau”.

Having had the Late Vou Loisinta Pwol covered several of my activities under the various Ministries as a Commissioner, The Dayyabu Garga Foundation and my political journey into emerging as flag bearer of the APC for Kanam Local Government Chairmanship position,the relationship had been that of a father/daughter seeing her exhibition of professionalism.

I believe in the supremacy of the Almighty God that no one questions his will as such urge us to bear this loss so close to our hearts.

My sincere condolences goes to her family and friends,the media industry on the plateau,online bloggers and generality of plateau youths.

Her memories will remain in us as we journey through the challenges of today looking at a brighter tomorrow.

May God in his infinite mercy grant her soul rest and us all the fortitude to bear this loss,Amen.

ALHAJI (DR) DAYYABU YUSUF GARGA
HON COMMISSIONER MINISTRY FOR PHYSICAL PLANNING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT,
PLATEAU STATE.

REPORT OF ATTACK ON LUXURIOUS BUSES IN JOS FAKE – GOVERNOR LALONG.

Members of the public are advised to ignore a  social media post purportedly showing luxurious buses on fire with the caption “Plateau crises and genocide worsens as 2 luxurious buses conveying Igbos down East were set on fire with 156 passengers inside” which is fake, as no such incident happened.

This is purely the handiwork of crises merchants and mischief makers who want to create panic and instigate violence and fear among the people.

For the avoidance of doubt,  the security situation in Plateau State is very much under control as security personnel have been deployed to all parts of Jos to enforce the 24 hour curfew still in force, as well as also ensure compliance with the dusk to dawn curfew in Jos South and Bassa LGAs.

The Governor of Plateau State Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong has directed security agencies to track and fish out the purveyors of such fake information whose objective is to cause panic and crisis.

The public is also advised to desist from sharing such fake information as it can lead to unpleasant consequences for innocent persons.


Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
28th August 2021.

WE ARE REVIEWING OUR OPERATIONS SAYS GEN IRABOR, AS DHQ ENDS GEO-POLITICAL ZONES SECURITY PARLEY WITH RETIRED SENIOR MILITARY OFFICERS
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Lucky Irabor on Friday 27 August 2021, disclosed that the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), is currently reviewing its operational engagements in the various theatres in order to bring peace in troubled parts of the country.
Gen Irabor stated this at the 6th edition of the CDS security parley with military veterans tagged, “CDS Interactive Session with Retired Senior Military Officers in the South South Geo-political zone” held at 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army, in Asaba, Delta state.
The CDS averred that the security parley which was flagged-off in the South West, have been worthwhile, successful and beneficial to the AFN, as several topical issues emanated from all the geo-political zone. This, he said is guiding the military high command in reviewing its operational doctrines and plans.
According to Gen Irabor, “interaction is a continuous process, *so* much value has emerged from the interactive session with our retired senior officers, and we are going to leverage the success and benefit to improve on security and safety of lives and properties.”
The Defence Chief noted that the operational engagements of DELTA SAFE which is in synergy with other internal security arrangement are impacting on the peculiar security challenges, which are illegal oil bunkering, piracy, among others, adding that the security disposition in the South-South (SS) region will continue to get better. He further explained that the security parley would focus on engaging critical stakeholders such as royal fathers, some of who are equally retired senior officers and among the participants to take some tip bits arising from the interaction in sensitizing their subjects.
The CDS assured that the AFN will continue to foster the right ambience for other stakeholders in order to holistically combat the *myriad* of security in the region.
According to him, “there are other engagements that are holding behind the scene, as we have assessed that kinetic efforts is only a part of the solution, there are non-kinetic approach which forms partof the engagement that is focused on the holistic solutions to the challenges in the Niger Delta region.
The Chief of Defence Civil Military Cooperation (CDCIMIC), Rear Admiral Fredrick Ogu, in his remarks, said as stakeholders in the defence and security sector, the retired senior officers are in a vintage disposition to understand the array of security issues in their domain. He added that they could offer professional counsel on likely strategies to adopt in tackling the security threats.
The CDCIMIC further disclosed that myriad of security issues in the nation and those specific to each geo-political zone were x-rayed, while adding that the outcome of the engagements with the veterans was rewarding. He listed the heightened insecurity in the SS zone to be attacks on local communities, piracy, militia attacks, cultism, illegal oil theft, vandalizing of critical national assets, sabotage, high sea robbery, kidnapping and other sundry crimes.
Earlier in his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Sani Mohammed lauded the initiative by the CDS in mooting the idea where senior serving and retired military officers were able to gather to brainstorm on a collective approach towards enhancing operational performance of the military in the SS region.
Prominent among the participants were the former Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha Jonah (rtd) and the former CDS, Gen Alexander Ogomudia (rtd). The Royal fathers that were in attendance include: His Royal Highness (HRH), Maj Gen Felix Mujakperuo (rtd), HRH Air Vice Marshal (AVM), Lucky Ararile (rtd) and HRH Brig Gen Bright Fiboinumama (rtd).
The Chief of Defence Intelligence (CDI), Maj Gen Samuel Adebayo, Director General-Defence Research and Development Bureau, AVM Peter Uzezi, Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Central Naval Command, Rear Admiral Kennedy Egbuchulam, FOC Logistics Command, Rear Admiral Sileranda Lassa and the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command, AVM Ali Bello were among the top military brass that graced the security parley.
The major activities that took place during the close door sessions at the one day parley in all the six geo-political zones was the CDI’s brief on the general security threats being experienced in each of the zone. A group/syndicates’ presentations on the assigned thematic areas were delivered by the retired senior officers, while the “A” Team Unique Professional Limited, a Consultant to Defence Headquarters and facilitators of the CDS security parley, anchored the interactive sessions.
BENJAMIN OLUFEMI SAWYERR
Major General
Director Defence Information
27 August 2021

DEFENCE INTELLIGENCE AGENCY DID NOT ORDER THE ARREST OF RETIRED COMMODORE KUNLE OLAWUNMI
The attention of the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has been drawn to an online news publication by Sahara Reporters alleging that the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) ordered the arrest of retired Cdre Kunle Olawunmi for recently appearing on Channels Television programme (Sunrise Daily).
The Armed Forces may not want to join issues with Sahara Reporters for the scandalous and malicious publication insinuating that it’s Agency has ordered the arrest of Cdre Olawunmi (rtd) for sharing his views on matters of defence and national security.
It is gratifying to state that the retired military officer who is on the military reserve list was only invited via SMS and voice by DIA to further furnish the AFN with relevant and pressing security information which he may be opportuned to have knowledge of as a Professor of Global Security Studies.
The said proposed meeting between DIA and the retired senior Navy officer was intended to get credible tips on boosting the fight against terrorism/insurgency, banditry and sundry crimes. He was not asked to come along with his international passport. This in no way constitute any form of arrest speculated by Sahara Reporters.
It is very sad that an online media like Sahara Reporters would capitalize on a proposed meeting between an agency and it’s stakeholder to paint the story in a manner intended to portray the military as draconic government agency acting in a crude manner.
The general public should please note that the AFN is a professional entity that will continue to be responsive to all credible information that will promote peace and unity of our dear country.
As you will recall, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Lucky Irabor has just completed his tour of the 6 Geo-Political Zones where he interacted with retired military officers with a view to rallying them to lend their support to the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
In this regard, I wish to use this medium to encourage the retired senior officer to come forward to give valuable information to the military authorities as a patriotic citizen who has served meritoriously in various capacities in the Nigerian Navy before retirement.
BENJAMIN OLUFEMI SAWYERR
Major General
Director Defence Information
28 August 2021

USAID Partners Plateau Peace Building Agency to Donate Relief Materials to Displaced Persons in Bassa Communities

Succour has come the way of the displaced persons from 18 Communities who were affected by the violent attacks, killings and farm crops destruction in Miango and Kwall Districts Bassa LGA, Plateau State.

The humanitarian intervention which was facilitated by the government of Plateau State through the Plateau State Peace Building Agency (PPBA) was made possible through the effort of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) through the Nigerian Early Recovery Initiative (NERI).

While delivering the items in the two mentioned Districts, the Representatives of NERI, Mr. Samson Noma sympathized with the people over the unfortunate incident that led to their displacement from their homes and disclosed that the gesture was to assist in addressing their physiological needs and help build their resilience.
He said the items were donated to bring succour to the displaced persons and their families on account of their present predicament.

In his remarks, the Director General of the Plateau Peace Building Agency, Mr. Joseph Lengmang commended the USAID for partnering with the State government in facilitating the timely humanitarian intervention to assist the people of the State who were displaced following violent attacks.
He stressed that the intervention will create new opportunities to help the affected communities to rebuild, to heal and to reconcile going forward.
He further stated that the gesture is one among the series of intervention the State government is planning for the displaced.
He said the gesture which is to ameliorate the hardships being faced by the displaced persons who have suffered the brunt of attacks and violent conflict was facilitated by the Plateau State Government through the instrumentality of the Plateau Peace Building Agency.

He said though the experiences of the people is hurting, they should be comforted by the commitment of the Plateau Peace Building Agency and other organizations working with it to work with the people to overcome those things that engender violent conflicts and attacks in communities, to secure communities and to promote stable and prosperous communities in Irigwe Land, the Local Government Area and State at large.

Mr. Lengmang reassured the people of the State government’s commitment to ensure the safety, security as well as the welfare of the people.

District Heads of Miango and Kwall; Chief Daniel Chega and Chief Hala Biti in their separate remarks lauded the donor for identifying with the people.

President of Irigwe Development Association (IDA), Prince Robert Achi and the Irigwe Youth Movement (IYM) National President, Cmr. Ezekiel Bini appreciated USAID and the State Government for the gesture.

Some beneficiaries who could not hide their joy said though their situation is painful, the gesture is timely and bringing greater hope to them.

549 persons benefitted from the gesture comprising of 241 from Miango District and 308 from Kwall District.

The benefitting communities are Dundu, Ung. Magaji, Kigam, Kangbro, Hura, Maiyanga, Kishisho, Ri-Geh, Jebbu, Kpachudu, Zanwra, Tafigana, Mai Tifa, Sabon Layi and Rikwe Rishe.

Each beneficiary got 1 bag of Semolina, 1 carton of Noodles, 1 sleeping mat, 5 packs of maggi cube, 1 pack of tasty tom tomato, 10 packs of salt, 1 bucket, 6 packs of viva detergent, 2 packs of sanitary pad, branded polythene bags and 4 litres of Palm Oil.

PLATEAU COMMISSIONER FOR INFORMATION MOURNS BLOGGER, LOISINTA VOU PWOL

I received with rude shock the sudden death of frontline blogger and social media influencer, Miss Loisinta Vou Pwol which occurred in the early hours of today Saturday 28th August 2021.

This is great loss for the media in the State as  well as to her family, friends and associates who enjoyed a robust relationship with her as she was always cheerful, kind and hardworking.

The Plateau State Government in particular enjoyed her support and collaboration as she was always willing and ready to propagate the activities of the Lalong Rescue Administration without any conditions. She believed in the vision of the Lalong administration and demonstrated uncommon patriotism to the true Plateau spirit.

Loisinta stood for truth, justice, fairness and inclusivity as she embraced people from all works of life and did her best to promote peace and stability in Plateau State through her journalistic work. She will be greatly missed .

On behalf of the Government and people of Plateau State as well as the media machinery of Government, I extend the deep commiseration of his Excellency the Governor, Rt. Hon. (Dr) Simon Bako Lalong to her family and the blogging community where she served as an official of the body.

May her soul rest in peace with the Lord.

Dan Manjang
Commissioner for Information and Communication, Plateau State.
28th August 2021.

Plateau Bloggers/Online Media Association Mourns Member — Vou Loisinta Pwol 

The Plateau State Bloggers and Online Media Association (PLABOMA), is in mourning over the sudden passing away of its dedicated member and Treasurer – Miss Vou Loisinta Pwol, the punisher of The State of Plateau news blog on the evening of 27 Aug.


Loisinta’s unfortunate death has dealt a thoughtless blow on PLABOMA and the entire Plateau social media space. The sisterly and motherly role she played in the association, particularly as one of the thriving female reporters on the Plateau and beyond was legendary. 

The late Loisinta Pwol was very humble, dutiful, jovial and a friendly colleague, who distinguished herself professionally in online media practice. 

She will be forever remembered for these and more. Our deepest condolences to her family and friends.

Signed

Friday Bako Alfred Makut
Chairman Secretary

Plateau state House of assembly on Friday strongly called on citizens of the state to practically stand up and defend themselves and their communities, as the conventional security design is no longer guaranteeing our safety as a people.



Addressing newsmen in Jos at the Nigerian Union of Journalist Press center Hon. Dasun Philip Peter, the chairman House Committee on Information said “On behalf of the Plateau State House of Assembly, I wish to sympathize with the Government and People of Plateau State on the barbaric and dastardly killings that have been taking place in different communities of Bassa, Barkin Ladi, Bokkos, Jos North, Jos South, Mangu, Riyom, University of Jos Community and recently that of Yelwa Zangam. The House condemns all these killings in totality, all these killings are unacceptable and condemnable. We commiserate with the families of all those who lost their love ones during these attacks.



We commend the youths on the Plateau for sustained coordinated and organized campaigns against the killings and as well the courage to make it go viral by sending strong messages to the world using the dead bodies of the mayhem on the social media and the streets of Jos; the display of the corpses in the House is a sign that they recognized the authority of the House of Assembly as an institution that can speak for the people. We greatly appreciate that action.



He said that as an assembly with people at heart, we call on Plateau State citizens to have confidence in us with renewed commitment as we have given two (2) weeks to the Governor to take action on the Resolutions the House has forwarded on security matters and how to restore peace.



The Members further added that “We call on the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong, to come up with a statement defending us as a People and to bring back renewed commitment to the cause of Plateau.”



“We are still expecting with high hopes, the President to also come up with a statement about the killings in Yelwa Zangam just as he did in the killings of travelers along Rukuba Road and to also indicate a sign of justice or we will see him as being reflexive about the conflict in Plateau.”



“As an Assembly committed to the yearnings and aspirations of our people, we deeply appreciate the calls made by Plateau people, both at home and in the Diaspora, for encouragement and tasking us to do the needful in order to save Plateau and its heritage.”



We also wish to put on record that we stand with Plateau people in this trying moment and assure them of our genuine commitment to the course of Plateau State.



We also call on the Traditional Rulers to look inward and release the Local Security design to protect Plateau people as well as reinforce the Vigilante, Hunters and local wise men to defend our people. As a sign of commitment to this Urgent need for the People to protect themselves, the Plateau State House of Assembly has directed all Local Government Chairmen to suspend their planned recruitment of Adhoc Staff and instead recruit 200 Vigilante Personnel in each Local Government Area to boost and argument Local Intelligence Gathering



The Security Operatives are called upon to fish out the perpetrators of the mayhem and be punished according to the Law ,he further added .