The National Working Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has ordered a fresh State Congress of the Party in the Plateau State. This development was made known following the dissolution of the State EXCO led by a former Commissioner, and former Reps Aspirant, Hon Chris Hassan. Various media sources, including the Punch have reported that a member of the dissolved party exco and State Publicity Secretary, Mr JT Akans confirmed the development in Jos on Friday.

According to Akans, “The dissolution is true and only affects the state party officials. The need to conduct a repeat election was part of the agreement reached by critical stakeholders at their recent meeting with the national leaders of the party in Abuja. And we have taken the development in good faith and have decided to abide by their decision in the interest of the party in Plateau State.”

Following the dissolution of the Plateau State SEC of the Party, the NWC of the PDP has appointed a State Caretaker Committee to oversee the affairs of the party for Plateau State pending the emergence of a substantive duly elected EXCO.
A statement attribited to the party’s National Organising Secretary, Col. Austin Akobundu (retd), said Senator Tunde Ogbeha from Kogi State is to serve as the Caretaker Committee Chairman.

Others reported to serve as members of the committee, according to the statement include Barr. Kunsi Ndayako, Rt. Hon. Michael Dapialong, Barr. Pam Gyang Davou, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Go’ar, Rt. Hon. Istifanus Mwansat, Mr. Ishaku Chuntai, Hon. Jacob Adikaba, Akims Mamot James, Hon. Gregory Yenlong and Hon. Patrick Ogbu as Secretary.

The statement went further to urge all National, Zonal and State leaders, critical stakeholders and teeming members of the party in Plateau State to be guided accordingly as the caretaker committee is “to oversee the affairs of the state for a period of not more than 90 days with effect from today Thursday 10 June 2021.”

HISTORY MADE AS Rt Hon GAGDI COMMISSIONS CONSTITUENCY OFFICE, BOREHOLE EQUIPMENTS AND DISTRIBUTES CARS TO CONSTITUENTS.

11th June, 2021.

Yesterday, the 10th of June, 2021 will remain indelible in the prints of time as Rt. Hon Yusuf Gagdi, the Honourable Member Representating Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam presented his Mid-Term score card to his constituents amidst thunderous applause.

The programme which was held at the Pankshin Mini stadium attracted the crème de la crème of Plateau State including HE Governor Simon Bako Lalong, his executive council, members of the political class, religious leaders, and traditional rulers.

Speaking at the occasion, Rt Hon Gagdi who presented his Mid-Term scorecard highlighted areas which he has intervened as the people’s lawmaker which includes, the provision of social amenities such as water, roads, schools, palaces, health centres, rural electrification, and human capital development of his constituents through lobbying for employment opportunities for the teeming youths in his constituency, and securing appointment for members of his constituency into various Federal Government Establishments among others.

Gov Simon Bako Lalong who performed the commisioning of the state of the art constituency office built by Hon Gagdi, presentation of 20 cars to some of Gagdi aides and to deserving constituents including the local branches of CAN and JNI in the three local government areas which make up the Constituency; 3 joint security patrol vehicles for the three LGAs of Pankshin, Kanke and Kanam stated that Gagdi has made the APC and Plateau proud by his excellent scorecard despite been a first timer and boldly stated that by this, PKK is an impregnable fortress for the APC. Also commissioned by Governor Lalong includes, the Borehole drilling equipment purchased by Hon Gagdi to ameliorate the water challenges faced by members of the Constituency.

Gov Lalong also commended Hon Gagdi for having sponsored 20 bills and motions, one of which has already been signed into law by President Buhari. He further appealed to citizens particularly the youths to take a queue from Rt Hon Gagdi who is giving a good account of himself since he was elected to the Federal House of Representatives.

Rt Hon Gagdi also distributed 100 wheel chairs to people living with disabilities in his constituency as well as inaugurated the PKK jamb refund committee who were giving a matching grant of 20 million Naira to reimburse Constituents of the Constituency who registered for JAMB and the Gagdi PKK Unity Football Tournament committee.

GAGDI MEDIA TEAM

JUBILATION AS GOVERNOR LALONG INAUGURATES PROJECTS

Ahead of the commemoration of Democracy Day, Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has commenced the inauguration of some projects across the State as well as inspection of others ongoing.

Governor Lalong started his day by inaugurating the rehabilitated Pankshin Water Project which had broken down and unable to provide water to the people of Pankshin and environs.

Lalong while inaugurating the facility said his administration will continue to do its best in delivering on projects that  have direct impact on the citizens.

He urged the people to guard the facility as Government has done the first part of its duty by providing the critical water infrastructure which must not  be destroyed or vandalised.

At the Pankshin Mini Stadium, the Governor witnessed the midterm report presentation of Member representing Pankshin, Kanke and Kanam Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives, Yusuf Gagdi where cars, wheelchairs, and other empowerment items were distributed to beneficiaries. Borehole drilling equipment and a Constituency Office were also inaugurated.

He later inspected ongoing work on a model primary school in Mangu which is ongoing with plans for elaborate development.

The Governor then proceeded to commission some roads in Jos South Local Government. These include the Anguldi-NVRI Vom road; Zawan-College of Health road and the Rayfield-Zarmaganda/Church of Immaculate Conception Road networks.

Afterwards, he arrived the Old Airport Junction Road to commission the Jos-Bukuru solar powered street lighting project which has been in use for about two years now without formal commissioning.

The Governor said the projects were executed as part of fulfilling the desire of the Rescue Administration to develop critical infrastructures which are key to the economic development of the State.

He said that is the reason why he chose to complete inherited projects rather than allow the people’s investments to be lost beacuse of political differences.

The Governor said all the 28 new projects he initiated are being completed accross the State including the 20 roads that were carried out within the Jos Bukuru metropolis under a special rehabilitation programme tagged ‘operation zero potholes’ which are being commissioned.

Commissioner for Works Pam Bot-Mang said the solar powered street lighting project has so far covered over 90 kilometres with more to come.

Management Committee Chairman for Jos South Local Government Mr. Gideon Dandereng said the projects being commissioned have made tremendous impact on the people since they were completed.

He said “anyone that says that Governor Lalong does not like the Berom people is a liar and does not want to acknowledge the truth. There is no Governor that has carried everyone along like Lalong which explains why we have peace in Plateau State today. Despite few challenges here and there, we are on the path to overcoming them”.

The Governor was also at Crispan Hotel Jos to Commission the multi billion naira facility which is a private initiative. He commended the proprietor of the hospitality outfit for taking advantage of the improved business environment in the State to invest and assured him of the safely of his investment.

According to him, this huge investment is a dividend of the return of peace to Plateau State which needs to be sustained. He asked other investors to feel free and invest in the State as the conditions are favourable.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
11th June 2021.

CATHOLIC ARCHDIOCESE OF JOS PRESENTS BISHOP-ELECT OF LAFIA TO GOVERNOR LALONG

The Catholic Archdiocese of Jos has presented the Bishop-elect of Lafia Diocese Mnsgr. David Ajang to Governor Simon Bako Lalong.

Leading a delegation to the Government House Rayfield Jos on behalf of the Archbishop of Jos, Rev. Dr. Matthew Ishaya Audu, Mnsgr. Benedict Obidiegwu said the appointment of Ajang as the Bishop of Lafia is a good development for the Archdiocese of Jos which is proud to have had the privilege of grooming him for this very important assignment.

He appreciated Governor Lalong for giving Msgnr Ajang the opportunity to serve as the Chaplain, Plateau Government House Chapel and giving him the necessary support to succeed and be recognised for higher responsibilities.

Obidiegwu said the Archbishop of Jos and the faithful are optimistic that he will succeed in his new assignment having recieved training, support and prayers.

Governor Lalong said he was very happy with the appointment of Msgnr Ajang who had devoted himself to prayers and the spiritual wellbeing of the State during his tenure as chaplain of the Government House Chapel.

He said although the State would have wished to have him continue to serve in his former capacity, it is also aware that this elevation is the will of God and he also has an assignment to discharge in that part of the country.

Governor Lalong used the opportunity to call on the Church to continue to pray for peace and security of the  nation as well as encourage their members to embrace peaceful coexistence and support leaders.

He wished the Bishop-elect well and said the State will be there to witness his official ordination as Bishop slated for the end of the month.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
9th June 2021

GOVERNOR LALONG CONDOLES FAMILY OF LATE PERM SEC, MINISTRY OF HEALTH

Governor Simon Bako Lalong has expressed deep shock over the demise of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health Plateau State Dr. Martin Polycarb Azzuwut, describing the sad development as a great loss to the State.

Governor Lalong who visited the residence of the deceased in Rayfield Jos to condole with the family said he was saddened by the death of Dr. Martin Azzuwut who apart from being a medical doctor that worked hard to assist people in need of medical attention, also exhibited high sense of duty as Permanent Secretary.

He said “we relied on Dr. Martin a lot during our battle against COVID-19 and other health challenges. He was a hardworking and committed civil servant who performed very well. He was appointed as Permanent Secretary without anybody lobbying for him. He has proved me right that the decision to appoint and deploy him to the health Ministry is a good one”.

Lalong urged the family particularly the wife and children to take solace in his good legacies of hardwork, professionalism, diligence and honesty.
He pledged the support of the Government to the family.

Representative of the family Mr. Andrew Azzuwut appreciated the Governor for the visit and said the family was comforted by the kind and reassuring words of the Governor who has demonstrated genuine humility, service and compassion not only to the family but other grieving families in the State.

Dr. Azzuwut died on 3rd June 2021.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
9th June, 2020.

Chief Ayuba Burki Make Case for Persons With Disabilities, Donate Foodstuffs to Plateau State School for the Deaf


The Executive Director of Beautiful Gate Handicapped People Centre Jos, Chief Ayuba Gufwan Burki has harped on the need for greater attention to be accorded Persons Living With Disabilities (PLWD) in Plateau State, Nigeria and World over.



He posited that persons with disabilities didn’t create themselves nor attracted their present conditions hence the need to embrace them and give them the opportunities to achieve their full potentials.

He stressed that to have a great Nation, all hands must be on deck.

“All hands cannot be on deck if every person is not given the opportunity to develop his/her potentials” he stressed.
He called for the Pupils/Students to be equipped in order to provide solutions to the numerous problems bedevilling the Nation.

He described persons with disabilities as possessing special, enormous and multidimensional abilities, gifts, talents and capabilities that must be harnessed order for them to attain their destinies, be useful to themselves and add value as well to the society.

Chief Ayuba Burki made the disclosures while donating foodstuffs and blankets to the Management of the Plateau State School of the Deaf Bassa LGA, Plateau State.

Chief Ayuba Burki who spoke to the Pupils and Students of the citadel of learning through an Interpreter encouraged them to discard indolence, work hard and excel in life. He urged them to take their studies seriously.
He admonished them not to be deterred by their condition but put their God-given potentials and talents to effective use.
He said he was in the School to visit, encourage and support them with foodstuffs and blankets on behalf of the Honorable Minister of Women Affairs and the Beautiful Gate Handicapped People Centre Jos, Plateau State.

He called on government and spirited Individuals to give attention to the plights of persons with disabilities so they can have sense of belong and contribute their quota to the growth, prosperity and development of the Nation.

The Principal of the School, Mrs Nanbam Silas lauded the Centre and Honorable Minister of Women Affairs for always being readily available to assist the School with necessary interventions and bringing succour when the need arises. She said the donation came at the right time when there was no food in the School.

The Head Boy Felix Nkup and Head Girl Jirit Sunday of the School who spoke through an interpreter appreciated the donors for the philanthropic gesture and for identifying with them in their most trying moments with the interventions.
They pray God to open doors so they can do more to others in dire need.

The items donated were; 20 bags of Maize, 7 Bags of Millet, 5 Bags of Beans, 3 Bags of 25kg Rice, 5 Jerry Cans of 30 litres Palm Oil, 3 Cartons of Macaroni, 30 Cartons of Noodles, 2 Cartons of Vitali Tomato Paste and 2 Bales of Blanket.

Plateau State School for the Deaf Bassa LGA has over 400 Pupils/Students in its Nursery, Primary, Junior/Secondary Sections.

Nigerian Government orders TV, Radio Stations To Deactivate Twitter Accounts..

The move comes after the federal government’s ban on Twitter activities in Nigeria
The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has ordered all broadcasting stations in Nigeria to suspend the use of the popular microblogging platform, Twitter.
This was contained in a statement issued by its Director General, Armstrong Idachaba, on Monday morning.
Mr Idachaba said television and radio stations are advised to de-install twitter handles and “desist from using twitter as a source (UGC) of information gathering for News and programmes presentation especially Phone-in.”
This is coming after the federal government’s ban on Twitter activities in Nigeria.
PREMIUM TIMES reported how Nigeria’s information minister, Lai Mohammed, announced a ban on the activities of the microblogging platform on Friday after Twitter deleted a controversial post by President Muhammadu Buhari.
Mr Mohammed also ordered the NBC to “immediately commence the process of licensing all OTT and social media operations in Nigeria.”
Owing to the ban, Nigerians have been denied access to Twitter and can only access by bypassing domain restrictions through alternative platforms.
The suspension is sequel to Twitter’s sanction after Mr Buhari’s controversial tweet about the civil war which some Nigerian users flagged and Twitter said violated its rules.
The government, in its response, accused the platform of bias against President Buhari and “undermining Nigeria’s corporate existence.”.
Although the presidency says the ban is temporary, human rights groups and foreign organisations have berated the President Buhari-led administration for censorship, calling for a reversal of the suspension.
Read full statement below
June 6, 2021
SUSPEND TWITTER HANDLES
Consequent on the suspension of Twitter operations in Nigeria by the Federal Government over the persistent use of the platform for activities that are capable of undermining the corporate existence of Nigeria, the National Broadcasting Commission directs all Broadcasting Stations in Nigeria to suspend the patronage of Twitter immediately.
In Compliance to the above directive, Broadcasting Stations are hereby advised to de- install twitter handles and desist from using twitter as a source (UGC) of information gathering for News and programmes Presentation especially Phone-in.
Section 2(1) r of the NBC Act entrusts the Commission with responsibility to ensure strict adherence to the national laws, rules and regulations. Also, section 3.11.2 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code provides that “the broadcaster shall ensure that law enforcement is upheld at all times in a matter depicting that law and order are socially superior to or more desirable than Crime and Anarchy.
Attention is also drawn to section 5.6.3 of The Code which requires Broadcasters to be mindful of materials that may cause disaffection, incite to panic or rift in the society in the use of a user generated Content (UGC).
Note that it will be unpatriotic for any broadcaster in Nigeria to continue to patronise the suspended Twitter as a source of its information therefore strict compliance is enjoined.
Premium Times

Twenty-nine army generals have been forced to retire from service following the appointment of Farouk Yahaya as the chief of army staff.

The forceful retirement of the generals contradicts the claim by the Defence Headquarters last week that none of its personnel had been retired following the appointment of Mr Yahaya, who belonged to Regular Course 37.

Mr Yahaya, a major general, from Sokoto State, was named the army chief by President Muhammadu Buhari on May 27.

He succeeded Ibrahim Attahiru, a lieutenant general, who died on May 21 in a plane crash alongside 10 other military personnel while on official assignment to Zaria, Kaduna State.

Shortly after the appointment of the new COAS, there were speculations that between 30 and 45 generals, who are his seniors, may be asked to go home.

The senior generals belong to Regular Courses 35 and 36.

Traditional move

It is a tradition in the military that when a junior is appointed as a service chief, senior officers, who are ahead of him or her, would proceed on retirement.

The understanding is that senior military officers are unlikely to take orders from their juniors.

Denial

The Defence Headquarters, however, dismissed the speculations of massive retirement, saying the retirement of senior officers from the military was always ‘voluntary’.

It said the military high command had yet to authorise the retirement of any officer.

The Acting Director, Defence Media Operations, Bernard Onyeuko, a brigadier general, who briefed journalists on the matter last week, said retirement of senior officers from the military was always voluntary.

“At this point, you are all aware of the appointment of the new Chief of Army Staff, Maj.-Gen. Farouk Yahaya,” Mr Onyeuko said.

“This has stirred up a lot of rumours in the media about mass retirements in the military.

“I wish to use this medium to dispel such unfounded rumours as retirement is only on a voluntary basis for senior officers who desire to do so.

“At this point, no retirements have been authorised by the military high command.”

Generals retired

A memo sighted by our correspondent indicates that a total of 29 Army major generals have been approved to proceed on terminal leave, paving way for their eventual retirement.

Their retirement comes less than two weeks after the appointment of Mr Yahaya as the COAS.null

According to the memo, the 29 generals, from regular course 36 have been approved to proceed on terminal leave.ADVERTISEMENT

Among the generals are J.B Olawumi, J.O. Akomolafe, C.O. Ude, G. Oyefesobi, M.O. Uzoh, C.C. Okonkwo and M.S.A. Aliyu.

Others are U.M. Mohammed, B.M. Ashafa, N.E. Angbazo, Y.P. Auta and S.A. Yaro. (See the full list below).

Their leave was approved with effect from June 1, 2021.

The memo was, however, silent on major generals from the regular course 35, who are also Mr Yahaya seniors.

Below is the full list of generals proceeding on retirement:

1. JB Olawumi

2. JO Akomolafe

3. CO Ude

4. G Oyefesobi

5. MO Uzohnull

6. CC Okonkwo

7. MSA Aliyu

8. UM Mohammed

9. BM Shafa

10. NE Angbazo

11. YP Auta

12. SA Yaro

13. J Sarham

14. HE Ayamasoawei

15. OF Azinta

16. BA Akinroluyo

17. KAY Isiyaku

18. AT Hamman

19. AM Aliyu

20. HPZ Vintienagba

21. HR Momoh

22. JR Unuigbe

23. AA Jidda

24. OI Uzomere

25. MH Magaji

26. LA Adegboye

27. MA Masanawa

28. OA Akinyemi

29. AM Dauda

Hon. Sati Shuwa Picks PDP Chairmanship Form for Riyom, Optimistic of Victory

As the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) released the timetable for the conduct of Local Government Polls in the State in October, 2021, preparations are on top gears by political parties in the State with interested persons procuring Nomination and Expression of Interest Forms for the Councillorship and Chairmanship positions across the 17 Local Government Areas and 325 Wards in the State.

Citizens from the Gateway Local Government, Riyom are not exception in terms of participation in the electoral processes in the quest to have democratically elected officials at the 3rd-tier of government.

The person behind the household name in Riyom LGA, “Sati Shuwa” or “Leader” as he is fondly christened having served as the Leader of the Legislative arm of Riyom Local Government Council has expressed readiness and made his intention known to contest for the number one position of the area under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
This he has done by obtaining the Nomination Form at the State Secretariat of the Party along Yakubu Gowon Way Jos.

Addressing Newsmen shortly after procuring the form, Rt. Hon. Sati Bature Shuwa disclosed that he is contesting to bring succour to the people of the Area who have been without democratically elected structures for 6 years now and to provide them with credible and result oriented leadership.


“I am well experienced having served as Councillor and Leader of the Legislative Arm of the Council, I am very aware of the challenges confronting the Area and I intend to work with the legislative Arm as well as the people to overcome the numerous problems militating against the growth and development of Riyom LGA”

“I am equipped and readily available to serve the people wholeheartedly and with diligence” he stated.

Rt. Hon. Sati Shuwa said his focus will be on peace & security, agriculture, economic reformation, Health, education, youth and women development through strategic human capital development. He promised to provide good governance at the Local Government level.

“Being a former legislator at the Local Government level, we will work in synergy and assiduously with the legislative Arm to enact laws that will better the lives of the people, address the challenges confronting our cherished Local Government and enhance greater growth and development if elected”

“Riyom Local Government Area needs someone with better understanding of the problems bedevilling it and a very credible person at that who will dispense visionary and purposeful leadership”

“I am optimistic of emerging victorious not only at the Primaries but also the main election considering my popularity and huge followers across the the Local Government” he concluded.


A cross section of persons in Riyom Local Government Area expressed satisfaction with the Aspirant and pledged their full support to ensure he emerged victorious.

To Seleh Bulus, “Hon. Sati is the voice of the masses and he need the support to get things working for us. His acceptability is awesome and unbeatable”
“I am glad that he has listened to the call by the people to serve them selflessly” he said.

“DESPITE CHALLENGES, NIGERIA WILL ATTAIN GREATNESS” GOVERNOR LALONG

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong is asking Nigerians to rally together and defend the nation’s democracy from forces that seek to create instability and chaos by putting national interest above personal or group interests.

The Governor was speaking at an Inter-denominational Church Service to mark the 2021 Democracy Day held at the Government House Chapel, Rayfield Jos.

Governor Lalong admitted that the democratic journey particularly since the return to civilian rule 22 years ago has not been easy, but there is hope that the nation will overcome its current challenges.

He said “this special day reminds us that it is an occasion we should cherish and also use to rebuild our confidence and patriotism in Nigeria. The task of building the nation is a collective one which all of us must partake in. There is no doubt that Nigeria is facing many challenges today ranging from insecurity, unemployment, poverty and unity. These are not problems that began yesterday but an accumulation of our journey to nationhood. We should never give up on our nation or make negative confessions about its destiny”.

Lalong further said that despite the seemingly overwhelming difficulties of today, Nigerians must rise to the occasion both as leaders and citizens to advance practicable solutions and play active roles in resolving the dark cloud of uncertainty. He said this was not the time to sit and throw blames at one another, but be focused on the task of building a stronger, united and virile Nigeria.

Guest preacher and Executive Secretary Christian Pilgrims Commission Rev. Yakubu Pam reading from Mathew 26:36-46, spoke on “Grace” where he said Nigeria will continue to experience divine protection and deliverance through its most difficult challenges.

He referred to the pain and trauma that Jesus faced on his way to the cross of calvary to redeem mankind from sin, saying such fear did not stop him from fulfilling his mission. Nigerians according to him should follow the example of Christ and not lose hope in the face of today’s difficulties.

Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Plateau State, Rev. Fr. Polycarb Lubo in a goodwill message said the 22 years of unbroken democracy has brought about many opportunities for popular participation and contribution to good governance over the years.

While appreciating Governor Lalong for working tirelessly for sustainable peace in Plateau State, he however asked for more efforts to address issues of poverty, inequality, insecurity and lack of employment which is making governance more challenging.

APC State Caretaker Committee Chairman Mr. Letep Dabang, representatives of the Judiciary, House of Assembly, Security Agencies, and Traditional Council all expressed hope that contrary to the fears expressed by many, Nigeria will turn around and fulfill its purpose.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State,
6th June 2021.