RE-INSTAINMENT OF 24-HOUR CURFEW IN JOS SOUTH JOS AND NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAS. Fellow citizens of Plateau State, you will recall that I announced a 24-hour curfew in Jos South and Jos North Local Government Areas on 20th October 2020 in response to the disturbances that arose when hoodlums hijacked the ENDSARS protests leading to the destruction of lives and properties. After an assessment of the situation, the curfew was relaxed from the hours of 6am to 8pm from yesterday 23rd October 2020. However today, some hoodlums broke into the warehouses where palliatives delivered to the State by the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development last week were stored awaiting distribution and carted them away. This looting has spread to other facilities and is gradually degenerating thereby threatening the peace and security of the State. To avoid further escalation, I hereby direct the immediate reinstatement of the 24-hour curfew earlier relaxed from 4pm today 24th October 2020 in Jos South and Jos North Local Government Areas till further notice. By this, security agencies are directed to enforce the curfew and ensure that all violators are arrested and prosecuted. I call on all citizens and stakeholders to continue to cooperate with Government in ensuring the peace and progress of Plateau State.
Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Simon Bako Lalong Executive Governor of Plateau State. 24th October 2020.
Following the vandalization and looting of palliatives from some warehouses in Jos and Bukuru on 24th October 2020, it has become expedient for the Plateau State Government to condemn the action and further make some clarirications about the items to clear the erroenous impression that they were being hoarded.
The items at the warehouses were delivered to the state by the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Social Development and Disaster Management for distribution to beneficiaries in Plateau State.
The public may recall that the Hon. Minister of Humanitarian Affairs Hajiya Sadiya Umar Farouk was in Jos together with the Minister of Women Affairs Dame Paullen Tallen on the 16th October 2020 to deliver the items and had indeed brought in the personel of the Ministry to carry out the distribution in conjunction with State officials. However as they were preparing to begin the process, the #ENDSARS protests began which put the process on hold.
Unfortunately while the team from the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Social Development and Disaster Management alongside the state representatives were waiting for the coast to clear to commence the distribution, the stores were breached and the items carted away.
The Plateau State Government therefore wishes to state categorically that it did not hoard any palliatives meant for the citizens of the State at any time. All the palliatives purchased by the State and those donated by private individuals were distributed equitably by the State Palliative Committee headed by His Excellency Prof. Sonni Tyoden, Deputy Governor of Plateau State.
With this explanation, it would be wrong and mischievous for anyone to suggest that the State Government was hoarding food items meant for indigent citizens. The Rescue Administration of Governor Simon Lalong will never tolerate that.
Government wishes to once again appeal to the citizens particularly the youths to continue to conduct themselves peacefully and avoid any action that could cause the breakdown of law and order.
The Government wishes to remind citizens that directive for the ban on protests and procession is still in force and security agencies still have the mandate to arrest and prosecute those who violate the order.
Lets always Think and Act Plateau!
Dan Manjang Commissioner for Information and Communication. 24th October 2020.
*#ENDSARS PROTEST WAS EXPLOITED TO CAUSE DISHARMONY IN PLATEAU-SEN DIMKA*
The Senator representing Plateau Central Zone and Chairman Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics, Senator Hezekiah A Dimka has said the intentions of the #EndSARS protests was hijacked by hoodlums masquerading as genuine protesters to cause mayham in Jos and Bukuru metropolis last Tuesday.
Such action has been condemned by all men and women of goodwill. We have had a measure of the sad experience in the state that we shouldn’t give room to those that want to draw us back into a religious crisis in the state.
Given what happened after the dust had settled down, what can be discerned is the fact that the activities of the miscreants was in the main, meant to cause disaffection which would culminate into a destruction of calamitous proportion in the state.
It is instructive that the government has already constituted a panel to investigate cases of brutality against people in the state by the police. I dare add that those whose properties were destroyed as well as lives should be thoroughly investigated for appropriate compensation to be paid to them.
As one who cherish the sanctity of life, I wish to sympathise with persons and groups who lost their lives and properties during the Tuesday violence, however I wish to place on record my unalloyed concerns for the pains the youths have gone through which have caused them to legitimately protest. I pray for quick recovery to all who sustained various degrees of injuries.
We must eschew violence and embrace peace and dialogue, as that is the only way that we as a people can find our rhythm and develop together.
*SENATOR HEZEKIAH A DIMKA, _Senator representing Plateau Central Zone and Chairman Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics 22/10/2020_*
POSTPONEMENT OF THE DEPUTY GOVERNOR OF PLATEAU STATE’S JOINT BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION.
The Central Planning Committee for the 70th and 60th joint birthday celebration of the Deputy Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency Professor Sonni Gwanle Tyoden and his wife, Her Excellency Mrs Abigail Tyoden hereby announces the postponement of all activities lined up for the occasion. These are namely the Public Lecture and Biography Presentation ”Professor Sonni Gwanle Tyoden : Tenacity of Life in Leadership” and the Banquet on Saturday, 24th October and the special Thanksgiving Service on Sunday 25th October respectively.
This decision has become necessary based on the prevailing mood of the country which does not call for celebration but a moment for solemn reflection. The hearts of the celebrants, Professor Sonni Tyoden and his wife, Mrs Abigail Tyoden go out to those who in one way or the other fell victims of the protest especially those who lost beloved members of their family and property destroyed in the process.
We commend His Excellency the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Right Honourable Simon Bako Lalong for his swift response in handling the issue which is aimed at saving lives and property, maintaining peace, tranquility and well being of the citizenry.
We sincerely apologise to all dignitaries and invited guests to the birthday activities over the inconveniences the postponement has caused them.
New dates would be announced as soon as the situation warrants.
Following resolutions reached at a high level stakeholders’ meeting chaired by the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong, one of which is the need for stakeholders to immediately engage their communities across the state in a systematic Peace dialogues aimed at de-escalating tension, the Government has decided to relax the curfew earlier imposed on Jos North and South Local Government Areas from 6am to 8pm as from Friday October 23, 2020 until further notice.
This decision was reached after painstaking deliberations with critical stakeholders and careful assessment of the security situation that led to the skirmishes in some parts of the affected local government areas, last Tuesday. Please note that the government is not unmindful of citizens’ Constitutional Rights to hold lawful assembly or stage peaceful protests as long as these are carried out within the extant laws of Nigeria. As a Government, we also appreciate the fact that these are the variables that further deepen our democracy.
However, as a deliberate approach to prevent a repeat of last Tuesday’s ugly incident where precious human lives and property were lost, the Government has for now also resolved to ban forthwith any processions and protests under whatever guise in order to safeguard the lives all citizens of the state. This is to enable the Government isolate and deal with those who are bent on disrupting the peace of the State.
By this notice, we urge all law abiding citizens to go about their legitimate businesses without fear of molestation as government has put all necessary measures in place to ensure the maintenance of law and order across the state. For the avoidance of doubt, the Plateau State government has already set machinery in motion to address the demands raised by the protesters. In this light, government has constituted a Committee headed by a retired High Court Judge, Justice Philomena Lot which has since swung into action and ready to receive petitions from those who have cases. We sue for understanding and patience from all and sundry as government takes decisive steps to address the demands of the protesters in the coming weeks.
We therefore call on all citizens to avoid any action that is inimical to the overall development of the state especially those that threaten the peace and unity of our people. Signed. Prof. Danladi A. Atu Secretary to the Government of the State 22.10.2020
GOVERNOR LALONG VISITS AREAS AFFECTED BY ENDSARS PROTESTS; VOWS NOT ALLOW RETURN OF CHOAS IN PLATEAU.
Governor Simon Bako Lalong on Wednesday 21st October 2020 visited some of the areas that were affected by the disturbances that trailed the ENDSARS protests in Jos North and Jos South Local Government areas of Plateau which led to the imposition of curfew in the two Local Governments. The Governor accompanied by Deputy Governor Prof. Sonni Tyoden, Secretary to the Government of the State Prof. Danladi Atu and heads of security agencies in the State, took a tour of Ahmadu Bello Way, Terminus and Bukuru where he was briefed by the Commissioner of Police Edward Egbuka. He was told that some cars belonging to customers were burn at the Ahmadu Bello Way while attempts to loot shops were thwarted and some arrests were made. The Governor also went round some of the businesses that were partially torched and places of worship that were vandalized along the terminus area. At Jos South Local Government, the Governor visited some places of worship that were burnt and looted at Gyero road and Kugiya market. While speaking with journalists after the visit, the Governor said he was disappointed that some persons were cashing in on the ENDSARS protests to implement their hidden agenda of destabilizing Plateau State at all costs. That he said will not be allowed to happen under his watch. On compliance to the 24 hour curfew, the Governor said he was satisfied with the level of compliance but will only announce further measures after an analysis of the current situation by security agencies. He advised citizens to guard their safety and peace judiciously and also cooperate with the government in fishing out criminals whether they are associated with the protests or not.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State 21st October 2020
Never be afraid to raise your voice for honesty, truth and compassion against injustice lying and greed. If people all over the World would do this, there will be positive change all across the globe. We must always take side because, neutrality helps the Oppressor not the victims. Silence encourages the Tormentor not the Tormented. As a matter of fact, nothing strengthens the authority so much as silence. We must raise our voices in decorum and decency….
Rt. Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi Chairman house committee on NAVY
GOVERNOR LALONG ENGAGES STAKEHOLDERS ON #ENDSARS PROTESTS AND CURFEW.
A day after imposing a 24-hour curfew in Jos South and Jos North Local Government Areas, Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong on Wednesday 21st October 2020 summoned a stakeholders meeting to further engage on the processes of de-escalating the situation and enhancing the security of the State.
While addressing the stakeholders who include traditional rulers, community leaders, religious leaders, and special interest groups, the Governor Lalong said the #ENDSARS protest which began peacefully was gradually degenerating into chaos as hoodlums attacked and molested innocent citizens who were going about their normal businesses.
This development he said took a new turn yesterday when the protests led to the destruction of properties, cars and looting of business premises along the Ahmadu Bello way as well as the burning of a place of worship along Gyero Road in Bukuru. In addition, five deaths.
He said “Government was left with no choice than to impose a curfew to stop further loss of lives and properties. As collaborators and partners in our inclusive governance architecture, l have once again convened this interface to update you and equally solicit for your input as the way to consolidate on the calm atmosphere that has been restored in the affected areas. Peace is a priceless commodity that we cannot do without”.
He warned that no one will be allowed to jeopardise the peace of the State because the protests had been hijacked and now taking the dimension of ethno religious crisis. He said his administration will not tolerate the actions of these miscreants as anyone who constitutes threats to the lives and properties of law abiding citizens will be dealt with decisively.
Plateau State Commisoner of Police CP Egbuka said the ENDSARS protesters had refused to heed the advice of security agencies which led to the unfortunate situation. He said intelligence shows that the protest was infiltrated by some people behind the scenes who are bent on causing chaos. He said so far, five deaths have been recorded as two corpses we discovered in Jos South Local Government on Wednesday.
Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Jacob Gyang Buba commended Governor Lalong for his prompt action to intervene in the crisis so as to ensure that the State and its people do not witness violence. He said as traditional, community, and religious leaders, everyone has a role to play to ensure that those dark days do not return.
Stakeholders in their contributions called for further engagement with stakeholders in the various communities to ensure that normalcy is restored to enable government lift the curfew.
A communique reached at the event recommended among other things that more efforts should be made to identify and dialogue with leadership of the protests and also fish out the criminals to be brought to justice.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Executive Governor, Plateau State 21st October 2020.
GOVERNOR LALONG CANVASSES FOR REPAIR OF FEDERAL ROADS & HEALTH FACILITIES IN PLATEAU STATE.
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has appealed to the Federal Government to embark on urgent intervention in some of the Federal roads in the State which are in a deplorable condition and causing untold hardship to motorists.
Governor Lalong was speaking when he received members of the House of Representatives Committee on FERMA who are on over sight visit to Plateau State.
Governor Lalong said some of the roads include the Akwanga- forest-Jos road, Jos-Jingre-Saminaka-Pambegua road and Shendam-Lafia road among others which are in a deplorable condition.
He said “I want to appreciate the ongoing intervention in some of the roads such as the collapsed bridge in Wase, Mato-Kuka Taraba road, as well as Panyam-Shendam roads. However, we appeal for immediate intervention in the other roads such as the ever busy Jos-Abuja road which are in bad shape. We shall continue to work with the National Assembly particularly members of the House Committee on FERMA to ensure that this is done”.
Chairman of the Committee Hon. Olufemi Richard Bamisile assured the Governor that the Committee will do all within its power to ensure that there is intervention in the roads enumerated. He commended Governor Lalong for his development efforts in infrastructure, agriculture and peace.
Meanwhile the Governor also recieved a 7-Man Delegation from Federal Ministry of Agriculture Rural Development which is implementing the APPEALS project funded by the World Bank.
Governor Lalong while welcoming the team which is promoting Agro processing and value chain addition said Plateau is eager to join the second phase of the program because of the need to process perishable crops such as tomatoes, potatoes and other vegetables which the State produces in abundance.
He presented the letter of intent to the team leader for onward presentation to the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development.
Leader of the team Dr. Tijjani Ahmed Ajayi said they were in the State for an assessment visit that will ascertain the readiness of Plateau to join the project and has been satisfied with the efforts of the State which has provided a project office, vehicles and other requirements. He requested the Government to address few areas that have been pointed out for improvement.
The Governor also received House Committee on Health led by its Chairman, Dr. Pascal Chigozie Obi who informed the Governor that they were in the State to inspect Federal Health institutions in the State such as the Jos University Teaching Hospital.
Governor Lalong appealed to the Committee to facilitate the development of existing health institutions in the State and establishment of new ones in line with the efforts of the State to develop health tourism.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 20th October 2020.
ADDRESS BY H.E. RT. HON. (DR) SIMON BAKO LALONG, KSGG TO THE CITIZENS OF PLATEAU STATE ON THE ENDSARS PROTESTS AND BREAKDOWN OF LAW AND ORDER IN JOS NORTH AND JOS SOUTH LGAs. 20TH OCTOBER 2020
My dear citizens of Plateau State. I am addressing you today on the recent developments in our State following the #ENDSARS protests that have been going on across the country and in some parts of the State.
Government has watched closely these protests which are normal in a democracy that guarantees the rights of citizens to ventilate their grievances over any matter.
However, it is rather unfortunate that in the past few days, the #ENDSARS protests which began as peacefully have gradually degenerated to the situation where hoodlums have attacked and molested innocent citizens who are going about their normal businesses.
This development took a new turn on Tuesday 20th October 2020 when the protests led to the destruction of properties, cars and looting of business premises along the Ahmadu Bello way as well as the burning of a place of worship along Gyero Road in Bukuru. In addition, three deaths have been recorded.
Based on this scenario, I summoned an emergency Security Council Meeting to evaluate the situation and take decisive actions to stop further escalation.
Having received briefing from security agencies and after a careful assessment of the situation, Government is left with no choice than to impose a curfew to stop further loss of lives and properties.
Accordingly, I have directed the imposition of a 24-hour curfew in Jos South and Jos North Local Government Areas with effect from 8:00 pm today Tuesday, October 20, 2020 till further notice. By this directive, all forms of protests are hereby banned in the two Local Governments Areas of Jos North and Jos South.
Furthermore, all public and private businesses are to shutdown activities immediately while parents are strongly advised to rein in their children, youth and wards to forestall further breakdown of law and order. Only those on essential services will be allowed to move around to their duty posts.
Security agencies have been directed to ensure that the curfew is enforced as defaulters will be arrested and prosecuted.
While the Government of Plateau State concedes to the constitutional rights of its citizens to undertake legitimate protests, it cannot sit and watch hoodlums take the law into their hands to cause mayhem on innocent citizens and the entire State.
I wish to reiterate the resolve of our administration in working assiduously to maintain the peace that the people of the State have laboured hard to build over the years.
Let me again call on the protesters to pursue the path of constructive engagement and dialogue since the Government has started implementing their demands.
Only yesterday, I inaugurated the Judicial Panel of Inquiry on police brutality and other related extra-judicial killings in Plateau State, headed by Justice Philomena Lot, a retired Judge of the High Court of Plateau State. This was also followed by strategic engagement with different groups and organisations.
As the panel prepares to commence its sitting, it will be helpful for all those who have complaints against members of the disbanded SARS and other police units to take their complaints to the panel for necessary action. Our administration will also do everything possible to implement the outcome of the panel’s recommendation as it applies to its jurisdiction.
Fellow citizens, these are difficult times that call for unity and understanding which is needed to enable us overcome the current challenges in our march to nationhood. We have to stand together and avoid any act that could jeopardize our collective existence and the future of our children.
As your Governor, my administration shall continue to support the agitation for a wholistic reform of the policing architecture in our country as well as advocate for further reforms towards the rapid implementation of community policing which I have strongly canvassed for.
Plateau State cannot afford to slide back to the days of crisis which we have substantially put behind us thanks to the collective efforts of all citizens, security agencies and relevant stakeholders.
God bless Plateau State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Thank you. Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Simon Bako Lalong, KSGG. Executive Governor, Plateau State 20th October 2020.
Freelance Reporters 