GOVERNOR LALONG PRAISES IRIGWE NATION FOR PROMOTING PEACE AND RECONCILIATION; SUPPORTS FUND FOR REBUILDING DESTROYED IRIGWE COMMUNITIES

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has promised support for the rebuilding of communities destroyed in Irigwe land of Bassa LGA as a result of attacks and violence that bedevilled the area in recent past.

Governor Lalong while speaking at the Otu Rigwe Cultural Festival held at the Rwang Pam Township Stadium Jos, said the event which encapsulates the celebration of the culture and traditions of the Irigwe nation, brings to fore the resilience, hardwork and peaceful nature of the Irigwe people.

He said “My happiness is that by holding this event today, it is clearly being demonstrated that efforts of the Rescue Administration and the sacrifices of the Irigwe nation are yielding fruits that everyone can see. From the array of cultural displays here and the excitement on the faces of the people, it is evident that there is no alternative to peace. Let me therefore specially congratulate the Brra Ngwe Irigwe Rev. Ronku Aka (Rtd) for his doggedness towards pursuing the path of peace and reconciliation despite the enormous pressure and setbacks his people have passed through. Similarly, I wish to appreciate the President and leaders of the Irigwe Development Association for also sustaining the search for peace and encouraging the people to look forward to a greater future despite the turbulence and losses of the past”.

The Governor said for him, the event is a vindication of his commitment to ensuring that the people of Irigwe land get back to their life which is reputed for harmony, peace, love and productivity. It is also an affirmation of the significance of the signing of symbolic Expression of Commitment to Peace between the Irigwe and Fulani which took place on 13th July this year.

“Today’s event which also features fund raising for the rebuilding of ravaged communities is yet another right step towards consolidating the peace that is gradually returning to Irigwe nation. Let me assure you that apart from the Government playing its role, it will work with other non-governmental institutions and donor agencies to ensure that the restoration of livelihoods and healing of past challenges is accelerated. Just as I have always emphasized, no development can take place in an atmosphere of violence, acrimony, mistrust and agitation. That is why as you would recall, development which had been stalled for a long time started returning to Irigwe nation when we laid the foundation for a massive Housing Estate for workers in Irigwe land sometime this year. We are optimistic of continuing in this direction and also ensuring that government projects which were stalled because of insecurity resume without delay”.

Chairman of the occasion and former Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Martin Luther Agwai said the Otu Irigwe Cultural Festival provides a window of hope for the people to put behind the agony they have gone through in recent years of attacks and violence.

He commended them for embracing peace and cooperating with the Governor to find solutions to the lingering crises. He also said their efforts to rebuild destroyed communities through community efforts is worthy of emulation and sustainance.

President Irigwe Development Association Prince Robert Ashi said the Otu Irigwe Cultural Festival could not hold over some years because of the level of insecurity in Irigwe land. However, the efforts of the Governor of Plateau State have brought back substantial peace to the area leading to the organisation of the event.

He said the funds to be raised will be used to assist displaced persons whose houses, farmlands and other means of livelihood were destroyed by terrorists. Orphans, widows, and other displaced persons he explained will be taken care of from the proceeds of the fund raising.

The Brra Ngwe Rigwe Rev Ronku Aka expressed gratitude to Governor Lalong for his personal commitment and passion for the restoration of peace in Irigwe land which led to the signing of a peace agreement between the Irigwe and Fulani.

He said without the personal commitment and resilience of the Governor and security agencies, the attainment of substantial peace in Irigwe land that has began to attract development to the area.

In appreciation of the Governor’s efforts, the Brra Ngwe Irigwe bestowed the title of Neche Srarina Rigwe (Ambassador of Peace) on Governor Lalong.

The GOC 3rd Armoured Division and Commander Operation Safe Haven Maj. Gen. Ali received an award of recognition for his determination to tackle insecurity and for being impartial to all citizens irrespective of tribe, religion and other considerations.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
8th October 2022.

APC VICE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE & DG PCC RECIEVE EU AMBASSADOR TO NIGERIA

The Vice Presidential Candidate of the APC Senator Kashim Shettima and Director General of the PCC and Governor of Plateau State, Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong on Thursday 6th October, met with the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria Ms. Samuela Isopi at the Tinubu Campaign Headquarters in Abuja.

Ambassador Isopi said she was at the Headquarters of the Tinubu/Shettima Campaign Office as part of her routine engagement with various stakeholders including political parties ahead of the 2023 general elections.

She said although the EU Mission to Nigeria has no role to play in terms of supporting any candidate or party, it has been working closely with those involved to ensure that the general elections go smoothly and the citizens exercise their franchise freely.

Both the APC Vice Presidential Candidate Senator Kashim Shettima and Director General of PCC Governor Simon Bako Lalong assured her that the APC as the ruling party is doing all possible to work within the guidelines of INEC especially with the commencement of campaigns.

They welcomed the Ambassador to the Headquarters of the Tinubu/Shettima Campaign and expressed the readiness of the APC Presidential Campaign Council to support any initiative that will ensure that the elections go without any challenges.
The meeting which continued behind closed doors was also attended by the Deputy DG Operations Adams Oshiomole, Deputy DG Administration Hadiza Bala Usman, Secretary of the PCC Hon. James Faleke, and Chief of Staff to the DG PCC Hon. Yakubu Dati, Mr Wale Edun, Director of Finance, Mr. Christopher Tarka, Deputy Secretary.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau and DG, APC Presidential Campaign Council.
7th October 2022.

PRESS RELEASE

APC GIDA-GIDA APPOINTS LG COORDINATORS AND OTHERS

The APC Gida-Gida, a political group in Plateau state,has approved the appointment of some of its members into various positions for the purpose of coordinating the activities of the Organization throughout the State.

The appointments followed the submission of a report of a Committee which was unanimously adopted by Congress.

A statement from the Convener of the Support Group Hon. Helen Henniet Wapmuk gave the names of the following as those appointed :

1–CHAIRPERSON; Mrs Regina Naantuam
2–SECRETARY; Hon. Victoria Dalap
3–ORG-SEC./MEDIA CONSULTANT; Golepji David Wambutda
4–WELFARE; Nanko Bigun
5–TREASURER; Hajiya Farida Usman Bala
6–PRO 1; Julcit Moses
7-PRO 2; Hon. Jessica Izang

The following appointments for various zonal coordinators were also approved;

NORTHERN ZONE
Hon Mrs Naomi Agwon
CENTRAL ZONE
Hon Mrs Lucy Joel Gompil
SOUTHERN ZONE
Hon. Haj. Safiya .A. Saidu

In the same vein, the appointment of those to pilot the activities of the support group for various local government areas as Coordinators and Co-Coordinators were also made as follows:

BASSA

1. Coordinator – Rahila Hamza
2. Co-coordinator -Tabawa Aruku

JOS EAST

1. Coordinator-Hon Esther Sunday
2. Co-coordinator Rhoda Ajiji

BARKIN LADI

1. Coordinator-Rhoda Bature
   2.Co-coordinator – Salomi Jaja

RIYOM

1. Coordinator -Juliana Pyal
2. Co-coordinator -Jummai Dachung Yayi

JOS SOUTH

1. Coordinator-Esther Pam Hwere
2. Co-coordinator- Mrs. Margaret Fei

JOS NORTH

1. Coordinator- Hon Margret Izang
2. Co-Coordinator – Patricia Mang

PANKSHIN LGA

1. Coordinator-Monica Deshi
2. Co-Coordinator -Abraham Pampe

MANGU LGA
1.Coordinator-Laraba pinchak
2.Co-Coordinator- Hauwa Zulki

KANAM LGA
1.Coordinator-Abdullahi Sulaiman

2. Co-coordinator -Hajiya Maryam Abdulmumini

KANKE LGA
1.Coordinator-Patience Shikfu

2. Co-coordinator- Dorks Shem Gotan

BOKKOS LGA

1. Coordinator-Talatu Maren
2. Co-Coordinator- Firap Kopmut

QUA’AN-PAN LGA
1.Coordinator -Hon. Rita Buba
2.Co-Coordinator- Yahanasu Aliyu

SHENDAM LGA
1.Coordinator-Ross Kwaprep
2.Co-Coordinator -Mrs Philomina Mamuda

MIKANG LGA

1. Coordinator – Pauline Hotlam
2. Co-Coordinator – Rahila Jalmet

LANGTANG SOUTH
1.Coordinator – Nanfe Deborah
2.Co-Coordinator – Eunice Nanbut

LANGTANG NORTH
1.Coordinator – Nancy Timya Paul
2.Co-Coordinator – Kumnan Lohya

WASE LGA
1.Coordinator-Maryam Garba-
2.Co-Coordinator -Haj silifat Wase

While congratulating them for the various appointments, Hon Helen Wapmuk urged them to utilize their wealth of experiences and expertise in discharging their responsibilities judiciously, assuring that the party will wax stronger beyond 2023.

She said the APC GIDA-GIDA will commit its effort in ensuring that the Candidates of the All Progressive Congress, APC, are successful at the polls in the forthcoming elections.

She further called on all Women and Youths across the state to join the winning train of the APC in order to boost the rising fortunes of the Party.

Signed ;

Hon. Helen Wapmuk Henniet
Convener APC Gida-Gida Plateau State Chapter.

GAGDI 2023: WUS GAK, AS A NEW SLOGAN SURFACES ON THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL

This is not the first time that a slogan would emerge on the campaign trail of the Rt Hon Yusuf Adamu Gagdi for PKK 2023.

One which emerged only this week was when he paid a surprised visit to Tuwan in Kanke LGA on October 4, 2022; where his supporters urged him not to relent but to increase the tempo without ceasing.

Translated in Ngas- WUS GAK or in Hausa- WUTA KAWAI, his supporters meant for him not to backpedal; as the coast of the challenge needed more of such actions until he arrives at the National Assembly in 2023.

Being propelled by the people of his constituency, it is encouraging that their faith in him has never waned; rather, given his progressive and populist representation, they have continued to reap the good things that such has brought to the various communities of PKK.

To urge him not to relent is an excellent indication of trust and confidence in a man who has always meant well to the constituents.

Because it is in God that we always trust, WUS GAK, GAGDI! Let the fire 🔥 not cease!

GAGDI STRATEGIC MEDIA TEAM
October 6, 2022

“CHIEF S.D. LAR TAUGHT US POLITICS OF INCLUSION, PRINCIPLES AND BRIDGE-BUILDING” GOVERNOR LALONG.

President Muhammadu Buhari has described late Chief Solomon Daushep Lar, former Governor of Plateau State as a politician whose passion for the people remained paramount throughout his political journey.

The President who was represented by Secretary to the Government of the Federation Boss Mustapha unveiled the autobiography as well as the Solomon and Mary Lar Foundation and Institute in honour of the late Political leader, said Lar remained committed to democratic ideals during his lifetime leaving behind worthy legacies that have endured.

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong who was Chief Host of the event, disclosed that his preference for politics of inclusion and Bridge-building is a result of the mentoring he got from the first civilian Governor of Plateau State Chief Solomon Daushep Lar.

Lalong said like Baba Solomon Lar, he is not perturbed by criticism of his governance style which downplays exclusion, tribalism and religious bigotry.

He said “Personally, Chief Solomon Lar groomed me among many others in politicians and taught us so much about politics. One of the key things to highlight about Baba Lar are his politics of Principles; Inclusion; and Bridge-building. Although he stood by his principles in the opposition NPP, nevertheless he reached out and had friends across other political parties including the then ruling NPN and people from various parts of Nigeria. Some of his friends include people like Abubakar Rimi, Dr. Jim Nwobodo, Chief Bisi Akande among others”.

He recalled that In delivering service to the people, Baba Lar practiced and taught the principle of balance, inclusion, excellence and fairness. In his time, Plateau became home to people from all over Nigeria and foreigners because he never allowed ethnicity to becloud his search for capacity and excellence. He appointed non indigenes into very senior positions in Government because of their capacity. Among them is Justice Obi Okoye as Chief Judge of Plateau State and Mrs. Akinrinade, Commissioner of Finance. Mr. Chris Abashia, a Fulani man was his Special Adviser on Political Matters while in the Plateau State House of Assembly, an Urhobo man Chief Okporido was the Chief Whip.

This he said was the reason why he has adopted the philosophy of the late Political sage to ensure that Plateau State once again returns to its position as the Home of Peace and Tourism and a destination for all Nigerians and foreigners alike.

“Today, our Rescue Administration has continued to work hard to restore such legacies of Baba Lar in ensuring that Plateau State heals from wounds of its ugly past. Despite the criticism and attacks against me on appointments, rebuilding Jos Main Market, Peace Building and reconciliation among others, I have remained resolute because of the realization that even Chief Solomon Lar that we are eulogizing today faced such criticism over his decisions. However, posterity has vindicated him and he is now receiving accolades. My duty is to continue to appeal to our people and Nigerians not to politicise everything, but preach love, unity and peace”.

He said Baba Lar as he was fondly called, was a politician whose faith in God and belief in the tenets of democracy and freedom impacted his conduct at all times. Little wonder, he earned himself the name “Emancipator” because of his style of governance which endeared him to the grassroots in the then Plateau State that also included current Nasarawa State.

Chairman of the occasion and former President Goodluck Jonathan said Chief Solomon Daushep Lar was a great Nigerian who opened his arms to people from diverse backgrounds and also ensured that politics benefited people at the grassroots.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar said the legacies of Chief Solomon Lar are numerous and worth celebrating for a political colossus of his calibre.

APC National Chairman Abdullahi Adamu and his PDP counterpart Senator Iyorchia Ayu said the event is coming at a time when political activities are in top gear in the country which brings an opportunity to reflect on the ideals he stood for and profusely defended, being one of those who played very important role in birthing the restoration of the democracy.

Widow of Chief Solomon Lar, Ambassador Mary Lar said she was highly elated by the honour done to her husband who stood for unity, love and selflessness throughout his political career.

She said the foundation and institute will vigorously pursue his ideals and also work towards ensuring that his mentoring legacy is sustained.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
6th October 2022.

DOKPAI ROAD: THE PEOPLE MATTER, INTERVENTIONS IN PKK BY RT HON GAGDI ARE CONTINUING

Ordinarily, at the venue of any wedding, political statements often don’t carry significant weight. Many are wont to think that they may be statements delivered on the spur of the moment.

However, while celebrating the marriage solemnization betwee Justin Dimka and Anne Suwa on October 1, 2022 at Kabwir in Kanke, the Rt Hon Yusuf Adamu Gagdi did not only attend; but he made a statement that jolted a number of people, as well as reassure them of his good intentions towards the people as always.

Those who know him well are wont to believe that he is a man of character; he says it and ensures that it comes to pass.

Having provided a number of projects in most communities of PKK in the last three and half years, it is not surprising that the Gungji-Shiwer-Dokpai road has been brought up on the burner, as yet another addition.

That is a milestone for the constituency. It is also an addition to the many initiatives that have been executed by Gagdu since he he arrived at the Green Chamber three and a half years ago. It has been an experience celebrated by all who cherish anything good for the constituency.

These are just what to expect again during his second term come 2023. This, we can confirm because it is in God that we always trust.

GAGDI STRATEGIC MEDIA TEAM

October 3, 2022

GAGDI FELICITATES WITH CECILIA YILKORA ON HER APPOINTMENT AS COMMISSIONER FOR TOURISM

The reward for dedication and loyalty is manifest in the appointment of Hon. Cecilia Yilkorah as a member of the Plateau State Executive Council as the Commissioner for Tourism, Culture and Hospitality.

Hon. Cecilia has been a steadfast party woman who has paid her dues in the growth of the All Progressives Congress, not only in her Kanke LGA, but the state in general through women mobilization and charitable activities.

It is on this premise that I join thousands of your well wishers to congratulate you on this milestone and wish you success in this tasking responsibility of nation building.

I never doubted your ability to deliver on this mandate,having worked closely with you as one of my most trusted aides in the past three years.

Like the aphorism, ‘a golden fish has no hiding place’, your sterling qualities are sparklingly astonishing. I pray this appointment serves as a springboard to greater responsibilities ahead.

Once more, congratulations!

Signed:
Rt Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi,
(Dan Malikin Kanam),
Member Representing PKK and Chairman House Committee on Navy.

GOVERNOR LALONG PRAISES PLATEAU BORN POLICE OFFICER, CSP DANIEL ITSE FOR REJECTING 200 THOUSAND DOLLARS BRIBE

Governor Simon Bako Lalong has praised
Plateau State born police officer CSP Daniel Itse Amah who was recently honoured by ICPC for rejecting $200,000 bribe from robbers.

CSP Daniel Itse Amah, an indigene of Jos East local government area of Plateau State, joined the Nigerian Police Force as a Cadet Inspector in 2002 and is currently serving as a Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Bompai Police Station in the Nasarawa local government area of Kano State.

He is said to have rejected the bribe in the course of investigating a robbery matter was which was reported to the Police Division in Kano State where he was the DPO.

Governor Lalong while congratulating the officer for his honesty and patriotism to reject the temptation to participate in corruption and conceal crime, said he has made his family, Plateau State and Nigeria proud by his actions.

Lalong said he was not surprised because the action of CSP Itse is in tandem with the Plateau spirit of diligence, honesty, patriotism and hardwork.

While urging him to keep the spirit and also continue to mentor others, the Governor said by this singular act, the career of the officer is very bright in his quest to serve the nation.

He also urges other officers and Nigerians in all sectors to emulate the exemplary conduct of CSP Itse which is one of the tonic that Nigeria requires to be transformed.


Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
6th October 2022.

DG APC PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN COUNCIL MEETS NATIONAL CHAIRMAN

After the meeting of the APC Presidential Campaign Council held on Tuesday at the Tinubu/Shettima Campaign Headquarters Abuja, Director General and Governor of Plateau State, Simon Bako Lalong and the Progressives Governors Forum led by Governor Atiku Badugu led some members of the Council and Governors on a visit to the National Secretariat of the APC to meet with National Chairman Senator Abdullahi Adamu and members of the NWC.

The Director General informed Senator Abdullahi Adamu that they were at the APC Headquarters to brief the NWC about their plans and activities as part of consultations with critical stakeholders.

He intimated him about the engagements that the PCC had with the Progressives Governors Forum and said everyone is being carried along to ensure that the APC conducts a robust campaign that will ensure its victory at the polls.

Senator Abdullahi Adamu welcomed the Director General and his team and assured them that the party leadership was ready to do its part in ensuring smooth campaigns for the victory of the Presidential Candidate Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and other candidates of the party.

The meeting thereafter continued behind closed doors.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State and DG, APC Presidential Campaign Council.
5th October 2022.

GOVERNOR LALONG SWEARS IN 7 NEW COMMISSIONERS; CARRIES OUT MINOR CABINET RESHUFFLE

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has sworn in 7 new Commissioners to replace those who resigned from his cabinet to pursue their political careers.

Governor Lalong who performed the ceremony at the Victoria Gowon Hall, New Government House Little Rayfield Jos, also announced a minor cabinet reshuffle.

Lalong who congratulated the new appointees said they were recognized and identified to serve the people of Plateau State because of their personal achievements, records of service, as well as the support to the APC-led Rescue Administration over the years.
He said “you are coming on board at the twilight of this administration when we have just about 8 months to complete our mandate. Indeed, you are coming into office at the time that is most crucial as we tidy up our projects and programmes to complete the fulfillment of our campaign promises. This means that you have to hit the ground running and catch up fast to enable you effectively deliver. While we are continuing with ongoing projects and carrying out new initiatives, the largest attention of the Government at this time is devoted towards completion of projects which will be commissioned in the coming months. Already, we have many of them that are fully completed and others almost completed in various sectors ready for commissioning. I expect that you will liaise with the bureaucrats in your MDAs to ensure that you get acquainted with the progress so far”.

He charged the new Commissioners and most especially the old ones to do more in propagating the achievements of the administration through the media as well as community and social platforms.

Lalong said he has observed with dissatisfaction that those in charge of MDAs are not doing much in talking about the laudable programmes and projects of Government within their areas of jurisdiction. Some do not even defend the Government’s records in the face of desperate propaganda and attacks by the opposition to deceive the public that the APC Government has not done anything.

“This must change from now henceforth as we are facing elections where our records should give us an advantage during the campaigns. I shall be monitoring the propagation of our achievements by the MDAs more closely and also ascertain the passion, loyalty or commitment of each appointee to this administration. We have so many achievements to talk about and put the records straight about the successes of our Rescue Administration and indeed that of the APC at the Federal level. Because we are at the verge of another general election, your performance will impact the fortunes of the Government and the ruling party in the elections. I expect that you will give your best within this short time to prove the point that you were not appointed out of mere sentiments but because you have a lot of value to bring to the table. Let me reiterate that you were all chosen based on merit and on the strength of your records of selfless service and passion to improve the lives of the people”.

The Governor who used the opportunity to thank the former Commissioners who served diligently and gave their best towards the implementation of the vision and policies of the Rescue Administration, said he did not sack anyone as all of them resigned voluntarily with some of them deciding to join the APC campaigns for the 2023 General elections.

He also warned them on working against the interest of the APC and the people of the State.

“You should remember that you have been brought into Government at such crucial time to serve and not be served. This appointment is not a promotion to self-aggrandizement or a window for corruption, mismanagement or waste of public resources. Anyone found to be working against the public interest or at cross purposes with the mandate and vision of the Rescue Administration will be shown the way out. You must project our party the APC at all levels as anything short of that will not be accepted”.

Responding on behalf of those sworn in, Commissioner for Higher Education Prof. Barnard Matur thanked the Governor for finding them worthy to be appointed out of many qualified citizens of Plateau State.

He said they will put in their best to serve the people and ensure that the vision and mandate of the Lalong APC Rescue Administration is realised.

The new Commissioners are:
1. Prof. Barnerd Matur (Higher Education)
2. Hon. Peter Akujah Inbutuk (Physical Planning and Urban Planning)
3. Mrs. Cecilia Mermwakat Yilkorah (Culture, Hospitality and Tourism)
4. Chief Benjamin Zoyong Jang (Science and Technology)
5. Mr. Tehlkuk Naanlep Pingwai (Lands and Survey)
6. Hon. Elisha Bitrus Shehu (Environment)
7. Hon. Daniel Dung Dalyop (Youth and Sports)

In the cabinet reshuffle, Hon. Victor Lapan moves from Youth and Sports to Works while Hon. Gyang Musa moves from Science and Technology to Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs. Hon. Dan Hirkop moves from Higher Education to Budget and Planning.
All others retain their portfolios.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the
Executive Governor of Plateau State.
4th October 2022.