WHY GOVERNOR LALONG IS THE BEST OPTION FOR TINUBU’S RUNNING MATE:

_A Rejoinder to Dasuki Nakande’s diatribe against Plateau State Governor Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong.

By Rt. Hon. Baba Akawu

In politics, nothing is shocking and impossible particularly when people are contesting for a position, working to achieve a set target or assiduously fighting over an interest. However, sometimes shocking things surface in politics when people vomit hatred for people they perceive as political enemies or are deceived to think they have come of age and can malign and pull down people they have no comparism with in terms of political accomplishments. That is the story of Dasuki Nakande, a former Minister of State who came up with a toxic concoction against Plateau State Governor Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong with a view to damaging him politically. His problem is that Lalong, whose name has been all over the country as likely choice for Vice President, should not be picked by Tinubu as running mate.

In the write up, Nakande completely lost his sense of reasoning to the point that he arrogated himself powers he does not possess of speaking for the Muslim Community in Jos as well as allocating himself fictitious votes that he gave APC standard bearer Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the just concluded Presidential primaries. In all his castigation of Governor Lalong, Dasuki who is obviously sponsored ended up shooting himself on the foot and rubbishing his claim of being from Plateau State and a member of the APC or its Elders Forum.

Dasuki’s first faulty claim was that Asiwaju Tinubu was not the choice of Governor Lalong, but rather of Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi which made Governor Lalong to stop Tinubu from coming to Plateau to meet delegates. This is a blatant lie that he wants to feed the gullible with at all costs. Unknown to Dasuki, Governor Lalong has been in touch with Asiwaju throughout the period of consultations and indeed had face to face interactions with him on several occasions. Arrangements for the visit of Asiwaju to Plateau were made and finalized but due to tight schedule of the Jagaban, they kept changing and shifting until it was not feasible again. In all this, Asiwaju never told anyone (not even the weeping Dasuki) that Lalong stopped him from coming to meet Plateau delegates. One then wonders why he is crying more than the bereaved.

On the relationship between Rotimi Amaechi and Governor Lalong, the writer wasted precious time trying to establish their long standing relationship and fraternity which started many years ago when they were Speakers. Has Asiwaju told Nakande that he does not know their friendship or does not appreciate their loyalty to one another? Does he think Jagaban takes friendship and loyalty lightly or suffers traitors like him who will spew out venom against his Governor simply because of hatred or being sponsored by enemies of Plateau? On the contrary, Tinubu knows more about Lalong and Amaechi than Nakande and respects that relationship just as he would expect others to do to him. He has no grudges against Lalong or any other person including those who contested against him in the APC primaries. He has said this severally right from his victory speech at Eagle Square and has proven it by visiting most of those that contested against him. Dasuki will not hear about this and in his hatred, forgot that Lalong was neither an Aspirant nor a Delegate.

One also wonders where he came up with the falsehood that Lalong is claiming he worked for Tinubu. Where is the evidence of that claim? Rather, it is Nakande that should tell the world when, how and where he and others (Amos Gizo, Paullen Tallen, Alphonsus Komsol) gave votes to Tinubu in a Convention they were neither delegates nor part of stakeholders that prepared for the event. It is a miracle to hear that people who lost elections in the past and recently are claiming to be the ones dashing votes to Asiwaju at a national convention. Besides, aside from Hon. Komsol, these are people that have never won an election into any office. They have rather been fortunate to lobby and get appointments. Perhaps this is what they are cleverly positioning themselves for future appointments by deriding and castigating their Governor with the hope that Tinubu will appoint them when he wins. Must you pull down someone to grow? Who tells him that Lalong will not work for the victory of Tinubu and the APC in the general elections? Even those who contested and lost have pledged to work for the party, what more of Lalong who did not vie for the ticket?

Any right-thinking person will shade tears in disgust by the effrontery of Nakande to assert that Lalong should not be picked as Vice President running mate because he is not a leader who believes in justice and fairness and that he has not restored peace to Plateau State. He also claims that Lalong has not appointed many Muslims into his cabinet nor done projects in Hausa-Muslim Community. In short he accused Lalong of marginalizing and oppressing the Muslim Community in Jos. Haba Dasuki! Are you alright? Is it the same Lalong that is being vilified for allegedly “mortgaging Plateau to the Caliphate” or is it another Lalong we don’t know about?

To say that Lalong has marginalised any part of Plateau based on ethnicity or religion is the height of insensitivity and bigotry oozing from someone who has served at the Federal Executive Council. Contrary to these false assertions, the Hausa-Muslim community in Jos has never had it so good like under the Lalong Government where they are carried along in appointments, projects distribution and day to day running of Government. For the records, there are Muslim Commissioners in the State Cabinet; 2 Deputy Chiefs of Staff Government House (both Muslims); several heads of MDAs and Permanent Secretaries, Advisers and Special Assistants. If not for mischief, why has Dasuki never complained about this so-called marginalization until now that he senses that Governor Lalong is likely to be made the Running mate for Tinubu?

One is not surprised because Dasuki is an Abuja-based politician who has lost touch with home and does not know what is happening. He has mixed his hatred for Lalong with bitterness over his inability to win the APC ticket into the House of Representatives after several attempts or even secure Councillorship seat for his son. He also contested for the post of APC Party Secretary and lost woefully. Bringing Lalong into the recent bye election for Bassa/Jos North House of Representatives Constituency which some members of the APC worked against the party and gave victory to the PDP is very disheartening. Dasuki who participated in the anti-party activity is now the self-acclaimed “arrowhead” of protecting the APC at the Eagle Square during the Presidential Primaries where he was not close to the venue.

Again, Dasuki makes a caricature of himself when he claims that it is unpatriotic to begin to talk of religion or region as a selling point for leadership rather than merit. Ha! Is this not the same person using religion to claim Governor Lalong is marginalizing the “Hausa-Muslim Community”? Did he not allege that Lalong meddled in the Bassa/Jos North Reps elections to deny the “Hausa-Muslims” the chance to occupy the position? Why is he speaking from both sides of the mouth about merit and equity/justice? When it is convenient for him, he is and advocate for equity, fairness and justice. When he hears the news that same considerations could make Lalong the running mate for Asiwaju bola Tinubu, he recoils and embraces merit. But the good news is that Governor Lalong qualifies for not only the post of the VP, but even the President of Nigeria based on merit and equity, justice and fairness.   

Lest Dasuki deceives the gullible and poisons the minds of right thinking Nigerians against Governor Simon Bako Lalong, let us educate him and his sponsors on why the APC Candidate Asiwaju Bola Tinubu will be coasting home to victory with Lalong as his running mate.

1.   Lalong has never lost an election since 1999. He contested for House of Assembly and won. He was re-elected and served as Speaker for 7 years (the longest in the history of Plateau State).

2.   He survived a complete Recall process defeating the Federal Might of Chief Obasanjo regime.

3.   He is loyal to the core and does not betray people. He endured pressure, money and even went to jail for refusing to carry out sham impeachment of former Governor Dariye. Tinubu will need a loyal VP!

4.   He is the Chairman of the 19 Northern Governors and the first Christian to hold that position (he did not campaign for it but was unanimously chosen by his colleagues).

5.   He was the Chairman, Conference of Speakers of Houses of Assembly.

6.   He is the current Chairman, Conference of Former Speakers of State Houses of Assembly of Nigeria (COFFSHA).

7.   He is a humble, tolerant and God fearing leader who does not discriminate against anybody or group based on religion, ethnicity or other parochial sentiments.

8.   He has served as Governor of Plateau State for 7 years.

9.   He restored peace to Plateau State and brought back businesses and investments to the State.

10.                   He is the one who led the 13 APC Northern Governors to the President and APC Chairman to insist on power shift to the South despite the attempts by some interests to retain power in the North.

11.                   He has never campaigned to be Vice President and is not desperate.

12.                   He has worked hard for the APC and successfully led Campaigns that delivered victory for the party in Governorship elections such as Ondo State.

13.                   Of all the names being touted among Northern Christians, no one has his rich experience.

14.                   The North Central Region deserves such position in the interest of equity, justice and fairness as it has never held that office.

15.                   He has wide acceptability and respect in the whole Northern Region and other parts of the country.

16.                   He has won the APC ticket to contest for the Plateau South Senatorial Seat.

With these few points, I advise our Party’s flag bearer Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to disregard the ranting of inconsequential people like Dasuki who cannot win a Councilor seat or deliver their polling unit, but trying to desperately look for cheap popularity and access to power by running down highly accomplished personalities like Governor Simon Bako Lalong whose popularity continues to soar. If the Dasuki and his cohorts are interested in becoming running mates to Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, they should concentrate on pursuing that ambition and not make a mockery of themselves through frivolity. Leave Governor Simon Lalong alone please!

Rt. Hon. Baba Akawu former Deputy Majority Leader, Federal House of Representatives (1983) writes from Jos.

 WHY GOVERNOR LALONG IS THE BEST OPTION FOR TINUBU’S RUNNING MATE:

_A Rejoinder to Dasuki Nakande’s diatribe against Plateau State Governor Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong.

By Rt. Hon. Baba Akawu

In politics, nothing is shocking and impossible particularly when people are contesting for a position, working to achieve a set target or assiduously fighting over an interest. However, sometimes shocking things surface in politics when people vomit hatred for people they perceive as political enemies or are deceived to think they have come of age and can malign and pull down people they have no comparism with in terms of political accomplishments. That is the story of Dasuki Nakande, a former Minister of State who came up with a toxic concoction against Plateau State Governor Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong with a view to damaging him politically. His problem is that Lalong, whose name has been all over the country as likely choice for Vice President, should not be picked by Tinubu as running mate.

In the write up, Nakande completely lost his sense of reasoning to the point that he arrogated himself powers he does not possess of speaking for the Muslim Community in Jos as well as allocating himself fictitious votes that he gave APC standard bearer Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the just concluded Presidential primaries. In all his castigation of Governor Lalong, Dasuki who is obviously sponsored ended up shooting himself on the foot and rubbishing his claim of being from Plateau State and a member of the APC or its Elders Forum.

Dasuki’s first faulty claim was that Asiwaju Tinubu was not the choice of Governor Lalong, but rather of Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi which made Governor Lalong to stop Tinubu from coming to Plateau to meet delegates. This is a blatant lie that he wants to feed the gullible with at all costs. Unknown to Dasuki, Governor Lalong has been in touch with Asiwaju throughout the period of consultations and indeed had face to face interactions with him on several occasions. Arrangements for the visit of Asiwaju to Plateau were made and finalized but due to tight schedule of the Jagaban, they kept changing and shifting until it was not feasible again. In all this, Asiwaju never told anyone (not even the weeping Dasuki) that Lalong stopped him from coming to meet Plateau delegates. One then wonders why he is crying more than the bereaved.

On the relationship between Rotimi Amaechi and Governor Lalong, the writer wasted precious time trying to establish their long standing relationship and fraternity which started many years ago when they were Speakers. Has Asiwaju told Nakande that he does not know their friendship or does not appreciate their loyalty to one another? Does he think Jagaban takes friendship and loyalty lightly or suffers traitors like him who will spew out venom against his Governor simply because of hatred or being sponsored by enemies of Plateau? On the contrary, Tinubu knows more about Lalong and Amaechi than Nakande and respects that relationship just as he would expect others to do to him. He has no grudges against Lalong or any other person including those who contested against him in the APC primaries. He has said this severally right from his victory speech at Eagle Square and has proven it by visiting most of those that contested against him. Dasuki will not hear about this and in his hatred, forgot that Lalong was neither an Aspirant nor a Delegate.

One also wonders where he came up with the falsehood that Lalong is claiming he worked for Tinubu. Where is the evidence of that claim? Rather, it is Nakande that should tell the world when, how and where he and others (Amos Gizo, Paullen Tallen, Alphonsus Komsol) gave votes to Tinubu in a Convention they were neither delegates nor part of stakeholders that prepared for the event. It is a miracle to hear that people who lost elections in the past and recently are claiming to be the ones dashing votes to Asiwaju at a national convention. Besides, aside from Hon. Komsol, these are people that have never won an election into any office. They have rather been fortunate to lobby and get appointments. Perhaps this is what they are cleverly positioning themselves for future appointments by deriding and castigating their Governor with the hope that Tinubu will appoint them when he wins. Must you pull down someone to grow? Who tells him that Lalong will not work for the victory of Tinubu and the APC in the general elections? Even those who contested and lost have pledged to work for the party, what more of Lalong who did not vie for the ticket?

Any right-thinking person will shade tears in disgust by the effrontery of Nakande to assert that Lalong should not be picked as Vice President running mate because he is not a leader who believes in justice and fairness and that he has not restored peace to Plateau State. He also claims that Lalong has not appointed many Muslims into his cabinet nor done projects in Hausa-Muslim Community. In short he accused Lalong of marginalizing and oppressing the Muslim Community in Jos. Haba Dasuki! Are you alright? Is it the same Lalong that is being vilified for allegedly “mortgaging Plateau to the Caliphate” or is it another Lalong we don’t know about?

To say that Lalong has marginalised any part of Plateau based on ethnicity or religion is the height of insensitivity and bigotry oozing from someone who has served at the Federal Executive Council. Contrary to these false assertions, the Hausa-Muslim community in Jos has never had it so good like under the Lalong Government where they are carried along in appointments, projects distribution and day to day running of Government. For the records, there are Muslim Commissioners in the State Cabinet; 2 Deputy Chiefs of Staff Government House (both Muslims); several heads of MDAs and Permanent Secretaries, Advisers and Special Assistants. If not for mischief, why has Dasuki never complained about this so-called marginalization until now that he senses that Governor Lalong is likely to be made the Running mate for Tinubu?

One is not surprised because Dasuki is an Abuja-based politician who has lost touch with home and does not know what is happening. He has mixed his hatred for Lalong with bitterness over his inability to win the APC ticket into the House of Representatives after several attempts or even secure Councillorship seat for his son. He also contested for the post of APC Party Secretary and lost woefully. Bringing Lalong into the recent bye election for Bassa/Jos North House of Representatives Constituency which some members of the APC worked against the party and gave victory to the PDP is very disheartening. Dasuki who participated in the anti-party activity is now the self-acclaimed “arrowhead” of protecting the APC at the Eagle Square during the Presidential Primaries where he was not close to the venue.

Again, Dasuki makes a caricature of himself when he claims that it is unpatriotic to begin to talk of religion or region as a selling point for leadership rather than merit. Ha! Is this not the same person using religion to claim Governor Lalong is marginalizing the “Hausa-Muslim Community”? Did he not allege that Lalong meddled in the Bassa/Jos North Reps elections to deny the “Hausa-Muslims” the chance to occupy the position? Why is he speaking from both sides of the mouth about merit and equity/justice? When it is convenient for him, he is and advocate for equity, fairness and justice. When he hears the news that same considerations could make Lalong the running mate for Asiwaju bola Tinubu, he recoils and embraces merit. But the good news is that Governor Lalong qualifies for not only the post of the VP, but even the President of Nigeria based on merit and equity, justice and fairness.   

Lest Dasuki deceives the gullible and poisons the minds of right thinking Nigerians against Governor Simon Bako Lalong, let us educate him and his sponsors on why the APC Candidate Asiwaju Bola Tinubu will be coasting home to victory with Lalong as his running mate.

1.   Lalong has never lost an election since 1999. He contested for House of Assembly and won. He was re-elected and served as Speaker for 7 years (the longest in the history of Plateau State).

2.   He survived a complete Recall process defeating the Federal Might of Chief Obasanjo regime.

3.   He is loyal to the core and does not betray people. He endured pressure, money and even went to jail for refusing to carry out sham impeachment of former Governor Dariye. Tinubu will need a loyal VP!

4.   He is the Chairman of the 19 Northern Governors and the first Christian to hold that position (he did not campaign for it but was unanimously chosen by his colleagues).

5.   He was the Chairman, Conference of Speakers of Houses of Assembly.

6.   He is the current Chairman, Conference of Former Speakers of State Houses of Assembly of Nigeria (COFFSHA).

7.   He is a humble, tolerant and God fearing leader who does not discriminate against anybody or group based on religion, ethnicity or other parochial sentiments.

8.   He has served as Governor of Plateau State for 7 years.

9.   He restored peace to Plateau State and brought back businesses and investments to the State.

10.                   He is the one who led the 13 APC Northern Governors to the President and APC Chairman to insist on power shift to the South despite the attempts by some interests to retain power in the North.

11.                   He has never campaigned to be Vice President and is not desperate.

12.                   He has worked hard for the APC and successfully led Campaigns that delivered victory for the party in Governorship elections such as Ondo State.

13.                   Of all the names being touted among Northern Christians, no one has his rich experience.

14.                   The North Central Region deserves such position in the interest of equity, justice and fairness as it has never held that office.

15.                   He has wide acceptability and respect in the whole Northern Region and other parts of the country.

16.                   He has won the APC ticket to contest for the Plateau South Senatorial Seat.

With these few points, I advise our Party’s flag bearer Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to disregard the ranting of inconsequential people like Dasuki who cannot win a Councilor seat or deliver their polling unit, but trying to desperately look for cheap popularity and access to power by running down highly accomplished personalities like Governor Simon Bako Lalong whose popularity continues to soar. If the Dasuki and his cohorts are interested in becoming running mates to Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, they should concentrate on pursuing that ambition and not make a mockery of themselves through frivolity. Leave Governor Simon Lalong alone please!

Rt. Hon. Baba Akawu former Deputy Majority Leader, Federal House of Representatives (1983) writes from Jos.

*ALLEGED TROOPS SHOOTING AT UNARMED CITIZENS NOT TRUE*

Operation SAFE HAVEN has be en notified of a malicious falsehood peddled by one Jama Emmanuel, making the round in the social media. The writer alleged that the citizens were chasing bandits that came to attack Government Science Secondary School Kuru on Friday evening when troops of the Nigerian Army stop them. He also alleged that the troops shot at the unarmed citizens who were chasing the bandits.

While Operation SAFE HAVEN would have ignored this merchant of falsehood and disunity, considering his lack of credibility, it is however instructive to put the records in a proper perspective for the interest of not misleading peace lovers and unsuspecting members of the public.

It was on Friday 10 June 2022 at about 2000Hrs (8: 00pm) that troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN were informed of gunshots between Mararaban Jama’a and railway crossing by Kuru Science Secondary School along Jos – Abuja road in Riyom local government area of Plateau state. Troops immediately mobilized to the scene and on arrival, the people of the area said they don’t need the presence of the security agencies. The troops were asked to leave the area and they withdrew. It is therefore worrisome to allege that troops fired at unarmed citizens and if they did, what was the casualty figure? The report of troops firing at innocent citizens remains an elusive and mischievous figment of the writer intended to mislead, misinform and cause panic among the law abiding citizens of Plateau State. Hence it should be disregarded in its entirety.

We also urge members of the public to be wary of such mischief makers who are frustrated with the relative peace and gradual return of the state to its glory. Operation SAFE HAVEN is on cause and would not be distracted by the antics of vicious mischief makers whose stock in trade is to peddle unfounded rumors and cause panic

While appreciating law abiding citizens for providing timely information to the security agents, the Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, Major General Ibrahim Ali call on all stakeholders to continue to be peace ambassadors as Operation SAFE HAVEN continue to intensify efforts in ensuring peace is fully restored on the Plateau. Security is everybody’s concern, when you see something strange, please report to the nearest security agents.



ISHAKU TAKWA
Major
Military Information Officer OPSH
11 June 2022

RT HON YUSUF ADAMU GAGDI: THREE YEARS OF MONUMENTAL ACHIEVEMENTS THAT WOWED EVERYONE

Social media were awashed with explicit expressions of joy and fulfilment by thousands of users; the entire Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal constituency and those resident in the constituency, jumped, and chanted songs of joy as Rep member, Rt Hon Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, was inaugurated on June 11, 2019. Their joy knew no bounds, as they have so much faith in him, given that he has been tested and trusted in the proper legislative duties in his previous public positions. It is widely anticipated that his wealth of experience and laudable achievements as the then Deputy Speaker Plateau House of Assembly would be brought to bear in performing legislative functions. The good people of PKK believe that with his unrivaled passion and concern for the plight of the common man, PKK was about to witness a tremendous shared prosperity in all its ramifications having Gagdi as their member.

Aware of the high expectations on him and driven by the unquantifiable love he has for his people, Hon Gagdi immediately swung into action – a clear indication that he was in a hurry to take PKK to higher level of all round development.

Usually, members of the Green Chamber in Nigeria upon completion of three years in office are assessed by the people based on their blueprints, policies and achievements, or are expected to give an account of their stewardship within the theee years. While the good people of PKK expected little or nothing in the areas of infrastructural and human capital development three years in office, taking the constituency’s peculiar problem of leadership failure, Gagdi wowed everyone with his unprecedented achievements, ranging from security beef-up to infrastructural, employment and social/ human capital development within just three years in office.

How amazing! Within 3 years in office as the representative of PKK, Gagdi undertook over 100 projects, of which 50 are physical projects with the remaining 49 as capital-intensive programmes and policies. Over 100 projects in 3 three years? Yes, exactly! An unprecedentedly amazing achievement, right? That’s Gagdi for you! A man popularly dubbed “Workaholic Member”.
Th don turned politician has shown clearly that his leadership places premium on the security of its citizenry, as it has ebulliently made several sustained efforts in tackling security challenges in the state. With 3 patrol vehicles and 6 motorcycles purchased and distributed to military, securing anti-robbery squad within the constituency among many other efforts has shown how
focused and determined Gagdi is, on security matters.

Gagdi administration outstanding achievements or exploits in the area of education within the three year in office, is breathtaking. It is on record that within the three years in office, verifiable projects were undertsken across 3 LGAs. Over 10 projects are already completed with 10 ongoing in the education sector. Gagdi embarked on massive construction of blocks of classrooms and offices in schools. With his giant strides in education within the last three years, the member demonstrated that he is not oblivious of the fact that education is the key to scientific and technological advancement, the means to combat unemployment and the foundation of social equity. He remained the only legislator in Nigeria that refunded JAMB, WAEC and NECO registration fees to all students across his constituency, a gaint effort involving over 100 million naira.

Apart from his giant strides in education, the health sector has recorded huge transformation. The sector benefited physical projects in 3 LGAs out of which 5 are newly built primary healthcare centres with some few still ongoing.

Rural/ Urban Development, the dogged member, also clearly showed his committed resolve to build PKK of our dream, as he yet embarked on massive construction of befitting palaces, installed litany of electrification on notably rural communities across the LGAs.

Road construction and maintenance, Gagdi has constructed over 9.2 km road in Dengi, 9.7 km in Pankshin town aside numerous other road maintenance projects across the three LGAs of PKK federal constituency.

Despite the member’s great achievements in many areas like health, education, and rural/urban development, concerned with the plights of the people, Gagdi drilled solar powered boreholes, and constructed townhalls.

The commerce and industry sector is the backbone of the economy and its development. Hence, Gagdi supported constituents with soft interest free loan worth over 20 million from his purse and lobbied for loan through Central Bank of Nigeria to others. This is in addition to construction of a new modern market stalls in within the 3 LGAs. Agriculture, was greatly considered as fertilizers and fumigation pumps were distributed to farmers across the constituency.

Employment remained the key to independent of youths and lowering crimes in Nigeria. Gagdi has lobbied and influenced over 300 permanent and pensionable jobs to constituents in the military, para-military, government agencies, ministries and parastatals.

Empowerment, Gagdi has empowered constituents with over 100 cars and 800 motorcycles to make a good start in transportation sector aside capital to some constituents who are idled.

No matter the lens we use to look at Gagdi, we cannot ignore his contributions to the political and socio-economic development of the PKK. His monumental achievements will continue to reach the doorsteps of many households.

The Gagdi representation are massive successes, as the milestone of three years in office is attained. When the Administration breasts the tape in another four years, if PKK constituents give the second mandate, by the grace of God, the applause will be resounding, even from the worst of sceptics. Facts are undeniable, and always remain so. They are stubborn things.

By Prince Sekat, Jos

The presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress in the coming 2023 general elections, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu is said to be considering choosing his running mate between Plateau State Governor Simon Lalong, and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha.
This followed a warning from the Christian Association of Nigeria against any attempt to field Muslim-Muslim ticket in the coming election.
The development has made the party start considering options that will enhance its chances of retaining the presidency in 2023.
Among the people being considered as Tinubu’s running mate are Governor Lalong, SGF Mustapha, both of whom are said to be prominent northern Christians.

While efforts are on to avoid a Muslim-Muslim ticket, the party is also said to be considering Governor Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State, who is a strong northerner, but a Muslim.
A chieftain of the APC, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said Nigerians were justified to express reservations about a Muslim-Muslim ticket. He, however, cautioned that people should be more concerned about competence rather than religious affiliations.

He said northern governors were working with the party’s National Working Committee to consider a list of options at their disposal, adding, “There is no cause for alarm. We anticipated that things could head this way, but the party is considering some candidates to neutralise the threat of an Atiku presidency.
“The party and the governors are mulling the option of Lalong; Kebbi State Governor, Atiku Bagudu; and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha.”

He added that El-Rufai; Kano State Governor, Abdulahi Ganduje; and Mallam Kashim Ibrahim-Imam were also being considered.
Meanwhile, members of the APC Northern States’ Governors Forum earlier paid a courtesy visit to Tinubu in Asokoro, Abuja. Although details of the closed-door meeting were sketchy, but source said that it might not be unconnected with talks around the running mate and the likelihood of Nigerians rejecting a Muslim-Muslim ticket.

The spokesman for the Tinubu Campaign Organisation, Mr Bayo Onanuga, however, told journalists that the candidate already had an arrangement with the Progressives Governors’ Forum to decide his running mate if he emerged as the candidate.
The vice-president can come from any region and religion, but the PGF is at liberty to pick. The party will look at the chances and decide how it will balance a Muslim from the South, maybe with somebody that comes from the North-East, North-Central or the North-West. That is how it is done. I cannot circumvent the party. The Bagudu-led PGF has the task to pick a competent deputy for him,” Onanuga stated.

GOVERNOR LALONG VISITS POLO ROUNDABOUT JUNCTION OVER RECURRING ACCIDENTS; PROMISES LASTING SOLUTIONS

The incessant accidents along the Polo roundabout in Jos has become a source of concern to motorists and citizens despite efforts by the government to tackle the situation.

Following the recent accident where properties were destroyed and 2 persons killed as a truck carrying fuel lost control and crashed resulting into an inferno, Governor Lalong accompanied by his Deputy Prof. Sonni Tyoden and other top Government officials inspected the site and promised to find lasting solutions to the recurring accidents in the area.

Lalong who went round the damaged areas of the JUTH Vetinery Teaching Hospital, expressed sadness over the incident which engulfed some of the structures and destroyed equipment worth millions of naira including some recently supplied by the TetFund yet to be mounted.

He said the permanent solution will be to find another alternative route for heavy duty trucks to use so as to avoid using the road that has high traffic capacity and prone to accidents due to loss of brakes by trucks and recklessness in some cases.

He ordered the Commissioner for Transport and other relevant agencies to ensure that they enforce the restriction of heavy duty vehicles from plying the road during the day till night hours when traffic is decongested along the route so as to reduce high casualty in case of any accident.

He also said the Government will ensure that the work on the British-American Flyover construction is expedited in order to provide an alternative to heavy duty vehicles passing to other parts of the country including the North East.

While commiserating with families of the victims and those who lost their lives, the Governor said but for the speed breakers earlier erected and the fact that the incident occurred late into the night, the casualty figures would have been high.

He promised that the Government will intervene in making sure that the damaged properties and equipment at the JUTH Vetinery Teaching Hospital and surrounding areas are replaced through the collaboration of the State and Federal Government.

Prof Rahila Gowon DVC Admin, University of Jos and Prof Lami Lombin said the damage was huge and has affected operations in the facility because of contamination which needs to be cleared.

They appreciated the Governor for his concern and said a lasting solution to the incessant accidents in the area is needed to avoid further loss of lives and damage to property in the area.

The Governor also interacted with participants from across the country who are holding a workshop in the Teaching Hospital before the sad event where he assured them that Government will do its best to restore the facility.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State .
11th June 2022.

WHITHER THE PLATEAU LEGACY GROUP (PLG): APPRECIATING SACRIFICES OF OUR LEADERS

Let’s say you are hearing the name Plateau Legacy Group (PLG) for the first time and you are from Plateau State.

Let’s for your purposes attempt to break it into the level of your understanding to appreciate its formation.

There comes a time in the life of a people who appreciate the contributions of their leaders as a cause.

To appropriate it in the context of creating a niche for such a leader, it is worthy to create and establish a group of friends and supporters that would keep his memory incandescent.

Each one of us must have at a point venerated a leader or two. Here in the state, JD Gomwalk readily comes to mind. Today, many rate him highly for his accomplishments while he lasted supritending over the affairs of Benue Plateau State as Military Governor.

When the news filtered that a group ostensibly formed to keep and appreciate the legacies of Governor Simon Bako Lalong, many took it with a pinch of salt.

The Plateau Legacy Group (PLG) is populated by Plateau sons and daughters from various walks of life, interested in accentuating the place of Barr Simon Bako Lalong in the leadership position of the state and Nigeria.

But more importantly, the need for leaders to be appreciated for the quality of service they offer. When such is done, it motivates them more than ever to contribute for the development of the state

Most of those who became aware of the development thought it was intended to establish a political empire for the governor.

When that didn’t fly, it was shifted to an alleged plan by the group to foist Dr Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe as Governor of the state.

It must be noted, that the Plateau Legacy Group (PLG) which is led by Rt Hon Yusuf Adamu Gagdi is a product of the seed of sacrifice by leaders in the state to be appreciated. If we are able to consciously value them, we are going to be the better for it.

We say this on account of the fact that it is In God We Trust!

GAGDI STRATEGIC MEDIA TEAM
June 10, 2022

THE LALONG WE DO NOT KNOW

By Dan Manjang, anipr

The mention of the name Simon Bako Lalong simply evokes different feelings and meanings to different people.

Whenever Lalong is mentioned, the name resonates in different quarters differently.

Some say, can anything good come from Ajikamai? Similar to what was said of Jesus of Nazareth! Though such question is rhetorical, the answer is obvious to whoever might raise it! While some genuinely ask such question in marvel to what God can do to and with whoever he pleases, others ask the question albeit derogatorily.

Prior to 29th May, 2015 when Simon Bako Lalong was sworn in as Executive Governor of Plateau State, despite the fact that he had held positions to be reckoned with, elective for that matter, he was seen as an underdog, someone that can and will not put up a fight of any kind.

Many people did not even believe that he will make it to Rayfield as Chief Executive of Plateau State not even the person he took over from. It is said that his predecessor was sarcastic at a campaign in 2014/15 referring to Lalong when he symbolitically raised a bunch of keys and said “We cannot build a house and one stranger will bring brooms and pile in it!” That is the level which he (Lalong) did not matter in anyway then.

However, destiny came knocking and like God told Jeremiah in Jeremiah 1:4-8 thus:

“The word of the Lord came to me saying, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.’

‘Alas, Sovereign Lord,” I said, ‘I do not know how to speak; I am too young’. But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am too young’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you; declares the Lord,’’’-(NIV).

Lalong like many, was mirrored differently from the way God looked at him. As a matter of fact, I am tempted to add to his names Jeremiah thus Right Honourable (Dr.) Simon Jeremiah Bako Lalong, KSGG!

Sooner had he assumed office that he faced the issue of insecurity that had engulfed the state of no known dimension and nipped it in the bud to the consternation and surprise of many pundits and pessimists alike. The crisis, insecurity, reduced drastically. Little wonder he was called and consecrated by the Lord himself. Otherewise, he would not have removed us from the situation of hatred against each other.

Like Jeremiah, it is possible that Lalong had looked down upon himself as too young and if that be so, God must have rebuked him not to and went ahead and consecrated him. As a matter of fact, news had it that even people close to him taunted him.

And indeed to their consternation he became governor in 2015 and was re-elected in 2019. And not only that, he was also saddled with the responsibility of leading the 19 Northern State Governors of Nigeria as its Chairman, irrespective of political party and other considerations.

Every human being has two sides. And for Governor Lalong, people only know the seeming weak side of him which is a source of strength for him.

What do you expect of someone whom the Lord has consecrated? The Lalong we do not know is strong-willed, focused, target oriented, resilient and unassuming. This is a man that listens more than he speaks and whenever he chooses to speak, wisdom exudes from his lips. An encounter with him changes your opinion of him for good.

He has ably led the 19 Northern Governors creditably. One of the high points was last week when he led the 13 of the 14 northern Governors of the All Progressives Congress party to insist that the presidency of Nigeria should go to the South when the opposition appeared to have jettisoned zoning and some interests in the ruling party were towing the same line. It takes a man full of wisdom who is focused and who is respected by colleagues to boldly lead this kind of endeavour that has moved our dear nation forward. Equity and justice demanded so and this was demonstrated by the 13 wise men led by Lalong who spoke for national unity, peace and progress. They stood tall in the hour the nation needed them.

What the foregoing means therefore, is that Lalong is God-sent. And if that be so, there is still a lot to be expected from this unassuming, humble, simple and kind son of Ajikamai who does not pride himself on anything apart from God.

Already the people of the Southern Zone of Plateau State have bestowed upon him a higher responsibility beyond the shores of Plateau State to represent them in the Senate following the elections coming up next year.

With the emergence of the APC standard bearer Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Lalong’s name has again resonated among likely candidates to be considered for Vice President.

While he has not said anything about these insinuations, the loud clamour for him to be considered speaks a lot of his personality, achievements and the grace of God upon him. One thing is certain that if he has done it all at the state and regional levels, he can also do it at the national level having been Speaker, Governor and practiced law for many years.

Dan Manjang, anipr is the Honourable Commissioner of Information and Communication, Plateau State

*NIGERIAN ARMY HOLDS COAS SECOND QUARTER CONFERENCE 2022*

The Nigerian Army (NA) is scheduled to commence the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Second Quarter Conference 2022 from Monday 13 to Friday 17 June, 2022 at the Army Headquarters Command Officers’ Mess 1, Asokoro, Abuja.

The five-day conference will afford the NA the opportunity to re-appraise its administrative activities in the past 3 months and retrospectively evaluate all ongoing Nigerian Army operational engagements nationwide, with a view to making projections for the next quarter.

The conference will also provide a platform for the COAS to effectively interact with Field Commanders. This engagement will cover a wide range of activities, including training, operations, administration and logistics.

The COAS, Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya is expected to declare the event open on Tuesday, 14 June 2022, after which, there will be series of briefs and presentations.

Expectedly, participants at the conference will include Principal Staff Officers, Corps Commanders, Operational Commanders amongst others.

ONYEMA NWACHUKWU
Brigadier General
Director Army Public Relations
9 June 2022

GOVERNOR LALONG, NASARAWA GOVERNOR A.A. SULE HARP ON TECHNICAL EDUCATION AT PLAPOLY CONVOCATION

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong and his Nasarawa State counterpart Engr. Abdullahi Sule were among guests that graced the 31st-38th Combined Convocation ceremony of the Plateau State Polytechnic Barkin Ladi with a commitment to pay more attention to technical education which is the bedrock of entrepreneurship, job creation and productivity.

Lalong who is the Visitor to the Plateau State Polytechnic said the Convocation was long overdue as it has not been held over a long period of time due to various challenges.

This situation he said informed Government’s directive for the convocation to hold which offers the institution the opportunity to immediately clear all backlog of graduation and certificate awards.

The Governor therefore directed that henceforth, all Government tertiary institutions must work hard to hold convocation ceremonies at the end of each academic year as it was a sure way of building confidence, maintaining standards, and motivating the graduands to pursue their careers with zeal and contribute to the development of the State and nation at large.

He said “Our Government has in the past seven years demonstrated its belief in skill-based education that stimulates entrepreneurship and human capital development. It is our conviction that there is no better legacy to bequeath to upcoming generations than giving them education that goes beyond paper qualification. In the light of this, the Rescue Administration has engaged in reinvigorating moribund Technical and Vocational Education by rehabilitating old Technical Schools and building new ones.

Through the Lalong Legacy Projects, we are constructing the Technical Schools in Pankshin, Shendam and upgrading the old Technical School (Butex) in Bukuru. We intend to equip these schools with the modern tools and machineries once they are completed. Through these institutions, we hope to generate the skillful manpower that is needed to create jobs and contribute to the development of our economy”.

He charged the graduands to focus on using their education for productivity rather than the fruitless search for white collar jobs.

“I challenge you to step out of this institution with the mindset of entrepreneurs and job creators rather than job seekers and applicants. You are all aware that white collar jobs are very scarce and Government is finding it difficult to meet its obligations to existing employees. This has made white collar employment extremely difficult and even less fashionable. What is the focus today is entrepreneurship, innovation and skill development. As graduands of this Polytechnic which prides itself as the hub for technical education, you should be at the forefront of starting your businesses.

Government will support you through the Plateau Small and Medium Enterprises Agency (PLASMIDA) and other relevant programmes such as those by the ITF and the Federal Government”.

Nasarawa State Governor Engr. Abdullahi Sule, who studied Mechanical Engineering at the Plateau State Polytechnic and chaired the occasion, said he was proud to have passed through the Polytechnic as one of its first students where his love for technical education developed and grew.

He recalled with nostalgia his days at the Polytechnic and Plateau State when peace, harmony and trust thrived among all citizens and residents regardless of their backgrounds.

Governor Sule commended Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong for working hard to restore peace and security in Plateau State thereby restoring its fortunes as the Home of Peace and Tourism.

He appealed to those causing trouble in Plateau State and other parts of the country to desist because such actions have denied the younger generation the beauty, serenity and attraction that Plateau State and its good people offer to the world.

Chairman of the Governing Council, Plateau State Polytechnic Miskoom Kevin Kwaplong said the institution has grown in many ramifications and continues to perform its responsibilities of training skilled manpower for Plateau and Nigeria at large.

He commended the Lalong administration for paying attention to many challenges of the Polytechnic which are being addressed to enhance teaching and learning in the school.

Rector of the Plateau State Polytechnic Barkin Ladi Bldr. John Datoegoem Dawam said the institution has made progress in both physical and academic frontiers despite some of its challenges.

He said the Plateau State Polytechnic was fortunate to have an additional technical higher institution through the magnanimity of President Muhammadu Buhari who approved the establishment of the Federal Polytechnic Nyak, Shendam LGA. He pledged to ensure a robust collaboration with the new institution.

The Rector also expressed the appreciation of the Polytechnic to TetFund, NBTE, NCCE, and other bodies who have continously supported the school.

The Polytechnic’s Fellowship Awards were bestowed on deserving individuals including Governor Simon Lalong, former ES Tetfund Prof. Suleiman Bogoro, Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Idris Wase among others.

Apart from Certificates, Diplomas and Higher National Diplomas awarded to deserving graduands, Special Awards were given to best graduating students in various courses.

Governor Lalong and his Nasarawa State counterpart Engr. Abdullahi Sule later inspected some workshops in the Polytechnic as well as commissioned the new library complex and twin theatre.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau .
10th June 2022

GOVERNOR LALONG VISIT THE VETERINARY TEACHING HOSPITAL JOS, TO ACCESS THE LEVEL OF DAMAGE CAUSED BY INFERNO FROM A TANKER ACCIDENT

The Executive Governor of Plateau State, Rt Hon (Dr) Simon Bako Lalong KSGG today led some members of the State Executive council on the spot, assessment visit to examine first-hand the level of damage caused by an inferno from an accident involving a petroleum tanker.

The Governor was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the State (SGS) Prof Danladi Abok Atu who went around the facility to access the level of damage caused by the inferno which resulted in a loss of life and the destruction of buildings and equipment of the hospital.

After a tour of the facility to access the level of damage caused by the inferno, the SGS described the accident as a disaster and sent the condolences of the Governor, Government and people of Plateau State to the family of the deceased and prayed for the recovery of those who were injured in the accident.

The SGS commiserated with the University of Jos, particularly the Veterinary Teaching Hospital over the ugly incident which led to the destruction of critical facilities and equipment of the institution.

Prof Atu said the veterinary teaching hospital has put Plateau on the map as the best veterinary institution in the country that provides both secondary and tertiary health care services to animals and urges the institution not to lose hope of what he described as a setback though he is confident the institution will rise stronger from the ashes.

Prof Atu pledged Government’s commitment to helping the institution to rebuild and recover from the loss and at the same time called on good spirited individuals and organisations to also assist in the recovery process and also said Government will go back to the drawing board to see ways in which tragedies like these can be averted.

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jos, represented by the Liberian of the University Dr Thamaus Adigun appreciated the Governor for always associating with the University and also finding out time to commiserate with them in these trying moments, he further said the University holds his excellency in high esteem and are confident that with his support and that of the State and Federal Government alongside other development partners, the University would be able to rebuild.

The Dean Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Prof Lami Longbim took the representative of the Governor around the facility to witness first-hand the level of damage caused by the inferno, she informed the SGS of the services provided by the institution which is presently hosting a national conference for veterinarians from every State of the Federation to gain more knowledge and improve on their professional skills.

Prof Longbim then gave the representative of the Governor an insight into the level of damage as she said it is too early to quantify the level of damage caused by the inferno, she, however, mentioned some of the facilities and machines lost to the flames to include, Laboratories, the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), the Pharmacy, the director office alongside books, records and state of the art equipment which are used for veterinary practice.

The SGS later met with participants of the conference who appreciated the Governor for the show of concern and said the conference was possible because of the return of peace to the state.

9th June 2022.