GOVERNOR LALONG CONDEMNS ANOTHER ATTACK IN BASSA; DIRECTS SECURITY FORCES TO FISH OUT ATTACKERS
Governor Simon Bako Lalong of Plateau State has again expressed deep sadness over another attack in ancha village of Bassa Local Government which left many dead and properties destroyed.
Lalong said the attack which was carried out on Tuesday night is another sad tale in the unending cycle of violent attacks in the area which has continued despite several measures taken by Government.
He ordered security agencies to ensure that they fish out the attackers at all costs, as bringing such perpetrators to justice is the only way to halt the barbaric killings.
The Governor asked the GOC 3rd Armoured Division and Commander Operation Safe Haven; The Commissioner of Police; Department of State Services; Operation Rainbow and other security organs in the State to utilise intelligence available from survivors and other sources and ensure that the perpetrators of this and other attacks are apprehended and exposed.
While commiserating with the families of those killed and survivors, the Governor directed the Plateau State Emergency Management Agency and the Peace Building Agency to move in and assess the damage as well as offer immediate humanitarian interventions.
Meanwhile, the Governor has praised security forces for bursting a kidnap group and rescuing some victims in Barkin Ladi, describing the action as heart warming and a prove that criminals will not be allowed to rest in Plateau State.
He directed further investigation and arrest of the fleeing suspects to be prosecuted, promising that those found guilty will face the law, which prescribes death penalty for convicted kidnappers.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 12th January 2022
GLOBAL PEACE AND LIFE RESCUE INITIATIVE APPRECIATES MAJ GEN IBRAHIM ALI FOR HIS COMMITMENT TO THE RESTORATION OF PEACE AND SECURITY ON THE PLATEAU
Executives of the Global Peace and Life Rescue Initiative (GOPRI) to yesterday 10 Jan 21 paid a thank you visit to the GOC 3 Div/Comd OPSH Maj Gen Ibrahim Ali in appreciation of his commitment and sacrifice towards the restoration of lasting peace on the Plateau and parts of Bauchi and Kaduna States.
The team led by its Executive Director, Mr Melvin Ejeh expressed their appreciation for the commitment and sacrifice of officers and personnel under the dynamic leadership of Maj Gen IS Ali to restore peace on the Plateau. The team was particularly happy with the non-kinetic activities of the GOC towards uniting different groups in the state to embrace peace. Mr Melvin advocated for continued engagement with various groups and communities to sustain and promote understanding and peaceful co-existence. He noted that the neutrality, sincerity and professionalism demonstrated by the GOC are key factors aiding the peace process in the state.
Mr Melvin appreciated the GOC for organising the marathon race and football competition held recently in the state. He noted that the competition brought together youths from all the local governments in the Operations Area of Responsibility to compete for laurels in an atmosphere of peace. He added that the competition succeeded because it was organised with sincerity of purpose.
While expressing their readiness to continue to partner the GOC for sustainable peace, the team prayed God to grant the GOC the strength and wisdom to continue to discharge his duries.
Responding, the GOC appreciated the team for the visit. He restated his commitment in ensuring that sustainable peace and security reigns on the Plateau and parts of Bauchi and Kaduna States. The GOC further expressed his readiness to partner the group for the realisation of peace while urging the group to contribute its quota in the peace process.
GLOBAL PEACE AND LIFE RESCUE INITIATIVE APPRECIATES MAJ GEN IBRAHIM ALI FOR HIS COMMITMENT TO THE RESTORATION OF PEACE AND SECURITY ON THE PLATEAU
Executives of the Global Peace and Life Rescue Initiative (GOPRI) to yesterday 10 Jan 21 paid a thank you visit to the GOC 3 Div/Comd OPSH Maj Gen Ibrahim Ali in appreciation of his commitment and sacrifice towards the restoration of lasting peace on the Plateau and parts of Bauchi and Kaduna States.
The team led by its Executive Director, Mr Melvin Ejeh expressed their appreciation for the commitment and sacrifice of officers and personnel under the dynamic leadership of Maj Gen IS Ali to restore peace on the Plateau. The team was particularly happy with the non-kinetic activities of the GOC towards uniting different groups in the state to embrace peace. Mr Melvin advocated for continued engagement with various groups and communities to sustain and promote understanding and peaceful co-existence. He noted that the neutrality, sincerity and professionalism demonstrated by the GOC are key factors aiding the peace process in the state.
Mr Melvin appreciated the GOC for organising the marathon race and football competition held recently in the state. He noted that the competition brought together youths from all the local governments in the Operations Area of Responsibility to compete for laurels in an atmosphere of peace. He added that the competition succeeded because it was organised with sincerity of purpose.
While expressing their readiness to continue to partner the GOC for sustainable peace, the team prayed God to grant the GOC the strength and wisdom to continue to discharge his duries.
Responding, the GOC appreciated the team for the visit. He restated his commitment in ensuring that sustainable peace and security reigns on the Plateau and parts of Bauchi and Kaduna States. The GOC further expressed his readiness to partner the group for the realisation of peace while urging the group to contribute its quota in the peace process.
GOVERNOR LALONG RECEIVES KARL KUMM UNIVERSITY COUNCIL; PROMISES TO ADDRESS TAKE-OFF CHALLENGES
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has directed the Commissioner for Higher Education and the Head of Service to immediately engage all stakeholders in resolving the misunderstanding that led to the suspension of the licence of Karl Kumm University (KKU) Vom Plateau State, owned by the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN).
Governor Lalong was speaking when the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council of the University led members of the Council on a courtesy visit to Government House, Rayfield Jos.
Lalong expressed displeasure on how the new University which got operational license in 2021 could not take off due to misunderstanding with the host community over the appointment of the Registrar in line with an MOU signed with them.
He said the issue must be resolved quickly as the University which had been in incubation for over 18 years was finally given the green light to operate having fulfilled the conditions of the NUC, only to have this joy truncated.
The Governor said the State Government has restrained itself from meddling in the affairs of the private Institution with the hope that things will be sorted out quickly, but would now have to be involved based on the request of the Council and the fact that the entire State stands to loose if the University does not take off.
He said “Plateau State is known as a hub for education and we are proud of COCIN for the contribution of its educational institutions which have produced great minds in Nigeria. However, this development at the KKU does not speak well for the State and must be addressed immediately. Just last week I visited Mr. President and appealed to him to sign the Bill passed by the National Assembly to upgrade Federal College of Education Pankshin to a University of Education. While we are looking for more Universities, we have to show that we are ready to be good hosts”.
Pro-Chancellor of KKU Prof. Ochapa Onazi informed the Governor that the unfortunate incident has robbed the University of one year since the approval of its licence, explaining that the matter in question was very clear and easy to resolve as the Management of the Institution acted on truth and justice.
He said the decision not to appoint the Registrar candidate which did not go down well with the host community, is not in bad faith but in keeping with the laid down procedures of ensuring that all staff engaged meet the requirements set by the NUC.
He said “We have explained to the host community that we could not have gone ahead to appoint a candidate with deficiencies and create further problems for the new institution. We have also explained to the community the fact that there are other appointments of principal officers for the University yet to be done which we hope will consider their interest based on the MOU. However, the youths have refused to bulge despite all entreaties from us and the plea by the Dagwom Rwei, the traditional ruler of the area”.
Prof. Ochapa Onazi explained that the University prefers to embrace dialogue rather than confrontation which is why despite acts of provocation, it has maintained a peaceful posture.
Vice Chancellor of the University Prof. Nanven Audu Gambo said the intervention of the Governor will go a long way in ensuring that the University takes off immediately to avoid further waste of time and resources.
He recalled that throughout the construction of the University, the youths of the host community including the supervising architects were involved to ensure that they benefit from the institution.
The University also recieved assurances for the completion of the University Library being carried out by the Plateau State Government.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 11th January 2021.
NORTHERN GOVERNORS CONGRATULATE SOKOTO STATE GOVERNOR AT 56
The Northern Governors Forum has felicitated with the Governor of Sokoto State Rt. Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal on his 56th birthday.
Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Plateau State Simon Bako Lalong in a statement said the Forum joins Governor Tambuwal in thanking God for sustaining him and giving him the wisdom to serve his State and Nigeria at large.
Lalong said Governor Tambuwal has demonstrated great commitment towards the affairs of the Northern Governors Forum and the well being of the people of the region.
He said the Sokoto State Governor has used his wealth of experience as a lawyer, former Speaker of the House of Representatives, as well as the current Deputy Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum to proffer solutions to some of the challenges bordering the region and country.
The Forum wishes him good health, more wisdom and divine protection.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State and Chairman Northern Governor’s Forum. 10th January 2022
“PLATEAU STATE WILL VOMIT KIDNAPPERS, RITUAL KILLERS AND CRISES MERCHANTS”, GOVERNOR LALONG
Following recent cases of ritual killings suspected to be carried out by “Yahoo Boys” as well as kidnappings and other criminal activities, Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has vowed to make the State uninhabitable for criminals.
Governor Lalong was speaking at an International Church Service to mark the 2022 Armed Forces Remembrance Day and Emblem Appeal Launch held at St. Finbarrs Catholic Church, Rayfield Jos.
Lalong expressed outrage over the recent cases of ritual killings in Jos as well as kidnappings which have become a source of concern to the Government and citizens.
He said “I am deeply saddened by the activities of criminals who are trying to disrupt the peace of our State. Of much concern is the recent cases ritual killings which are suspected to be carried out by yahoo boys that security reports indicate are migrating to Plateau. Let me warn that we will make Plateau hot for you and ensure that the State vomits you. After so much work we have done to restore peace and security, we will not fold our arms to see criminals take over. I warn you to vacate Plateau because our people want to live in peace. You have no place here”.
Lalong also said that the State has stiff laws against kidnapping and other violent crimes which include death penalty, warning that anyone convicted by a Court of competent jurisdiction will not be spared.
While commending the sacrifices of fallen heroes and veterans who took part in the First and Second World Wars; the Nigerian Civil War; and Peace Support Operations around the globe, Lalong said there are still very many security challenges that the gallant men and women of the Armed forces are still laying down their lives to ensure address.
“Our Armed forces are today battling criminals who have challenged our national sovereignty through terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and many other nefarious activities that are aimed at destabilising our country and dividing the people. We must therefore use this solemn moment to commend them for rising up to the occasion and making sure this does not happen. Despite the fact that the security situation in Nigeria at the moment is not what we desire it to be, we cannot afford to dampen the morale of the gallant officers and men who put their lives on the line daily to make sure that we sleep with our eyes closed. Without giving them their due recognition and honour, we will discourage not only them, but the younger generation from making similar sacrifices” he said.
In his sermon, the Parish Priest St. Finbarrs Catholic Church Rayfield and Chaplain, Government House Chapel Rev. Fr. Godfrey Gopep said while Nigerians are celebrating the sacrifices of its fallen heroes, there is need for them to give greater honour to the deceased by living in peace with one another to stopping other standing heroes from falling. He said peace building cannot be possible without justice, forgiveness, tolerance and unity.
In their remarks, Chairman of the Nigerian Legion Plateau State, GOC 3rd Armoured Division representated by Brigadier General DD Kurmi, Gbong Gwom Jos represented by Agwom Izere HRH Rev. Isaac Wakili, CAN Chairman Plateau State representated by Pastor Elijah Akinwale all called on the people of Plateau State to embrace peace and support the Government in its efforts to restore Plateau State to its rightful place as the Home of Peace and Tourism.
They also called on Government at levels to fulfill their obligations to the families of fallen heroes and pay proper attention to the welfare of the serving officers and men in order motivate them to continue to make sacrifices for the unity, peace and progress of Nigeria.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Executive Governor, Plateau State. 9th January 2022.
Ameachi vanguard inaugurate it state exco in plateau state task them to be good ambassadors.
The dadi kowa youths centre today was agog as youths across plateau state turn out in their numbers in solidarity to Ameachi movement.
The national leader of the group Hon. Haruna Bature while inaugurating the exco task them to go round the corners of the state to mobilize and canvas A P C as supporter’s for the movement that will librate Nigeria and put it in a good shape.
Is his speech the state coordinator of the group Hon Bala Butswat appreciated the national coordinator for finding him worthy to served in that capacity, Hon Bala Butswat assured the gathering that plateau being the second home of Hon Ameachi will insure that plateau give its miximum support to Hon Ameachi.
Hon Bala Butswat also stated that the relationship between the executive governor of plateau state and Hon minister of transportation alone is enough reason why all well meaning plateau should key into this movement as plateau will be the major beneficiaries of Hon Ameachi administration.
In their separate remarks the former commissioner of works Hon Dung and Hon Emmanuel Danboyi who is also the former majority leader commended the group saying that Hon Ameachi has served in deferent capacities and is capable of taking Nigeria to a greater heights.
On her part the women leader of the APC in plateau state Hon Alice Demlong said the party is open for all and there’s need for all candidates to work hard in insuring that it deliver it Candidate to get the party tickets as tickets will be base on hard work, commitment and competency.
Hon Ameachi who was a two time speaker of Rivers State assembly, two time governor of Rivers, DG buhari campaign organization in both 2015 and 2019 general election and currently the minister of transportation.
Hon Rotimi Ameachi is the must experience politician that has served in both legislative and executive arms of government, his track records is second to none in Nigeria politics.
The Executive Governor of Plateau State, Rt Hon Simon Bako Lalong has commended Operation SAFE HAVEN for uniting youths of diverse backgrounds in its area of operation. The governor gave the commendation today 8th January 2022 during the Grand Finale of the Chief of Defence Staff Peace and Unity Marathon and Football Competition organized by Operation SAFE HAVEN in Jos.
Represented by the Secretary to the Government of Plateau State, Prof Danladi Attu, Governor Lalong noted that bringing the youths together from 24 local government areas of Plateau, Bauchi and Kaduna states is a novel idea towards promoting unity, friendship and teamwork. He maintained that the competition was an indication that sporting activities could be used to unite the youths and take them out of crime.
Governor Lalong further lauded the pragmatic approach of Operation SAFE HAVEN in deploying non-kinetic means to solving communal crises in its area of operation. He urged the participants to be agents of peace in their respective domains in order to consolidate on the efforts of the security agencies in securing citizens’ lives and property.
In their separate goodwill messages, the Governors of Kaduna and Bauchi states represented by the Commissioner (Administration) Kafanchan Municipal, Hon Phoebe Sukai Yayi and Special Adviser to Bauchi State Governor on Security, Brigadier General MJ Yake (Rtd) said the competition was capable of fostering unity and bringing permanent peace to the nation if emulated by both private and public institutions.
They commended Operation SAFE HAVEN for its commitment to national security and congratulated the youths for participating in the competition. They also urged the participants to consider a career in sports which could bring glory to the country.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, Major General Ibrahim Ali, called on all peace loving citizens to unite against the enemies of peace in the society. He urged the youths to distance themselves from activities that will destroy their future, noting that exposing bad eggs in the society is the surest way to achieving peace. He further assured that the competition would enhance robust civil/military relations of the command.
While encouraging the athletes to make good use of the opportunity provided by the competition to discover and develop their potentials towards becoming better persons in the society, General Ali called on community and religious leaders to champion the course of peace in their various domains.Also Speaking during the event, His Royal Highness the Mbra Ngwe, Rtd Rev Ronku Aka , the paramount ruler of Irigwe kingdom and the Ardo of Gashish, Ardo Idris were optimistic that the event has proved that peace has come to stay. They called on the youths to maximally support security agencies and never to harbour criminals in their communities.
Highlight of the event were presentation of trophies, medals and cash prizes to the champions, second, third and fourth positions of the football tournament as well as winners of the boys and girls categories of the marathon competition. Consolation prizes were also presented to physically challenged, oldest and youngest competitors of the tournament.
*OPERATION SAFE HAVEN COMMENDED FOR UNITING DIVERSE GROUPS FROM PLATEAU, BAUCHI AND KADUNA STATES*
The Executive Governor of Plateau State, Rt Hon Simon Bako Lalong has commended Operation SAFE HAVEN for uniting youths of diverse backgrounds in its area of operation. The governor gave the commendation today 8 January 2022 during the Grand Finale of the Chief of Defence Staff Peace and Unity Marathon and Football Competition organized by Operation SAFE HAVEN in Jos.
Represented by the Secretary to the Government of Plateau State, Prof Danladi Attu, Governor Lalong noted that bringing the youths together from 24 local government areas of Plateau, Bauchi and Kaduna states is a novel idea towards promoting unity, friendship and teamwork. He maintained that the competition was an indication that sporting activities could be used to unite the youths and take them out of crime.
Governor Lalong further lauded the pragmatic approach of Operation SAFE HAVEN in deploying non-kinetic means to solving communal crises in its area of operation. He urged the participants to be agents of peace in their respective domains in order to consolidate on the efforts of the security agencies in securing citizens’ lives and property.
In their separate goodwill messages, the Governors of Kaduna and Bauchi states represented by the Commissioner (Administration) Kafanchan Municipal, Hon Phoebe Sukai Yayi and Special Adviser to Bauchi State Governor on Security, Brigadier General MJ Yake (Rtd) said the competition was capable of fostering unity and bringing permanent peace to the nation if emulated by both private and public institutions.
They commended Operation SAFE HAVEN for its commitment to national security and congratulated the youths for participating in the competition. They also urged the participants to consider a career in sports which could bring glory to the country.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, Major General Ibrahim Ali, called on all peace loving citizens to unite against the enemies of peace in the society. He urged the youths to distance themselves from activities that will destroy their future, noting that exposing bad eggs in the society is the surest way to achieving peace. He further assured that the competition would enhance robust civil/military relations of the command.
While encouraging the athletes to make good use of the opportunity provided by the competition to discover and develop their potentials towards becoming better persons in the society, General Ali called on community and religious leaders to champion the course of peace in their various domains.
Also Speaking during the event, His Royal Highness the Mbra Ngwe, Rtd Rev Ronku Aka , the paramount ruler of Irigwe kingdom and the Ardo of Gashish, Ardo Idris were optimistic that the event has proved that peace has come to stay. They called on the youths to maximally support security agencies and never to harbour criminals in their communities.
Highlight of the event were presentation of trophies, medals and cash prizes to the champions, second, third and fourth positions of the football tournament as well as winners of the boys and girls categories of the marathon competition. Consolation prizes were also presented to physically challenged, oldest and youngest competitors of the tournament.
You are please requested to disseminate this information through your medium. Thank you for the usual cooperation.
*ISHAKU TAKWA* Major Military Information Officer OPSH 8 January 2022
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has approved the appointment of Rev. Fr. Godfrey Bunka Gopep as the new Chaplain of the Government House Chapel Jos.
Rev. Fr. Gopep who is currently the Priest in Charge, St Finbarr’s Parish, Rayfield Jos, is to fill the vacuum created after the former Chaplain, David Ajang was appointed by the Holy Father, Pope Francis as the Bishop of Lafia Diocese.
Born in 1982, Rev. Fr. Godfrey Bunka Gopep was Ordained a Catholic Priest for the Catholic Archdiocese of Jos on the 15th October 2011 at the then Holy Cross Parish Pankshin, now Holy Cross Cathedral Pankshin.
He had served as Assistant Parish Priest, St Jarlath Bukuru; Assistant Parish Priest. St John Vianney Seminary Barkin Ladi; Vice Rector, St Michael Nassarawa Gwong; Assistant Parish Priest, Church of Assumption Chong’O’pyeng; Assistant Parish Priest, Our Lady Queen of Peace Gold and Base.
The appointment is with immediate effect.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 8th January 2022.
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