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Tag: Plateau

Lawmaker Escapes Gunmen Attack In Plateau
Newly elected member representing Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Musa Agah Avia escaped an ambush by gunmen on Tuesday night.
In a statement signed by the National Secretary of Irigwe Development Association, Danjuma Dickson Auta, the lawmaker alongside his wife and children as well as his personal assistant and driver were ambushed along twin hill in Miango chiefdom of Bassa local government area of Plateau State.
Although they all escaped unhurt the car was battered with gunshot bullets as the driver against all odds bravely manoeuvred the vehicle amidst the sporadic shooting by the attackers.
The statement added that two others who were on a motorcycle and ahead of the lawmaker’s vehicle ran into the ambush and were killed by the attackers.
Security agencies are yet to react to the incident which occurred near the spot where some people were killed recently during a festival ceremony in the chiefdom.
April 20, 2022
APC Has Failed To Protect Plateau, PDP Ready To Takeover – Wike
Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike has said that the All Progressives Congress (APC) – led administration in Plateau State has failed to tackle the security crisis in the state and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is ready to take over.
Governor Wike said this on Wednesday while responding to questions from journalists within the premises of Plateau State High Court in Jos, where the fraud trial of former governor of Plateau State, Jonah Jang, was heard.
He told journalists when the court session went on break that it is obvious that the APC and the Federal Government have failed to bring to an end the needless killings in Plateau and other parts of the country.
“It is not about the Muslims, it is not about Christians. It is not about the North. It is not about the South. The killings, the insecurity, the hardship, the poverty is everywhere.
“Look at what is happening in Plateau State. Look at how innocent people are being killed daily and it also applies in other states. Christians are dying here, Muslims are dying there.
“Plateau State is ripe for Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to take over because APC has performed woefully as far as Nigeria and this state is concerned. I stand to be challenged by anybody,” he said.
Governor Wike said he has not told anyone about running for an election, but it is important that the PDP remain united.
“Every individual has to focus on how the party will be united to salvage the country and to salvage Plateau State too from APC,” he said.
He explained that his visit to Plateau State was to see to reconcile Jeremiah Useni and Jonah Jang.
He said since his visit coincided with the trial of ex-governor Jang, he felt it was appropriate to attend in solidarity.
“I think for me, this is one of those things you face after you’ve served your fatherland. As a mark of solidarity, I’m here to give him courage, to reassure him that we are behind him. We will do all we can within the ambit of the law to give him the support.”
February 10, 2022
Alleged Fraud: Wike storms Plateau court in solidarity with Ex-Gov Jang
Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, on Wednesday, stormed the Plateau State High Court sitting in Jos where a former Governor of the state, Jonah Jang is being arraigned.
Jang is standing trial alongside Yusuf Pam, an ex-cashier in the office of the Secretary to the Government of the State, on alleged N6.3bn fraud charges brought before the court by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
The two accused persons were first arraigned before Justice Daniel Longji in March 2018 on 17 counts bordering on criminal breach of trust and misappropriation of public funds but they had since pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The case is currently before Justice Christy Dabup who started hearing on the matter afresh following the retirement of Justice Longji in December 2019, after hearing the matter 34 times.
Wike, clad in a dark blue suit with a white shirt underneath, arrived the court premises at 9:50 am in company with other Peoples Democratic Party chieftains and moved straight to courtroom where the trial was already in progress.
Counsel for Jang, Mike Ozekhome (SAN), told the judge that the Rivers State Governor was in the court to witness the trial of his client.
Details later…
February 9, 2022
BREAKING: Nigeria Army arrests eight suspects over kidnap of Plateau monarch
Nigeria Army Troops of Operation Safe Haven have arrested eight suspects in connection with the kidnap of a traditional ruler in Plateau State, Charles Mato Dakat.
It has earlier been widely reported that Dakat, a Paramount ruler in Gindiri LGA, was abducted by gunmen who attacked his palace last Sunday around 1am.
He was, however, rescued in the early hours of Friday.
According to Punch, Confirming the arrest of the eight suspects in a statement on Friday shortly after the monarch regained his freedom, the Military Information Officer of Operation Safe Haven said, “While the Paramount ruler of Gindiri in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, Chief Charles Mato, has been with his abductors, the commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, Major General Ibrahim Ali, placed the troops deployed at Gyanbus on red alert and the hot trail of the perpetrators.
“Consequently, Eight suspects were arrested in connection with the kidnap incidence and are being interrogated. Following this development, the paramount ruler, early this morning of Friday 31 December 2021, was released by his abductors.”
The statement added that “Operations SAFE HAVEN is still very much on the ground to ensure all those involved in the kidnap of the traditional ruler are arrested and made to face the full wrath of the law.”
December 31, 2021
Plateau To Partner Agricultural Research Institute Of Nigeria For Enhanced Food Production
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has expressed the readiness of the State Government to partner with the Agricultural Research Institute of Nigeria (ARCN) in utilizing research findings to improve the production capacity of its farmers.
The Governor was speaking at the commissioning of an e-library, agric museum, agricultural radio and television stations as well as the foundation laying for the new administrative office for the ARCN in Abuja.
Lalong said the initiative by the Agency will go a long way in filling the gap between farmers and agricultural managers in terms of information and knowledge sharing on new farming practices, improved varieties of seeds as well as modern methods of farming using technology.
He commended the Executive Secretary of the ARCN Prof. Garba Sharubutu for his innovative approach since he assumed duties and said he was not surprised by his achievements seeing that he did a lot to make agriculture viable in Plateau State while serving as Special Adviser before his appointment by president Muhammadu Buhari.
He said with 4 Research Institutes and 2 out stations located in Plateau State, there have been so many gains which resulted in recent hosting of International Summit on potato and the flagging off of dry season wheat farming in Nigeria.
Minister of agriculture and rural development Dr. Muhammad Mahmood Abubakar said the initiatives by the ARCN are part of implementing the directives of President Buhari for Nigeria to leverage on its potentials in the agricultural sector for national development.
He challenged the Institute to push through with all the research activities and ensure that the findings are disseminated to the farmers at the grassroots for transformation in food production.
Chairman Senate Committee on Agriculture Abdullahi Adamu and Senate Deputy Chief Whip Senator Sabi Abdullahi expressed the determination of the National Assembly to ensure that the programmes and projects of the ARCN succeed because of the significance of research in every endeavour particularly agriculture.
Executive Secretary of ARCN Prof. Garba Sharubutu said the organisation under his leadership will continue to do its best to come up with quality research that goes to the field and not only end up on the shelves.
This he said was why the institute came up with the idea of the library, museum and broadcast stations to properly disseminate the outcome of research and get feedback from farmers and other members of the public.
He thanked Governor Lalong for his support and said the ARCN will not relent in partnering with the Plateau State government to boost agriculture and harness all the untapped potentials.
November 23, 2021
Adamawa, Kaduna, Plateau States Move to Join FIRS in VAT Collection Tussle Suit
Indications emerged over the weekend that Adamawa, Kaduna and Plateau states had moved to align with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) in its appeal against the judgement of a Federal High Court, which barred the agency from collecting Value Added Tax (VAT) in Rivers State. The move came few days after the Court of Appeal joined Lagos State as a respondent in the appeal.
Justice Stephen Pam, of the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt had in the judgement delivered in August held that the right to collect VAT belonged to the state and not the federal agency.
The judge, having so held, restrained the service from further collection of VAT in Rivers State and ordered the Rivers State government to assume the duty of VAT collection in Rivers State.
Consequently, FIRS proceeded to the Court of Appeal for a reversal of the Federal High Court judgement.
However, hearing in the appeal was delayed due to an application by Lagos State to be joined as a party to the suit.
But when the case will resume this week, Adamawa, Kaduna and Plateau may likely come up with their individual applications seeking to be joined as parties in the suit.
A reliable source close to the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and governors of the three states, in Abuja, yesterday confirm that they would be filing a leave of the court to be joined in the suit on Tuesday.
Although the AGF was already a defendant in the appeal, the source hinted that the Federal Ministry of Justice under the AGF had opted to be part of the appellant in the matter so as to enable it argue effectively in support of the FIRS.
The source said, “They are going to seek to be joined in the suit as co-appellants against the Federal High Court’s judgement that favours Rivers State.
“These states understand the possible consequences if the final judgrment at the Supreme Court goes against the FIRS. They are going to take the fight as if it is theirs.
“In fact, their motion papers would be ready by October 4, and will be filed on Tuesday October 5. I can confirm that one to you.”
The source also hinted that more states, including Kogi and Zamfara, were going to join the suit to form a coalition with the FIRS.
October 4, 2021
Plateau APC Set For Local Government Party Congresses, As Governor Lalong Calls For Peaceful Conduct
Governor Simon Bako Lalong has charged members of the All Progressives Congress in Plateau State to ensure they conduct peaceful, free and fair Local Government party Congresses that will sustain the unity of the party and further consolidate peace in the entire State.
Governor Lalong while addressing members of the party at a Zonal Meeting in Shendam preparatory to the Local Government Congresses scheduled for Saturday, said the party must resist any attempt by political interests and criminals to hijack the process.
He reminded the members that the path of consensus has been recommended as the best way to avoid rancour in the scheduled congresses. He advised the members to exercise patience and put aside personal ambitions for the greater good of the party and its victory.
The Governor said the party has put in place mechanisms to address grievances and also ensure that all members are rewarded for their contributions to the party.
Lalong urged the members of the APC family and other citizens of the State to be resolute in ensuring that peace is sustained throughout the State, as the Government is doing so much to ensure the protection of lives and properties.
He again commiserated with the people of the State over the recent attacks, assuring that Government is doing everything possible to forestall reoccurence and also punish perpetrators.
Zonal Chairman of the APC in Southern Zone, Mr. Paul Atsar welcomed members to the all- important meeting which is to strategise for a smooth Local Government congress. He assured the Governor that the party members in the zone have been fully mobilised for the local government congress elections.
Majority leader of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Hon. Naanlong Daniel used the meeting to call on APC members to be vigilant against those who want to politicise insecurity and promote their selfish agenda.
He vowed that all members of the APC in the House of Assembly will resist any attempt by members of the opposition to harass and distract the Governor who has done so much to restore peace to the State with clear and abundant evidence to show.
Other stakeholders also expressed confidence in the leadership of Governor Simon Lalong describing him as a great achiever who has promoted peace and carried out developmental projects across all parts of the State.
They unanimously passed a vote of confidence on his leadership and encouraged him to continue making the zone, State and nation proud.
September 4, 2021
Governor Lalong Praises Smooth Conduct Of APC Ward Congresses In Plateau
Governor Simon Bako Lalong has commended members of the All Progressives Congress in Plateau State for their peaceful conduct and maturity during the Ward Congresses of the party’s held throughout the State.
Governor Lalong who went round some wards in Jos North Local Government alongside the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Idris Wase, Minister of Women Affairs Dame Pauline Tallen, Secretary to the Government of the State Prof. Danladi Abok Atu, State Party officials and other political leaders, witnessed a peaceful exercise.
The Governor’s first point of visit was the Gangagare Ward where the elections were conducted through consensus and officials emerged by affirmation.
A similar scenario played out at the Ibrahim Katsina and Jos Jarawa Wards where the exercise also went smoothly without any rancour.
At each of the Wards, the elected party officials pledged to work hard for the unity, progress and peace of the party, making sure that it does not only win elections, but provide quality leadership for the people. They affirmed their loyalty to all hierarchy of the party and to Governor Lalong as the leader of the party in the State.
Governor Lalong in a remark said he was delighted with the reports emanating from the 17 Local Government Areas of the State where the ward congress elections were conducted peacefully.
He said the fact that most wards reached consensus to elect their leaders showed that there is maturity, tolerance and understanding amongst members of the party irrespective of the various interests prevailing.
Lalong said the exemplary conduct of the APC members is a pointer to the fact that the party remains strong and will continue to wax stronger and also maintain its dominance of the political environment in Plateau State. He said it will ensure that the fortunes of the party continue to soar higher in forthcoming elections.
Deputy Speaker House of Representatives Idris Wase praised the leadership Governor who has brought the party together by insisting on fairness, justice and inclusivity. He urged the party members to rally round and take the party to the next level.
For those that might have any grievances, the Governor assured them that in the spirit of reconciliation and harmony, their concerns will be addressed through the party’s internal mechanisms.
July 31, 2021
Plateau Embarks On Massive Revenue Drive As Governor Lalong Pays Ground Rent To Flag Off Exercise
Weeks after signing the newly passed Revenue Law and Property and Land Use Charge Law as well as the Plateau Geographic Information Systems Law, Governor Simon Bako Lalong has flagged off a high powered revenue drive with a target to raise the monthly revenue base of the State to about 3 to 5 billion monthly.
While flagging off the exercise at the Plateau State Internal Revenue Service Headquarters in Jos, the Governor Lalong said the revenue drive is aimed at changing the income of the State to pave way for funding more projects and programmes which are hampered currently because of lack of funds.
Lalong who paid the ground rent charges for his personal property, said he decided to lead by example in order to demonstrate to the citizens that nobody is above the law or will be left out in the process.
He said ” I am not asking the citizens to do as I SAY, but to do as I DO. I am not only the Governor, but also Chairman of the Plateau State Revenue Council as stipulated by law. Like the saying goes, leaders lead from the front. Having personally demonstrated this level of civic responsibility as the number one citizen of the State, it means that there is nobody that will default. All of us are subject to the law and those who run against the law will bear the consequences. I therefore expect all citizens particularly political leaders (both elected and appointed) to line up behind me and do same. The time to show leadership has come”.
The Governor said he will not intervene on behalf of any tax defaulter ” I plead with every citizen particularly the “big men” to comply because I will not entertain anyone begging me to intervene when the law catches up with you. This is not about me or anyone, but about the law. It is because I do not want to beg anybody or be embarrassed that I am paying my own today” he said.
He explained that he recently signed into law the Plateau State Revenue (Consolidation) Law; Plateau Property and Land Use Charge Law; Plateau Geographic Information Services Law amongst others aimed at giving legal backing to all revenue generating activities and improving the tax environment.
The Governor however warned against default as very soon, those wishing to access some services of the Plateau State Government shall be required to show evidence of payment of their taxes. This is very important because we cannot enjoy and claim rights and benefits without corresponding responsibility.
Executive Chairman of the PSIRS Dashe reaffirmed that the exercise which involves taxpayer sensitization; awareness creation; on-the-spot inspection of registration licenses and permits; is a continuous one that will be sustained. He called on all stakeholders to fulfill their civic responsibility of voluntarily paying all taxes, levies, fees and fines to grow our IGR.
According to him, after the period of sensitization and persuasion elapses, the Government shall begin enforcement and whoever fails to comply, will face the law.
After symbolic payment of his ground rent, the Governor and other top government officials paid visits to some business premises to sensitise them and seek their cooperation in the high powered revenue drive. These include First Bank, UBA and Onigbinde Stores all on the Ahmadu Bello Way Terminus. The organisations assured the Governor that they will do their best to ensure that the revenue drive succeeds.
July 29, 2021
Governor Lalong Harps On Integrity As Another Plateau Judge Rises To The Court Of Appeal
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has advised newly sworn in Justices of the Court of Appeal to continue to uphold justice and avoid any act that can tarnish their image and that of the Judiciary.
Governor Lalong was speaking shortly after witnessing the swearing in of Judges of the Court of Appeal at the Supreme Court Complex in Abuja.
Lalong expressed delight on the appointment and swearing in of the Justices of the Court of Appeal including a Judge of Plateau State High Court Justice Muhammad Ibrahim Sirajo.
Governor Lalong described the elevation of Justice Sirajo as well deserved because he has distinguished himself in the Judiciary over the years.
He said having risen from through the ranks to be called to serve at the second highest court in the land, Justice Sirajo sustained his profile as a firm, fair, fearless and honest Judge who has dispensed justice to all manner of people according to the law and good conscience.
Lalong also said the reform of the Judiciary will continue to demand serious engagement and action between members of the Bar and Bench as well as other Nigerians who must submit to the rule of law and democratic tenets.
The Governor advised younger lawyers to adhere to the to the ethics of the profession at all times.
June 28, 2021