TheNewsGuru

Tag: Plateau State

  • Gov Mutfwang pardons 11 inmates in Plateau

    Gov Mutfwang pardons 11 inmates in Plateau

    Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has ordered the release of 11 inmates in the various correctional centres in the state. Mutfwang disclosed this in a New Year State Broadcast on Wednesday in Jos.

    The governor said that the gesture was in line with the constitutional powers conferred on him and recommendations of the Plateau State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy.

    “In exercise of the powers conferred on me under Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended and in consultation with the State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy, hereby exercise my power of Prerogative of Mercy on 11 inmates

    “While one of the inmates was granted absolute pardon, 10 others had Thier finest paid by the government,”he said.

    The governor said the beneficiaries were remorseful over the crimes committed, hence the recommendation by the Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy.

  • Plateau community denies claims of attacks on herders

    Plateau community denies claims of attacks on herders

    The Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM), Heipang community in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau, has denied media reports that some herders were attacked within the community.

    Mr Christopher Mwankon, the Chairman of BYM in the community, denied the report in a statement on Thursday in Jos.

    There were claims in some media organisations that suspected gunmen on Wednesday attacked some herders in Heipang and made away with their cattle.

    Mwankon, who acknowledged that some herders were attacked in Wereng in Riyom LGA, described the media report as malicious, mischievous and misleading.

    “We wish to categorically assert that the location of the said attack was not within the borders of Heipang community, but in Wereng, Riyom LGA.

    “This fact was established and affirmed yesterday by our youth leaders, the administrative officer, and the Sector Commander of Sector Four of Operation Safe Haven (OpSH).

    “We wish to point out that the report is misleading, mischievous, and a deliberate attempt to tarnish the image and reputation of the peace-loving and law-abiding residents of Heipang community,” he said.

    Mwankon explained that it was clear that the author of the report, the medium and the source were merely fanning the embers of violence in Heipang community.

    According to him, the action is unprofessional and a calculated ploy by crisis merchants to truncate the relative peace currently enjoyed in the state.

    “We dissociate ourselves and our community from such malicious insinuations and strongly urge the media organisation to immediately correct, retract and expunge the name of our community from this misleading and defamatory report,” he called.

    Mwankon also called on the security agencies to urgently investigate and arrest the perpetrators of criminal acts and bring them to justice.

  • Plateau killings: Troops arrest 20 suspects

    Plateau killings: Troops arrest 20 suspects

    Troops of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), have arrested 20 suspects in connection with the killings in Tingbwa Gidan Ado community of Riyom Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau.

    Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, the Commander of OPSH disclosed this at the Christmas luncheon organised for troops of OPSH and 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, on Thursday in Jos.

    Recall that gunmen on Dec. 22, attacked the community and killed 15 persons.

    Abdulsalam, who is also the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 division, said its troops had also recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition.

    “Following hours of sustained night operations, we have apprehended 20 suspects directly and indirectly involved in the last attack on Tingbwa Gidan Ado village in Riyom LGA on Dec. 22.

    “We have also recovered a cache of arms and ammunition which has greatly starved criminal elements of the freedom of action to carry out their nefarious activities.

    “Let the spirit of Christmas renew our commitment to the values we hold dear; let it inspire us to serve with even greater passion and determination,”he said.

    The commander thanked troops of OPSH and 3 division for their sacrifices toward ensuring the peace currently being enjoyed in the state.

    “On this special day, I acknowledge and applaud the sacrifices you have made; many of you are far away from home unable to celebrate Christmas and the yuletide season with family and loved ones.

    “While others enjoy the warmth of family and comfort of home, you endure the realities of duty. Your courage and resilience would never go unnoticed as they embody the highest form of sacrifice.

    “However, I charge you all to remain disciplined, loyal, vigilant and professional in your conduct this season and always,” he urged.

    Abdulsalam thanked Gen. Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and Lt.-Gen. Olufumi Oloyede, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), for their leadership and strategic guidance which have helped troops to record numerous operational successes using both kinetic and non-kinetic measures.

  • Why there is water crisis in Plateau – Gov Mutfwang

    Why there is water crisis in Plateau – Gov Mutfwang

    Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has said the perennial water crisis in the State is a result of human sabotage.

    Mutfwang expressed this concern during an interface with stakeholders within the state’s Water and Sanitation sub-sector, on Tuesday in Jos.

    The governor expressed worry that in spite of the huge investments in the water sector, including by past administrations, the resource had remained the most scarce commodity in Plateau.

    “We say water is life, but unfortunately, if there’s any crises we have in any sector in this state, it is the water sector. Even here in the Government House, we are struggling to have water.

    “And I know that many communities are languishing in lack of water. It is quite frustrating when you need water and it’s not available.

    “If there’s any state where it will be cheap to drill bore holes, perhaps it is the Plateau, and yet, for all these years of investments, we are still battling with lack of water.

    “I have called you here because I want you to know my passion for this matter, I want you to know that I am not going to accept failure in this sector.

    “We must do all we can. We will look for money by the grace of God to pump into the sector. But we must get value for that money, ” he said.

    The governor maintained that with the formidable structure in the state’s water and sanitation sector, there was no reason for citizens to languish in lack of water and also poor sanitary conditions

    He charged technocrats within the sector to acquaint themselves with contemporary skills for the improvement and advancement of the sector.

    Speaking at the event, Mr Bashir Datti, Commissioner for Water Resources and Energy, tasked the stakeholders on collaborative efforts to boost the sector.

    Datti urged all parties to join hands, in line with the governor’s vision for peace, progress, and prosperity, to ensure that the sector was not lagging behind.

    “We recognise the vital role water plays in sustaining our communities, driving economic growth, and protecting public health.

    “Today, we are reminded of the importance of collaboration and innovative solutions in addressing the challenges facing our water sector. Clean water is a crucial component of the governor’s vision.

    ”We must work together, leveraging on our collective expertise, to ensure that the State’s water sector is managed in a way that benefits all citizens and supports the overall growth and prosperity of the state,” the commissioner said.

  • Police, Gov Mutfwang dismiss rumours of bomb explosion in Jos

    Police, Gov Mutfwang dismiss rumours of bomb explosion in Jos

    Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has dismissed rumours of an explosion around the old Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) site, near the  Terminus Market in Jos North Local Government Area.

    This is contained in a statement by Mr Gyang Bere, the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the governor on Tuesday in Jos. It was earlier reported that an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) exploded at the old JUTH by the Terminus Market.

    The governor described the alarm as false, triggered by a group of individuals who misinterpreted a heap of polythene bags as a potential threat. He said the false alarm sent fear and panic among citizens in the area.

    Mutfwang said that security agencies, including the anti-bomb squad from the Police Command in Plateau responded swiftly, conducted a search operation at the scene and cordoned it.

    “After an exhaustive inspection, no evidence of any explosive device was found,” he said.

    The governor urged Plateau citizens to remain vigilant and act as responsible ambassadors of the state, upholding its reputation and rich heritage.

    He reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring an enduring security across the state, and to work tirelessly to restore peace and stability in the area.

    Mutfwang called on the people to channel their efforts in supporting the government’s mission for a sustainable peace and prosperity.

    He encouraged residents, especially those near the terminus market to continue their daily activities without fear. The governor urged them to promptly report any suspicious occurrences to security personnel for quick action.

    Police dismiss rumour of bomb explosion in Jos

    Similarly, the Police Command in Plateau has dismissed rumour of a bomb explosion on Murtala Way, near JosTerminus, in Jos North Local Government of the state.

    Mr Alfred Alabo, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) said this in a statement on Tuesday in Jos.

    Alabo said that the command had on Tuesday morning received report that an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) was allegedly planted around Murtala Way, Jos.

    “At exactly 8:20 a.m., we received a report of a shallow dug hole suspected to be planted with an IED at Murtala Way beside the old site of the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH).

    “The rumour created panic among the residents of the state. Upon receipt of the information, the Commissioner of Police, Mr Emmanuel Adesina, immediately mobilised the Anti-Bomb Squad to the scene to assess the situation and take necessary actions.

    “On reaching the scene, the area was immediately cordoned and our team began examination and the hole was found to be safe and free of any explosive devices,”he said.

    Alabo, who said that the commissioner of police also visited scene, thanked residents of Plateau for conducting themselves peacefully, cooperating with its men and being security conscious amid the rumour.

    He called on the residents to go about their usual businesses and other activities without fear, insisting that the area was safe.

  • Collapsed mining site kills 13 in Plateau

    Collapsed mining site kills 13 in Plateau

    No fewer than 13 persons have been killed in a collapsed mining site in Bassa Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau. Dr Joshua Riti, the Chairman of the LGA, confirmed this to newsmen on Monday in Jos.

    Riti, who expressed sadness over the number of deaths recorded, said that the incident occurred last Saturday.

    The collapsed mining site is located at the boundaries between Bassa, Jos South and Jos North LGAs. Riti said seven of the deceased hailed from Bassa LGA.

    “This is an unfortunate incident, these young people were only out in search of a means of livelihood.

    “They went out to put their energies to good use to sustain and meet up with the current economic hardship in the country but met their untimely death.

    “I wish to extend my deepest condolences to the families and loved ones affected by this tragedy,” he said.

    Most of the deceased were youths between 18 and 30 years old.

  • Plateau: Newly elected local government Chairmen sworn in

    Plateau: Newly elected local government Chairmen sworn in

    Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has sworn-in the newly elected chairmen of 15 out of the 17 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the State. The event held on Thursday in Jos.

    Recall that the State’s Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) on Saturday conducted elections across all the LGAs of the state. Chairman of PLASIEC, Mr Planji Cishak, had announced the results of 15 out of the 17 LGAs. The chairman said that the pending results would be announced in due course.

    Speaking at the event, Mutfwang, who congratulated the newly elected chairmen, said that they emerged through a transparent and credible process.

    The Governor, who commended PLASIEC for conducting a free and fair exercise, added that the votes of the people counted.

    ”Today I’m very proud to inaugurate these chairmen with good conscience; they are the first of chairmen coming under local government autonomy.

    ”I’m a strong advocate and supporter of local government autonomy, so, I’m committed to ensuring that the local government system becomes stronger and very effective. I welcome you on board to join me in giving the Plateau people quality leadership,” he said.

    The Governor, who promised to support the chairmen to succeed toward bringing good governance to the rural people, however, charged them to be accountable and transparent.

  • Devastating flood destroys houses, farmlands in Plateau State

    Devastating flood destroys houses, farmlands in Plateau State

    A devastating flood in Langtang South Local Government Area of Plateau State has destroyed 80 houses and farmlands, displacing thousands of persons and leaving them without belongings.

    The flood, which occurred between Friday and Sunday, fortunately, did not claim any lives.

    Mr Yintim Nimilam, Secretary of Sabon Gida Community Development Association, described the incident as unfortunate, highlighting the displacement of over 80 households.

    “The displaced persons are currently seeking shelter with neighbors, friends, and relatives”

    Another resident, Mr Nandul Solomon, expressed the community’s distress, calling for urgent government intervention to alleviate their suffering.

    “We are appealing to the government and relevant authorities to come to our rescue,” he urged.

  • Gov Mutfwang recalls suspended commissioners, others

    Gov Mutfwang recalls suspended commissioners, others

    Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has recalled two commissioners, a special adviser, and a liaison officer earlier suspended after nearly two months.

    Mr Gyang Bere, the Director of Press and Public Affairs (DOPPA) to the governor, announced the recall in a statement in Jos.

    Recall the Governor had on August 21, suspended Mr Chrysanthus Dawam, the commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning and Mrs Jamila Tukur, the Commissioner for Tourism, Culture, and Hospitality.

    Others suspended were Mr Dio Lamul, Special Adviser to the governor on Rural Development and Mr Moses Sule, the Liaison Officer for Mikang constituency.

    No reason was given for the suspension.

    Bere explained that the recall of affected officials followed a thorough review and significant improvement in hheir conducts.

    The DOPPA said that the recalled officials have been reinstated in their various positions.

  • Gov Mutfwang denies plans to join APC

    Gov Mutfwang denies plans to join APC

    Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has denied the rumours circulating in the social media which claim that he is planning to dump the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    The Governor denied the rumour in a statement by Mr Gyang Bere, his Director of Press and Public Affairs (DOPPA), issued on Friday in Jos.

    There had been a flex banner with the picture of the governor being circulated in the social media, suggesting his defection to the APC. One of the banners is also mounted in a strategic location in Benin City, Edo.

    The governor said that the move was the handiwork of his political detractors and mischief makers aimed at breeding acrimony between him and the leadership of PDP.

    ”While this baseless rumour does not warrant a formal response, it has become necessary to dispel any misconceptions that may mislead the public and tarnish my integrity.

    ”I remain a committed member of the PDP and firmly uphold the values of the party and trust placed on me by the people of Plateau.

    ”The rumour that I’m contemplating leaving the PDP for the APC is entirely false. This fabricated story is the work of those who do not wish Plateau well.

    ”I wish to call on the public to dismiss the rumour and refrain from sharing the false information,” Mutfwang said.