Plateau Reporters

THE POLITICAL CATALYST OF BELNING WARD,BLESSING AMOS CONDOLE WITH THE KOR ROYAL FAMILY

By Plateau Reporters, Jos

*CONDOLENCE MESSAGE ON THE PASSING OF HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS, NDE SOLOMON B. SEKAT*

With a heart filled with sorrow but submission to the will of God, I, *Blessing Amos*, extend my deepest condolences to His Excellency, Hon. Felix Gonung the executive chairman of Pankshin LGA, the family, the Belning Ward, the entire people of Pankshin Local Government Area, and the great Ngas Nation over the passing of our highly esteemed royal father, **His Royal Highness, Nde Solomon B. Sekat.*

His departure is a great loss, not only to his immediate family and community but to the entire Ngas Land and Plateau State at large. His reign was marked by wisdom, peace, and total commitment to the development and unity of his people. He was a father to all, a bridge between generations, and a leader whose dedication to justice and fairness earned him the love and respect of many.

His Royal Highness, Nde Solomon B. Sekat, was a custodian of our rich cultural heritage, a beacon of hope for his people, and a true patriot whose leadership brought progress and harmony. His wise counsel, humility, and deep love for his people will be greatly missed. The void he leaves behind will be difficult to fill, but his legacy of selfless service and commitment to the well-being of his people will continue to inspire us.

In this moment of grief, I pray that God grants his family the strength to bear this great loss and gives the entire Pankshin LGA and Ngas Land the fortitude to move forward, holding onto the values he so dearly upheld. May his soul rest in perfect peace.

*Blessing Amos*
The political Catalyst of Belning Ward

NGOLONG KOR,GUNG DISTRICT, PANKSHIN LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA,HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS NDE SOLOMON B SEKAT DIES AT 100

By Plateau Reporters, Jos

HRH Nde Solomon B. Sekat, the 9th Ngolong Kor,Headquarters of GUNG DISTRICT,Pankshin Local Government Area has died at the age of 100 years.

Prince Rotdunna Sekat, the son of the late Monarch, in an official statement released on Monday, said their patriarch, who was admitted in the Hospital before his demise, died on Saturday 25/1/2025 in a private Hospital in Jos.

He was 100 years of age and 51 years on throne as Ngolong Kor.

“My father was a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights, and unselfish love.

“My brothers, sisters, and I shared him with the rest of the family and Kor Community through these common beliefs.

“The Kor as a community is our family because of the way he brought people together, and we thank you for honoring his memory by continuing to live these shared beliefs,” Prince Rotdunna Sekat said.

The late Ngolong Kor, was a minner,trader and a farmer before ascending his father’s throne as Ngolong Kor in 1974 after his elder brother, Nde Fwatkum D. Sekat who served as Ngolong Kor from 1960-1974 abandoned the throne for his trading business.

Under his reign as Ngolong Kor, Nde Solomon B. Sekat led Kor Community to construct Kor – Pankshin Road,organizes the first Pus Kang Kor, and he lobbied and attracted the construction of LGEA Primary School, and a PHC Clinic.
Under his reign, Government Secondary School Kor was established.

My father’s departure is a great loss, not only to us the immediate family and community but to the entire Pankshin and the Ngas Land at large. His reign was marked by wisdom, peace, and total commitment to the development and unity of his people. He was a father to all, a bridge between generations, and a leader whose dedication to justice and fairness earned him the love and respect of many.

My father was a custodian of our rich cultural heritage, a beacon of hope for his people, and a true patriot whose leadership brought progress and harmony.

His wise counsel, humility, and deep love for his people will be greatly missed. The void he leaves behind will be difficult to fill, but his legacy of selfless service and commitment to the well-being of his people will continue to inspire us.

My father had decided against “additional medical intervention” following a series of brief hospital visits, Prince Rotdunna Sekat said in a statement.
His Royal Highness will be laid to rest this February as preparation for his burial is in top gear.

May his Soul Rest In Peace with the Lord Amen.

GOVERNOR OKPEBHOLO SIGNS SECRET CULT PROHIBITION BILL INTO LAW, APPROVES 21 YEARS JAIL TERM FOR CULTISTS,SPONSORS

By Plateau Reporters, Jos

Edo Governor Monday Okpebholo has signed the secret cult prohibition bill into law, approving 21-year jail term for cultists and their sponsors.

The Secretary to Edo State Government (SSG), Umar Ikhilor, in a statement, explained that the previous law had been repealed to impose harsher punishments on cultists and their sponsors.

Ikhilor urged the public to take heed and avoid actions that were detrimental to the peace, growth and development of Edo state.

He said: “It is hereby announced for the information of the public that the Edo State Secret Cult (Prohibition Law) 2018 has been repealed by the Edo State House of Assembly.

“By virtue of the repeal, the Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2025, has been passed by the Edo State House of Assembly, and signed into law by the Governor of the State, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, effective from 24 January, 2025.

GOVERNOR MUTFWANG SACKS AND REPLACES FIVE COMMISSIONERS

By Plateau Reporters, Jos

Names of Sacked Commissioners:
1. Commissioner for Budget Chrysanthus Dawam Quan Pan

2.Commissioner for youths and Sports Noel Nkup ..Shendam

3. Commissioner for Tourism Jamila Tukur …Quan Pan
4. Commissioner for Science and Technology Obed Goselle.. Langtang South
5. Commissioner for Commerce..Bassa
Names of Replacement

1. Joy Ramnap former Deputy Speaker PLHA
2. Dr Sunday Alex..Bassa
3. Slyvanus Dongtoe Quan Pan
4. Dr Nicolas Bamnong..Quan Pan
5. Cornelius Doeyok ..Quan Pan

MAJ. GEN. OYINLOLA ASSUMES COMMAND AS GOC 3 DIVISION, PLEDGES TO END PLATEAU’S CYCLE OF VIOLENCE

By Plateau Reporters, Jos

Maj. Gen. Eyitayo Oyinlola has officially assumed duty as the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, and Commander of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH).

Oyinlola took over from Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, who has been posted to the National Defence College, Abuja. The handing-over ceremony took place on Thursday, starting from the 3 Division Headquarters, Maxwell khobe Cantonment in Rukuba, Baracks and then later concluded at the Headquarters of Operation Safe in Jos Plateau, where Oyinlola expressed his gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for entrusting him with the role.

“I am honored to take up this responsibility and pledge to sustain the achievements of my predecessor while working tirelessly to ensure lasting peace in Plateau and other areas under our jurisdiction,” Oyinlola stated.

He assured officers and soldiers of his commitment to collaboration, stressing that peace and stability in the region are paramount. Oyinlola also emphasized the need to break the cycle of violence in Plateau State, stating, “Life is not meant to be chaotic. We must double our efforts to eradicate criminality and ensure that communities can coexist peacefully.”

In his remarks, the outgoing GOC, Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, commended the officers and troops for their dedication and support during his tenure. He urged them to extend the same level of cooperation to Oyinlola.

Abubakar described the security situation in Plateau as complex, requiring both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches. “The security dynamics here are unique. Mediating in conflicts between communities, particularly herders and farmers, has been a critical part of our operations. I am confident that Maj.-Gen. Oyinlola has the expertise to handle these challenges effectively,” Abubakar noted.

While thanking the Chief of Army Staff for the Support he further lauded the troops for their efforts in maintaining a crisis-free yuletide season during his tenure and charged them to remain resolute in their duties. Abubakar also thanked the government and people of Plateau for their cooperation and urged them to support his successor.

Speaking at the OPSH Headquarters in Jos during the handover ceremony, Oyinlola reaffirmed his determination to achieve total peace in Plateau and other operational areas. “The cycle of violence must end. It is unacceptable for communities to continue living in fear. We will intensify efforts to restore normalcy,” he said.

He emphasized discipline as a core value and promised to prioritize the welfare of troops to ensure optimal performance. “Discipline will be encouraged, and indiscipline will be appropriately sanctioned. Together, we can bring lasting peace to Plateau State,” Oyinlola added.

The ceremony marked a new chapter for the 3 Division and OPSH, with high expectations for the continuation of efforts to restore peace and stability in the region.

PLATEAU STATE UNIVERSITY BOOSTS AGRICULTURAL PROGRAM WITH TRACTOR DONATION

By Plateau Reporters, Jos

Plateau State University has received a tractor donation from the State Government, strengthening its commitment to expanding agricultural training and production programs. Vice Chancellor Professor Shedrack Best commended Governor Caleb Mutfwang for the donation, which aims to enhance the university’s agricultural capabilities.

The tractor donation is part of the Governor’s agricultural transformation plan, specifically the Agro Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscape Project. The initiative seeks to improve agricultural training and production across the state. Governor Mutfwang on January 20 expressed his administration’s commitment to mechanize agriculture in Plateau State, lamenting only 0.05% is currently mechanized.

“We aim to take away the hoes and cutlasses and bring technology to meet the food needs of Plateau State,” said Governor Mutfwang, represented by Samson Bugama, the State’s Commissioner of Agriculture. The Governor announced plans to acquire more tractors, power tillers, and establish state plantations to encourage youths in agriculture.

“Last year, we cultivated 6,000 hectares but this year we’re looking at cultivating 15,000 hectares for vulnerable communities, schools in particular. So one of the things His Excellency has asked us to do is to go around secondary schools and cultivate their land just so we can build interest in agriculture,” the Governor said.

“But the first thing we need to do is strengthen the institutions that help our young people to learn agriculture and takeaway the drudgery that comes with agriculture,” he said.

The university was among five institutions to receive tractors donated by the World Bank. Despite receiving only one unit, the university’s excitement was palpable. Vice Chancellor Best highlighted the university’s agricultural resources, including a dam, the Agricultural Services and Training Corporation (ASTC), and vast land.

“Our young students will be excited to see these machines. They will use it for learning. It will motivate them and there are other agricultural resources around us,” said Prof. Best.

“We are a rural university and we are located at the hub of agriculture. A lot of farming activity takes place there,” Professor Best said.

“So whether it is in research or in actual tillage of land or in animal husbandry, in all the areas, when we bring our faculty of Agriculture which is young and ambitious and growing into place, we believe that we have a lot to contribute including to other agencies who have benefited today from this gesture,” Professor Best stated.

Masara Kim
Acting Public Relations Officer
Plateau State University, Bokkos

NATIONAL OPPOSITION MOVEMENT LAUNCHES IN RIVERS,CALLS FOR LEADERSHIP REAWAKENING

In a bid to tackle Nigeria’s pressing democratic challenges and foster grassroots participation in leadership selection, Otunba Segun Showunmi, the convener of the National Opposition Movement Coalition, “The Alternative,” has unveiled the movement in the South-South region. The unveiling took place during a regional town hall meeting held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Thursday, January 16, 2025.

Addressing an audience comprising political leaders, elder statesmen, women leaders, youth groups, and advocacy organizations, Showunmi emphasized the urgency of reorienting democracy in Nigeria. He called on citizens to unite in deciding the future of the nation, urging them to actively engage in political processes and hold leaders accountable.

“The best among us must step forward to lead the rest of us,” Showunmi declared, stressing the need for visionary and capable leadership. He highlighted the importance of fostering an inclusive dialogue, where diverse viewpoints are encouraged without descending into chaos or undermining the nation’s unity.

“We can’t be a nation that interprets opposition responsibility to mean encouraging chaos or demarcating the country,” he stated. Instead, he called for a constructive opposition that offers viable alternatives to governance while working to address the nation’s challenges, including economic struggles and political instability.

Showunmi expressed concerns about the diminishing role of civic responsibility among Nigerians, urging citizens to remain committed to democratic principles. He underscored the importance of identifying quality leaders not only at the presidential level but also in the legislative arm, emphasizing that a functional Senate and House of Representatives are vital for good governance.

“Our focus should be on what kind of leaders we want, who we need, and how to inspire citizens to participate actively in democracy,” he said. He also called for reforms within political parties, advocating for inclusivity and transparency in party primaries.

Veteran actress and Rivers State Labour Party Chairman, Hilda Dokubo, echoed Showunmi’s sentiments, urging citizens to focus on grassroots issues. “Rivers State is in our hands; it is what we choose. Let no one distract us,” she said. Dokubo also highlighted the region’s economic contributions and the need for equitable distribution of resources.

Hon. Bright Ngola, National Coordinator of the Niger Delta Right Advocate, emphasized the role of a strong opposition in providing checks and balances. “Without a quality opposition, the same issues will persist even after the 2027 elections,” he warned, urging for a reawakening to end the cycle of suffering.

Chief Solsuema Osaro, Rivers State chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), called for harmony among opposition parties. He emphasized the need for ideological unity to inspire confidence among Nigerians and create a robust opposition capable of challenging the status quo.

Other political party chairmen who where present at the townhall meeting including, Hon Ben Ogbobula of Zenith Labour Patty, Hon Jim Jaja of NRM and Hon Godson of NNPP, also echoed Showunmi’s call for a strong opposition. A recurring theme at the meeting was the need for greater inclusion of women in politics. Participants criticized the limited roles assigned to women in political parties and called for reforms to increase their participation in decision-making processes. “How can women excel as CEOs of banks but be sidelined in political leadership?” one speaker questioned.

The South-South town hall meeting is part of a nationwide series of regional gatherings under the banner of “The Alternative.” Previous meetings have been held in Abuja, Plateau, Bauchi, and Kano, with plans to expand to other regions. The goal, according to Showunmi, is to create a national paradigm shift in democratic conversations.

“This is not just about politics; it’s about reawakening our consciousness for the common good of Nigerian citizens,” he stated. The movement seeks to empower citizens to take ownership of the political process, emphasizing the need for unity, transparency, and a collective vision for the nation’s future.

As the conversation continues, Showunmi urged Nigerians to prioritize competence and integrity in leadership selection. He noted that while 2027 may seem distant, the groundwork for meaningful change must begin now. “The earlier we start searching for the character that will lead us, the better,” he said.

The event concluded with a commitment from participants to work together in building a strong, unified opposition capable of offering Nigerians credible alternatives in governance. With the South-South region now onboard, “The Alternative” movement continues its march toward reimagining democracy in Nigeria.

PLATEAU: POLITICAL PANIC TAKES OVER,AS STATE GOVERNMENT CALLS FOR MEMORANDUM ON GOVERNMENT PROPERTIES

By: Amb. Valentine Adese (JP),

Following the inauguration of the Plateau State Task Force on the Recovery of Government Properties by the Plateau State Governor, His Excellency, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, the Task Force has published a request, calling for the submission of memoranda from the general public, covering its Terms of Reference.

With the publication made public, political panic and fear of the unknown have taken over the state’s political space, as many are seen discussing the possible outcomes in groups.

The tension concerning the future steps of the Task Force is more observed by REALITY within the Jos-Bukuru Metropolis, where the old government house and administrative structures were situated.
The tension also extends to non-politicians who may have erected structures on government lands within Jos-North, Bassa and Jos-South Local Government Areas (LGAs). You would recall that the recovery of Plateau State Government Properties also extends to movable items.

For the records, the Task Force is mandated to operate under the following Terms of Reference:

1. Identify all government properties, their locations, and current occupants.
2. Trace and recover all government properties that have been illegally occupied, encroached upon, or misused.
3. Determine the duration of occupancy and whether renovations have been made during this period.
4. Reclaim government land and properties that are illegally occupied, encroached upon, or misused.
5. Document instances of illegal occupation, encroachment, and misuse.
6. Collaborate with relevant government agencies, law enforcement, and stakeholders to recover properties and prosecute those involved.
7. Explore funding sources, allocate budgets, and ensure financial sustainability for the recovery process.
8. Identify housing demands and propose policies or solutions for affordable housing.
9. Provide any other recommendations that will assist the government in achieving its objectives.

In the Task Force’s publication requesting for Memoranda from the general public, TAGGED: “REQUEST FOR MEMORANDA FROM THE GENERAL PUBLIC”, signed by Zachariah Sunday Diwong, for the Chairman, Task Force on Recovery of Plateau State Government Properties, “the general public is invited to provide useful information to assist the Task Force in fulfilling its mandate”.

According to the publication, “All memoranda should be in copies and addressed to “The Chairman, Task Force on Recovery of Government Property, Old Government House, Rayfield, Jos”
It also added that, “Submissions can also be made through: Email: pltaskforce.recovery@gmail.com, Social-Media: @TaskForceOnRecovery, while noting that, “all information provided will be treated as classified and confidential”.

PLATEAU STATE UNIVERSITY UNVEILS STATE-OF-THE-ART STUDY FACILITIES FOR FEMALE STUDENTS

By Plateau Reporters, Jos

Thousands of female students residing on campus at Plateau State University, Bokkos, can now study with ease and convenience, thanks to the installation of cutting-edge facilities in study halls within the female hostels.

The upgraded furnishings are the latest enhancements to three hostels, generously donated by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND).

On January 15, Dr. Felix Masok, Dean of Student Affairs, officially commissioned the first of of multiple upgraded, fully furnished study halls. He was accompanied by student union officials.

Dr. Masok reaffirmed the university’s dedication to providing a secure and conducive learning environment, and urged the students to safeguard the facilities.

Student union officials expressed their heartfelt gratitude to both the university management and TETFUND for prioritizing their needs, promising to make optimal use of the facilities.

Masara Kim
Acting Public Relations Officer
Plateau State University, Bokkos

PLASU GETS NUC APPROVAL FOR NEW ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

By Plateau Reporters, Jos

Plateau State University Bokkos (PLASU) has secured approval from regulatory authorities to launch six new academic programs, marking a significant milestone in the university’s effort at expanding its academic offerings.

The new programs include degrees in Medical Sciences (MBBS), Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharm D.), Statistics (B.Sc.) and Religious Studies (B.A); as well as the endorsement of professional bodies for its programs in Law and Nursing Sciences. The development was announced by the Acting Vice Chancellor/Chairman of the university’s senate, Professor Shedrack Gaya Best during the 92nd Regular meeting of Senate on January 10, 2025.

Prof. Best credited the achievement to the unwavering support and commitment of the State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang to the university’s progress.

“The result is that now we have gotten approval from the National Universities Commission (NUC) for all of these programs,” announced Prof. Best.

The NUC gave PLASU the green light to proceed with these programs, following resource verification visits to assess the university’s preparedness last year.

Additionally, the Council of Legal Education and Nursing Council have formally approved the newly established Law and Nursing Science programs respectively.

Prof. Best expressed gratitude to the regulatory authorities for supporting the state government’s efforts to promote learning at PLASU. He also pledged the management’s commitment to staff welfare for optimal productivity.

“The stability of the academic calendar depends on the quality of academic relationships within the university,” Prof. Best acknowledged.

“As long as it is within the purview of the university and the management, there is nothing of a welfare nature that belongs to any union that this management is sitting on.”

Prof. Best appealed for patience over delays in implementing the new national minimum wage for staff of the university.

“I know that the way to stay in peace with people is to give them what is due to them. That is the principle of management. But some things are of a process nature,” said the Acting VC and Senate Chairman.

“The minimum wage involves a process. It has commenced for civil servants, but the university is outside the civil service system. However, we are doing our best negotiating with officials at the state level,” he said.

In other developments, the senate received reports on the resumption of academic activities after the Christmas and New Year breaks.

Efforts to improve campus security are also underway, including the issuance of ID cards and approval of access to hostel accommodation for appropriate categories of students.

As PLASU continues to expand its academic offerings, it remains committed to providing quality education and promoting a safe and secure learning environment.

Masara Kim
Acting Public Relations Officer
Plateau State University Bokkos
January 13, 2025