Doeyok's Legislative Vision: Pension Reform, Meritocracy and Tourism as Pillars for 2027

( WALBE OGAK)

As political activities gather momentum ahead of Nigeria's 2027 general elections, aspirants are beginning to define the issues they intend to champion if elected. Speaking on the sidelines of the World Social Media Day celebration organised by the Bloggers Association of Plateau State at the Usiju World Event Centre in Jos, former Plateau State Commissioner for Tourism and Hospitality and the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the Qua'an-Pan South State House of Assembly, Hon. Cornelius Doeyok, outlined a legislative agenda anchored on social media regulation, pension reform, merit-based leadership and economic development through tourism and the creative industries.

Doeyok said the rapid expansion of social media has transformed the way people access information but has also encouraged the spread of fake news, misinformation and unverified reports. He argued that while digital platforms remain valuable tools for communication, they require regulatory measures that promote accountability, authenticity and responsible journalism.

According to him, regulating social media should not be viewed as censorship but as a necessary step towards restoring public confidence in online information and ensuring that digital platforms continue to educate, inform and entertain responsibly.

Beyond digital governance, Doeyok called on the electorate to prioritise competence, integrity and credibility when choosing leaders. He argued that merit rather than political patronage should determine who occupies public office and stressed that effective lawmaking remains one of the strongest instruments for driving sustainable development.

Pension reform also featured prominently in his policy proposals. He lamented the bureaucratic hurdles, repeated verification exercises and unnecessary hardship many retirees face in accessing their pensions, describing the situation as unjust for citizens who had served the nation faithfully.

He pledged to sponsor legislation that would simplify pension administration, eliminate unnecessary delays and guarantee retirees timely access to their benefits with dignity.

Drawing on his experience as former Commissioner for Tourism and Hospitality, Doeyok identified Plateau State's tourism, cultural heritage and creative industries as underutilised sectors capable of creating jobs, attracting investment and boosting internally generated revenue.

He maintained that with the right legislative support, strategic investments and private sector collaboration, Plateau State could become a leading tourism destination while providing new opportunities for young people through the creative economy.

As campaigns gradually build towards the 2027 elections, Doeyok's policy agenda presents a vision that links governance reforms with economic diversification. Whether these proposals resonate with voters in Qua'an-Pan South will become clearer in the months ahead, but his focus on pension reform, responsible digital engagement, merit-based leadership and tourism-driven development signals the priorities he hopes to advance in the Plateau State House of Assembly if elected.

JDPC Strengthens Peace Clubs in Adamawa Schools, Trains 735 Students

(By WALBE OGAK)

In a renewed effort to promote peace and peaceful coexistence among young people, the Justice, Development and Peace Commission (JDPC), with the support of the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC), has strengthened Peace Clubs in selected secondary schools across Adamawa State, training no fewer than 735 students in peacebuilding and conflict resolution.

The initiative, which drew participants from all 21 Local Government Areas of the state, is part of JDPC's broader commitment to nurturing a culture of dialogue, tolerance, and non-violence among the younger generation.

During the training, students were equipped with practical knowledge and skills in peacebuilding, conflict resolution, dialogue, tolerance, and non-violent communication. The programme was designed to prepare them to become agents of positive change capable of resolving disputes peacefully within their schools and communities.

According to the commission, the Peace Clubs serve as platforms for promoting understanding among students from diverse ethnic, religious, and cultural backgrounds. By encouraging dialogue and mutual respect, the clubs are expected to help reduce violence and strengthen social cohesion across the state.

JDPC noted that empowering young people with peacebuilding skills is critical to building resilient communities, particularly in a society where differences can easily be exploited to fuel conflict.

The commission reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining peace education through strategic partnerships, especially with the Mennonite Central Committee, stressing that investing in young people remains one of the most effective ways of securing lasting peace and development.

As the trained students return to their respective schools, they are expected to serve as peace ambassadors, championing tolerance, unity, and constructive dialogue while inspiring their peers to embrace non-violent approaches to resolving conflicts.

The initiative reflects the growing recognition that lasting peace begins with educating the younger generation and empowering them to become active participants in building a more peaceful and united society.

Political Restraint in the Age of Social Media: A Lesson from MC Dan Ngas' Viral Message

(WALBE OGAK)

The viral Facebook video by MC Dan Ngas has sparked conversations across the political landscape, not because it contained sensational allegations, but because it delivered a simple message that is often ignored in Nigerian politics.

 His advice to the so-called "data boys" and political foot soldiers was both timely and instructive: do not involve yourselves in political battles that your principal neither started nor authorized.

It was a reminder that political loyalty should never be mistaken for reckless aggression. Too often, supporters take it upon themselves to defend political leaders by launching personal attacks, spreading propaganda, and escalating tensions, even when the leaders they claim to represent have chosen restraint. Such conduct frequently damages the public image of those leaders more than it protects it.

The situation brings to mind a novel I have read more thirty times and still reading since my graduation from Government College Pankshin in 1994. 

T.S. Eliot's famous play, Murder in the Cathedral. King Henry II's expression of frustration over Archbishop Thomas Becket was interpreted by his knights as an instruction. Acting on their own initiative, they murdered the Archbishop, believing they were serving their king's interests. History remembers not only the crime but also the danger of overzealous followers acting without explicit direction. The lesson remains relevant today: supporters who take political battles beyond the intentions of their principals often create crises that could have been avoided.

However, the responsibility does not rest solely on political followers. Politicians themselves must consciously guide their supporters and consistently promote responsible conduct. In today's digital age, they must also monitor the utterances and activities of those who speak in their name, particularly on social media. A careless post, an inflammatory comment, or a misleading narrative can quickly inflame passions, deepen divisions, and undermine the credibility of an entire political movement.

There is another important lesson for politicians who thrive on propaganda and personal attacks. Propaganda is much like throwing a ball against a wall. The harder you hurl it, the harder it rebounds. No individual or political group has a monopoly on mischief. Many people choose to exercise restraint, not because they lack the capacity to retaliate, but because they value decency, civility, and what is often described as "table manners" in public discourse.

That restraint, however, should never be mistaken for weakness. When persistently provoked, those who have remained silent may eventually respond, and the consequences can be far-reaching. Like dropping a stone into a still pond, a single provocative statement can generate ripples that spread across the entire political space. Depending on how it is handled, those ripples may remain calm or develop into waves of hostility capable of disrupting relationships, institutions, and public confidence.

Nigeria's democracy requires more than electoral victories; it demands political maturity. Leaders must lead responsibly, followers must act with discipline, and public debate must focus on ideas rather than insults. Political disagreements are inevitable in every democracy, but they should never descend into unnecessary hostility fuelled by propaganda, misinformation, and the actions of overzealous supporters.

MC Dan Ngas' message, therefore, deserves attention beyond the immediate political circumstances that inspired it. It is a timely reminder that in politics, as in life, wisdom often lies not in how loudly one fights, but in knowing when a fight is unnecessary. Responsible leadership and disciplined followership remain essential ingredients for a healthier political culture.

Nentawe’s Presidential Assignment Signals Growing Influence in National Politics

By WALBE OGAK

The decision by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to appoint the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, as his representative at the official flag-off of the Akwanga–Jos Road Project has sparked political interest within and beyond the ruling party, with many observers interpreting the move as a vote of confidence in the former Plateau governorship candidate.

The event, scheduled for July 1, comes on the heels of the President’s approval of the immediate release of ₦111 billion for the construction of the first section of the road project. Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, announced the development, describing it as part of the Tinubu administration’s broader commitment to delivering transformative infrastructure across the country.

For political watchers, however, the significance of the announcement extends beyond the road project itself. The choice of Prof. Yilwatda to represent the President at such a strategic national event is being viewed as a reflection of his growing stature within the APC and the confidence reposed in him by the party leadership. Since assuming office as National Chairman, Yilwatda has been at the centre of efforts to strengthen party cohesion and prepare the APC for future electoral contests.

The Akwanga–Jos Road remains one of the most critical transportation corridors in the North-Central region, linking major commercial and agricultural hubs in Nasarawa and Plateau states. For decades, the road’s poor condition has posed serious challenges to commuters, businesses, and transport operators. The commencement of reconstruction work is therefore expected to bring relief to residents while stimulating economic activities across the region.

Political analysts argue that the project aligns with the Tinubu administration’s strategy of using infrastructure development as a catalyst for economic growth and national integration. They note that improved road networks not only facilitate trade and investment but also strengthen the relationship between the Federal Government and local communities that depend heavily on such infrastructure for their livelihoods.

Beyond its economic implications, the flag-off ceremony is likely to carry political symbolism, especially for Plateau State, where Prof. Yilwatda remains a prominent political figure. His presence at the event as the President’s representative is expected to further consolidate his influence within the state and reinforce the APC’s political outreach ahead of future electoral cycles.

As government officials, traditional rulers, business leaders, and community stakeholders prepare for the ceremony, expectations are high that the project will mark the beginning of a new chapter in regional connectivity and development. For the APC leadership, the event also presents an opportunity to showcase the administration’s commitment to fulfilling campaign promises through visible and impactful projects.

Chief Ephraim Usman and the Politics of Maturity in Plateau Central

(By WALBE OGAK)

The recently concluded All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial primaries for Plateau Central Senatorial District may have produced a candidate for the 2027 election, but it has also thrown up a different narrative—one that speaks to political maturity, resilience, and sportsmanship. Chief Ephraim Usman, despite not declared victorious in the contest, has demonstrated that politics is not always measured by electoral success alone, but by the character displayed in moments of disappointment.

In a political environment often characterized by post-primary disputes, defections, accusations, and bitter exchanges, Chief Usman's response has stood out as a refreshing departure from the norm. Rather than engaging in rancour, political bitterness, or propaganda, he has maintained a calm and dignified disposition, reinforcing the belief that leadership is as much about conduct as it is about holding office.

Politics is not merely about ambition. It is also about timing, calculation, and understanding where the landmines are buried before taking the next step. Every political contest presents lessons, opportunities, and realities that shape future engagements. For observers of Plateau politics, Chief Usman's participation in the primaries has further strengthened his profile as a committed party man willing to subject his aspirations to the democratic process.

Beyond the outcome of the primary election, his campaign succeeded in mobilizing supporters across various constituencies within Plateau Central, fostering conversations around development, inclusion, and effective representation. The goodwill generated during the exercise has positioned him as a significant stakeholder whose voice and influence are likely to remain relevant in the political calculations of the zone.

Political analysts argue that setbacks are often temporary in the journey of public service. Across Nigeria's political landscape, many prominent leaders experienced electoral disappointments before eventually attaining greater opportunities. What distinguishes enduring politicians from the rest is their ability to remain focused, preserve relationships, and continue contributing positively to the growth of their parties and communities.

For Chief Ephraim Usman, the conclusion of the APC senatorial primaries may not represent the end of a political aspiration but rather another chapter in a longer journey of service and engagement. His measured response to the outcome serves as a reminder that politics, at its best, should be a contest of ideas and vision rather than a battleground of hostility. In an era when political tolerance is increasingly becoming scarce, his conduct offers a lesson in democratic maturity and responsible leadership.

INDEED THIS IS JUST THE BEGINNING.

ADC Rejects Judgment on Purported Deregistration, Assures Members of Continued Political Participation

(By WALBE OGAK)

Our Correspondent

The African Democratic Congress (ADC), Plateau State Chapter, has reacted to a recent court judgment concerning the purported deregistration of the party, urging its members, supporters and stakeholders to remain calm and law-abiding while legal processes continue.

In a statement issued on Tuesday in Jos, the State Publicity Secretary of the party, Silas Audu Wettok, said the judgment delivered by Justice Peter Lifu does not reflect the constitutional provisions governing the deregistration of political parties in Nigeria and raises significant legal questions that would be subjected to review by higher courts.

The party maintained that it has consistently met the constitutional requirements necessary for its continued existence and participation in Nigeria's electoral process.

According to the statement, ADC recorded electoral successes during the 2019 electoral cycle by winning seats in various State Houses of Assembly across the country.

The party further noted that in the 2023 general elections, it expanded its political footprint by securing representation at the National Assembly.

ADC described itself as one of the most organised and rapidly expanding political platforms in Nigeria, with established structures at polling unit, ward, local government, state and national levels, including the Federal Capital Territory.

The party also stressed that it fielded candidates in presidential, governorship and several other elective positions nationwide and remains committed to providing Nigerians with a credible democratic alternative.

While expressing respect for the judiciary and the rule of law, the Plateau State chapter of ADC said it remains confident that constitutional procedures and proper legal interpretation would ultimately prevail.

The party further reassured Nigerians of its commitment to democratic participation, citing assurances earlier given by its National Chairman, Senator David Mark, that ADC remains optimistic about participating in the 2027 general elections, subject to all lawful processes.

ADC thanked Nigerians for their support and confidence and called on its members to remain united, peaceful and focused as the legal process unfolds.

Democracy Day and the Quest for Youth Inclusion: MUCABI Launches Ali Bukar Dalori Youth in Politics Fellowship

(By WALBE OGAK)

As Nigeria marked Democracy Day, a new initiative aimed at nurturing a generation of politically conscious and leadership-oriented young people was unveiled in Jos, Plateau State. The Mulapnen Capacity Building Initiative (MUCABI) launched the Ali Bukar Dalori Youth in Politics Fellowship Programme, a platform designed to encourage active youth participation in politics, governance, and public service.

The launch comes at a time when concerns about youth apathy, declining civic engagement, and the underrepresentation of young people in leadership positions continue to dominate discussions on Nigeria's democratic development. Organisers of the fellowship believe that meaningful democracy can only thrive when young citizens are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities needed to contribute to the political process.

Speaking on behalf of the Chairman of MUCABI's Governing Council, Professor Plangsat Dayil, and other board members, Mrs. Palang Kasmi explained that the fellowship was conceived as a response to the widening disconnect between young people and political institutions.

According to her, the programme seeks to cultivate a new generation of leaders who understand democratic values and are prepared to engage constructively in governance. She noted that the fellowship was named after Alhaji Ali Bukar Dalori, the National Deputy Chairman (North) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), whose political journey from grassroots activism to national leadership serves as an example for aspiring young politicians.

The event also provided a platform for reflection on the state of governance and the role of youths in shaping the country's future.

Activist and President of the University of Jos Alumni Association, Dr. Peter Gad Shamaki, expressed concern over what he described as declining governance standards in the country. He challenged young Nigerians to distinguish themselves through integrity, innovation, diligence, and compassion while standing against injustice and marginalisation.

For Dr. Shamaki, leadership is not merely about occupying public office but about demonstrating character and a commitment to societal progress.

The Leader of the Jos South Legislative Council and Councillor representing Hwolshe Ward, Hon. David Emanuel, emphasized that democracy flourishes when citizens are actively involved in governance. He urged young people to move beyond election-day participation and embrace continuous civic engagement, including holding elected officials accountable for their actions and decisions.

A major highlight of the event was a presentation by MUCABI's Executive Director, Nicodemus Samson Beska, titled "Individual Aspiration Toward Building a Strong Democratic Space." In his address, Beska challenged participants to abandon political apathy and become active contributors to democratic processes.

He argued that the future of Nigeria's democracy depends significantly on the willingness of young people to participate in decision-making, policy discussions, and public affairs.

Also speaking, the Executive Director of Strongwall and co-organiser of the programme, Mrs. Nenfotmua Goyol Matawal, encouraged participants to see themselves as agents of change. She noted that national development is often driven by individuals who consistently make positive contributions within their communities, regardless of how modest those contributions may appear.

The launch attracted a diverse audience that included politicians, civil society actors, legal practitioners, youth advocates, and former public office holders. Among the speakers were Barrister Beatrice C. J. Dakas, Executive Director of YIAVHA Jacob Pwakim, and former House of Representatives member Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos.

Collectively, they underscored the importance of empowering young people to participate in politics, arguing that stronger democratic institutions and more accountable leadership can only emerge when the nation's youthful population is fully engaged in governance.

The fellowship programme reflects a growing recognition that Nigeria's democratic future depends not only on electoral reforms and institutional strengthening but also on the deliberate cultivation of young leaders capable of navigating the challenges of governance.

As the country continues its democratic journey, initiatives such as the Ali Bukar Dalori Youth in Politics Fellowship may serve as important platforms for preparing a new generation to move from the margins of political discourse to the centre of national decision-making.