PDP RAISES ALARM OVER ALLEGED DESTRUCTION OF BILLBOARDS

Party Accuses Mutfwang Administration of Intimidation, Harassment and Political Intolerance

(By Walbe Ogak)

The Plateau State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has raised the alarm over the alleged systematic removal of banners, billboards and other campaign materials belonging to its 2027 governorship candidate, Chief Kefas Wungak Ropshik (Kefiano), describing the development as a disturbing sign of political intolerance ahead of the 2027 elections.

The party, in a statement signed by its State Publicity Secretary, Dr. Samaila Achigak A. Rukuba, alleged that PDP campaign materials were being pulled down across the state, with the most recent incident reportedly occurring in Mangu Local Government Area.

The PDP alleged that the removals were politically motivated and constituted an attempt to suppress the visibility of opposition parties in the state.

According to the party, the development raises concerns about the protection of political plurality and the right of opposition parties and candidates to participate freely in the electoral process.

The statement said the alleged action was particularly concerning coming shortly after pronouncements by the General Manager of the Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB) regarding billboard regulations.

The PDP questioned the legal and administrative basis of the enforcement of the regulations, arguing that genuine regulation of outdoor advertising should be applied transparently and without political discrimination.

“What we are witnessing now is not regulation, but a calculated campaign of political suppression,” the party alleged.

The PDP maintained that democracy depends on political competition and the ability of different parties and candidates to communicate their programmes and engage with voters.

It therefore called on the Plateau State Government to halt what it described as harassment, intimidation and unlawful interference with opposition political activities.

The party also appealed to elders and political stakeholders across Plateau State to intervene and encourage political tolerance ahead of the 2027 elections.

It urged security agencies to remain neutral and resist any attempt to use them as instruments of political intimidation or oppression.

The PDP further expressed concern that political disagreements could become entangled with security operations, warning against any alleged use of security concerns to target members or supporters of opposition parties.

While reaffirming its commitment to peace and democratic engagement, the party said it would defend its members, candidates and political rights through lawful and constitutional means.

The statement added that the party was documenting what it described as incidents of harassment and would pursue appropriate legal, political and democratic remedies where necessary.

The PDP called on all political actors to exercise restraint and uphold Plateau State's longstanding tradition of political participation, coexistence and peaceful competition.

The party stressed that it would continue to participate in the political process and would not be deterred from engaging voters ahead of the 2027 elections.

E-Signed:

Dr. Samaila Achigak A. Rukuba

State Publicity Secretary

PDP, Plateau State

Kefiano inspects progress of work at COCIN Bukuru in fulfillment of pledge

(By Walbe Ogak)

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial candidate in Plateau State, Chief Kefas Wungak Ropshik, has commenced the fulfilment of a commitment he made to support the renovation of COCIN Church, Bukuru.

Chief Kefas recently returned to the church to personally inspect the ongoing renovation works, following a promise he made during an earlier visit to assist with the rehabilitation of the church.

The renovation work is now underway, with the PDP governorship candidate taking time to assess the progress and engage with those handling the project.

Speaking during the visit, the Pastor of the church expressed appreciation to Chief Kefas for the intervention and prayed for God's blessings upon him.

The Pastor said he was particularly impressed by the speed with which Chief Kefas responded to his commitment, noting that the promise had quickly translated into visible action.

During the inspection, Chief Kefas also took interest in the condition of the church's surroundings. He consequently called on a builder to assess the perimeter fence and undertake its renovation.

The visit, according to the Kefiano Media, underscores Chief Kefas' continued engagement with communities and his stated commitment to responding to identified needs through practical interventions.

The renovation of the church and proposed work on the perimeter fence are expected to improve the physical environment of the worship centre.

KEFIANO MEDIA

PLATEAU REJECTS MUTFWANG: APC’S DESPERATE CAMPAIGN OF DECEPTION COLLAPSES BEFORE TAKE-OFF*

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Plateau State Chapter, unequivocally condemns the shameless, desperate, and morally bankrupt political theatrics currently being orchestrated by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in a failed attempt to rescue a government that has already lost the trust and confidence of the people.

Let it be stated without ambiguity: Governor Caleb Mutfwang is politically rejected, socially disconnected, and administratively exhausted. What the APC has unveiled is not a campaign—it is a frantic, last-minute rescue mission built on deception, coercion, and propaganda.

 *Barely 24 hours after communities across Plateau State issued a thunderous ultimatum to fix the state or resign,* the APC machinery sprang into panic mode. In a move that exposes both fear and desperation, directives were allegedly issued to development associations, youth and women groups, tribal unions, and even attempts made to drag traditional institutions into a disgraceful parade of forced “courtesy visits” to the newly appointed Campaign Director General, Mr. Joe Ari.

This is political fraud in its crudest form.

Why is the Governor hiding behind a Campaign DG?

Why are citizens being herded like pawns to pay homage to a man who is not on the ballot?

The answer is simple: Mutfwang has become a liability. A political weak link, a burden too heavy for his own party to carry independently into 2027.

In a brazen act of manipulation, APC operatives have flooded the media with carefully staged images and reports of these so-called solidarity visits

desperately trying to manufacture acceptance where none exists. This is not popularity. This is state-sponsored illusion, a rehearsed drama designed to deceive the public.

We have credible reports that many groups were coerced, pressured, and in some cases intimidated into participating in this charade. Myself, As Chairman of a District Development Association, I personally received such communication. Let it be asked loudly: since when did a Campaign DG become a political Ka’aba that citizens must pilgrimage to?

This is not politics, 

it is desperation on full display.

Even more alarming is the subtle attempt to drag our revered traditional rulers, who are shedding uncontrollable tears, due to the ceaseless killings, into this embarrassment.

These are leaders who are daily confronted with the pain of insecurity, killings, displacement, and abandonment. Yet, instead of support, they are being pushed into staged endorsements.

The APC must be warned: do not test the patience of the Plateau people by attempting to blackmail or intimidate traditional institutions.

No amount of media propaganda, forced endorsements, or cosmetic rebranding can hide the glaring failures of this administration

failures written in the blood of innocent citizens, the tears of displaced families, and the daily hardship of a neglected population.

The truth is stubborn and cannot be buried:

Plateau has rejected Mutfwang styles of administration. Plateau has moved on, such endorsement and Abacha styled 1990 courtesy Calls reminiscingly stand insultive to Plateau voters.3

Yesterday, the people demanded his resignation. Today, they are being forced into artificial displays of loyalty. This contradiction is not just insulting, it is a clear sign that the APC governorship campaign is already dead on arrival(DOA).

Let the APC hear this loud and clear:

You cannot bully people into love. You cannot coerce credibility. And you cannot repackage failure as success.

The Plateau people are wiser, stronger, and more determined than ever to reclaim not only their future, but our stolen mandate.

 *E-Signed* 

Dr. Samaila Achigak A. Rukuba

State Publicity Secretary (SPS), Plateau PDP

16th September, 2026

18:58 Hours

PDP Calls on Mutfwang to Step Aside Over Plateau Insecurity

The Plateau State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has called on Governor Caleb Mutfwang to consider stepping aside, accusing his administration of failing to adequately protect citizens amid renewed attacks across the state.

In a statement signed by the party’s State Publicity Secretary, Dr. Samaila A. Achigak Rukuba, the PDP said Plateau communities had reached what it described as “the crescendo of frustration” over the security situation.

The party said residents were tired of what it characterized as repeated condolence messages without corresponding decisive action, declaring: “Enough of condolence messages. Act now or step aside.”

According to the PDP, recent attacks involving rural communities, ambushes and the reported shooting of passengers in transit have heightened fear among residents.

The opposition party alleged that the pattern of violence suggested coordinated attacks and what it called “guerrilla-style executions” and “urban incursions,” arguing that the situation required a more urgent government response.

The PDP rejected the suggestion that its criticism was merely political, insisting that the security situation had become a matter of survival for Plateau residents.

The statement also accused the state government of being distracted by official engagements while communities continued to face insecurity—an allegation that reflects the party’s political assessment of the administration.

The PDP argued that the primary responsibility of government was the protection of lives and property, and said where that responsibility was, in its view, no longer being effectively discharged, leadership should take responsibility.

The party consequently urged Governor Mutfwang to seriously consider stepping aside, saying Plateau deserves protection, effective leadership and peace.

The statement was signed by Dr. Samaila A. Achigak Rukuba, State Publicity Secretary, PDP Plateau State.

CONGRATULATION:CHIEF EPHRAIM USMAN

Plateau Central Like Minds Congratulates Ephraim Usman on Boys Brigade Investiture.

The Plateau State Central Zone Like Minds for Caleb Mutfwang 2027 has congratulated the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Chief Ephraim Usman on his investiture as one of the State Patrons of the Boys Brigade, Plateau State Council.

In a congratulatory message, the Coordinator of the group, Peter Waplang, described the investiture as a well-deserved recognition of Chief Usman’s contributions to humanity, community development and the growth of the society.

Waplang said Chief Ephraim Usman’s inclusion among the State Patrons of the Boys Brigade would undoubtedly add significant value to the organisation, given his wealth of experience, leadership qualities and commitment to supporting people and worthy causes.

He described Chief Usman as a goal-getter, great philanthropist and a man with a golden heart, noting that his passion for empowering people and contributing to community development has continued to distinguish him among political leaders in Plateau Central.

According to him, the Boys Brigade made an excellent choice by selecting Chief Usman as one of its State patrons, expressing confidence that his presence and support would contribute positively to the organisation’s mission of raising disciplined, responsible and God-fearing young people.

The coordinator further congratulated Chief Usman on the honour, urging him to continue using his position and resources to support initiatives that promote youth development, moral values and the overall wellbeing of society.

He prayed for God to grant the newly invested state Patron greater wisdom, strength and grace to continue making a positive impact in Plateau State and beyond.

JOS CONGRESS: PLATEAU INDIGENOUS MUSLIMS DECLARE NEW FRONT FOR UNITY, PEACE AND DEVELOPMENT

(By Walbe Ogak)

Over 1,000 indigenous Muslims from across Plateau Northern Zone have converged in Jos for a landmark congress, declaring a new commitment to unity, peaceful coexistence, religious tolerance and collective development of the state.

The congress, organised by the United Muslims Indigenes for Growth and Development, brought together Islamic scholars, community leaders and representatives from different indigenous Muslim communities in Plateau State.

The gathering was described as a significant step towards building a stronger and more coordinated platform for indigenous Muslims, with participants resolving to formally establish a formidable union capable of advancing their collective interests.

Beyond religious engagement, the congress provided an opportunity for participants to address what they described as longstanding challenges of disunity, identity, exclusion and manipulation among indigenous Muslims.

The organisers said the Northern Zone congress is a precursor to a larger statewide congress of indigenous Muslims, which is expected to bring together representatives from across Plateau State.

UNITY ABOVE DIVISION

Addressing the gathering, Chairman of the Congress, Alhaji Dr. Samaila Rukuba, charged indigenous Muslims to uphold the values of love, tolerance, discipline and peaceful coexistence that have historically defined Plateau society.

Dr. Rukuba cautioned participants against allowing themselves to be used by individuals or groups seeking to provoke conflict or undermine peaceful relationships among the people.

He urged indigenous Muslims to cooperate with traditional and community leadership structures and maintain respect for fellow citizens irrespective of religious differences.

“Any teaching that promotes hatred is un-Islamic,” he declared.

He warned that allowing oneself to be used against one's native land and fellow citizens was not an expression of Islam, but criminality that must be rejected.

The Chairman also condemned attempts to introduce tribal superiority and political manipulation into religious practice, stressing that Islam should not be used as a tool for domination, exclusion or the denigration of other Muslims.

He particularly rejected narratives suggesting that some indigenous Muslims are “less Muslim” because of their ethnic or cultural background, describing such attitudes as divisive and contrary to the spirit of Islam.

REJECTING HATRED AGAINST CHRISTIANS

The congress also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening peaceful relationships between indigenous Muslims and Christians across Plateau State.

Dr. Rukuba condemned the use of derogatory expressions against Christians, stressing that Muslims are obligated to treat people of other faiths with justice, dignity and kindness.

He cited Qur'an 60:8, which states:

“Allah does not forbid you from being kind and just to those who do not believe in your religion…”

He also referenced Qur'an 2:256:

“There is no compulsion in religion…”

The Chairman further cited prophetic traditions emphasising the protection of non-Muslims under Muslim authority and the prohibition of harming neighbours, regardless of their faith.

He urged participants to ensure that the authentic teachings of Islam, rather than inflammatory interpretations, guide their conduct and engagement with society.

A NEW PLATFORM FOR INDIGENOUS MUSLIMS

The congress resolved to build a platform that will enable indigenous Muslims across Plateau to know one another better, overcome internal divisions and collectively pursue their social, economic and developmental interests.

The initiative, according to the organisers, is not designed to create another avenue for division but to restore the dignity, identity and confidence of indigenous Muslims while promoting harmonious relationships with other communities.

The Chairman called on the Muslim Ummah to remain prayerful, support one another and reject attempts to politicise Islam or exploit religious sentiments for personal or political interests.

He stressed that the foundation of Islam remains the Kalmar Shahada, and warned against judging fellow believers through ethnic, political or tribal lenses.

COOPERATION WITH GOVERNMENT

The Board of Trustees of the organisation also appealed to indigenous Muslims across Plateau State to cooperate with governments at all levels, from the local government councils to the state government, while maintaining cordial relationships with people of other faiths.

The Board said such cooperation was necessary to promote unity, peace, security and sustainable development across the state.

The congress was anchored by Dr. Isa Pam and attracted several prominent Islamic scholars and senior indigenous Muslim leaders, including Alhaji Abdullahi Audu (Ogah Perfect), Hon. Waziri Kwande and Mallam Ado Shigi, among others.

The organisers described the gathering as the beginning of a new chapter for indigenous Muslims in Plateau—one focused on unity rather than division, dialogue rather than confrontation, and development rather than manipulation.

They said the movement would continue to engage communities across the state in pursuit of inclusion, dignity, peaceful coexistence and collective development.

The message from the Jos congress was unequivocal: Plateau's indigenous Muslims want to be organised, heard and actively involved in building a peaceful and prosperous state, while rejecting hatred, religious extremism, tribal superiority and every form of manipulation capable of setting citizens against one another.

MUTFWANG : FROM PROMISE TO FAILURE,A GOVERNMENT ON TRIAL

 

(By Dr. Samaila Achigak A. Rukuba )

The verdict across Plateau is growing louder by the day:

the promise has failed, and the people are paying the price.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang came to power on hope.

Today, critics say his leadership is defined by alleged failure, hesitation, and an inability to secure lives and property, these are incontrovertible facts. No amount of Paid rentals would change, so much blood on in the Soil.

 *BLOOD ON THE SOIL. SILENCE IN POWER.* 

From Barkin Ladi to Bokkos, from Mangu to Riyom, Bassa to Kanam, QuanPan to Wase,  communities have buried their loved ones again and again. Is this not enough to question the person we entrusted our lives to? Do we need to ask whether JANG, Dariye or Lalong worked? How does their tenor align with MUTFWANG's Failures?

Juliana Shut, is a disgrace,  Some people are so hungry that, they can't reason anymore, Juliana, Sad.

A painful pattern has emerged:

Attacks happen. Lives are lost. Statements are issued. Nothing changes. Do you have a Governor, that when you observe the sad events, some people with Diphtheria filled throats, will rise to defend as if any one is lying against the Governor, who else is in charge?

Many allege that the response has been too slow, too weak, and too reactive too routine, very true, are we safe? No.

 *WEAK LEADERSHIP, HEAVY CONSEQUENCES* 

Across Plateau, one accusation refuses to go away:

this government appears not in control. Too weak, too distracted and devastating.

Critics allege:

Decisions come after damage is done, yes condemning in totality, without total overhaul. Not Leadership 

Policies lack force and enforcement, yes MUTFWANG said, Cows seen ranging near Homes, people's Farms, and at night, the communities are allowed to Shoot them straight, a wonderful policy pronouncemwnt, but he later withdrew the statement for fear of what we don't know.

Leadership appears uncertain when strength is needed most, as a governor, all uneasiness lies on your head, dont escape it. You are not not trying at all.

Plateau does not need sympathy.

Plateau needs action. When you ride in Armoured  Tanks to go and condemn in totality, sympathise it smacks deliberate show of weakness and I capacitation.

 *POLITICS OVER PEOPLE?* 

A troubling perception is spreading that governance is being driven more by political caution than decisive leadership.

 The Governor is the father of the State, you should act and avoid extreme Political Correctness, rather pragmatism is encouraged. Plateau situation needs leadership by extreme examples.Now there is none.

Many now believe:

Security is handled with hesitation instead of urgency, Sir, we beg for urgency, we raised questions on why the northern Governors security outfit, when Plateau has a peculiar and unique security issue? You neither respond nor stop the process, you proceeded to the same meeting again and most likely paid the First tranche of the Monthly N1B.

Actions are calculated, not courageous

Pain is met with statements, not solutions

And in politics, perception quickly becomes reality. The constance of the occurrences are enough to conclude as is now. Plateau has lost hope. We need new approach, new Leadership.

 *A PEOPLE LOSING PATIENCE* 

The questions can no longer be ignored:

How many more must die?

Why does this keep happening?

Where is the leadership we were promised?

How did you package your security plan? 

This is what Plateau should be asking, but some lost souls choose to play Politics with the facts. You state the obvious, and some *Diphtheria filled throats will become emergency Content Creators* . Is Plateau not greater than you all?

Plateau is tired of:

mourning without justice, fear without protection, promises without results.

 *ENOUGH OF ENTITLEMENT POLITICS* 

Leadership is not an entitlement.

It is a responsibility.

There is no unwritten law that any leader must be endured for eight years regardless of poor performance.

Power is given to solve problems

not to occupy office. No Carpenter doing Mechanic Work will last 20 minutes.

When citizens begin to demand accountability, it is not rebellion, Governor MUTFWANG, if you had done well, nobody will be talking.

it is democracy at work.

 *TIME FOR SERIOUS LEADERSHIP* 

If a system is not working, it must be questioned.

If leadership is not delivering, it must be challenged.

Plateau deserves:

Competence over excuses

Results over rhetoric

Leadership that understands the urgency of now

 *TIME FOR A NEW DIRECTION* 

Plateau cannot continue like this.

The choice is clear:

continue with a leadership many believe has struggled under pressure—

or embrace a new path of strength, urgency, and results.

 *PLATEAU FIRST. THE PEOPLE FIRST.* 

The time for excuses is over.

The time for action is now.

E-Signed 

Dr. S. A. A. Rukuba

SPS, Plateau PDP