The Need to Support INEC Decision to Conduct Elections During Holy Months

(WALBE OGAK))

Nigerians should support the decision for the 2027 general elections to hold during the Holy Month, as it presents a timely opportunity to reinforce the values of integrity, accountability, and the fear of God in our political process. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that the Presidential and National Assembly elections will be conducted on 20th February 2027, in accordance with the provisions of the 2022 Electoral Act. The Chairman of the Commission, Prof. Joash Amupitan, disclosed this at a news conference in Abuja, adding that the Governorship and State Assembly elections are scheduled for 6th March 2027 nationwide.

The Holy Month is widely regarded as a period of reflection, repentance, and renewed commitment to righteousness. Conducting elections within such a spiritually significant season can serve as a moral compass for politicians, electoral officials, and voters alike. It offers a solemn reminder that leadership is a sacred trust and that any attempt to manipulate the process undermines both democratic principles and moral responsibility.

Furthermore, public support for this timetable sends a strong message that Nigerians desire credible, peaceful, and transparent elections. When citizens collectively demand integrity, it increases societal pressure on political actors to act responsibly and avoid malpractice. In this way, the alignment of the 2027 elections with the Holy Month can become not only a constitutional exercise but also a powerful moment to deepen democratic values and strengthen public confidence in the electoral system.

Open Letter to Gov. Caleb Mutfwang

Request for Intervention on Reimbursement of 2024 LG Election Expenses

Your Excellency,

Governor Caleb Mutfwang,

Open Letter

I write to respectfully draw your attention to a matter of concern affecting several aspirants who participated in the 2024 Local Government elections.

Following the release of the revised schedule of activities by the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC), many of us purchased nomination forms, mobilized support, and actively campaigned during the PDP primaries with genuine commitment and high expectations.

In Kanke Local Government Area, after investing significant personal resources and time into the process, we were prevailed upon to step down for what was described as a consensus government candidate. In good faith and loyalty to party leadership, we complied, relying on assurances that our campaign expenses would be reimbursed.

Regrettably, despite several follow-ups, these promised refunds have not been made.

Your Excellency, we acknowledge the evolving political landscape and your current leadership position. However, this matter predates recent developments and remains a pressing concern for those affected. We are not seeking special favors—only fairness and the fulfillment of assurances given. Our sacrifices and loyalty to the process deserve recognition.

We humbly appeal to you to kindly direct the appropriate authorities to review this issue and expedite the reimbursement process. Addressing this matter will not only bring relief to the concerned individuals but will also reinforce confidence in your administration’s commitment to justice and equity.

Thank you for your time and anticipated intervention.

Yours faithfully,

Amb. Joseph Sule Golen

11th February, 2026

FUE Pankshin to Install Prof. Noel Nen’man Wannang as Substantive Vice Chancellor Friday

(By Walbe OGAK) 

Arrangements have been concluded for the formal investiture of Professor Noel Nen’man Wannang as the substantive Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Education (FUE), Pankshin, scheduled to hold on Friday, 13th February 2026.

The ceremony is billed to take place at the University Auditorium at 10:00 a.m. prompt.

According to a statement signed by the Deputy Director, Information and Public Relations of the University, Charles Nda Homsuk, the event is expected to attract an array of dignitaries, including the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Hon. Funsho Ekundayo Olumoko (Ph.D), members of the Governing Council, Principal Officers of the University, Deans of Colleges, Professors, Heads of Departments, and staff of the institution.

Also expected are traditional rulers, community leaders, representatives of staff unions, the Students’ Union Government (SUG), representatives from the University of Jos, and other invited guests.

During the investiture, the Acting Vice Chancellor, Professor Jere Ndazhaga, will formally present the Staff of Office to Professor Wannang, signifying his assumption of duty.

The event will be followed by a thanksgiving mass on Saturday, 14th February 2026, at Holy Cross Cathedral, Pankshin, at 8:00 a.m., after which a brief reception will hold at Vel Sunset, Pankshin.

Recall that the Governing Council of the University had earlier approved the appointment of Professor Noel Nen’man Wannang as substantive Vice Chancellor for a five-year, non-renewable tenure, effective from Friday, 13th February 2026.

In his new role, Professor Wannang will serve as the Chief Executive of the University and Chairman of the University Management Committee, Senate, Congregation, and Convocation.

Bldr. Raphael Rume felicitates with Hon. Chief Letep Dabang on his birthday anniversary

BLDR. Raphael Rume, Aspirant for the Pankshin North State House of Assembly, has joined family, friends, and well-wishers to celebrate Chief Letep Dabang on the occasion of his birthday anniversary. He described the celebrant as a respected leader whose contributions to the community and Pankshin North at large have been invaluable.

In his message of felicitation, Rume acknowledged Chief Dabang’s commitment to peace, unity, and development, noting that his wisdom and leadership continue to inspire many. He praised his dedication to the progress of the people and his unwavering support for community growth over the years.

While wishing Chief Letep Dabang long life, good health, and continued prosperity, BLDR. Raphael Rume prayed that the celebrant will be blessed with more years of service, strength, and divine guidance in his leadership journey.

BLDR. RAPHAEL RUME ASPIRANT PANKSHIN NORTH STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY

Was Plateau state created in 1967 or 1976? my thought.

Walbe OGAK 

The celebration of Plateau State’s fiftieth anniversary has sparked renewed conversations among historians, political scholars, the media and citizens, particularly regarding the state’s true age. While many acknowledge that J.D. Gomwalk served as the first military governor of the defunct Benue-Plateau State from 1967 to July 1975, questions continue to emerge as to why Plateau State is marked as fifty years old rather than fifty-nine. The debate reflects deeper reflections on history, identity, and the political evolution of the state within Nigeria’s federal structure.

Benue-Plateau State was created in 1967 during General Yakubu Gowon’s military administration as part of a nationwide restructuring of Nigeria into twelve states. Gomwalk governed this larger entity, which encompassed both present-day Benue and Plateau. However, this political arrangement was not permanent, as subsequent state creation exercises reshaped Nigeria’s administrative map, leading to significant structural changes that affected the identity of the region.

In 1976, under the administration of General Murtala Mohammed, Benue-Plateau State was split into two separate states: Benue and Plateau. It was from this moment that Plateau State, as it exists today, officially came into being with its own distinct political and administrative identity. Therefore, while governance in the region began earlier under Benue-Plateau, Plateau State as a standalone entity only started its journey in 1976.

As Plateau State marks fifty years, the milestone is not a denial of its earlier history but rather a recognition of its distinct existence since separation from Benue. 

The anniversary should serves as a moment to honor the past, celebrate progress, and reflect on the state’s political evolution — from a shared administration under Gomwalk to an independent and vibrant Plateau State within Nigeria’s federation.

Walbe OGAK

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FER TOWN REMEMBERS BANKAT AS BLDR. RAPHAEL RUME FELICITATES WITH FAMILY

Fer Town in Pankshin Local Government Area came alive over the weekend as families, friends, clergy, and political leaders gathered for a  Five (5) years memorial thanksgiving Mass in honour of the late Dah  Clement T. Bankat.

The solemn ceremony, held at the St Vincent De Paul Catholic Church in Fer Town, was presided over by the Bishop of Pankshin Diocese, Most Reverend Michael Gokum, who served as the chief celebrant. In his homily, the Bishop extolled the virtues of the late Bankat, describing him as a man of faith, integrity, and community service whose legacy would continue to inspire generations.

Among dignitaries in attendance was Bldr. Raphael Rume, an aspirant for the Pankshin North State House of Assembly, who joined the family and well-wishers in paying last respects to the deceased. The Plateau State Governor was represented by the Secretary to the Government  of the State  (SGG), Arch. Samuel Jatau.

Also present at the event were Chief Kefwano, Cyril Semwam, several commissioners, top government officials, and prominent politicians, including Rt. Hon. George Daika and Istifanus Mwansat, Rt. Hon. Gabriel Dewan among others.

The occasion also featured a fundraising exercise in support of the ongoing roofing of the church building, with generous donations made by attendees.

The thanksgiving Mass concluded with prayers for the repose of the soul of the late  Clement T.  Bankat and his bereaved family.

Courtesy Visit: Rume Felicitates with FUEP Registrar, Harps on Continued Collaboration.

Bildr. Raphael Rume, who is aspirin for Pankshin North State House of Assembly, has paid a courtesy visit to Mr. Longtong G. Yadok, popularly known as “Long T,” the first substantive Registrar of the Federal University of Education, Pankshin (FUEP).

The visit, which took place at Mr. Yadok’s office, was both congratulatory and fraternal, reflecting a relationship that spans over three decades. The two associates, who grew up together in what was then the Federal College of Education (FCE) quarters—now FUEP staff quarters—reminisced on their longstanding bond.

Speaking after the meeting, Rume described Mr. Yadok not just as a friend but as a brother, emphasizing the depth of their relationship and shared history.

He noted that the visit was intended to formally congratulate the Registrar on his achievements, offer prayers for his continued success, and strengthen their collaborative engagement for the benefit of the institution and the wider community.

Mr. Yadok appreciated the gesture, commending Rume for his support and commitment to fostering unity and cooperation among those who had lived in the institution.