BUHARI, SGF, GOVERNORS CELEBRATE COURT OF APPEAL PRESIDENT JUSTICE DONGBAN-MENSEM AT THANKSGIVING MASS

President Muhammadu Buhari, Governors of Plateau, Ekiti, Rivers, Oyo, Justices of various Courts, senior legal luminaries and people from all sectors of the society today (19th June 2021) converged on St. Monica's Catholic Church, Rantiya, Jos for the Thanksgiving Mass in honour of the Preaident, Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem to celebrate her appointment. 

President Buhari who was represented by the Minister of Women Affairs, Dame Pauline Tallen described Justice Monica as a Justice of good character and dexterity who emerged as the head of the second highest Court in Nigeria by merit. 

He said since her appointment a year ago, she has continued to demonstrate diligence in handling the affairs of the Court of Appeal and strengthening reforms towards the speedy and honest delivery of justice to Nigerians of all backgrounds. 

He charged her to put in her best and raise the bar in the dispensation of justice by assisting Government in fighting corruption, crime and acts inimical to national development. 

Chairman, Nigerian Governors Forum, Kayode Fayemi said the celebrant is a woman of substance who has a rich pedigree in the Bench and is known to be fearless, uncompromising and intolerant of inducement in the course of discharging her duties. Fayemi said the success of women like Justice Monica creates more room for Nigerian women to occupy other sensitive offices and perform creditably. 

Host Governor, Simon Bako Lalong said the Thanksgiving Mass and Grand Reception was organised to honour the Court of Appeal President and give glory to God for lifting her from humble beginnings to the peak of her career. 

He said the State was very proud of her achievements and has decided to celebrate her and showcase her as an example to the world because of her diligence, hardwork and the grace of God. 

Secretary to the Government of the Federation Boss Mustapha who was a classmate of Justice Dongban-Mensem at the Nigerian Law School also sent in his goodwill message asking her to continue to do her best in serving Nigeria. 

In his homily, Catholic Bishop of Bauchi Diocese Rev. Dr. Hillary Dachelem said the turn out of people from all aspects of life and various backgrounds to celebrate Justice Monica is an indication that Nigerians can live in peace and collaborate to build a greater Nigeria. 

He called on leaders to avoid promoting divisive tendencies that promote intolerance, violence and hatred as God created humanity with peace and love in his image. 

Justice Monica Dongban in a response said she was overwhelmed by the show of love from the Church, people and Government of Plateau State, the Executive, legislature and Judiciary, as well as Nigerians from all walks of life who have come out to celebrate her. 

She said she is encouraged by their show of love to remain firm in her resolve to do justice to all people according to the laws of the land and the oath of office she undertook, knowing fully that God is the judge of all where will also give account of her stewardship. 

Dr. Makut Simon Macham 

Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 

19th June 2021

CHRISTIANS ASSOCIATION Of NIGERIA (CAN) KANKE CHAPTER DEDICATES 406 PEUGEOT WAGON CAR FOR EVANGELISM.

Kanke Local Government Council Chairman Hon. Emmanuel Lar attended the Dedication of 406 Peugeot Wagon Car donated by Rt. Hon. Yusuf Gagdi, the car was dedicated to God for Gospel propagation early today.

Exhortation was taken from Psalms121:2-5 imploring members to always rely on God for all their help and also use the car for what is meant for. They appreciate the PKK member for the gesture and prayed to God to see him through his tenure. 

The Council Chairman lean on the text read earlier and also enjoined them to use the car strictly for the gospel propagation. 

Behold the innauguration for use was done by the clergy

Dr. Raymond Juryit has emerged PDP Kanke Chairmanship Candidates

Dr. Raymond Juryit has emerged as the PDP Kanke LGC Chairmanship Candidates after party primaries, on Thursday 16th June.

The election was keenly contested by four candidates.

PPBA REBUILT 26 HOUSES FOR DISPLACED VICTIMS AND 2 BOREHOLES IN MANGU(MURISH)-BOKKOS(RUBOI) BORDER COMMUNITIES

PPBA REBUILT 26 HOUSES FOR DISPLACED VICTIMS AND 2 BOREHOLES IN MANGU(MURISH)-BOKKOS(RUBOI) BORDER COMMUNITIES COMMISSIONED ON TUESDAY JUNE 15, 2021 AND WEDNESDAY JUNE 16, 2021, RESPECTIVELY. 

It is with a deep sense of humility and joy that I address you in this epoch-making event- the handing-over of 26 number of rebuilt houses and boreholes for those affected by attacks in two communities of Bokkos & Mangu LGA's. 

Indeed, there is absolutely no gain saying that we have inflicted deep wounds that are both physical and psychological. Yet, we must not continue to despair given the fact that we have an opportunity to repair or rebuild our lives especially when we choose to work together irrespective of our differences. 

Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, if there was anytime we ever needed one another in our country, state and communities, it is now.  Therefore we must  make conscious efforts at galvanizing our resources in order to build closely-knitted communities rather than those that are loose owing to mutual suspicion, distrust, resentment and hate. 

The starting point is to understand and appreciate our common humanity by laying more emphasis on those ideals that promote Peace and Peaceful co-existence amongst.  

Anything less than this will be tantamount to bequeathing a legacy of chaos to our children and the generations coming after us. 

We  encourage other development partners, NGOs, INGOs, CBOs, FBOs, and spirited individuals to emulate what HIGHFLOW Channels through the instrumentality of USAID/NERI is doing to transform the conflict landscape in Plateau State.

At the PPBA, our doors are always open to partner with any organisation, either local or international, to further consolidate on the modest gain of Peacebuilding in the last five years. And that is why the PPBA is strengthening its coordination role, as well as, decentralizing its activities to ensure that the much desired impact is achieved through non-duplication of peacebuilding interventions across the state as well as building the needed platform where communities can take ownership of the processes of building trust, enhancing community resilience and fostering mutual understanding and co-operarion.

 It is my believe that these 26 families that have benefitted from this USAID/NERI supported initiative will be resettled into their respective communities and continue with the process of reintegration more so that the rains are beginning to set in. 

Mention must also be made of the commitment of the Governor of Plateau State, Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Simon Lalong to entrenching the ideals of sustainable Peace in our state. 

In conclusion, I must also commend those ordinary community people who are doing extra-ordinary things behind the scene in their various communities to ensure that enduring Peace returns to our state. 

We say keep doing the good work because together, we can restore the lost glory of our state. 

Thank you and God bless.

Joseph Lengmang

Director General PPBA

PRESIDENT, COURT OF APPEAL JUSTICE MONICA DONGBAN-MENSEM VISITS GOVERNOR LALONG

The President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem has assured Nigerians that she is determined to ensure that the cause of justice delivery and confidence in the Judiciary and the Court of Appeal is strengthened under her leadership. 

Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem was speaking when she visited Governor Simon Bako Lalong at the Government House in Jos ahead of a Thanksgiving Mass and Grand Reception in her honour scheduled for Saturday in Jos. 

Justice Monica said she was glad to be home and very grateful that her home State has decided to honour her following her elevation as the President Court of Appeal. 

She thanked all those who have continued to pray for her and offer support before and after her appointment, assuring that she will continue to do her best to transform the Court of Appeal by making the delivery of justice seamless and very thorough according to the laws of the land. 

Governor Lalong while welcoming the President of the Court of Appeal back home said the people of Plateau State are extremely happy that she has attained the height of her career and is doing well in the one year she has been in office. 

He said the Plateau State Government decided to hold a grand reception in her honour in line with the tradition of celebrating sons and daughters of the State who have attained great heights in their careers or have been appointed to various positions in the country. 

Lalong said told Justice Dongban that although she is on a national assignment, the people of Plateau State find it imperative to pray and give her moral support which is symbolic with the holding of the grand reception in her honour and a Thanksgiving Service. 

Governor Lalong said Justice Monica Dongban has built a good reputation over a long period of time and will consolidate on this trajectory during this assignment. 

He praised her efforts in increasing quick dispensation of justice as well as enduring legacy of fairness and forthrightness in the Court of Appeal and the Judiciary as a whole. 

Dr. Makut Simon Macham 

Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 

17th June 2021

Msgr Ajang is a humble and committed servant of God,

 The appointment of Monsignor David Ajang as the second Bishop of Lafia Diocese has been described as a well-deserved one given his resourceful and track records in the service of the Lord. The Plateau State Commissioner for information and Communication Hon Dan Manjang stated this in an interview with journalists during the sendoff Mass of the Bishop-elect at the Church of Mary Immaculate Conception Zarmganda Jos.  

Dan Manjang said his humility and simplicity coupled with his doggedness and theological prowess, are the rare qualities that propelled him to an enviable height in the vineyard of the Lord.He wished him well saying “he is rising from height to heights and from glory to glory, it is our prayers that he becomes a sources of blessing to anyone that comes across him.

The Honorable Commissioner in the company of other top government functionaries has on Sunday accompanied the Executive Governor of Plateau State Right Honorable Simon Bako Lalong to the Church of Immaculate Conception to attend the Holy Mass in honour of Monsignor David Ajang who is also the Chaplain Government House Plateau State.  

Msgr Ajang is a humble and committed servant of God

The appointment of Monsignor David Ajang as the second Bishop of Lafia Diocese has been described as a well-deserved one given his resourceful and track records in the service of the Lord. The Plateau State Commissioner for Information and Communication Hon Dan Manjang stated this in an interview with journalists during the sendoff Mass of the Bishop-elect at the Church of Mary Immaculate Conception Zarmganda Jos. 

Dan Manjang said his humility and simplicity coupled with his doggedness and theological prowess, are the rare qualities that propelled him to an enviable height in the vineyard of the Lord.

He wished him well saying “he is rising from height to heights and from glory to glory, it is our prayers that he becomes a sources of blessing to anyone that comes across him.

The Honorable Commissioner in the company of other tops government functionaries have on Sunday accompanied the Executive Governor of Plateau State Right Honorable Simon Bako Lalong to the Church of Immaculate Conception to attend the Holy Mass in honour of Monsignor David Ajang who is also the Chaplain Government House Plateau State.  

Governor Lalong eulogized the Anaguta Chiefdom for a peaceful transition in the selection of Ujah

 

The Executive Governor of Plateau State Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong has lauded the King Makers and the entire Anaguta Nation for conducting this transition peacefully without any rancour or bitterness. He stated this while performing the installation and presentation of staff of office to the new Ujah Anaguta, His Royal Highness, Johnson Jauro Magaji, held on 17th June 2021 at Rwang Pam Township Stadium, Jos.

He said “This is the kind example that we expect from all Chiefdoms: adding that he has always emphasized that the Traditional Institution is vital to the survival of our cultural heritage as it forms the bedrock of our coexistence as a people. The institution allows us to share our common identity; norms and traditions that guide our conduct in society. As it is commonly said, people without culture are like trees without roots.

 FULL SPEECH

SPEECH BY H.E. RT. HON. (DR) SIMON BAKO LALONG, KSGG, EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF PLATEAU STATE AT THE INSTALLATION/PRESENTATION OF STAFF OF OFFICE TO THE NEW UJAH ANAGUTA, HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS, JOHNSON JAURO MAGAJI, HELD ON 17TH JUNE, 2021 AT RWANG PAM TOWNSHIP STADIUM, JOS.

Protocols

We are grateful to God for the opportunity to witness another historic day in the life of the people of Anaguta nation, Jos North Local Government and Plateau State in general. It is my delight to perform this coronation and presentation of staff of office to the new Ujah Anaguta, His Royal Highness, Pozho Johnson Jauro Magaji II, having done same to his late father as a First Class Traditional Ruler some years back.

May I request that we rise and observe a minute silence in honour of the Late Ujah, His Royal Highness Photo Jauro Magaji.

[MINUTE SILENCE IN HONOUR OF LATE UJAH]

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, this occasion is the beginning of another chapter after the closing of the previous one having gathered here at the Rwang Pam Stadium to bid farewell to the late traditional ruler some months back.

As we perform the installation of his successor and provide him with the Staff of Office, I want to congratulate the King Makers and the entire Anaguta Nation for conducting this transition in a peaceful manner without any rancour or bitterness. This is the kind example that we expect from all Chiefdoms.

Just like I promised during the funeral of the late Ujah, the Government did not interfere in the process of selecting the new Ujah that we are installing today.

Like in other cases, the will of the Anaguta people is what has transpired and the role of the Government is to affirm their decision based on the powers bestowed on it by the law.

I have always emphasized that the Traditional Institution is vital to the survival of our cultural heritage as it forms the bedrock of our coexistence as a people. The institution allows us to share our common identity; norms and traditions that guide our conduct in society. As it is commonly said, people without culture are like trees without roots.

You are aware that my administration since coming on board has continued to pay greater attention to reviving the traditional institution so that it can contribute meaningfully to the development of the State. This explains why we restored Chiefdoms that were scrapped by the previous administration. We believe this is necessary to engender social cohesion and promote peaceful coexistence among our people.

This occasion therefore provides me another opportunity to reiterate that Government expects the traditional rulers to galvanise their communities to embrace dialogue as a means of resolving their difference to consolidate on peace and allow development to take place.

Your Royal Highness, the new Ujah of Anaguta, you have taken an oath to work for the interest of your people and ensure the peace and progress of the State. I, therefore, admonish you to be proactive and carry your people along with irrespective of ethnic, religious, political or other affiliations.

You are not an ethnic champion or warlord that will promote bigotry and sectionalism. You must avoid selfish or sectional interests and tendencies that will jeopardise the sanctity of the revered stool which you are occupying in trust for your people.

You should do your best to uphold the legacies of your late father who was a unifier and a rallying point for peace. Having been nurtured and groomed by him, I have the firm belief that you will use this God-given opportunity to promote tolerance, openness, accommodation, fairness and justice in Jos North and Plateau State as a whole.

The government is working expeditiously to ensure that the violence of the past remains a past tense in our dictionary as a State. You are now in a position to ensure that every remaining obstacle towards achieving total peace in Jos North is removed so that peace and prosperity will reign. Your late father played his role and passed the baton to you. All eyes will be on you to see how far you can go.

While I assure you of the support of the Government in carrying out your new task, I wish to again make it clear that we shall not tolerate any act that is aimed at disrupting peace and bringing Government into disrepute.

In as much as Government does not have interest in who is selected as a traditional ruler or support any candidate, it has been vested with the power to remove anyone who does not serve according to the dictates of his office. This responsibility we shall continue to uphold.

May I use this opportunity to express deep concern over the cases of isolated attacks in various communities which are carried out in a hit-and-run fashion This is unacceptable and must stop. Let me repeat my warning to traditional rulers that I will hold you responsible if you fail to give information on who is behind such attacks under your jurisdictions. Anyone found shielding criminals will be sanctioned.

You are the people closest to the grassroots and you must gather intelligence on who comes in or goes out from your community. I have told the police and other security agencies that I do not want to hear unknown gunmen! People who come into communities and kill innocent people in their sleep or when they are relaxing cannot be spirits and must not be allowed to go free.

We have ordered the purchase of 50 security patrol vans and 200 security motorcycles will soon be launched by the Inspector General of Police. In addition, we have trained and deployed 529 Police Constables who we expect to join forces with vigilante groups and other security structures to boost intelligence gathering and early response at the grassroots.

As we conduct this event, Government is aware of vacant stools in the State which are yet to be filled. Some are lingering because of existing litigations and contestation. I am not happy with the fact that the people are denied the opportunity to have substantive traditional rulers. Nevertheless, we will continue to do our best and ensure that the issues are resolved.

The installation of the Ujah Anaguta today is a wake-up call to other Chiefdoms and communities, especially those that are still delaying the process of selection of their Traditional Rulers because of disagreements. You should learn from the Anaguta Nation and have a rethink to come together and forge ahead. Time is of the essence.

To Your Royal Highness the Ujah of Anaguta, I urge you to see your ascension to the throne of your ancestors as the will of God. You must not deviate from your assignment. Listen to the voice of elders and tap from their wisdom and experience. I refer you to the story of Rehoboam, the son of Solomon in the Book of 1 Kings Chapter 12.

He rejected the counsel and wisdom of elders and chose to listen to only the youths. At the end of the day, he caused the downfall of the Kingdom of Israel. May you did not end that way in Jesus Name. Also, ensure that you depend on God and His Word for guidance just like your father did.

On this note, may I again congratulate His Royal Highness, the entire sons and daughters of the Anaguta Nation, and the people of Jos North for this new era. I call on you all to give Ujah the necessary support for him to succeed in the onerous task of leadership. Once more, congratulations Your Royal Highness.

Long live the Ujah of Anaguta Chiefdom, Long live Plateau State, Long Live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Thank you all and God Bless.

Rt. Hon. (Dr) Simon Bako Lalong, KSGG

Governor, Plateau State.

17th June 2021.

MIKEL OBI VISITS GOVERNOR LALONG, PROMISES INVESTMENT IN PLATEAU STATE, TO ESTABLISH FOOTBALL ACADEMY.

Former Super Eagles Captain Mike Obi and Stoke City player says he is planning to increase his investment in Plateau State and also engage in other social development activities as a way of giving back to his place of birth and base where his footballing career began.

 Mikel who visited Governor Lalong at the Governor’s Lodge in Abuja, praised him for his efforts at restoring peace in Plateau State which is promoting development and prosperity for the benefit of the people.

 The former Chelsea star said Jos is his home where he was born and raised and also given the support to develop his passion for football which has taken him to the global stage.

 He said he remembers with fond memories his upbringing in Plateau State and the hospitality and love of the people as well as the beautiful and serene atmosphere that remains an attraction to people from within and outside Nigeria.

Governor Lalong welcomed the international football star, describing him as a pride to Nigeria and in particular, Plateau State which is famous for grooming stars in sports, entertainment and music, academia, banking, administration among others.

 

He urged the footballer to continue to connect with Plateau State and show more presence by contributing to the development of not only sports, but other areas of investment.

 

Lalong told Mikel Obi that the Plateau State will host a Glorious Stars event alongside an Investment and Economic Summit which is meant to showcase the potentials of the State and also reunite the array of stars that have emerged out of the State over the years.

 He said Plateau is still a melting pot for all Nigerians and foreigners and continues to groom stars.

 Mikel is due to visit Jos in the coming weeks.

 

 Dr. Makut Simon Macham

Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau.

17th June 2021

Iliya Solomon Mangai a Quintessential grassroots Leader

As a necessary step towards fulfilling his dream of becoming the executive chairman of Bokkos Local
government, Hon Iliya Solomon Mangai has picked his nomination form to participate in the forthcoming council elections.

Known for his passion for rural and community transformation Hon Iliya Solomon Mangai has been described as a round peg in a round hole at these crucial times most especially during this local government election considering his track records in grassroots mobilization, politics and the desire to always selflessly finds solutions to problems and challenges bothering his people, there wouldn’t be a better contender than him.

In his accustomed exceptional qualities of identifying with his people, he has consistently engaged himself in strides that seek the betterment of his people.

This occasion provided an opportunity for him to fulfil his craving and aspiration and the sky shall be his stepping stone. 

As a grassroots politician, he has first-hand information of the desire of his people, which if given the opportunity shall be Bokkos Local government council will be in the front burner of economic and infrastructural transformation. 

Henceforth, all building approvals must comply with fire safety protocols as provided in the Building Code. Gov. Lalong

REMARKS BY H.E. RT. HON. (DR) SIMON BAKO LALONG, KSGG, EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF PLATEAU STATE AT THE INAUGURATION OF A FIRE SERVICE TRUCK DEPLOYED TO PLATEAU STATE BY THE FEDERAL FIRE SERVICE AT THE NEW GOVERNMENT HOUSE, LITTLE RAYFIELD JOS ON 16TH JUNE 2021.

It is a great delight to address you at the commissioning of this new fire service truck deployed to Plateau State by the Federal Fire Service to boost the capacity of the Fire Service in tackling fire outbreaks in the State.

This is a great initiative that deserves commendation as it addresses an area that is very important, but rarely given adequate attention. Fire disasters have caused enormous losses to Nigerians and brought untold hardships to people.

Year in a year out, we are witnesses to infernos that wreak havoc in markets, schools, offices, factories and residential facilities with attendant loss of properties and lives. We must therefore sincerely appreciate Mr President for giving approval for the purchase of these fire trucks that are being distributed across the country.

For us in Plateau State, this event comes at a time when we are building more capacity for emergency response and the enhancement of the security of lives and properties of our people. While we are making serious efforts to recover from the impact of COVID- 19, the least one can afford to have is loss or damage to lives and properties through fire disasters.

The Government has over the years continued to emphasize the entrenchment of safety culture and sensitization of our people towards adopting precautionary measures in their day-to-day activities. We have also emphasized on several occasions that prevention is better and cheaper than cure.

While The government has made investments in the fire sector, the focus is more on proactive engagement rather than reactive measures that sometimes come rather too late when the damage has been done. We consistently advise our citizens to take advantage of our Early Warning System to sound the alarm whenever they see something wrong.

For example, we have realized that many people build indiscriminately such that they obstruct passages for fire service trucks and other emergency responders. Unfortunately, despite several warnings and appeals, this ugly trend has not stopped.

I have therefore directed our development control agency, the Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB) to intensify the prosecution of offenders who fail to comply with building plan approvals and town planning provisions. We must stop those who insist on endangering the generality of citizens simply because of their selfish desires.

Henceforth, all building approvals must comply with fire safety protocols as provided in the Building Code. Applications that fail to provide fire safety measures must not get approval to build.

In addition, periodic inspection should be carried out to ensure that people comply with fire safety standards.

When we fail to adhere to safety protocols and urban planning regulations, the purchase of fire fighting vehicles such as the one we are inaugurating today becomes less useful as firefighters cannot access disaster areas to respond to fire emergencies.

I also want to ask our citizens to invest in fire-fighting facilities such as Fire Extinguishers, especially within their homes and offices to enable them to provide the first line of response before the Fire Service arrives in case of any fire outbreak. If we fail to take personal responsibility, avoidable damages will be recorded with a regrettable loss of lives and properties.

 This also brings to mind the issue of obstruction of firefighters whenever there are fire outbreaks and other emergencies. Regrettably too, in some cases, we find people attacking firefighters instead of assisting them or at least allowing them to carry out their assignment. This is a negative development that must be checked.

While we understand the fact that the capacity of our fire-fighting agencies is not where it should be, the response cannot be to intimidate them instead of encouraging them. These are people who put their lives on the line and approach danger when others are running away from it. There is no justification to attack them.

One way we can address this issue and also create awareness on fire disasters is to intensify enlightenment campaign using the younger generation right from schools to ensure they imbibe fire awareness. We should teach them how to identify and prevent fire outbreaks from a tender age. Parents should also ensure they educate their children at home.

Above all, all stakeholders must come together to continuously engage one another on the issue of fire disasters and also support institutions such as the Federal and State Fire Services to be able to rise to the issue of fire disasters and how to bring it to the barest minimum.

 On this note, I want to commend the Controller General of the Federal Fire Service Alhaji Liman Ibrahim, his Management Team, as well as personnel for their passion towards mitigating fire disasters in the country. Plateau State appreciates the deployment of this Fire Fighting Truck and hopes that additional ones will be given to us soon.

Similarly, I want to make a special appeal to the Controller General and indeed to my friend and brother the Hon. Minister of Interior His Excellency Rauf Aregbesola, to consider Plateau State in the distribution of Rapid Response Vehicles which we understand will soon arrive. In the same vein, we appeal that Plateau State gets its own share of the ambulances which have been distributed to other States.

Please be assured that our Government shall continue to collaborate with you in fighting fire, by building the capacity of the State Fire Service to respond to the cases of fire disasters and providing safety for the lives and properties of our people.

 Once more you are welcome to Plateau State, the Home of Peace and Tourism. Please do not be in a hurry to go back to Abuja. Stay and enjoy the beauty, serenity and hospitality of our State.

God bless Plateau State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria. 

 Rt. Hon. (Dr) Simon Bako Lalong, KSGG

Executive Governor, Plateau State.

16th June 2021.

GOVERNOR LALONG EXCITED OVER THE RELEASE OF REV. POLYCARB ZONGO

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has expressed excitement over the release of Rev. Polycarb Zongo of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) Wild Life Park, Jos who was abducted by insurgents last year October. 

Lalong said the release of the clergyman and other abductees is an answer to the prayers of the Church and other people of goodwill which affirms that God does not abandon his people even at difficult moments. 

Lalong praised all those who played various roles in facilitating the release of the clergyman, as well as those who showed concern to the family and the Church, saying this is the solidarity and humanity that is needed to overcome the insecurity and intolerance in the country. 

Governor Lalong wishes Rev. Zango well as he recuperates from the emotional and physical trauma he has undergone. He also urges him to remain strong and use his ordeal to encourage and motivate the people towards trust in God and respect for humanity. 

He also sends his special goodwill to the family of Rev. Zongo, the COCIN family and its President, Rev. Dr. Dachollom Datiri, urging them to continue to pray for God's intervention in the affairs of the nation and intercede for other people in similar circumstances as well as upholding the security agencies as they continue to battle the insurgents. 

Dr. Makut Simon Macham 

Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.

16th June 2021.

GOVERNOR LALONG SWEARS IN ACTING PRESIDENT, CUSTOMARY COURT OF APPEAL

A new President of the Plateau

State Customary Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice Blessing Lyop Dalyop has been sworn in by Governor Simon Bako Lalong with a charge for her to uphold the tenets of justice, good conscience and fairness. 

While swearing in Hon. Justice Blessing Lyop Dalyop at the Victoria Gowon Auditorium, New Government House Rayfield Jos, the Governor said the task before the acting President of the Customary Court of appeal is enormous but he is optimistic that she has the experience and capacity to discharge the assignment effectively.

Lalong said with the benefit of his experience as a Lawyer, one time law maker and by the Grace of God now Governor, he has great appreciation of the strategic position that judges play in moderating interactions between individuals, Government and organisations in the society.

He drew the attention of Justice Blessing Dalyop and the Judiciary to the need to expeditiously deal with cases involving suspects who are arrested for crimes such as attacks on innocent citizens, kidnapping and cultism among others. 

Making reference to the Sunday night horrendous attacks in Sabon Layi, Kuru where criminals killed and injured innocent people going about their lawful businesses, the Governor said, “these attacks are getting prevalent and worrisome. This requires us to fully apply the provisions of the law in bringing the perpetrators to justice and creating deterrence. Our people must be protected and made to feel safe as we consolidate on the peace and security of our State. We are tired of hearing unknown gunmen. Are they spirits? I am expecting the IGP to come and commission the patrol vehicles and special security motorcycles we have acquired which we believe will enable the police fish out criminals”.  

  

He told the Acting President of the Customary Court that, “you are coming into this office at a time when the Judiciary in Plateau State is being ushered into the era of the long anticipated Autonomy which in the last months has been on the front burner in the country. We hope this will make your job easier as you deliver inspiring and accountable leadership to the Court. The implementation of full autonomy does not in any way translate to an automatic resolution of all the challenges that the judiciary faces”. 

Justice Blessing Dalyop appreciated God, the Judiciary and the Governor for her appointment and assured that she will put in her best to lead the Customary Court of Appeal in delivering justice to the people.

Justice Blessing Dalyop is sworn in to replace the former President of the Court, late Justice Sati Patrick Dapit who died in April 2021.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham

Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.

15th June 2021

GOV, LALONG URGED COMMUNITIES TO INCREASE SURVEILLANCE

Distressed by the killing of innocent citizens in Sabon Layi, Kuru in Jos South Local Government Area,

Governor Simon Lalong has appealed to citizens to increase surveillance and intelligence gathering as well as collaborate with security agencies to foil such attacks which are carried out in a hit and run fashion by criminals who are bent on disturbing the peace of the State.

Governor Simon Lalong who expressed disgust over the murderous incident which occurred on Sunday night in Sabon Layi Kuru, in Jos South Local Government and left 12 people dead and 5 critically injured, said these unprovoked and isolated attacks on soft targets must be stopped at all cost, as the Government will never allow few criminal elements to create fear in the hearts of the citizens.

During a visit to the scene to commiserate with the families of the victims and the Kuru community, the Governor who was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the State Prof. Danladi Atu condemned the attack describing those behind it as cowards who have no courage to face their victims for whatever grievances they might harbour against them.

He said irrespective of the motives behind the killings, the Government is treating it as a purely criminal activity and has directed security agencies to swiftly investigate, pursue, and arrest the perpetrators who must face justice.

Atu who announced a donation by the Government for the treatment of those injured and the burial of the deceased said the Government is injecting more equipment into the security apparatus to enhance their rapid response in crime prevention and investigation.

The Secretary to the Government thereafter held a meeting with the Gwom Rwei Kuru District, Da Patrick Mandung, community and youth leaders as well as the Management Committee Chairman, Jos South Local Government Area Hon. Gideon Dandereng all appreciated the Government for its quick intervention and visit, promising to intensify intelligence gathering and fully cooperate with security agencies in unravelling those behind the killings.

They said despite the ugly incident, the spirit of the people will never be broken and their hospitality and tolerance will not change as they remain a peaceful community who embrace all people irrespective of their backgrounds and harbour no grudge against anyone.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham

Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State

14th June 2021