Plateau State University Appoints Dr. Keziah Ayuba as First Female Deputy Vice Chancellor for Administration

Plateau State University, Bokkos, has appointed Dr. Keziah Ayuba, from the Faculty of Management Sciences, as its new Deputy Vice Chancellor for Administration. Until her elevation, she served as Dean of the Faculty.

Dr. Ayuba's nomination occurred at the 90th special meeting of the University Senate, where Professor Moses Pyefa secured a second two-year term as Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic.

The meeting, chaired by Acting Vice Chancellor Professor Shedrack Best, included a valedictory session for outgoing Deputy Vice Chancellors Professor Moses Pyefa and Associate Professor Jurji Gomwalk.

Professor Best informed the Senate of the expiration of the officers' tenures. After deliberation, Dr. Ayuba was unanimously nominated to succeed Associate Professor Jurji Gomwalk.

Notably, Dr. Ayuba is the first female to hold this position since the university's establishment.

Outgoing Deputy Vice Chancellor Administration, Professor Jurji Gomwalk, expressed gratitude for serving his homeland and being a pioneer staff member.

Dr. Ayuba, from Shendam, begins her first two-year term, renewable upon completion.

PLATEAU STATE GOVERNMENT'S SURPRISE MOVE ON TRADITIONAL RULER SELECTION RAISES CONCERNS.

The need to trade with caution as plateau state governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang approved the constitution of a high powered government committee to look into the selection of the traditional ruler and chief custodian of Bashar chiefdom of Wase local government Area.

This announcement or rather news came with mixture of certainty and uncertainty at a time that the exercise which took place since 2022 and had followed due process as enshrined in the gazette after which no issues were raised either through litigation or otherwise.

As a public analyst one must be quick to draw the attention of the captain of the 'Time is now Mantra' Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang to be wary of detractors as meddling into affairs of traditional council doesn't and has never breath out healthy air but chaos and divisiveness.

One may wonders what brought about this committee at a time government itself hasn't constituted any of such or it's likes to deliberate the most critical issue on the burner ,the new minimum wage.At a time plateau state government hasn't utter a word in short direction one might have thought that such issues are expected to draw serious attention from government.

The Rekna traditional stool is one of the most reverred due to its age long history.

The Bashar community as it is has had interactions with the outside world in periods that predate modern civilization.

Hence, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang should be able to discern caution with reason and avoid matters that touch the hearts.

Signed:

Alhaji Ado Abdullahi

Public Analyst 

Jos -North

Plateau State University Bokkos to Launch Medicine and Surgery (MBBS) Program.

Plateau state University Bokkos set to commence Medicine and Surgery (MBBS). Acting Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Shedrack Best made this known while receiving report from the chairman of the fifteen  man Technical Advisory Committee on the Commencement of Medicine and Surgery (MBBS) in Plateau State University, Bokkos  Professor Simon  Yiltok.

Professor Best while commending the commitment displayed by members of the committee which cut across various fields of medicine, surgery, pharmaceuticals and Health sciences,said ,he is pleased with the efforts the committee shown within a short period, adding that, their commitment should not just end with the submission of the report but the commencement of a process that will Kickstart the program.

He expressed the readiness of the plateau state government under the leadership of Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang to ensure the success of the program.

The vice Chancellor said, having enjoy the goodwill of professionals in the field,since the inauguration of the committee,all efforts will be put in place to succeed,

 'we will tease out the issues that needs executive approval and forward to the governor,we are in sync with the issue of plateau state specialist being the designated Teaching Hospital for this program...and I believe that,the governor will be open to the best idea that will make thia program right'.

Earlier while submitting the report, chairman of the technical committee Professor Simon Yiltok, informed the Vice Chancellor that,the committee met severally,visited the school to inspect infrastructure on ground alongside going through other similar reports and  came to conclusions that Plateau specialist Hospital be upgraded to served as Plateau state University Teaching Hospital.

Professor Yiltok said '..we review the theme knowing fully well that these are programs that are highly sort after by candidates and from experience from university of Jos I know that medicine, Nursing and medical lab are the top three courses that most applicants go for'.

Professor Simon Yiltok added that the faculty from the committees findings will be able to provide teaching requirements successfully.

PLASIEC Chairman Hon. Plangji Cishak Assures Readiness for Upcoming Plateau State Local Government Elections"

BY WALBE ORGAK

Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) Chairman, Hon. Plangji Daniel Cishak, assures stakeholders of preparedness for October 9, 2024, Local Government Elections in all 17 LGAs.

"At the Stakeholders Engagement Meeting held earlier today, September 26, 2024, at Jos' Tamarald Event Center, the Chairman stressed the importance of prioritizing Plateau state's interests above political party considerations."

"We must prioritize getting it right at the grassroots level, because that's where the elected representatives are closest to the people."

"Hon. Cishak announced that the Commission has begun hiring Adhoc staff for the upcoming exercise and has launched a website for online registration. Additionally, the Commission has maintained open communication and collaboration with IPAC state members."

"Within just three months of taking office, they've successfully built a strong rapport with election observers."

The Chairman passionately declared that the pursuit of power must never come at the cost of human life in Plateau state. Instead, the focus should be on ensuring a tranquil and trustworthy electoral process, setting a shining example for others to emulate."

"The Chairman seized the opportunity to appeal to all individuals to join forces and strive towards a common goal: the successful completion of the Local Government Council elections."

Among those who make a presentations on their level preparedness where, the Secretary of the Commission, commissioner electoral operations, commissioner of transportation and logistics, commissioner of trainings, commissioner of voter education and observation, ICT (VVS)

Hon. Barr. Pam Davou, Commission Secretary, informed the gathering that the Plateau State House of Assembly, with support from an NGO and the Commission's Legal Team, has repealed the out-dated Local Government Law and enacted a new one aligned with the Electoral Act.

This development enables the conduct of the elections. Notably, 45 candidates are contesting Chairman Positions, while 788 are vying for Councillorship seats across the state's 17 Local Government Areas. Davou emphasized the importance of a sound legal framework, ensuring the election's integrity.

Meanwhile, Hon. Audu Ado Adere, Transport Committee Chairman, confirmed that the Commission has engaged transport stakeholders and collaborated with VIO and Road Safety Commission to verify vehicle roadworthiness.

Goodwill messages came from the representative of IPAC, Chairman CAN, JNI represented by the PRO, CSO, Commissioner of Police, representative of the Gwom Gwong Jos, the Speaker Plateau State House of Assembly and the Secretary to Plateau state government who represented the Governor of Plateau His Excellency Barrister Caleb Mutfwang. 

SPEECH BY CHAIRMAN PLATEAU STATE INDEPENDENT ELECTORAL COMMISSION PLASIEC, PLANGJI CISHAK AT THE STAKEHOLDERS MEETING ON THE LEVEL OF PREPAREDNESS FOR THE OCTOBER 9 LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS IN PLATEAU STATE*

Good morning distinguished guests, stakeholders, and members of the press. It is with a deep sense of responsibility and gratitude that I stand before you today, as we approach the pivotal local government elections scheduled for October 9, 2024. This election is not just another event on our calendar; it represents a vital opportunity for the citizens of Plateau State to exercise their democratic rights and shape the future of their communities.

I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to our Executive Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, for entrusting my team and i with the immense responsibility of overseeing this crucial electoral process. This appointment comes with a solemn promise to justify the confidence placed in us, and I assure you that we are committed to ensuring a free, fair, and credible election. Once again, we commend the Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly and other members for the endorsement of the Governor's desire for us to serve in this capacity. Our speedy screening was indicative of the vision of the legislative arm to join hands with the executive and move the state into a glorious future.

Since our swearing-in, we have prioritized engaging with stakeholders across all 17 local government areas. This initiative was essential for us to gather insights and input from the people of Plateau State, helping us to understand their expectations and concerns. I firmly believe that this grassroots approach is foundational in building a robust democratic framework that reflects the true voice of our people.

One of our first actions was to set a firm date for the election. We understand the importance of certainty in this process, and since that day, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to uphold this date. Following this, our staff participated in intensive training facilitated by the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES). This training is crucial for ensuring that our personnel are equipped with the best practices necessary for conducting a transparent and credible electoral process.

To further enhance our preparedness, we have implemented ongoing training sessions for all stakeholders involved in the electoral process. Key officials have undergone master training, which is being cascaded to all staff members. This strategy has been instrumental in bridging the gap between our appointed officials and the core civil servants already in place, fostering a collaborative environment that is essential for success.

In our pursuit of transparency, we have announced the recruitment of ad hoc staff who will serve as election officials. This decision underscores our commitment to inclusivity and fairness, ensuring that all qualified individuals have an equal opportunity to contribute to this vital process. We are in constant communication with the Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC) to reassure all political parties that our commitment to a credible election is unwavering.

This election will also mark a significant milestone in the history of PLASIEC, as we are introducing electronic components for the first time, including a state-of-the-art Voter Verification Software developed exclusively by our ICT team. This innovation is designed to ensure that only eligible voters can cast their votes, a crucial step toward making sure that the voices of the Plateau people are heard and respected. Massive infrastructural investments have been made to cater for the effective deployment of this innovation.

We have established contacts with various election observers who will monitor the electoral process, providing an additional layer of transparency and credibility. In a strategic effort to secure our election, we have inaugurated the Plateau State Advisory Consultative Committee on Election Security (PLACCES). This initiative is critical to ensuring the safety of citizens and election officials alike. We echo the sentiments of former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, who reminded us that no ambition is worth the blood of any man. We are committed to ensuring a peaceful election, knowing that there will be life beyond this day.

As we continue our preparations, a mock election is scheduled for September 28, 2024. This exercise will serve as a test run for the Voter Verification Software and will help us identify any potential challenges before the actual Election Day. Our goal is to ensure that everything runs seamlessly on October 9, and we are dedicated to learning from this mock election to enhance our processes.

Our commitment to creating stable democratic institutions at the grassroots level aligns perfectly with Governor Mutfwang’s vision. He has consistently emphasized that every vote counts and we are determined to ensure that every citizen of Plateau State has the opportunity to make their voice heard.

We are acutely aware of the historical context that has shaped perceptions of State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs) in Nigeria. Many citizens have lost confidence due to past irregularities, and we recognize the responsibility we have to rewrite this narrative. During our outreach, citizens have expressed their desire for us to "write our names in gold" by conducting credible elections. This promise weighs heavily on us as we approach October 9, and we are committed to fulfilling it. Our achievements have already gained national recognition. PLASIEC has been recently recommended as one among the six other pilot SIECs in Nigeria. Other SIECs are expected to begin using the template we have implemented as a model to strengthen their operations.

In conclusion, I call upon all stakeholders, civil society organizations, traditional rulers, security, religious leaders, and the media to join hands with us in this crucial endeavor. Your support is invaluable in ensuring that we achieve our goal of a transparent and credible electoral process. Together, we can restore the faith of the Plateau people in their democratic institutions and lay the groundwork for a brighter future.

Thank you all for your attention, and may the Almighty God grant us success as we embark on this significant journey together. Let us ensure that the spirit of sportsmanship and cooperation prevails as we head into this electoral season.

Plateau State is ours, and together, we can ensure that it remains a place of hope, unity, and progress for generations to come.

E-signed

Plangji Cishak

Chairman

PLASIEC

 

Trouble is brewing in Plateau Youth Council Elections as aggrieved aspirants are crying foul demanding nullification of the elections

A coalition of Plateau State Youth Council (PYC) aspirants, has accused the electoral committee of rigging the Council's elections held 25th September, 2024 demanding the cancellation of the results, citing irregularities in the electoral process.

PYC chairmanship aspirant, Comrade Nanshok Peter who led other aspirants in a protest, told newsmen at the NUJ secretariat in Jos that the actions of the electoral committee undermine the fundamental principles of fairness, transparency, and accountability.

The aspirants who expressed dissatisfaction with electoral process acknowledged that "the events unfolding before our eyes threaten the very fabric of democracy and the integrity of the PYC.

"The deployment of armed men to intimidate aspirants and members, the deliberate exclusion of local government chairmen from the electoral process in at least 10 Local Government Areas (LGAs), contrary to established norms, lack of transparency in candidate and delegate selection, with the list of qualified candidates and delegates unavailable to aspirants even on the eve of the election, reports of elections not held in more than 8 LGAs, casting doubt on the legitimacy of the process. The electoral committee's refusal to address serious issues and petitions from various districts and LGAs, further eroding confidence in the process", Peter alleged.

He further reiterates that "these irregularities are unacceptable and have led us to lose faith in the Electoral Committee's ability to conduct free and fair elections.In light of these developments, we, the Coalition of PYC Aspirants, have resolved to distance ourselves from this tainted electoral process.

Read the full speech below:

Fellow Compatriots of Plateau State,

We, the Coalition of Plateau State Youth Council (PYC) Aspirants, gather today to express our utmost dissatisfaction and disillusionment with the electoral process leading up to the PYC elections, slated for today, September 25, 2024.

Also, the events unfolding before our eyes threaten the very fabric of democracy and the integrity of the PYC.

We are compelled to bring to the attention of Plateau State and the world at large the notorious and sinister acts of illegality perpetrated by the electoral committee. These actions undermine the fundamental principles of fairness, transparency, and accountability.

Specifically, we condemn:

1. The gross rascality and lawlessness exhibited by the electoral committee, evident in the deployment of armed men to intimidate aspirants and members.

2. The deliberate exclusion of local government chairmen from the electoral process in at least 10 Local Government Areas (LGAs), contrary to established norms.

3. The lack of transparency in candidate and delegate selection, with the list of qualified candidates and delegates unavailable to aspirants even on the eve of the election.

4. Reports of elections not held in more than 8 LGAs, casting doubt on the legitimacy of the process.

5. The electoral committee's refusal to address serious issues and petitions from various districts and LGAs, further eroding confidence in the process.

These irregularities are unacceptable and have led us to lose faith in the Electoral Committee's ability to conduct free and fair elections.

In light of these developments, we, the Coalition of PYC Aspirants, have resolved to distance ourselves from this tainted electoral process.

We urge our supporters, friends, and well-wishers to understand our decision and recognize that our actions are guided by a commitment to upholding the values of integrity, transparency, and accountability.

We call on relevant stakeholders to take this move as one done in the best interest of the Plateau Youth Council, and our dear state.

OUR DEMANDS

1. We demand for the total nullification of the election conducted today the 25th of September 2024

2. We demand for the square nullification of all the districts and local government elections conducted before today

3. We also demand for the dissolution of the electoral committee whom has publicly shown interest on their love and mission to return some particular candidates elected

4. All customs, traditions and the constitutional stipulations guiding the conduct of PYC (i.e Plateau youths council) must be totally upheld and adhere strictly the freeness, fairness and the credibility of the elections henceforth.

Thank you, and God bless Plateau State youths council.

God bless Plateau state and Nigeria

 

Plateau State University Bokkos Expands Academic Offerings with Pharmaceutical SciencesHeading for the script below

All is now set to commence pharmaceutical sciences at the Plateau state University Bokkos come twenty twenty five/twenty six academic calendar.

Acting Vice Chancellor of the university Professor Shedrack Best disclosed the cheering news while receiving a report of the Technical Advisory committee for the commencement of pharmaceutical sciences in state University, chaired by Professor Nelson Ochekpe.

Professor Shedrack  Best thank Professor Nelson Ochekpe led committee for availing their time and resources to ensure the smooth take-off of the Pharmaceutical Sciences at the Plateau State University Bokkos being one of the fast rising state owned institutions in the country.

He said the University which started with Three faculties now boost of nine faculties with more to be introduced.

Professor Best assured of maintaining academic standards in accordance with laid down practice.

'you have produced a compass that will take us one of the pillars that will aim the search to constitute cause of this young university, plateau state University and we have grown from three faculties at commencement, today,we have nine faculties with the school of post graduate studies and so by the time we have pharmacy and medicine,that will be two additional facilitie'

He reminded the Technical committee that, the work has just started.

'..we are looking forward to actually getting the approval of National University Commission by the time,they come for resource verification visit and we would be able to have our first set of students in the 2025/2026 academic session,which means we have a full year to prepare in terms of a classroom and  laboratories facilities as well as the human capital that's needed to push these programs,I believe that one year will give us rich the opportunity tidy up the rest of the planning'.

Earlier, while presenting the findings and recommendations of the committee,Team lead, Professor Nelson Ochekpe assured the Acting Vice Chancellor that, his committee which comprised of experienced and seasoned scholars in the field of Pharmaceutical Sciences have done justice to the report,he said,'there are a few highlights but is not the one off committee,the way we see our role..but we will continue to work until this faculty actually comes into existence.

It would be recalled, that a similar committee on the commencement of medicine and surgery had submitted their own report recommending the commencement of medicine and surgery.

      End

Christians in Jos Embarked on 8-Day Prayer and Fasting for National Revival

A group of concern Christians in Jos, Nigeria, have embarked on an 8-day prayer and fasting event for national revival, seeking divine intervention for improved security and economic recovery.

Apostle Ellam Tanko Chanlaham, a key organizer, emphasized the importance of unity among Christians, citing 2 Chronicles 7:14, which highlights the power of prayer and fasting in times of crisis.

‘if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will  forgive their sin and will heal their land’ 

Prayer Points:

- *Peace and Security*: Protection from terrorism, banditry, and other forms of violence

- *Economic Recovery*: Divine guidance for policymakers, entrepreneurs, and citizens to stimulate growth

- *Leadership*: Wisdom and integrity for leaders to prioritize the nation's interests

- *Unity*: Healing of social and ethnic divisions, promoting national cohesion

The event, held at Rwang Pam Township Stadium Jos from 4 pm to 6 pm daily, aims to bring about transformative change, fostering a safer and more prosperous nation.

 Apostle Chanlaham invites Christians from various denominations to join, encouraging participants to invite friends, family, and community members.

This collective effort serves as a beacon of hope during challenging times, demonstrating the commitment of Christians to the country's well-being, trusting that God will guide and bless their efforts. The 8-day prayer and fasting event concludes on Monday, September 30, 2024.

RE: PLATEAU STATE RE: PLATEAU STATE INDEPENDENT ELECTORAL COMMISSION DISMISSES BASELESS ALLEGATIONS OF SECRET DEALINGS WITH POLITICAL PARTY.

With barely two weeks to the 0ctober 9 Local Government Elections, the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission, PLASIEC, 

is aware of a false and misleading report on social media suggesting a secretive rigging arrangement in favour of a particular political party.

PLASIEC categorically denies this allegation and strongly warns against the spread of such misinformation.

This baseless claim is clearly intended to sow confusion, create tension, and undermine the integrity of the electoral process. 

Citizens should desist from misusing the freedom of speech to heat up the polity but rather deploy it in advancing the cause of good governance. 

Already, PLASIEC has taken bold steps to ensure the successful conduct of the election through laudable innovations such as the introduction of the Voter Verification Software VVS, timely information dissemination on our website and constant stakeholder engagements at different levels.

It should be noted that Governor Caleb Mutfwang's stance on giving PLASIEC a free hand to operate devoid of interference will not be compromised.

The Commission therefore reaffirms its unwavering commitment to fairness, transparency, and neutrality, which have been the cornerstones of its operations.

While the Electoral Umpire respects and appreciates individual opinions, it equally calls on citizens to project positively the feat it has so far recorded in the electoral processes.  

It urges citizens and stakeholders to disregard the false report and support the smooth conduct of the upcoming elections by following due process in full compliance with the law. 

PLASIEC remains resolute in its mission to deliver a credible, free, and fair election.

Koro E. Yakubu 

Head of Media, 

PLASIEC 

24th September, 2024. OF SECRET DEALINGS WITH POLITICAL PARTY. 

With barely two weeks to the 0ctober 9 Local Government Elections, the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission, PLASIEC, 

is aware of a false and misleading report on social media suggesting a secretive rigging arrangement in favour of a particular political party.

PLASIEC categorically denies this allegation and strongly warns against the spread of such misinformation.

This baseless claim is clearly intended to sow confusion, create tension, and undermine the integrity of the electoral process. 

Citizens should desist from misusing the freedom of speech to heat up the polity but rather deploy it in advancing the cause of good governance. 

Already, PLASIEC has taken bold steps to ensure the successful conduct of the election through laudable innovations such as the introduction of the Voter Verification Software VVS, timely information dissemination on our website and constant stakeholder engagements at different levels.

It should be noted that Governor Caleb Mutfwang's stance on giving PLASIEC a free hand to operate devoid of interference will not be compromised.

The Commission therefore reaffirms its unwavering commitment to fairness, transparency, and neutrality, which have been the cornerstones of its operations.

While the Electoral Umpire respects and appreciates individual opinions, it equally calls on citizens to project positively the feat it has so far recorded in the electoral processes.  

It urges citizens and stakeholders to disregard the false report and support the smooth conduct of the upcoming elections by following due process in full compliance with the law. 

PLASIEC remains resolute in its mission to deliver a credible, free, and fair election.

Koro E. Yakubu 

Head of Media, 

PLASIEC 

24th September, 2024.