PLATEAU FOR PROGRESS: WHAT WILL BE YOUR CONTRIBUTION?

(Modest Thoughts  with Ayuba, Yilgak'ha; 08118161263; loisayuba420@mail.com, 1st November, 2025)

During the build up campaigns of the 2023 governorship election on the Plateau, i wrote an article titled, "Plateau 2023: This is Your Best Chance". The motivation to write on this topic came after I listened to the leading governorship candidates debated on issues bothering security and the welfare of the State, and its citizens. These candidates in their own respective ways, had demonstrated great leadership capacities in words and actions in previous assignments. 

For instance, Prof. Patrick Sunday Dakum had carved a niche for himself as an academic scholar, medical doctor and Director General/Chief Executive Officer (DG/CEO) National Institute for Human Virology (NIHV); Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe (as it were) had made a mark as a Lecturer, tech-guru and Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Independent Electoral Commissioner (INEC), while Hon. Barr. Calep Manasseh Mutfwang (as it were) had made his mark in legal practice and was one time Executive Chairman of Mangu LGC, one of the most economically viable Local Government Areas in the State. None of them was a political or administrative novice!

Plateau State at the time had the opportunity to choose from, at least, three (3) experienced and eminently qualified sons of the State which means that, head or tail, Plateau will be in safe hands and, at the end of the day, His Excellency, Hon. Barr. Calep Manasseh Mutfwang won. 

The outcome which was keenly contested in Court up to the  Supreme Court reinforces the fact that, God rules in the affairs of men and gives power to whoever he pleases hence  the least that anyone could do afterall said and done was to support the governor to deliver on his campaign promises to the citizenry!

The election has passed with the supposedly 'unlucky' candidates being former candidates of their respective parties, but that is not the end of their lives. In life, some setbacks can be unsung pathways to other worthwhile opportunities, call them blessings in disguise, not stigma or death sentence!

Prof. Dakum has since returned to his duty post as DG/CEO NIHV doing well; Prof. Nentawe became Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and now he is the National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), the platform under which he contested the governorship while Barr. Mutfwang leads as the Executive governor of the State. This development reveals the fact that, life is a tapestry of complex mysteries that only God can fathom from the beginning to the end of mortals hence no one should be obsessed with getting things his or her way at anytime since we cannot predict or tell with absolute certainty the direction God, the greatest carpenter and finisher of our dreams, is leading each an everyone of us. The future is heavily pregnant with great and limitless possibilities!

As it were, God, the master of the universe and broker of opportunities, has positioned his children, sons and daughters of Plateau State, citizens of the world now and heaven later, in various vintage positions to serve  this State/country, bringing good things of life back Home for our collective good. Therefore, those whom God has elevated today cannot afford to do less. The language that people understand is that, their leaders  to surmount courage or mustered the will to cultivate, harvest and lavish their lives with visible dividends of democracy.

It is heartwarming that the National Chairman of APC, Prof. Nentawe has remembered home with some good humanitarian interventions, especially, the recent one on health. Hon. Prof. Dakum has initiated others with several other spirited sons and daughters doing their part as the governor stirs, inspires and motivates the entire citizenry into wholesome thinking and actions that bring smiles. The governor is our present status symbol in governance and politics, the chief galvaniser and mobiliser of state action - our collective dream as a people. He is doing his utmost best and needs encouragement!

The appointment appointment and clearance of Dr. Benard as Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria; Hon. Prof. CJ Dakas as Chairman Nigerian Law Reform Commission (NLRC); Hon. Dr. Cyril Tsenyil as Managing Director, North Central Development Commission (NCDC); Monsignor, Rev. Prof. Cletus T. Gotan as Chairman, Nigeria Christian Pilgrims  Commission(NCPC); Mr. David Dasar, President/CEO Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), the training arm of Nigeria Communication Commission (NCC), and many others to come, is a pointer that Plateau is up for a bumper harvest in dividends of democracy. Those making waves in business, education, arts, etc, at home and abroad, when factored into the equation tell how big the future looks for the State!

When God blesses a man, the opportunity should be used humbly and to advance human progress. No blessing should be used as an opportunity to settle political scores because the God that remembers A today is still in the business of elevating others. He can bless others without decreasing anyone unless a beneficiary chooses to ignore or abuse His grace and favour. If anyone feels big favours have not smiled his or her way, wait on God in earnest prayers, patience and hard work and, by the grace of God, the grand benefactor of all, will come to help, may be sooner than was ever thought or imagined. In other words, when God is involved, go and relax fighting no one but seeking the grace of God and the chance to contribute to the welfare of all!

Politics aside, this is a time to build bridges of understanding and not walls of disaffection. It is time to cooperate not compete and, to be united on all fronts to root out insecurity, break loose the chain of poverty, and instill the spirit of innovation and progress in the State's greatest assets: The youth. As a State, we have only one enemy: Disunity which no one, no matter how careless, will be willing to be associated with. It is from the evil of disunity occasioned by self centred-ness that all contradictions spring!

The psalmist in Psalms 133:1-3 has this to say, "How good and pleasant it is when God's people live together in unity! It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron's beard, down on the collar of his robe. It is as if the  dew of Hermon were falling on Mount Zion. For there the Lord bestows his blessing, even life forever more." Poetic and Touchy lines with prospects of blessings that unity brings. It reinforces the timeless adage that, in unity we prosper, but without it a people perish! 

Plateau is for progress, what will be your contribution towards this as a citizen or resident? As we ponder over this trillion dollar question remember to perceive wholeness as the anchoring winning way for the State's sustainable development. Plateau sons and daughters unite, love, and work selflessly for the greater good of all. Yes, when this State progresses, it will be for the benefit of all, and disadvantages of none!

Just say, I love Plateau. Two renowned American writers E.W Kenyon and Don Gossett in their book, "Words that Move Mountains" asserted that, "Love grows with confession. Faith grows with confession. Righteousness-consciousness grows with confession... Every time I confess my faith, my faith grows. If one never confesses, one never grows. Your faith is measured by your confession." Let us confess our love for one another and jointly work at making Plateau and Nigeria great!

BREAKING....PDP NWC SUSPENDS NATIONAL SECRETARY, NAT'L LEGAL ADVISER, NATIONAL ORGANISING SECRETARY & DEPUTY NATIONAL LEGAL ADVISER.

BREAKING....

PDP NWC SUSPENDS NATIONAL SECRETARY, NAT'L LEGAL ADVISER, NATIONAL ORGANISING SECRETARY & DEPUTY NATIONAL LEGAL ADVISER.

Mwaghavul Development Association Responds to Tragic Attack on Pushit Community

The Mwaghavul Development Association (MDA) is deeply saddened by the disturbing report of yet another attack on Mwaghavul nation, particularly  Pushit community, in Mangu LGA,of Plateau state ,The attack which was carried out by person to bandits  took place on Wednesday night and resulted in the tragic loss of three lives.

The MDA is heartbroken that, despite our ongoing efforts to stabilize peace in Mwaghavul land through various non-kinetic strategies, these assailants continue to defy our collective calls for peace, showing a relentless commitment to their destructive agenda.

We want to emphasize that our community’s commitment to peace is unwavering. We call on the Mwaghavul nation to remain calm, vigilant , responsive  and dedicated  to peaceful coexistence in the face of these provocation. Despite these attacks we call on our people to remain resolute in our mission to overcome evil with good and to protect our people through all legitimate means.

In this time of grief, we urge our community members to remain calm in the face of provocation. We call upon security operatives in our Local Government area and Plateau state to rise to the challenge of curbing these unwarranted assaults on innocent and defenseless lives.

The MDA shares in the grief of the immediate families and loved ones of the victims, the entire Pushit community, and the Mwaghavul nation as a whole. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this incredibly difficult time. Together, we will continue to stand united in our pursuit of peace and justice.

Friday Derwam 

Director Public Affairs

When Plateau Journalists 'abandoned' their beats to celebrate

By Katdapba Yunana Gobum

When the then chairman, Paul Jatau increased the tempo of the activities of NUJ Press Week from 2018, it became a matter priority to get the right person to step into his shoes once he left.

Without prejudice to whoever wanted to step into the shoes, Ayuku Pwaspo became the favourite candidate. She must have understudied her predecessor well enough to know what NUJ needed at each point.

This year's Press Week was an improvement on the first; having settled down, a definite, but categorical statement was needed in the second year. The NUJ in Plateau got it, without embellishment.

The preparations for the event by the 2025 Pqress Week Committee, which had John Farinola and Zainab Babaji (Zee Baby) as chairman and secretary respectively showed they wanted to make it successful, together with its members.

The mobilisation became a point of reference; only the Council could tell the number of sleepless nights they had to traverse the offices of individuals and corporate headquarters of organisations to raise funds together with the planning committee.

A week to start, the Council had invited the Patron and Emir of Dutse, HRH Dr Muhammadu Sambo Haruna II to inspect some of the projects embarked upon by the Ayuku Pwaspo-led leadership of the Council.

He did not only visit the Press Centre, but as it is usual with his interventions, there were several advices to help hasten the completion of the projects undertaken by the NUJ in Plateau.

Talking about the Press Week, the Emir was upbeat, but more about what NUJ may engage itself so as to draw the attention of its partners towards receiving help. 

That is the kind of drive you get from a man who has been so determined to put the Council on the side of value addition, by playing the needed role in the society.

That was reiterated when he spoke at the colloquium, while appealing to government, and lovers of the good things NUJ does to help raise funds towards the completion of projects started at the Press Centre.

By this noble intervention, it is hoped that the next tranche of construction work will soon be started.

Road walk

Despite what may have been thought as hiccups in the low turnout, the curtain raiser by the road walk indicated more of a resolve to engage members in what could keep them in shape; after working for several months on their beats without any exercise.

Journalists work round the clock, trying to beat deadlines, as they hardly have time to engage in extra curricular activities. It was expected for most of them to turn out to celebrate.

At the Secretariat Overhead Bridge, where the first stop was made, messages were received from chairman of Council, General Manager of PRTV, Kachalom Abba and House Committee Chairman on Information, Kwarpo Matthew Sylvanus gave kudos to what NUJ has been doing.

Messages of hope were said to cheer members as they made to return to the Press Centre; with most members taking pictures to remind those who didn't make it to note and 'see where we got to'.

Colloquium at Crispan

This year's, like the others, was aimed at a deep introspection of what has happened in the life of the state.

Tagged: "Plateau: What Next After The Crossroads,"cannot be anything but 'a timely reflection on our journey so far and the opportunities" that lie ahead for Plateau State.

The choice of His Majesty, Da Jacob Gyang Buba, Gbong Gwom Jos, was not a mistake; by virtue of his position, the Council of Chiefs and Emirs who daily feel the pains their people go through after every attack since 1994, know what to say about the state's position.

The event was chaired by no less a person than Rt Hon Titus Alams, a former Speaker of the House of Assembly. The array of dignitaries who attended the event speak of what the initiative meant to the state; taking a look forward.

Even though he could not attend, the representative of the Gbong Gwom, Da Gwom Rwei, Heipang, Da Paul Tadi Tok was available to read his text.

The discussions coordinated by the Resident Scholar in the Department of Theatre and Film Arts University of Jos helped to know what the ordinary man on the streets of Jos feel about developments in the state.

Dakom Makpring Longul had the initiative wrapped under his feet; in order to get the discussants to speak truthfully about where the state ought to be: At crossroads or at the point that things ought to work for the state.

Whatever challenge the state has found itself, there is no denying the claim that the value additions made by various governments almost fifty years since its creation cannot be erased by words of mouth.

More can be done, if the state is united, but more importantly if the direction of governance is to be felt; the state must be united to fight as a team.

Commissioner for Information and Communication, Rt Hon Joyce Ramnap, who represented Governor Caleb M Mutfwang spoke on the various forms of interventions the government has provided since 2023.

Novelty match

Journalists may not be footballers; they could love sports, but only a few may be counted as truly interested in the game.

Novelty matches are, by nature, meant to create fun; after which participants rue their pains; return home to apply analgesics to soothe their pains.

Whoever was the coach of the NUJ teams who made the selection for the five-aside, particularly in the male team, should be brought before the NUJ Disciplinary Committee for questioning.

Team Green's deficiency at the beginning was palpable; no wonder, Sanusi Namu's goal keeping prowess fell three times to the fighting power of Maju Dangha.

Namu was quickly replaced with Highland's Koptang Dakop, knowing that if he was left, the team might return to the Press Centre with a basket filled with goals. The reason: He had not eaten to enable him stand between the posts.

Koptang's heroics saved the team from more goals, otherwise Rabiu Abdullahi, Sani Murtala, Pam Dusu, Maklek were in good form to subdue the Dauda Daniel-led team.

Daniels Milton's theatrical displays, reduced Brasil's Neymar Jr Da Silva's showmanship to a child's play had the Referee, Sammy Adesoji not displayed full knowledge of the art.

The match ended 5:2, unlike the female's which ended 2:0 in favour of Team Blue. Team White made of Ayuku Pwaspo, Maikudi Lyop Pam, Simi Chollom, Jemimah Abe, Lungbyen Miri, Asile Abel and Oyebola Albarka who was in goal were unbeatable until way into the second half that they caved in.

Two cheap goals from Bilkisu Nuhu and Esther Oyang separated the girls from the women.

They stood nonplussed after conceding the goals that Ayuku Pwaspo had provided cover for while she played; until she and Lafe Tyem got injured in the process.

At the cultural display, both showed that they were going to be on the sidelines for a long time because of the injuries they picked.

Cultural/cuisine extravaganzas

This year's, rather than get ethnic groups to come out in a procession, a zonal arrangement was made it. Tribes from the three zones danced to different musical rendition; with member dancers from any of the zones getting involved.

Those who were involved in the preparation of the different cuisines had the benefit of hindsight: Last year's was a lesson for the fear of having running stomachs from pepperish foods by the guests and members.

There was enough to eat and drink; to prepare those who would later need the energy to dance. Consider, the Swange dancers Mwuese Ade1@@ 'imported' need energy, than the Hausa version that drew the groundnut sellers watching on the sidelines to join.

Who would have thought that Mathias Yengoet Dajan, popularly called Omega 3 would need his dancing shoes and skills all through the night; even when DJ Dado had sounded the note closing shop for the night.

If it was on a football field; together with his brother, Jude Dangwam, they would have been tested for alleged usage of anabolic steroids. Sheer joy of the evening made them to sweat more.

Thanksgiving service

At the Living Faith State Headquarters on Richard Street, Jos, where the thanksgiving service was well attended by members would be remembered for a long time.

The service coincided with the programme of the church tagged  Supernatural Turnaround with Pastor Yinka Folorunsho ministering.

Even though an opportunity was not provided by the chairman to speak on what brought NUJ to the altar, it was understood; denominations have ways of receiving seeds for thanksgiving by individuals and corporate organisations.

Whatever happened during the service, NUJ members left Living Faith with an interesting impression: Our dependable destiny helper is ever present even in NUJ's circumstance.

HON. ASAMA: THE BEAUTIFUL BRIDE OF PLATEAU POLITICS

(By WALBE ORGAK)

It is often said that a goldfish has no hiding place — a saying that perfectly captures the unfolding political story around Hon. (Amb.) Daniel Asama Ago, Member representing Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives. His recent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) has not only reshaped the political arithmetic of Plateau State but has also sent ripples across the nation’s political space.

Hon. Asama’s movement to the APC did not come as a surprise to many keen observers of Plateau politics. What has, however, stood out is the volume of reactions it has generated across political divides — from admiration to strategic recalculations. Within the APC, his arrival has been celebrated as a major boost to the party’s fortunes, while within the opposition ranks, it has triggered introspection and visible unease.

In less than a year in the National Assembly, Hon. Asama has distinguished himself as a lawmaker with focus, accessibility, and clear developmental priorities. His record of grassroots engagement, youth empowerment programmes, and legislative contributions have endeared him to a wide spectrum of constituents. For many, he represents a new generation of political leadership — one driven by results rather than rhetoric.

No wonder Rt. Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, one of Plateau State’s most famous, performing, and outspoken members of the National Assembly, was seen walking excitedly with Hon. Asama shortly after his defection. That singular gesture spoke volumes — symbolizing mutual respect and a shared vision for the progress of Plateau and Nigeria. It also signified the growing bond among performing legislators within the APC fold, and a unifying spirit that transcends individual ambition.

Political analysts believe that Asama’s defection could signal a broader realignment ahead of 2027. His move comes at a time when the APC, under the national leadership of Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda, has witnessed an unprecedented wave of high-profile defections, consolidating its strength across Northern Nigeria. Hon. Asama’s inclusion is therefore seen as part of this strategic expansion — a deliberate effort to draw credible and performing leaders into the party’s fold.

Beyond party politics, Hon. Asama’s growing appeal reflects the public’s desire for pragmatic and people-oriented representation. His ability to connect across ethnic, religious, and partisan lines has elevated him into the rank of Plateau’s most influential young politicians. Indeed, his defection was greeted not with hostility but with admiration — a testament to the respect he commands among peers and constituents alike.

For many watchers of Plateau politics, Hon. Asama has become the “beautiful bride” courted by many political suitors — a symbol of political relevance and performance credibility. His emergence signifies a new trend where leadership is judged by impact, not longevity; by service, not slogans.

As the political landscape of Plateau continues to evolve, one thing stands clear — Hon. Daniel Asama Ago is not just another name in the corridors of power. He has become a phenomenon — a reference point in the discourse of contemporary Plateau politics, and perhaps, one of the defining figures in the state’s next political chapter.

HON. DANIEL ASAMA AGO’S DEFECTION: A STRATEGIC STEP FOR GREATER IMPACT

The recent decision by Hon. (Amb.) Daniel Asama Ago, Member representing Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency, to officially join the All Progressives Congress (APC) has generated diverse reactions across political and public spaces. While some see it as a bold strategic move, others view it with skepticism. However, beyond the noise of partisan interpretation lies the clear intent of a representative committed to deepening development and expanding the voice of his people.

Since assuming office, Hon. Asama has proven that leadership is not defined by the logo behind you, but by the impact you deliver before you. His record speaks from sponsoring 14 Bills including the Bill for the upgrade of the College of Medical Laboratory Science and Technology, Jos, into a Federal University, to championing peace and unity in Irigwe land and empowering youth across Jos North and Bassa. His decision to join the APC is therefore a continuation of service, not a shift in principles.

The move aligns with his vision of connecting the constituency directly to the national grid of governance and development, leveraging the ruling party’s access to resources, partnerships, and federal programs. It reflects a deeper understanding that true representation requires not isolation, but integration not resistance, but collaboration.

Hon. Asama’s ideology remains anchored in accountability, inclusiveness, and result-driven representation. His doors remain open to all, regardless of political persuasion. In his words, “I may have changed platform, but not purpose. My loyalty remains with the people.”

For his constituents who welcome this development, it is a call to rally behind progress. For those who feel uncertain, it is an invitation to watch transformation in action. And for those indifferent, it is a reminder that history often vindicates those who act from conviction, not convenience.

Hon. Daniel Asama Ago stands today, not as a politician switching camps, but as a leader stepping into broader territory to serve better. His defection is not a retreat, it is an advance.

Written by:

Comr. Dave Jonathan Boldmind, CRA, Press Secretary to Hon. (Amb.) Daniel Asama Ago, Member Representing Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency

National Assembly, Abuja

BREAKING NEWS: HON. DANIEL ASAMA AGO DEFECTS FROM LP TO APC

(By WALBE OGAK)

In a move that has reshaped the political arithmetic of the House of Representatives, Hon. (Amb.) Daniel Asama Ago, Member representing Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency of Plateau State, has officially announced his defection from the Labour Party (LP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The defection, which took place during Thursday’s plenary session, marked a significant moment in the evolving dynamics of the 10th National Assembly. Hon. Ago joined five other lawmakers who also dumped their former parties for the APC, raising the party’s numerical strength in the House to 242 members, thus securing a two-thirds majority.

Political observers describe the development as a strategic boost for the APC, especially as the ruling party continues to strengthen its hold on the legislature and consolidate its legislative agenda ahead of the next electoral cycle.

Hon. Asama Ago, who was elected under the platform of the Labour Party, has been a vocal advocate for grassroots development and youth empowerment. His move to the APC, sources suggest, may not be unconnected with alignment towards broader national political interests and the search for stronger collaboration with the federal government.

With the new political balance, analysts believe the APC’s enhanced strength in the House will not only ease the passage of key executive bills but also shape legislative priorities in the coming months.

A Rejoinder by Moses Gowus Justifying Isaac Wadak’s Decision to Leave the PDP”

( By WALBE ORGAK)

The resignation of Nde Isaac Wadak from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has continued to generate waves across Plateau State, with reactions pouring in from various quarters. In a rejoinder issued by Moses Gowus of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Kabwir Pada Ward, the statement took a firm stand in defense of Nde Wadak, describing the attacks against him by a faceless group as “uncalled for and a display of frustration.”

According to Gowus, the well-articulated resignation letter addressed to the Chairman of Kabwir Pada Ward in Kanke LGA by Nde Wadak “was a mark of decency, maturity, and respect” to the PDP which he served faithfully for 27 years. He added that instead of appreciating his civility, “a faceless and cowardly group calling themselves Concerned PDP Stakeholders, Kabwir Pada Ward, hurriedly circulated a reaction filled with insults and name-calling.”

Gowus noted that it is neither a crime nor a betrayal for any individual to leave a political party, stressing that freedom of association remains a fundamental constitutional right. “It is shocking that for simply exercising his right, certain persons have chosen to malign a respected elder whose only offence is choosing to move on,” he stated.

He faulted the group’s claim that Nde Wadak’s resignation lacked substance, describing such as “a clear indication of poor comprehension.” Gowus pointed out that “the reasons were well articulated in paragraphs three, four, and five of the letter, but their haste to throw reckless words blinded them to reason.”

“The timing of Nde Wadak’s resignation alone exposes the falsehood of their claim that it was self-serving,” Gowus said. “If it was about personal gain, he would have left during the eight years of APC rule, not now when the PDP is sinking into political oblivion.”

The rejoinder further noted that the ongoing gale of defections from the PDP reflects the deepening crisis within the party and the loss of confidence among its genuine stakeholders. “Rather than casting aspersions, the so-called elders should focus on repairing the wreckage and addressing the obvious disunity that has engulfed the PDP,” he advised.

Gowus emphasized that the history of the PDP in Plateau State would be incomplete without the mention of Nde Isaac Wadak, who was a prominent member of the famous Redemption Team that once redefined governance and accountability in the state.

“The current leadership of the PDP has sadly turned the once formidable party into a house of shame dominated by political greenhorns and opportunists,” Gowus asserted. “Nde Wadak’s exit is therefore a statement of conscience and conviction, not convenience.”

Concluding, Gowus congratulated Nde Wadak for his bold step, stating: “Congratulations, Nde, and welcome on board. God bless and keep you.”

Former PDP Chairmanship Candidate, Koproda Charles Felix, Resigns from Party

(WALBE OGAK) 

Fromn Pankshin, in a move that underscores the deepening cracks within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Plateau State, former Chairmanship Candidate for Pankshin Local Government Council, Koproda Charles Felix, has officially resigned his membership of the party.

In his resignation letter, Koproda cited the “festered state of the party” and the erosion of its “high-octane ideals” as reasons for his decision. According to him, self-interest and opportunism have taken precedence over collective progress within the PDP.

 “I have watched with mounting agitation as self-interest, antagonistic interest, and opportunism pervaded the space and replaced positive enterprise,” he stated.

“There is, therefore, the need to reconstruct my political boundary going forward, aligning with precise and acceptable progress haystack of opportunities that abound.”

Koproda, who described himself as a “bit player in the affairs of the party within my generation,” noted that he had worked assiduously to contribute to the party’s growth. He expressed gratitude for the opportunities offered him by the PDP, including his candidacy for Pankshin LGC Chairmanship, his role as a National Delegate for the Presidential Primaries, and as a National Presidential Election Observer, among other ad-hoc responsibilities.

“Take my seamless transition of political alliance in good faith,” he concluded.

It is worthy of note that Koproda hails from the same local government area as Hon. Letep Dabang, a former Special Adviser on Political Affairs to the Plateau State Governor, who also resigned his appointment and defected from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The recent wave of defections from the PDP in Pankshin and other parts of the state continues to reshape the political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.

WALBE OGAK 

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Prof. Barnabas Mandong, Ex-Commissioner and Jang Ally, Resigns from PDP

(By WALBE OGAK )

From Bokkos Local Government Area, Plateau State — In a surprising political development, Prof. Barnabas Mandong, a former Commissioner of Health in Plateau State and a close ally of former Governor Sen. Jonah David Jang, has officially resigned his membership from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

In a letter addressed to the Ward Chairman of Bokkos Central Ward, Prof. Mandong expressed appreciation to the party for the opportunity to serve under its platform, noting that his years in the PDP were marked by valuable experiences in leadership and public service.

Though the letter did not specify the reasons behind his decision, reliable political sources suggest that the move may not be unconnected with recent developments within the state chapter of the PDP, where internal divisions and leadership disagreements have continued to unsettle key stakeholders. His resignation is seen as part of a broader realignment among party loyalists who have grown dissatisfied with the current direction of the party both at the state and national levels.

This underscores the growing discontent within the ranks of the ruling party in the state, as evidenced by the recent defection of seasoned politicians such as Isaac Wadak, Amos Gombi, Solomon Maren, General Sura, Felix Koproda, among other notable figures. These are individuals who played pivotal roles and made significant sacrifices in bringing the present government to power, yet now find themselves abandoning the party they helped build to join the opposition. Their departure reflects deeper cracks within the ruling structure—rooted in dissatisfaction, unmet expectations, and a perceived deviation from the ideals that initially united them.

Political analysts believe Prof. Mandong’s exit could have ripple effects across the Plateau Central Senatorial District, particularly within the Jang political bloc, which has long maintained influence over the PDP’s structure in the state. Many observers say his resignation signals a potential shift in loyalty and may pave the way for new political alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections.

There are speculations that the former commissioner may be considering aligning with another political movement or platform that better reflects his ideals and aspirations for the people of Plateau State. Whatever his next step, Prof. Mandong’s departure adds to the mounting wave of disaffection among veteran politicians, as the Plateau political landscape continues to evolve in the buildup to 2027.

GAGDI: DRIVING SECURITY ACTION AND ANTI-CORRUPTION REFORMS FROM THE GREEN CHAMBER

(By WALBE ORGAK)

In a week that tested the mettle of legislative leadership and national resolve, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, Ph.D., OON, the Member representing Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency and Chairman, House Committee on Navy, once again stood at the intersection of national security and reform-driven lawmaking.

From the floor of the House of Representatives came a moment of resounding approval — one that bore the stamp of urgency, empathy, and strategic foresight. Gagdi’s Motion of Urgent Public Importance on the persistent insecurity and humanitarian challenges in Kanam Local Government Area of Plateau State secured unanimous support, signaling a decisive step toward restoring peace and rebuilding trust in one of the most affected regions of the Middle Belt.

Securing the Homeland

The motion, anchored on the troubling rise of banditry, kidnapping, cattle rustling, and recurrent flood disasters in Garga and adjoining communities, captured the growing despair of rural dwellers.

Gagdi’s prayers, adopted in full by the House, proposed a multi-agency security architecture for Kanam:

The establishment of a Forward Operation Base (FOB) in Garga to enable faster military deployment and response;

A Divisional Police Headquarters in Gum, and a Civil Defence Divisional Office in Gwamlar, to improve local policing and inter-agency synergy;

The deployment of a DSS Special Operations Team to pursue intelligence-led counteractions against criminal networks; and

Immediate intervention by NEMA and the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs to aid victims of both insecurity and natural disasters.

The House further observed a minute of silence for Mallam Hudu Alhassan Musa, the slain Village Head of Shuwaka, whose death in captivity served as a grim reminder of the human cost of insecurity in rural Plateau.

Legislating Against Corruption

Barely days after securing this vital motion, Gagdi took on another front — the fight against corruption. On Thursday, he led the debate on the Proceeds of Crime (Recovery and Management) (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2447), a bold legislative effort aimed at tightening Nigeria’s asset recovery system.

The Bill, one of four major anti-corruption reforms sponsored by Gagdi, seeks to amend the Proceeds of Crime Act, 2022, addressing loopholes that have long hampered effective asset forfeiture and management. Among its innovations are:

The expansion of non-conviction-based forfeiture mechanisms, ensuring illicit wealth can be recovered even when criminal convictions are delayed or obstructed;

The introduction of whistleblower and witness protection frameworks to safeguard those who expose corruption; and

The recognition of digital and virtual assets through a proposed National Confiscation and Recovery Registry, aligning Nigeria’s system with international standards.

A Reputation for Results

Observers note that Gagdi’s dual focus on security and accountability reflects a broader vision — one that blends compassion for the ordinary citizen with the strategic depth of a reformist. In a legislative era often dominated by partisanship, his approach stands out for its balance of empathy and execution.

“Security and justice are the twin pillars of peace,” Gagdi remarked during plenary, reinforcing his belief that good governance must begin with protecting lives and recovering stolen public wealth.

With these latest moves, the Plateau-born lawmaker continues to cement his place as a dynamic voice in the 10th National Assembly, blending grassroots sensitivity with national relevance — and reminding Nigerians that effective leadership is not about noise, but about results.

WALBE OGAK 

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HON. (AMB.) DANIEL ASAMA AGO FELICITATES HON. PHILIP ASANATO ON HIS BIRTHDAY

(By WALBE OGAK)

The Member representing Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, Hon. (Amb.) Daniel Asama Ago, has extended warm birthday felicitations to the Organizing Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Plateau State, Hon. Philip Asanato, describing him as a committed democrat and pillar of the party.

In a goodwill message personally signed by him, Hon. Asama joined the good people of Plateau State, friends, associates, and members of the APC family in celebrating Hon. Asanato on the occasion of his birthday.

According to the federal lawmaker, Hon. Asanato has remained “a steadfast builder of democracy whose unwavering commitment continues to strengthen the political architecture of Plateau State.”

He commended the celebrant’s passion for grassroots mobilization, inclusive leadership, and community development, noting that his dedication reflects a deep love for the people and a genuine desire for the progress of the state.

“As you mark this memorable milestone,” Asama stated, “I pray that the Almighty God blesses you with more wisdom, vibrant health, divine favor, and continued success in your noble service to humanity.”

The lawmaker further conveyed the goodwill of the resilient and peace-loving people of Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency, wishing Hon. Asanato a remarkable new year filled with greater accomplishments and fulfillment of his aspirations.