Chief Ephraim Usman visit Bokkos, Seeks Royal Blessings Ahead of Campaign Flag-off.

(BY WALBE OGAK)

As part of activities marking the commencement of his political campaign, Chief Ephraim Usman paid a courtesy visit to the palace of the District Head, HRH Lawrence Madam, to seek royal blessings following his successful screening to contest in the forthcoming election.

During the visit, the Director General of the Campaign Organization, Hon. Jonathan Aminu, formally introduced Chief Ephraim Usman to the royal fathers, describing him as a credible and worthy aspirant committed to delivering purposeful representation to the people. He emphasized that Kanam Local Government Area has never produced a senator, stressing that supporting Chief Ephraim Usman would help promote equity and balance in political representation within the zone.

Responding, Chief Ephraim Usman expressed appreciation to the traditional rulers for the warm reception accorded to him and his entourage. He assured the royal fathers of his commitment to advancing legislation that would strengthen and empower traditional institutions if elected into office. According to him, his experience as former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, coupled with his background from a royal family, has given him firsthand understanding of the challenges and needs facing traditional rulers across the state.

Traditional rulers from across Bokkos Local Government Area took turns to speak during the meeting, describing Chief Ephraim Usman as a worthy candidate deserving of massive support. The royal fathers commended his leadership qualities, accessibility, and contributions to the traditional institution during his time in public office, expressing confidence in his ability to provide effective representation if elected.

In their collective response, the royal fathers offered prayers and blessings for Chief Ephraim Usman, urging him to sustain the good works he started during his tenure as Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. They noted that he had done a lot for traditional rulers and expressed optimism that he would continue to prioritize their welfare and the development of the people.

Chief Ephraim Usman was accompanied on the visit by members of his campaign organization, friends, classmates, and prominent politicians from Bokkos Local Government Area, who joined him in seeking the blessings and support of the traditional institution ahead of the commencement of his campaign activities.

Gunmen Kill Two, Abduct Five in Fresh Attack on Furyam Takzul Community in Kanam

(BY WALBE OGAK )

Residents of Furyam Takzul community in Kantana Ward of Kanam Local Government Area of Plateau State have been thrown into mourning following a midnight attack by unknown gunmen who killed two persons and abducted five others, including women and children.

The incident, according to residents, occurred at about 12:00 midnight on Saturday when the attackers stormed the community, shooting sporadically and causing panic among villagers who fled for safety. Sources within the community disclosed that the assailants invaded several homes during the operation before whisking away their victims to an unknown destination.

Speaking on the incident, the Village Head of Furyam Takzul, Alhaji Usman Ibrahim, confirmed the attack and described the situation as disturbing and heartbreaking for the peaceful community. He appealed to security agencies to intensify efforts toward rescuing the kidnapped victims and bringing the perpetrators to justice.

Also reacting, the Youth Leader of the community, Haruna Khaled Furyam, condemned the attack and called on government and security operatives to urgently improve security in rural communities across Kanam Local Government Area. He said residents now live in fear following the repeated cases of attacks and kidnappings in the area.

The identities of the deceased victims had not been officially released at the time of filing this report, while efforts were said to be ongoing to trace the whereabouts of those abducted. Security agencies are yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident.