POLITICS IS A CRUSHING WEIGHT IF NOT BRACED WITH PROPER REWARDSA- A Response in Support of General John Sura

By WALBE ORGAK 

Politics, as noble as it appears, can often become a crushing weight when not balanced with fairness, recognition, and reward for loyalty. The recent defection of General John Sura from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) must therefore be seen, not through the narrow lens of “personal interest,” but through the broader reality of how our political system sometimes undervalues those who labor sincerely for its success.

General Sura is not an ordinary party man. He is a grassroots mobilizer, a voice of conviction, and a man whose influence resonates across communities. During the 2023 elections, his dedication, energy, and sacrifices contributed immensely to the success of the PDP in Plateau State. His open endorsement of Governor Mutfwang and his continuous defense of the party’s ideals were not mere words — they were acts of political courage and commitment.

However, in the aftermath of victory, many like General Sura were left in the cold. Promises faded, recognition was delayed, and the same people who carried the burden of the campaign were made to feel expendable. Politics is indeed a game of loyalty, but loyalty without reward becomes a burden too heavy to bear. As the saying goes, “A labourer deserves his wages.”

When people who gave their time, resources, and reputation for a cause feel neglected, it is only natural for discontent to set in. Defection in such cases is not always about greed; sometimes, it is about dignity, fairness, and the need to realign with a system that acknowledges one’s worth. General Sura’s decision to move to the APC may therefore be seen as a search for a platform that values contribution and compensates effort.

To reduce his action to “personal interest” is to ignore the deeper crisis of reward and recognition that plagues our politics today. It is a reminder that every successful political structure must build a system that sustains loyalty through justice, not empty promises.

Politics, at its core, is a partnership — one that must be nurtured through mutual respect and appreciation. When that partnership becomes one-sided, defection becomes not betrayal, but self-preservation.

General Sura’s move is not a protest of failure; it is a stand for fairness. His voice, influence, and passion for his people will continue to echo wherever he stands. And in a democracy, that choice must be respected.

In the end, politics is indeed a crushing weight — but only for those who carry it alone without the proper support, reward, and recognition they rightfully deserve.

WALBE ORGAK 

07036573313

2027: The Senatorial hopefuls to watch in Plateau Central

By Katdapba Yunana Gobum

The struggle to win the Plateau Central Senatorial District seat has never been an easy one, considering the diversity of the zone.

There are some who think otherwise about this! We shall get to know why.

Those who eventually wore the diadem in the past did not have it easy. They all have a story to tell about what they went through to get the mandate of the people of the district.

The history of the intensed political struggle by the different political parties since the Second Republic, cannot therefore be easily wished away. Perhaps, we may have a clearer picture of what had transpired since then.

Our Bearing Since 2023

Let's take our bearing from the 2023 general elections and examine the chances of the gladiators who are currently traversing the district to sell their aspirations to the people.

It must be stated: And it is a known fact; Bokkos, Mangu and Kanke had produced a senator or two in the past. Pankshin currently has one serving, while Kanam has never had any.

In the general elections that brought on board the current Senator, the APC and PDP made a big show of their capacity to get the mandate of the zone.

The eventual winner was Diket Plang Satso. The battle between him and Amb Golkuna Yohanna Gotom went up to the Court of Appeal before scores were settled.

Plang scored 131,129, while Amb Yohanna Gotom of the Peoples Democratic Party, scored 127,022, and Garba Pwul, SAN of the Labour Party went home with 36,510 votes.

Many of those who contested for the seat in 2023 may have long been forgotten. Those who were on the ballot list include: Diket Plang Satso APC, Golkuna Yohana Gotom PDP, Kanzum Katnanka John ADP, and Dilkon Leonard W SDP.

Others are, Damulak Manasseh ADC, Emmanuel Jonah Yilluk NNPP, Mwansat Tangtu Ayuba NRM, Longgagai Isaac ZLP and Garba Shamtu Pwul LP.

Who Is Contesting in 2027?

It is not yet known if any one of them will be available to recontest; however, one thing is certain; Senator Diket Plang and Amb GY Gotom, amongst others have since indicated interest to slug it out again.

While it is possible other aspirants may emerge from other parties, but as it stands now, the two political parties that are in contention for the soul of the central district are APC and PDP.

This does not degrade the interest of any other political party to present a candidate. Nothing stops them from presenting one at any level.

The other gladiators whose interest is not subject to speculation are Kefas Wungak Ropshik, Kanke, Ephraim Usman, Kanam and Isaac Mashingil Mankilik, Bokkos.

The only local government area which may likely not have an aspirant is Mangu. Perhaps, no one may want to jeopardise the chances of the governor, who is recontesting for a second term.

All the gladiators are qualified and have the needed capacity to contest to be in the Senate. It is a known fact that the political landscape is filled with thorns and thistles, conspirators and collaborators. The aspirants must deal with them all and other interests.

They may make the difference, and or jeopardise an aspirant's chances. All that matters is what each may bring to bear in order to outwit the other for the mandate.

There is no denying the fact, all of them have a heavy war chest that could accommodate the expenses of the campaign, but above all, it is the people who are needed to decide their fates in 2027.

A Brief On Gladiators

Senator Diket Plang, currently serving his first term on the platform of APC cannot be taken lightly. He has studied the ropes and the strings to pull when the chips are down.

Being an influential member and  given his close relationship with the leaders of the Senate, he has been able to stamp his feet on the political landscape in areas that are needed to strengthen his position for the seat.

He once represented Pankshin North in the Plateau House of Assembly as well as the Management Committee Chairman of Pankshin. This is not to forget other roles he has played in the course of his political career.

Such an aspirant cannot be taken lightly, granted that his contributions speak for his aspirations to return to the senate.

He is chairman, Senate Committee on Employment, Labour and Productivity and deputy chairman, Federal Character.

Amb GY Gotom has not relented in his tracks to reclaim the seat he lost to Diket in 2023. He is everywhere that matters preparing grounds for the 2027 political onslaught.

The contest may not follow the pattern of what happened in the last election. There is a strong presence of other aspirants for the position in the PDP who are prepared to give him a run for his money.

He has a heavy presence in several activities geared towards helping the people. These are possible ways to pave way for his acceptance by the party, so are the others; who are using such avenues to sway opinions in their favour.

Amb Gotom's foray into business internationally has exposed him to different variants of political practice. It is an advantage for which he can greatly deploy.

From the grapevine, the name of Rt Hon Istifanus Mwansat, Pankshin has come up for mention. He is a one-time Speaker, Plateau State House of Assembly.

He is the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Affairs, and former Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly.

He has been around for long, politically speaking, and it will be wrong to underate his moves, if it turns out that his entrance becomes a reality.

He is reputed to be referred to as the Fruitful one, a sobriquet that supporters of Hon Ephraim Usman, current Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs believes it is possible to translate to the office his services if he is given the mandate by PDP.

His position has enabled him test how the murky political waters will be like in order to steady his resolve. Having thrown his heart into the ring, it is good to know that forces from Kanke, Pankshin, Bokkos, Mangu and Kanam will be contending with one another.

His campaign strategies are used to emphasize that there is an Able God that directs the affairs of men in this endeavour.

The foray into the gubernatorial primaries in 2023 has given Chief Kefas Wungak Ropshik a grip on the levers of power to want to test other political endeavours. Remember he came second in the contest.

No one can take that for granted in the current disposition. The entrepreneur, who is reputed to be interested in the welfare of people has recalibrated his movement for his aspiration.

Kefiano is popular at home with both the youth and elderly; he runs a number of business initiatives that are targeted at taking the unemployed off the streets.

Perhaps the newest entrant is Navy Commodore Isaac Mashingil Mankilik from Bokkos. He joins the fray with a desire to secure the  future of a battered zone.

The energy he wants to use to 'illuminate' the senatorial district with is not lost in the fact that he has served the nation in a critical sector that gives him an added advantage to leverage upon.

Age and acceptability are working for them to showcase their capabilities. Each of them has a large followership they can muster for the seat.

They all have the needed energy to serve and provide leadership for the Plateau Central Senatorial District, if given the opportunity.

Caveat: I don't have a favourite, neither am I fronting for one amongst them. They all have the capacity to be what they want to be, so long as they have the mandate of the people.

Why the People of the Southern Zone Should Consider Voting Hon. Alphonsus Koomsol as Senator

By WALBE ORGAK 

As the political atmosphere begins to warm ahead of the 2027 general elections, conversations across the Southern Zone are increasingly turning toward one name — Hon. Alphonsus Koomsol. A former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Koomsol is remembered not just for the position he held, but for the impact he made on the lives of his constituents.

During his time in the National Assembly, Hon. Koomsol’s empowerment programs were second to none. From youth and women empowerment initiatives to community development projects, he created lasting opportunities that lifted many out of poverty. His approach to governance was practical, people-centered, and focused on sustainable impact rather than political showmanship.

He was equally passionate about sports development, recognizing it as a unifying and empowering tool for young people. His well-organized sporting competitions became a rallying point for youths across the Southern Zone — not just promoting physical fitness, but discovering talents and fostering community spirit.

Among his colleagues, Hon. Koomsol stood out as one of the best-performing lawmakers, admired for his humility, accessibility, and unwavering commitment to his constituency. While others distanced themselves after elections, he remained close to his people — attending community events, mediating local concerns, and maintaining an open-door relationship with constituents who saw him not as a distant politician but as one of their own.

His remarkable service record did not go unnoticed. He was honored with an award of recognition by media publishers in the state after hosting them in his office at the National Assembly — a testament to his transparency, media friendliness, and appreciation for public accountability.

Hon. Koomsol’s leadership style combines compassion, competence, and consistency. He represents a new generation of leaders whose credibility is grounded in performance, not promises.

As the Southern Zone looks toward the future, the choice before the people is clear. In Hon. Alphonsus Koomsol, they have a man who has served, delivered, and remained connected. Supporting him for the Senate is not just a political decision — it is an investment in credible representation, practical leadership, and people-driven development.

WALBE ORGAK 

07036573313

Blidr. Raphael Rume’s Aspiration for Pankshin North Assembly Seat Gains Momentum

The aspiration of Builder Raphael Rume to represent Pankshin North Constituency in the Plateau State House of Assembly has continued to gather wide support across communities, youth groups, and political stakeholders. His entry into the race is being viewed by many as a refreshing opportunity for purposeful and people-driven representation.

Supporters describe Rume as a grassroots-oriented leader with a track record of service, humility, and community development. They point to his contributions to youth empowerment, infrastructural initiatives, and humanitarian outreach as evidence of his commitment to improving lives within and beyond Pankshin North.

According to local observers, his campaign message — anchored on transparency, inclusiveness, and sustainable development — is resonating strongly among constituents who are eager for effective representation. Many believe his professional background in building and project management gives him a practical understanding of community needs.

Stakeholders across political lines have continued to express confidence in his capacity to deliver credible leadership. They note that Rume’s calm disposition, accessibility, and developmental vision stand him out as a candidate with both integrity and competence.

“Our people have seen his works and his character over the years,” said Mr. Dauda ,  youth leader in Pankshin, and Helen Nentok. “Raphael Rume represents a new kind of leadership — one that listens, serves, and delivers results.”

Media Team 

Christianity Conquered the World Through Love, Not the Sword — Fr. Ehusani

By WALBE ORGAK 

Christianity did not conquer the world through the sword of its enemies but by the power of love, compassion, and forgiveness as preached by Jesus Christ, according to Fr. Ehusani.

He made this assertion during a training program for peace actors drawn from selected crisis-prone states in the Middle Belt, held at the Lux Terra Leadership Institute, Apo, Abuja. The program was sponsored by the Development Initiative of West Africa (DIWA), as part of its ongoing effort to strengthen peacebuilding and interfaith understanding across the region.

Fr. Ehusani explained that Christianity’s enduring strength lies not in violence or coercion but in its message of peace and reconciliation.

Citing the example of the Roman Empire, he noted that although the empire ruled the world for over five centuries and persecuted countless Christians, it was ultimately conquered by the same faith it sought to destroy — through love and compassion, not by the sword.

He emphasized that the message of Jesus Christ remains relevant in today’s world where hatred, division, and intolerance continue to threaten peaceful coexistence. According to him, “It is only through genuine love and forgiveness that humanity can experience lasting peace.”

Fr. Ehusani also commended the efforts of Lux Terra Leadership Institute for consistently building platforms that promote dialogue, tolerance, and peaceful resolution of conflicts, especially in regions affected by violence.

He further appreciated the Development Initiative of West Africa (DIWA) for its commitment to empowering peace actors and fostering community resilience through training and collaboration.

He urged participants to carry the lessons from the training back to their communities, serving as agents of transformation. “Every act of kindness and forgiveness,” he said, “is a step toward healing our broken society and restoring hope to those who have lost faith in peace.”

He concluded by reminding all that the true measure of faith is not found in power or conquest, but in the courage to love even in the face of hostility. “When we choose compassion over retaliation,” he said, “we follow in the footsteps of Christ and become true builders of peace.”

WALBE  ORGAK BARTHOLOMEW was a participants from Jos North. Plateau state 

All efforts to downgrade Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda’s humanitarian gestures will continue to fail.

By WALBE OGAK

Attempts by certain quarters to downplay the humanitarian efforts of Professor Nentawe Yilwatda have continued to meet resistance, as his record of compassion and public service speaks louder than criticism. Observers say the consistent impact of his outreach and empowerment programmes has earned him respect across social and political divides.

Professor Nentawe, who has been at the forefront of several community-based initiatives, is widely recognized for his commitment to uplifting vulnerable groups through financial empowerment, health interventions, and educational support. His gestures, according to beneficiaries, stem from a deep sense of responsibility to improve lives rather than for political gain.

Analysts note that while some detractors have tried to cast doubts on his motives, their efforts have failed to sway public opinion. The results of his humanitarian engagements remain visible across communities, where many continue to benefit from his personal and institutional support.

Stakeholders have described the criticisms as politically motivated and unsustainable, arguing that genuine service to humanity cannot be suppressed by propaganda. They maintain that the growing goodwill around Professor Nentawe’s initiatives is proof of his sincerity and the lasting impression of his work.

“As far as we are concerned, Professor Nentawe’s impact is real and visible,” said Mrs. Mary Yohanna, Kaneng Pam, Rhoda Ajik, Joy David and Jennifer Gyang a market. Both of them further said “He has given hope to many who were once forgotten. No amount of false stories can erase what people have seen and benefited from directly.”

As public attention continues to focus on impactful leadership, many believe Professor Nentawe Yilwatda’s example will endure as a testament to compassion, accountability, and purposeful engagement — qualities that, according to analysts, no campaign of falsehood can erase.

WALBE OGAK 

07036573313

Emir of Dutse (Wase): A noble gifted with ideas and humility

By Katdapba Yunana Gobum 

In 2017, Comrade Paul Jatau as Chairman, Nigeria Union of journalists, Plateau State Council followed up on an earlier initiative by the outgone Exco to install the Emir of Dutse, HRH (Dr) Muhammadu Sambo Haruna II as patron.

There might have been questions as to the availability of the First Class Emir to help prosecute the activities associated with his role to NUJ. 

If there were any, they must have paled into insignificance.

But on the strength of what he has been doing since he mounted the saddle, he deserves appreciation, for continuous interventions in improving the quality of service of NUJ to its members and the society.

He came highly recommended for the task; thanks to his scholarship, exposure and connections; even though he often calls himself 'ni dan kyauye ne' (you know I am a villager).

If you actually thought he is a villager, wait until you have an encounter with him. His bones are filled with all manners of positive ideas that are needed to be invested for the success of any good initiative.

The same blood ran in the bones of his late father, Alhaji Haruna Abdullahi Maikano, whom he succeeded as Emir.

He was appointed the 14th Emir of Wase on October 25, 2010, following the demise of his father, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Haruna Abdullahi Maikano.

Since ascending the throne of his forebears, some of the causes he has promoted with passion dwell largely on interfaith dialogue, community development, peace advocacy, poverty, education and healthcare.

Being the state chairman of Jama'atu Nasir Islam, (JNI) he has played major role in the promotion of Islamic values as he is also one of the National Deputies of the Supreme Council for Islamic affairs.

If you examine the actions of the Emir over the years, they speak volumes of his culture, humility, and value for leadership; but importantly for deep respect for elders and authority.

Since he became the patron of NUJ some eight years ago, the Emir has continued to give counsels in all areas needed to move the Council; and that is why a lot has been achieved.

Give and take, the NUJ did not make a mistake; the Emir was God-sent, as he became the backbone of all that mattered for the benefit of its members since 2017.

The truth of the matter is that he is slave master; and if you are not interested in taking instructions, you couldn't be associated with him; as there are lots to be given by him.

For those who know, in journalism, adhering to instructions is key to success in the profession. I am sure, he has not been disappointed in the leadership of the Council, since he was brought on board.

Interestingly, for anyone who has worked with him, one lesson to take home is in his humility and humour.

Perhaps, many may have always thought that traditional rulers wear straight faces to ward off people from coming close to them. That couldn't be mentioned of him.

If you have had anything to do with His Royal Highness, Sarkin Dutse, Muhammadu Sambo Haruna II, the humour that is laced in every sentence by him is the asset needed to keep you listening to him always.

Like many have found out, he is not humourous for the fun of it; his are didactic, only the wise can pick and run with.

Thank God, since 2017, the Emir has worked with two NUJ chairmen namely; Paul Jatau and Ayuku Pwaspo, who have been driven to get things done for the Council.

For those who have visited the Press Centre at the Hill Station Hotel Junction lately, several projects which laid desolate for years; have been resurrected and are at various stages of completion.

On September 29, 2025, HRH Muhammadu Sambo Haruna visited the Press Centre as he had done in the past.

His visit, was in the main, ascertain the level of work the Council had embarked upon. And secondly, to inform the Council of efforts made by him to get a buy-in by the Plateau Council of Chiefs and Emirs towards a successful Press Week starting in a few days.

As he is wont to doing, after the inspection, he offered numerous intervention modules that are needed to help the NUJ complete its projects.

In an interaction with Journalists after the visit, he answered a number of questions bothering on the role traditional rulers should play in the constitution, insecurity, illicit drug consumption, Nigeria at 65 and many other sundry issues.

The whispers among Council officials following the visit indicate a resolve to get the modules suggested by the Emir working for the impact needed.

If the plans work out well according to the Emir's elaborate suggestions to the Council, you can be sure that the tapes won't cease from being cut by government and other private individuals who would be involved in defraying the costs of the various projects.