Governor Mutfwang Intervenes, Pays BTA Differentials For 1232 Plateau Muslim Pilgrims.
Otubi Audu Josn order to save the Plateau State Muslim in what could have been an embarrassment, the Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has intervened to lay aside Plateau State Muslim Pilgrims the agonies from the shortfall in their Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) arising from the vagaries of the foreign exchange rates.
Although NAHCON used N1,252.01 per dollar to calculate hajj fare (BTA inclusive) to give $500 as BTA to each pilgrim, the CBN released BTA at N1,530.86 per dollar, which gives each pilgrim $415 instead of $500.
This situation has thrown Plateau Muslim Pilgrims in to another round of confusion, but in order to ensure that each pilgrim gets $500 at the new exchange rate of N1,530.86 per dollar, the differential to be paid for the state’s 1232 pilgrims is N188,496,00.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang, in ensuring that the state pilgrims perform their hajj rites without stress, and make them comfortable during the exercise, intervened by paying the BTA differential of N188,496,00. for all the 1232 Plateau Pilgrims for 2024 hajj exercise.
The Executive Secretary of the Plateau State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board Hon. Daiyabu Dauda, who confirmed the development to Newsmen on Friday from the Holy Land expressed appreciation to the Governor for the timely intervention and prayed for the continuous success of the “Time Is Now” administration, saying the intervention by Governor Mutfwang will enable them to collect $500 as agreed.
Hon. Dauda, who also confirmed that all the Plateau Muslim Pilgrims have been paid their BTA in addition to a befitting accommodation disclosed, that this is not the first intervention by Governor Mutfwang, in the course of the 2024 HAJJ Preparation and said the Mulim Umma in the state will forever remain greatful to the Governor for his unwavering Commitment to the welfare of citizens, Peace and Unity of the state with tremendous impact in all critical sectors.
Recall, that Governor Mutfwang, had earlier admonished the Plateau Muslim Pilgrims to be good ambassadors and to Pray for the Peace and Unity of Plateau and Nigeria during a reception to bid them farewell which he personally attended at the Rwang Pam Township Stadium, Jos.
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Governor Mutfwang Intervenes, Pays BTA Differentials For 1232 Plateau Muslim Pilgrims.
In order to save the Plateau State Muslim in what could have been an embarrassment, the Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has intervened to lay aside Plateau State Muslim Pilgrims the agonies from the shortfall in their Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) arising from the vagaries of the foreign exchange rates.
Although NAHCON used N1,252.01 per dollar to calculate hajj fare (BTA inclusive) to give $500 as BTA to each pilgrim, the CBN released BTA at N1,530.86 per dollar, which gives each pilgrim $415 instead of $500.
This situation has thrown Plateau Muslim Pilgrims in to another round of confusion, but in order to ensure that each pilgrim gets $500 at the new exchange rate of N1,530.86 per dollar, the differential to be paid for the state’s 1232 pilgrims is N188,496,00.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang, in ensuring that the state pilgrims perform their hajj rites without stress, and make them comfortable during the exercise, intervened by paying the BTA differential of N188,496,00. for all the 1232 Plateau Pilgrims for 2024 hajj exercise.
The Executive Secretary of the Plateau State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board Hon. Daiyabu Dauda, who confirmed the development to Newsmen on Friday from the Holy Land expressed appreciation to the Governor for the timely intervention and prayed for the continuous success of the “Time Is Now” administration, saying the intervention by Governor Mutfwang will enable them to collect $500 as agreed.
Hon. Dauda, who also confirmed that all the Plateau Muslim Pilgrims have been paid their BTA in addition to a befitting accommodation disclosed, that this is not the first intervention by Governor Mutfwang, in the course of the 2024 HAJJ Preparation and said the Mulim Umma in the state will forever remain greatful to the Governor for his unwavering Commitment to the welfare of citizens, Peace and Unity of the state with tremendous impact in all critical sectors.
Recall, that Governor Mutfwang, had earlier admonished the Plateau Muslim Pilgrims to be good ambassadors and to Pray for the Peace and Unity of Plateau and Nigeria during a reception to bid them farewell which he personally attended at the Rwang Pam Township Stadium, Jos.
Plateau : Governor Mutfwang Tours Road Projects &, Commission Jos Metro Transit Control Centre In Jos Tin city .
Ogunenwa Audu Jos
Jos, the Plateau State capital has witnessed a surge of enthusiasm as Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang embarked on a comprehensive inspection of road projects initiated by his administration across Jos Bukuru Metropolis, marking his impactful one-year tenure in office.
The highlight of the tour included the official commissioning of the Jos Metro Transit Control Centre, strategically located beside the Chapel of Grace at the Old Government House in Jos.
The tour, a pivotal aspect of commemorating his first year in office, saw Governor Mutfwang meticulously examining the progress of various infrastructure projects.
Following the inauguration of the Metro Transit Control Centre, he proceeded to assess the construction and rehabilitation efforts along key routes, including the Plateau Hospital-Muslim Pilgrims Board-Land and Survey road, as well as the Hill Station-CBN-Board of Internal Revenue road.
The Governor also visited the Orthopedic Hospital situated within the premises of the Old Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH), and underscored his commitment to enhancing healthcare infrastructure.
The tour culminated with an inspection of rehabilitated roads projects at Apata-Chobe-Katako and Building Material-Open University-Bukuru Low-cost road.
Residents across various locations expressed their appreciation for the Governor’s developmental initiatives, echoing chants of “Sai ka yi” (meaning “You are doing well”), affirming him as the “People’s Governor.” Their slogans resonated with unwavering support, emphasizing faith in divine guidance and steadfast backing for the Governor’s endeavors.
Delighted by the progress observed, Governor Mutfwang reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to furthering developmental projects across the state. He emphasized the pivotal role of infrastructure in driving socioeconomic growth and enhancing the living standards of the populace.
He urged citizens to rally behind the government’s efforts, particularly in the demolition of illegal structures, which he viewed as a crucial step towards realizing the comprehensive Jos Master Plan aimed at sustainable urban development.
TEXT OF A BROADCAST BY THE EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF PLATEAU STATE, HIS EXCELLENCY, BARR. CALEB MANASSEH MUTFWANG TO MARK ONE YEAR IN OFFICE ON 29TH MAY 2024
My beloved citizens of Plateau State, Exactly one year ago, I stood before you, taking the oath of office as your chosen Governor, entrusted with the honor and responsibility of leading our beloved state.
On that occasion, I made a solemn pledge to work tirelessly, with God’s guidance, to deliver the qualitative leadership and governance that you deserve. Today, as we mark this significant milestone, I am deeply humbled by the sucesses we have recorded since embarked on this journey together.
Our first year in office was met with formidable challenges. From the persistent threat of insecurity in several of our Local Government Areas, to the legal battles questioning the legitimacy of our mandate, and the crippling effects of a prolonged civil service strike. Indeed, we faced trials on multiple fronts.
Moreover, the weight of a staggering debt burden loomed over us, while critical sectors such as healthcare and education cried out for urgent attention.
Yet, in the face of adversity, we refused to falter. Looking back, we must give glory to the Lord Almighty who has been our guide and our guard. Indeed, we can say if it had not been the Lord, we would not have reach here. Therfore, we say thank you Lord.
We engaged with key stakeholders, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, security Chiefs, and National Emergency Management Agency, to confront the security challenges head-on.
In our commitment to enhancing the state’s security framework, the administration has reactivated the previously dormant state-owned security outfit—Operation Rainbow with the retraining of over 600 personnel, meticulously chosen across the state.
Such measures have rendered the state security outfit highly responsive and proactive in addressing community-level security challenges. Furthermore, the administration has unveiled the State Security and Information Center, where citizens can report security concerns via a toll-free line.
This center enables the government to receive timely information on pressing security issues from different communities, both urban and rural in order to ensure swift action. It is in the light of these measures that we have initiated the home return of our Internally Displaced Persons, ensuring they return to lands that await their toil and harvest without hitches.
The landmark Supreme Court judgment validating our mandate was not just a legal victory; it was a testament to the unwavering support and love you, the people, have shown for our administration. Furthermore, we have successfully cleared the backlog of salaries and allowances owed to our diligent civil servants, fostering a more harmonious relationship through the first ever constructive dialogue with labor leaders.
In the midst of these challenges, we have made significant strides across various sectors. Our commitment to transparent and accountable leadership has paved the way for tangible progress in infrastructure development, healthcare provision, educational reform, agricultural enhancement, and power generation.
We have thus, constructed and rehabilitated quite a number of road networks within Jos-Bukuru metropolis and beyong, transforming them into conduits of commerce, connectivity, and community cohesion.
Notable among them are the Farin Gada-Gada Biyu-Polo Roundabout-Police Headquarters road, Gold and Base Roundabout-Rayfield, JUTH-Laminga-Tina Junction-Legislative Quarters; Plateau Hospital Roundabout-Hill Station Roundabout-Central Bank Road; Maternity-Moonshine Hotel-Chobe Junction; Liberty Boulevard- Maternity-Masallacin Juma’a-Zololo Junction; Ahmadu Bello Way- Kashim Ibrahim-West of Mines; Dadin Kowa Road Network; Yelwa Club Junction-Rahol Kanang-Du Junction and Sabon Barki Road among several others.
In the same vein, work is ongoing on the 5.65km Utonkon-Nunku-Keana link road with the extension to the Akila Machunga road. The construction of the 9km span flyover bridge handled by PW Nig. Ltd will soon wear it asphalt coat thus bring to an end a tortuous wait of over 10 years.
The inauguration of the Tin City Metro initiative which introduces 15 modern MAN-Diesel buses and the expansion of the fleet of the Plateau Express Service represent our dedication to modernizing urban transportation for the benefit of all citizens.
In the same vein, the revitalization of the rail transport system in collaboration with the Nigerian Railway Corporation is part of the administration’s deliberate move to ease the transportation challenges of commuters.
Similarly, our focus on education has seen the revitalization of public schools and the reduction of tuition fees for state indigenes enrolled in tertiary institutions by 50%. We have paid the counterpart fund of the 3rd-4rd Quarters of 2021and the 1st -4th Quarters of 2022 leading to the release of the marching Grant from the Universal Basic Education Commission and awarded 148 contracts for the construction and renovation of classrooms as well as the Drilling of boreholes in various schools across the 17 Local Government Areas in the state.
Also, concerted efforts have been made to ensure the accreditation of courses to enable our institutions to confer recognized certificates. This initiative has encompassed a range of state-owned tertiary institutions, including Plateau State University, Bokkos, College of Health Technology, Pankshin, College of Nursing and Midwifery, Vom, College of Agriculture, Garkawa, and College of Education, Gindiri.
We have similarly facilitated the payment of IJMB Examination fees for the years 2022, 2023, and 2024 for the College of Arts, Science, and Technology, Kurgwi, and settled the Law School fees for Plateau State students for 2023 and 2024. Additionally, there has been a substantial 300% increase in scholarship funding for Plateau State students pursuing higher education across Nigeria.
Through my visits to the United States and the United Kingdom, the state has secured several PhD and MSc Engineering scholarships from Liberty University, USA. We have also entered into partnerships with some foreign Universities where our lecturers, particularly from the Plateau State University, Bokkos can go for their PhD programs.
In agriculture, we have procured over 200 trucks of fertilizers for our farmers while efforts are on to purchase more. We have equally trained 340 vibrant youths and equipped them with modern agricultural techniques. The initiative was to launch the state into commercial agriculture and ensure efficient contribution to national food security.
We have mapped out plans to develop 4,000 hectares of land in each of the five principal crop zones of the state. These zones are designated for rice cultivation in Wase, Shendam, Langtang North, Langtang South, and Qua’an Pan LGAs; maize in Mangu, Bokkos, and Barkin Ladi LGAs; wheat in Bassa and Jos North LGAs; potatoes in Mangu, Bokkos, Barkin Ladi, and Riyom LGAs; and vegetables in Jos North, Jos South, and Riyom Local Government Areas respectively.
Additionally, our collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has bolstered our efforts to strengthen the agricultural value chains of maize, rice, and wheat. Our commitment to open the state for industrialization is further evidenced by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with Shimankar Valley Limited for the construction of over 300 Megawatts power plants in selected communities in the state.
We have equally signed into law the bill for the establishment of Plateau State Energy Corporation and Plateau state electricity market. These laws are designed to facilitate the generation of adequate electricity, including renewable energy sources to meet the high need for the industrialization in our dear state and to sell to neighboring states for revenue generation.
The health sector under my watch has received a lot of attention. We have revitalized the previously dormant Plateau State Drugs and Medical Commodities Agency (PS-DMCMA). This central body is now responsible for the procurement, storage, distribution, and oversight of drugs and medical supplies in state-run hospitals and clinics, ensuring that essential medications are available, accessible, and affordable.
At the Plateau State Specialist hospital, we have completed the construction of an abandoned Laboratory Complex and awarded a contract to equip the Laboratory with modern state-of –the arts equipment. We have also completed the construction of an abandoned Administrative building and emergency Paediatric unit. These among other giant strides are in fulfilment of our promises to make Plateau state a medical tourism destination.
Also, since we came into office, we have extended support to MDAs for accessing Government Cash Counterpart Contributions (GCCC) to facilitate the implementation of various programs and projects.
In the Civil Service, we are steadfast in our mission to revitalize the system to achieve exemplary service delivery. Through constructive dialogue with labor unions, we have successfully resolved prolonged strikes, setting the stage for enhanced productivity and progress. While the timely payment of salaries is a fundamental responsibility rather than an achievement, we reaffirm our commitment to the welfare of our workers. Efforts to address outstanding gratuities, death benefits, and pension backlogs dating back to 1986 commenced in December 2023. We pledge to continue these endeavors within the scope of our available resources.
Our investment in the professional growth of our public servants through extensive training programs is a testament to our aspiration to cultivate a workforce that excels both nationally and internationally. In recognition of the invaluable contributions of our workers, we have implemented hazard allowances for healthcare professionals, adjusted salaries, facilitated promotions, and maintained transparent communication with union representatives across the state and at the Local Government level.
Also, in anticipation of the adjustment in the national minimum wage, we proactively provided a monthly fuel subsidy of N12,000 to each state employee from September 2023 to March 2024. Additionally, we have conducted an upward review of repatriation allowances, burial expenses, pensions, and have implemented promotions, all aimed at motivating and appreciating our dedicated workforce.
As we pause to reflect on the journey thus far, let us remain united in our resolve to build a better, more prosperous Plateau. Together, we will restore our state to its rightful place of prominence and ensure a future filled with opportunities for all.
I extend my deepest gratitude to you, the people of Plateau State, for your unwavering support and trust in our vision. I particularly want to thank our traders for their cooperation with the state government in our determination to restructure some of our markets to enhance their cleanliness and facilitate smoother business operations and vehicular traffic.
This initiative was undertaken for the collective safety of all, without targeting any specific individuals and groups. Let me once again thank you for believing in us, we will never take your unwavering support for granted. The time has come and the Time Is Now to set aside our ethnic and religious differences and bond together as a people with one destiny in building a peaceful and harmonious state for all. May God continue to bless Plateau State, and may He guide us as we strive for a brighter tomorrow.
The Plateau state State University Academic Staff Union ( PLASU) has accused the federal government of falling to sign and implement Briggs renegotiated agreement between it and ASUU.
PLASU Chairman Dr Monday Hassan Zitta and Secretary Dr Lomka Iliya Kopdiya in a statement in Jos on Friday which was made available to Kwararafa Reporters also blamed the failure to release the N170 billion approved in 2023 for the revitalization of public universities is another major issue affecting the development of public Universities in Nigeria.
They stressed that these unfortunate actions compounded by the poor socioeconomic reality has created the problem of brain drain.
“Most of the highly esteemed intellectuals that should be on ground to mentor the upcoming scholars are leaving in search of better remuneration outside the country” they lamented.
They called on both federal and state governments to go beyond rhetoric and expressions of good intentions to take decisive actions to avert the looming strike action of Staff Union of Universities ( ASUU).
They warned that academic staff of Plateau state University would join Nation Wide strike action of ASUU if the issues destroying public Universities are not addressed.
“Most of the highly esteemed intellectuals that should be on ground to mentor the upcoming scholars are leaving in search of better remuneration outside the country” they lamented.
They called on both federal and state governments to go beyond rhetoric and expressions of good intentions to take decisive actions to avert the looming strike action.
Plateau ; Governor Mutfwang Charges 1,232 Muslim Pilgrims from Plateau to Pray for Peace And Unity Of Plateau While In Holy land .a
Otubi Audu Jos
Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has encouraged intending pilgrims from Plateau state to embody the values of love, peace, and tolerance as they embark on the sacred journey to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the 2024 Hajj.
While bidding them farewell to the departing pilgrims from Plateau, Governor Mutwang enjoined them to not only pray for themselves and their families but also for the restoration of lasting peace in the state.
“As you embark on the fifth pillar of Islam, you carry not only pray for your personal aspirations but also the collective hopes and spiritual yearnings of our beloved state.
“The Hajj is a journey of profound reflection, steadfast faith, and a commitment to righteousness.”
He emphasized the significance of this act of worship by highlighting his administration’s unwavering support for the Plateau State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board and ensuring the spiritual growth and welfare of Muslims in the state.
As the Chief Security Officer of the State, Governor Mutfwang reaffirmed his dedication to upholding fairness and justice for all citizens, regardless of tribe, religion, or background.
He emphasized his administration’s commitment to transparency and inclusivity, prioritizing the unity and prosperity of Plateau State.
“In your prayers and supplications, remember our dear State, not only for immediate peace but for sustained harmony and unity,” he urged.
Earlier,Hon. Daiyabu Dauda, the Executive Secretary of the Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, commended Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang for his support for the Muslim community in the state.
He noted that the Governor’s sponsorship of 540 out of 1,232 pilgrims, the approval of funds for the resettlement of backlog deposits and the procurement of a bus for the board demonstrated a deep commitment to the well-being of the Muslim Ummah.
He called on all to pray and support the efforts of Governor Mutwang in providing transformative leadership for Plateau State.
Kefiano Creative Hub, a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) operating in Plateau State, has successfully trained 119 young individuals in various skill acquisitions.
Over a span of two weeks, the program encompassed a wide array of disciplines, prominently featuring mobile videography, Phone photography, data analysis, content writing proficiency and the art of production within the digital realm and commercial sectors.
The initiative the first of it’s kind in the state, seeks to fostering self-sufficiency and generating employment opportunities for the youth population of Plateau state.
Speaking during the graduation ceremony held Saturday in Jos, Sunday Polycarb, director, Kefiano Creative Hub emphasized the pivotal role of skill development in alleviating unemployment and enabling sustainable economic growth within the community.
He underscored the organization’s dedication to nurturing talent and fostering a culture of innovation.
“The training program, characterized by its holistic approach to skill acquisition, sought to equip participants with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in a competitive job market. Through hands-on experiences and expert guidance, the 119 graduates emerged with a newfound sense of purpose and self-assurance, ready to embark on their professional journeys with confidence and competence”.
In a interview with journalists at the sideline of the event, the founder of the NGO, Kefas Wungak said he has intended to train more than 1000 youths before the year runs out.
He noted that his organization is mainly for those who are from disadvantaged backgrounds in spite of their religion or tribe adding that, the beneficiaries of the training are intended to in turn be of impact to others and the general society.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Masara Kim who was trained in mobile Videography said they had personal transformation and resilience which is reflective of the profound impact of the Kefiano Creative Hub’s initiative that demonstrate a remarkable commitment to personal growth and skill development, embodying the ethos of perseverance and dedication.
BusinessDay observed that the graduation ceremony served as a moment of celebration and reflection, as the graduates, beaming with pride, stood on the brink of a new chapter in their lives. Surrounded by their peers and mentors, they exchanged stories, shared aspirations, and forged lasting connections built on mutual respect and shared experiences.
The Kefiano Creative Hub’s investment in the youth of Plateau State highlights the organization’s unwavering dedication to community development and capacity building. By providing targeted training programs that align with market demands and industry trends, the NGO is playing a vital role in preparing young individuals for the challenges of the modern workforce.
The ripple effects of their education and empowerment will undoubtedly extend far beyond the confines of the training program, catalyzing positive change and inspiring others to pursue their own paths to success.
The success of the training initiative underscores the transformative power of investing in youth development and skill acquisition. By nurturing talent, fostering creativity, and promoting entrepreneurship, the organization is paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for the youth of Plateau State, laying the foundation for sustainable growth and economic empowerment.
Bishop Jonas Katung, Secretary General Northern Pentecostal Bishops has condemned in strong terms former vice President of Nigeria Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party Presidential Candidate in the 2023 Presidential election Peter Obi over their stand against the Lagos- Calabar high way Project.
Bishop Jonas Katung however Commended President Tinubu for Initiating Lagos- Calabar coastal high way Project..a 700 kilometers coastal high way that when completed would boost the tourism sector of the economy.
Bishop Katung and Founder of the Living Stone Assembly Commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Goverment for a well thought out plan to Construct Lagos- Calabar coastal high way, a 700 kilometers coastal road Project.
Bishop Katung a popular northern Bishop and a political ally of President Tinubu said in an interview with newsmen in Jos on Friday said the project when fully completed, would give the President Tinubu a high score mark in the area of infrastuctural Development in the country.
Katung noted that the main opposition figures like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi of Labour Party are critical against the project because when completed it would score high the political profile of President Tinubu administration and becomes a threat to the duo future political aspiration to contest 2027 Presidential election.
According to him, Lagos- Calabar high way will be the shortest way to get to Southeast and South -South regions of Nigeria and it will help ease the heavy traffic for travelers at Lagos Ore-Benin express way
Bishop Katung said right from Obasanjo’s administration till now, Ore- Benin express way has been very difficult to fix by federal government due to high traffic of vehicular movement of people and trucks that ply that road to the East and South regions of the country.
He added that Lagos- Calabar high highway when completed would open so many communities along the coastal route highway from Lagos to Calabar.
He added that the project would also open Nigeria to the International Community in the area of tourism as foreign investors would be open to invest and build international hotels and leisure centers along the coastal highway.
Bishop Katung Commended the Minister of FCT and former Governor of Rivers state Nyesom Wike for working round the clock to give Abuja a new lease of life and also commended the FCT Minister for his high performance in ensuring The Capital Territory has a new touch of excellence that was not there in the last administration.
Bishop Katung also commended the Minister of Works David Umahi for his tenacity and hard work he is putting on the coastal highway and other Nigerian roads like Sokoto to Lagos, Abuja, Kaduna, Kano expressway and other highways in the country that are in bad shape.
Others he gave pass mark were Minister for Agriculture Senator Abubarkar Kyari, Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo SAN , Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji- Ojo , Minister of Mines and Steel Arc Olamilekan Adegbite Minister of Commerce and Industry Doris Nkeiruka Uzoka- Anite, Minister of Defense Hon Mohammed Badaru Minister of Finance Wale Edu and Central Bank Governor Mr Olayemi Cardoso and others who have done the right things to make President Tinubu Renowned Hope Agenda administration succeed in its mission to turn around the fortunes of Nigerians.
He added that as President Tinubu prepares to go into his second year of his administration, he must check the activities of Operators of Bureau De Change in Nigeria. He said they should be totally scrapped insisting that whoever wants foreign currencies should go to the Banks as it is done in most countries of the world. He charged President Tinubu to watch the activities of some Northern politicians whose interest is to cause political instability for their own selfish gains and to disturb the progress of the country.
He added that President Tinubu within his one year in Office has performed credibly and has been a listening president. He called on Nigerians to be patient for the reforms being made to manifest.
The Executive Secretary Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission, Bishop Stephen Adegbite has enjoined intending pilgrims of FCT to ensure they uphold Nigeria and the leaders in prayer while in the Holy land, in view of the current challenges facing the country.
He made this disclosure in Abuja during the screening exercise conducted by the NCPC officials for the intending pilgrims of FCT at the FCT Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board.
Bishop Adegbite who spoke through the Federal Commissioner representing North Central on the Board of the Commission, Rev Dr Simon Dolly also urged the pilgrims to shun all vices capable of tarnishing the image of the country in the Holy land.
“Seek for prayers and not pleasure, continue to pray for peaceful co-existence of the nation while in the Holy land”, he said.
Earlier, the Acting Director FCT Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mrs Rehila Isa-Baita explained that all mechanisms have been put in place for a hitch free Pilgrimage exercise, she urged the pilgrims to be orderly, keep to all rules and pray fervently for a better nation.
She commended both Ministers of the FCT – Barr.Nyesom Wike and the FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmud for the efforts put in place to make the forthcoming Pilgrimage exercise a success.
The Acting Director cautioned the intending pilgrims against abscondment, she urged them to adhere to all medical advice in order to prevent any form of health challenges in the holy land.
About 350 intending pilgrims of FCT were screened preparatory for the forthcoming NCPC Pilgrimage exercise slated to commence in May, 20024.
North Central All Progressive Congress (APC) Forum has called on Plateau State governor, Caleb Mutfwang, and the nine house of assembly members of the APC who were sworn in on Thursday by the Speaker to ensure a harmonious working relationship.
The forum in a statement yesterday to newsmen in Jos the Plateau State capital said for the progress, peace and tranquility of the state and the North Central region by extension, there should be no rift between the legislature and the executive.
The statement signed by the forum’s Chairman, Alhaji Saleh Mandung Zazzaga, and Secretary, Sani Muhammed Kogi, said all the happenings before, during and after the Appeal Court judgement which declared the APC candidates the the winner of the election as against their PDP counterparts should be put aside to give way for the smooth operations and running of governance.
Similarly, it said, if there are issues before, during and in the aftermath of the Supreme Court judgement which upheld governor Mutfwang’s election, that will affect governance from any quarter, it should be done away with so that the people can enjoy the dividends of democracy.
“There will be no smooth running of governance and by extension development in any state if the executive and legislative arm of government are not working together harmoniously.
“That is why we are calling on the newly sworn-in nine APC members out of the 16 members to ensure that they work harmoniously with Governor Caleb Mutfwang who is of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to work together for the peace, stability and development of Plateau State, and the North Central by extension.
“We are calling on the speaker to also expedite the swearing in of the remaining members so that legislative activities can continue at once. And as we await the swearing in of the others members, we call on those sworn in, as well as the leadership of the house to desist from acts that would lead to friction among themselves or between the house and the governor.
“Plateau State is faced with a lot of security and economic challenges over the years that requires urgent attention and resolution, and it will not be proper to have the state thrown into another political crisis. In fact political crisis on its own is a speedy agent of destabilization and backwardness, and it is proper that good care is taken to avoid it
“We are calling on the members to be diligent in their legislative activities and not to allow any outside influence to push them against one another or against the executive unnecessarily. That will not be proper and it will only breed chaos and instability. They can checkmate the governor/government to perform their executive duties well without necessarily having friction or engaging in witch-hunting acts.
“Equally, we are calling on governor, Caleb Mutfwang, not to engage in acts capable of hindering the full resumption of legislative activities of the APC members, or to listen to advice from any quarter against the interest of the APC members.
“Recalled that since December last year the North Central APC Forum has been on ground working hard to ensure a hitch-free resumption of the party’s legislators and to tackle any hindrance to the resumption of the APC legislators.
“Our efforts and activities on this has been widely reported in the media since last December, and we are glad that are begining to have some result. So, nothing should be done to truncate this process that has already commenced” the statement partly read.
The statement further called on all the political actors in the state to remain calm and work towards political stability of the state, rather that engaging in acts capable of overheating the polity and cause disaffection, disunity and rancour.
The people of Halle District of Mangu LGA of Plateau state have taken to the streets of Halle over moves by Mangu Monarch Mishkaham Mwaghavul to impose a district Head from, Mangu Tuluwurang Clan on them. The protesters who carried several banners with inscriptions such as ” Mangu is not the same as Halle” No imposition of District Head from Mangu District on Halle people, etc.
Spokesman of the group Umar Obadiah, in an interview, told newsmen that the history of Tuluwurang in the Mangu district is built around Mwansat while the history of Halle district is built around Ding’an/Daham. The present mishkaham mwaghavul happens to be a member of the Tuluwurang ruling clan in the Mangu district.
Mangu and Halle are two different entities with their different histories .
According to Obadiah, in 1988 a panel was set up by Plateau Goverment to look into issue of Chieftaincy stools in the state and by 1990 to 1992 the report of the panel was released and in that report only Four ruling Houses were recommended for Halle district from where a district Head of Halle could emerge.
He added that a Halle Man during the era of Joshua Dariye as Plateau governor was given form one to act as District Head of Halle before Jang who took over from Dariye abrogated all the new chiedom and district areas that he met on the ground in the state.
Obadiah said Mangu Monarch and chairman of the LGA traditional council should be a father to all rather than working behind the scene to impose one of his own from Tuluwurang Clan as the new District Head of Halle District of Mangu LGA of Plateau state.
He added that going by the report of the Panel in 1992, Only 4 running Houses of Ngar, Nshu, Mwantu, and Jivum were recommended to appoint one of their own as Halle district Head/ Mishkaham.
He added that the report of the panel, which was published in 1992 on Halle, is in possession of Mangu LGA and Plateau state government and has been gazetted. He wondered why some persons who are members of Tuluwurang Clan of Mangu District and not from Halle District and not also from any of the ruling Houses are agitating for the office of district Head of Halle under the watchful eyes of Mangu LGA monarch Da John P Hirse.He alleged.
He vowed that Halle people would continue to struggle for what rightfully belonged to them legally until the right thing is done.
Oracle Reporters 