PICTURES:DISTRIBUTION OF RELIEF MATERIALS BEGIN IN JOS FOR IDPS

The distribution of Relief Materials to the IDPs has commenced in ernest following attacks on some communities in Plateau State.
The inter-agency collaboration between the Federal and State agencies witnessed the distribution of relief materials by NEMA and SEMA officials.
The flag-off of the distribution of relief materials was performed by the Director General of the Plateau Peace Building Agency, Joseph Lengma, at Geo-sciences office at Anguldi, where he conveyed government's sympathy with the IDPs
The team were also at Riyom Local Government Area where the IDPs where condoled by members of the team including Mr Silas Vem, Deputy Chief of Staff to the Deputy Governor, Hon Dan Manjang and Hon Bulus Bot, who are both Hon Commissioners. Others include the clergy and staff of NEMA and SEMA.

STF ARRESTS TWO FULANI HERDSMEN WITH A BEROM NATIVE AS SUSPECTS OVER PLATEAU KILLINGS

The Special Military Task Force, “Operation Save Haven’’ on Wednesday paraded three suspects in connection with the latest killings in Plateau state that sparked national outrage.

The three men were said to have been arrested at Gashish District in the Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau.

The suspects were paraded in Jos alongside 14 others, who were arrested over the killings in which suspected herdsmen massacred over 86 people, mainly locals and farmers on June 24.

The 14 persons were arrested for what the military called recent “civil unrest” in the state.

But the STF did not give the names of the arrested suspects.

Eleven villages in the Barkin Ladi Local Government Area and its environs were affected in the onslaught in which property worth billions of naira were also destroyed.

Parading the suspects, the spokesman of the STF, Umar Adams, told reporters that the suspects were arrested, clutching sophisticated rifles.

Mr Adams said two of the suspects were Fulani herdsmen and one Berom– one of the ethnic groups in Plateau — currently at odds with Fulani herdsmen over grazing rights.

The deadly activities of herdsmen have raised concerns over the future of agriculture in north central Nigeria because of the recurring clashes with farmers.

Benue, Taraba and Nasarawa States, the hotbeds of the killings, are key farming states in Nigeria.

Mr Adams said the suspects were arrested in the course of the attacks.

“We all know that some days back, some villages in Barkin Ladi were attacked and these three suspects were arrested in connection with that.

“As our men were repelling the attacks in those areas, we arrested these suspects with four rifles, three locally made guns and one AK47.

“The other 14 people were arrested in connection with civil unrest recently experienced in the state.”

Mr Adams said the suspects were still being investigated and that more arrests would be made in the course of time.

SPONSORS OF JOS PROTEST IDENTIFIED;TO BE PROSECUTED-LALONG

The Plateau state Government condemn todays attack at the little Rayfied Government house even as the Government have been able to crackdown on the sponsors of the violent attacks and the masterminds are fished out for immediate prosecution.
In a press statement issued by the Directorate of Press and Public affairs signed by Emmanuel Nanle, Governor Lalong has warned that any breakdown of law and order threatening peaceful coexistence will be dealt with decisively using the instrumentality of the law.


"The Plateau State Governor Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong has condemned in very strong terms the protest organized by some group of people over the recent attacks in the Northern Senatorial District which turned violent.

He noted that the protest represents one of the saddest commentaries in the States collective resolve to stand as a people united against evil. The Executive Governor is taken aback that while Government is making concerted efforts in sustaining the tempo of arrest and prosecution of those who have over the years threatened our peace, and worked so hard to turn our State into the sad era of bloodletting, unpatriotic elements are choosing to frustrate this good intention. What is more worrisome about the protest is that protesters were not willing to listen to the voice of reason in allowing the Governor attend to visiting Senate President, Distinguish Senator Bukola Saraki and the Former President Olusegun Obasanjo GCFR who were on a condolence visit to the State ahead of his addressing them.

The Governor finds it regrettable that while Government has chosen to recognize the right of its citizens to peacefully assemble and protest within the confines of the law, the conveners of the protest under the joint auspices of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Northern Zone of Plateau State, the Youth Wing of Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN), Plateau State and Bazata Gospel Team allowed the protest to be hijacked by hoodlums who took advantage of the procession led by these Organizations, to destroy Government properties and vehicles of Civil Servants and visitors to the Government House running into millions of naira.

The Governor views this attack on the seat of Government as a serious affront on the authority of the State which should not be taken lightly because of the very clear and obvious unpatriotic self serving interest of a few who have chosen to make a mockery of the grief of the victims of the attack in Gashish District and other areas of the Northern Senatorial District.


Governor Lalong opines that the name of the Church as a moral rectitude should not have been associated in any way with any person or group of persons who would contemplate violence as a show of discontent especially in this period that all Godly and peace loving citizens are sharing in the grief of the bereaved, and calling on God in prayers and sober reflection for healing in the Land.

While Government mourns the loss of innocent lives and has extended deep commiseration to victims of the unfortunate attacks, with assurances that it will not rest on its oars in fishing out the perpetrators, it would not fold its hands and watch disgruntled citizens throw the State into a state of anarchy and chaos under the guise of mourning.

According to the Governor this is the time for a united effort, prayers and vigilance as the People of Plateau State collectively seek to find a solution to the resurgence of the vicious circle of violence after the State had made considerable effort in restoring relative peace. In this regard, Government has identified the sponsors of this protest which resulted in the destruction of properties and will certainly bring them to account for their unpatriotic conduct.

The Governor further wishes to assure citizens that Government will not relent in ensuring that the safety of citizens in guaranteed and peace restored in the affected areas and the whole of the State.

The Governor also wishes to thank the Security Agencies for professionally carrying out the duties of restrain on the protesters without the use of force even in the face of extreme provocation.


Samuel, Emmanuel Nanle Is the Director, Press & Public Affairs

CAN PROTEST HIJACKED BY HOODLUMS AS THEY FORCE ENTRY INTO GOVERNMENT HOUSE.

The Christian association of Nigeria CAN tripartite joint protests led by REV. canon Nenman Gowon Northern Zone, Plateau state ,The Pharmacy Markus Kanda Youth Wing CAN Plateau state and Evangelist Jerry Dating, Arewa pastors Forum on the recent killings of over 200 citizens of Plateau was hijacked by thugs,alcoholics ,hoodlums who broke into Government house little Rayfied destroying properties, breaking windscreens, smashing cars and throwing stones at the Government house building resulting into breaking of glasses and hurling stones at security operatives.

It is the leadership of the church against the Christian leadership of the state affairs as CAN led women and youths  protest turnt uncontrollable violent.

At the last count before this report about Seven cars were destroyed and the frontal etrance of the Government house was destroyed. 
The police shot in the air to disperse the rampaging protesters., The DOPPA Emmanuel Nanle was trying to address the crowd on behalf of the Governor who was away from the Group VT house but the crowd refused to heed to his message as they keep chanting that they want to see the Governor.

Amongst the crowd notable leaders seen in the protest train were Rep ID Gyang and Former minister of Water Resources Sarah Ochekpe

The leader of the team Rev. Nenman Gowon could not calm the nerves of the protesters

 who violently oppose his message of peace alleging he sold out to the Government after leading them to project.

JOS ATTACKS: Arrest Ciroma, Spokesperson of Miyetti Allah NOW-APC YOUTH ACTIVIST

Makut Alfred Mashat is a youth activist and the secretary of the APC Youths Online  Forum in Plateau state, He has come out to instruct the federal Government led by President Muhammadu Buhari to arrest the spokesperson of the Miyetti Allah and overhaul the security architecture in the state as he alleges conspiracy on their part.

THERE IS A CONSPIRACY BY THE SECURITY OUTFITS IN JOS ATTACKS... FG SHOULD INVESTIGATE THE HANDLING OF THE CRISIS AND ARREST THE SPOKESPERSON OF MIYETTI ALLAH.

As we condemn the violent attacks on the Plateau, we need to put on our thinking caps and ask some vital questions.
The press release by Miyetti Allah alleges that the case of cow rustling by criminals in the community affected was reported to the authorities and nothing was done about it in trying to justify the gruesome killings of people in Barkin Ladi.
Let me QOUTE the Miyetti Allah spokesperson ,Ciroma.
"He explained that there had been unreported cases of cow rustling  by people in the affected communities. He claimed these acts were frustrating the efforts of the Plateau State governor Simon Lalong to ensure lasting peace in the State.
He further accused the communities of shielding the alleged cow thieves and attacking security officials who wanted to arrest them.
“The people carrying out these criminal activities are well known to the communities but the communities are hiding them,” Ciroma said.
“Fulani herdsmen have lost about 300 cows in the last few weeks – 94 cows were rustled by armed Berom youths in Fan village, another 36 cows were killed by Berom youths. In addition to that, 174 cattle were rustled and the criminals disappeared with them to Mangu.
“Since these cows were not found, no one should expect peace in the areas. Even soldiers that went after the criminals to recover the rustled cows were shot by the armed rustlers and eventually escaped with all the cows.”
The chairman who described the killer herdsmen as criminals urged members of the communities to support government in ensuring evil cease to thrive in the communities.
He called on security agencies to be fair to all parties, without neglecting any report irrespective of the party at fault to avoid further conflicts. (The Guardian)
This is a serious lead into this case that cannot be whisked away to curb this menace from re-occuring.
These are serious allegations that should not be swept under the carpet for whatsoever reason or standpoint that you are viewing the statement from Miyetti Allah.
Now, some vital questions are begging for answers
1.who did the Miyetti Allah report to?
2.which station did they report the matter to OR which STF command was it reported?
3.who were the soldiers that went to the community that rustled the cows that were shot and they retreated?
4.the specific communities mentioned as habouring criminals, who is the head of the community and where are the cows hiding?
5.the Miyetti Allah are making threats of no peace if their rustled cows in areas mentioned are not returned, what is the security outfits doing about it?
6.since it's a revenge mission, have they fully revenged by killing innocent women and children or they are still coming back to revenge on the criminals that rustled their cows?
The spokesperson of the Miyetti Allah Should be arrested and all this allegations should be investigated so that the herdsmen affected can show the authorities where their cows are haboured.
I personally think some people should take responsibility for this killings for the fact that it was reported and warnings and threats were issued about an impending attack and no one investigated or digged deep on the allegations of the herdsmen.
As I condemn the actions of the bloodthirsty killers for cowardly taking the laws into their hands killing innocent women and children instead of going after the alleged criminals that rustled their cows in their quest for orchestrated jungle Justice.
The security apparatus must swing into actions to search for the rustled cows going forward.
I condemn reprisal attacks especially the ones meted on innocent travellers that know nothing about this conflict by youths that took laws into their hands targetting innocent people,looting and destroying properties.
We must call for a thorough investigations into the allegations made to ascertain it's validity and to find a lasting solutions to this issue of attacks cordinated by criminal elements with some political and religious colouration.
The National Assembly should as a matter of public importance amend the constitution to put considerable powers to the Governor's as chief security officers of their respective states to be able to act swiftly whenever they are under siege as the current security architecture is not feasible and practical in containing conflicts across the nation.
Where there is no JUSTICE, there cannot be PEACE.
#PLATEAULIVESMATTER
#WEJOSWANTPEACE
#MUNATARE

JOS ATTACKS:IGP DEPLOYS POLICE SPECIAL INTERVENTION FORCE TO QUASH ATTACKS

PRESS RELEASE

INSPECTOR GENERAL OF POLICE DEPLOYS POLICE SPECIAL INTERVENTION FORCE TO PLATEAU STATE TO RESTORE LASTING PEACE IN BARKIN-LADI, RIYOM, JOS SOUTH LGAs AND OTHER TROUBLED SPOTS IN THE STATE

·       The IGP relocated Deputy Inspector General of Police, Dept of Ops to Jos, Plateau State.

·       Two (2) Helicopters, Five (5) APCs, Three (3) PMF Units, Two (2) CTU Cells and Police Intelligence Unit already deployed to the affected areas in Plateau State

·       Police Special investigation Team, comprising of IRT, STS and TIU led by Commissioner of Police, IGP Monitoring Unit already deployed to Plateau State and have comenced investigation.
The Inspector General of Police, IGP Ibrahim K. Idris, NPM mni, concerned with the recent killings of innocent people in Barkin-Ladi (Gashishi), Riyom, Jos South  LGAs and other flash points in the State with the attendant disturbance of public peace, clashes  and mayhem that engulfed the affected areas in Plateau State on the 23rd and 24th of June, 2018 which resulted in the loss of several innocent lives, burning of houses and vehicles, and destruction of properties, has promptly deployed since on 24thJune, 2018 the  Police Special Intervention Force to Plateau State to Restore Lasting Peace in Barkin-Ladi, Riyom, Jos South LGA and other flash points in the State.

2.    The intervention is to put an end to the crisis, the Deputy Inspector General of Police; Department of Operations is being relocated on the directive of the IGP to Jos, Plateau State to coordinate and supervise the operations on the ground.

3.     Two (2) Police Aerial surveillance  Helicopters, Five (5) Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs), Three (3) Police Mobile Force Units (PMF), Two (2) Counter Terrorism Cells (CTU ) and Police Intelligence Unit and conventional Police personnel from other States have been deployed to the affected areas in Plateau State. The Police Aerial surveillance Helicopters and other components of the intervention Force are already in the State. Their arrival in the State has restored peace and prevent further attacks in the affected areas.

4.  The IGP has directed the Commissioner of Police in charge IGP monitoring Unit to lead the Police Special investigation Team to the affected areas and other flash points in Plateau State. The investigation Team comprises the Intelligence Response Team ( IRT), the Special Tactical Squad (STS) and the Technical Platforms. The team is to carryout a thorough and discreet investigation into the killings and promptly apprehend those responsible.

5.   The Police Special Intervention Force, also includes personnel of Force Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Department (FCIID) , detachment of Police Explosive Ordinance Department (EOD), Police K9 (Sniffer Dogs Section), Conventional Policemen, Special Anti Robbery Squads. The team that have started arriving are already working in synergy with the Plateau State Police Command to ensure that the peace and normalcy restored are sustained in the affected areas and other flash points in Plateau State.

6.  To achieve success in this operation, the team will be proactive and strict in the enforcement of its mandates, Police standard operations procedures and rule of engagement will be fully adhered to.

7.   The Police Special Intervention Force will ensure the full enforcement of the curfew imposed onthe affected areas by the Plateau State Government. The personnel of the Police special Intervention Force will carry out twenty four (24) hours surveillance and patrol, stop and search of vehicles, and  suspected locations and hideouts of the assailants . The Team will also engage in continuous raids of identified criminal hideouts and black spots, with a view to arrest promptly those responsible for the killings and nip in the bud and prevent any further attack, attempt to attack or cause any form of violence that can lead to killings and other criminalities in the affected areas.

8.  The deployment of the personnel of the Police Special Intervention Force will equally cover communities, towns, villages, vulnerable settlements, Government and private infrastructures and facilities in all the affected areas and other flash points in the State.

9.  Traditional rulers, religious leaders, Community Leaders, the Youth Groups, Public office holders, politicians, opinion leaders, parents and guardians are hereby called upon to prevail on their subjects, adherents/followers, children and wards to support the personnel of the Police Special Intervention Force in the discharge of their responsibilities, and implore them to allow Police Investigation and the law to take it full course, and not resort to reprisals and counter attacks.

10.  Members of the public in the affected areas, other flash points or in any other location in the State in distress or with information to the Police Special Intervention Force and the investigation team can use the following numbers: 07059473022, 08038907662, 08075391844, and 09053872296


Ag. DCP JIMOH O. MOSHOOD

Force Public Relations Officers

Force Headquarters

Abuja.

YAKUBU DATTI:PEOPLE SHOULD STOP POLITICISING SECURITY ISSUES ONTHE PLATEAU

The Plateau state Government has come out to advise citizens known for politicising security issues to have a rethink, in a statement issued to the media, the commissioner for information and communication, Hon.Yakubu Dati says Government Has Not Left Communities at the Mercy of Attackers The Plateau State Government hereby commiserates with citizens of the state especially Miango and Jol communities over the recent attacks. The Rescue administration holds every single live as sacred hence cannot play politics with the lives of the very people that voted it into power. While government is saddened by these attacks, we wish to reiterate that the government is not resting on its oars to find lasting solutions to these attacks. As a government of popular mandate, will never leave its citizens at the mercy of these attackers no matter the situation because it is our constitutional duty to ensure the safety of lives and well being of the people. It is however, disheartening that while government is working round the clock to ensure adequate security of lives of the people, some people are bend on scoring very cheap political points and sowing seeds of discord among the peace loving people by attributing the current security challenges especially the recent attacks to what they feel as action or inaction of the government. Any attempt to portray this government in bad light remains an exercise in futility. Government wish to remind those who have turned themselves into enemies of Plateau that the current state of insecurity is not limited to Plateau as being insinuated by some merchants of death, who despite the relative peace being enjoyed in the state, feel that government is not doing anything to arrest the situation. Government recalls that only recently a serving Governor reportedly resigned his position as the Chief Security Officer of the state because the security apparatus are not under the control of Governors. This underscores the magnitude of the security problems confronting our nation. Be that as it may, government cannot be distracted from going ahead with the various strategies being put in place to ensure the security of all communities. As a government we are committed to ensuring a safe and secured environment that will guarantee peaceful coexistence among the various groups in the state as we remained resolute to the well being of our people. While we reassure the people of the state of our commitment towards making the state a safe haven, we wish to state that while government welcomes constrictive criticisms from citizens, we will not fold our hands and allow spent horses to us back to the dark days of violence. We however call on our detractors to join hands with government towards making the state a better place for all.

SARA-SUKA:POLICE ARREST GANG LEADER AND 32 OTHERS

The gallant officers of the Plateau State Police command have arrested the leader of the notorious SaraSuka gang in Jos, in a Statement issued by the state Public relations officer,the gang leader and some members were arrested and charged to court. Following the attack of the criminal gang known as Sarasuka at Bulbula in Congo Russia area of Jos Metropolis, the Police on the Plateau arrested the gang leader Umar Ibrahim alias "Dangari". After a careful and painstaking investigation, the leader of Sarasuka was charged to court together with thirty two of his members today being 20/06 /2018 for the offence of CRIMINAL CONSPIRACY, INCITING DISTURBANCE, MISCHIEF, CAUSING HURT AND BEING IN POSSESSION OF DANGEROUS WEAPONS. The thirty three gang members were then remanded in prison custody till 25/07/2018 when 95 wraps of weeds suspected to be Indian hemp, 120 sachets of Tramadol, 23 long knives and Assorted Charms were tendered as exhibits. The Plateau Police Command appeals to members of the public to avail her with useful information that would lead to the arrest of more of the Sarasuka gang members. Police PRO, Plateau State

FG TO SPEND N179BN FOR RANCHES IN BENUE, PLATEAU, EDO, KADUNA AND SIX OTHERS

It was disclosed on Tuesday at a session by top government functionaries with Editors. The Federal Government is to build ninety-four ranches in 10 states prone to herdsmen/farmers clashes. This was disclosed on Tuesday at a session by top government functionaries with Editors. The session was facilitated by the Open Society Initiative for West Africa, a non-governmental organisation. The states to be involved are Adamawa, Benue, Edo, Ebonyi, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Oyo, Plateau, Taraba and Zamfara. Those who made the disclosures were representatives of the National Economic Council at the session: Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom; Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbe; and the Coordinator of the plan, Dr. Andrew Kwasari. They said the NEC, chaired by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, has approved a 10-year National Livestock Plan, which will cost about N179 billion. About N70 billion of the budget will disbursed between now and the expiration of President Muhammadu Buhari’s first four-year tenure next year. The project is expected to take off in Benue and Nasarawa States any time from now. Ogbe said “open grazing is no longer viable”. He said cattle rearers would be the greatest beneficiaries in the next few years. He also said the Federal Government has no intention of seizing anybody’s land by force. A technical presentation of the NEC-approved plan, including the enumeration of the six key pillars on which the plan is built, was made by Kwasari. He said: “In addition to loss of human lives, it is estimated that Nigeria loses about $14 billion (N5.04 trillion) annually to herdsmen-farmers’ conflicts. “Domestic annual milk production in Nigeria is only 400 million litres, resulting in supply gap of about 700 million litres. “To fill these growing gaps, Nigeria spends a large amount of its scarce foreign exchange resource to import livestock products, with average of $480.6 million (N173.3 billion) worth of milk imports alone per year. “The National Livestock Implementation Plan is a mediation plan stemming from meetings and recommendations of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (FMARD) and the National Economic Council (NEC) in 2017 as regards state interventions following the incessant pastoralist-farmer conflicts. “We are going to have 94 ranches in 10 states. We have received 21 gazetted grazing reserves from seven states. Plan focuses on pilot intervention in the frontline states Adamawa, Benue, Edo, Ebonyi, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Oyo, Plateau, Taraba, and Zamfara. “A Ranch Design Plan has also been proposed in models of various sizes clustered in 94 locations in the 10 pilot states. We will have clusters of 30, 60, 150, and 300 cow ranch models in a location within the donated and gazetted grazing reserves. “The total spending for the 10-year period is slightly in excess of N179 billion. Funding for the first three years of the pilot phase is about N70 billion. “The ranch is also designed as an integrated business which makes provision for (a) the development of commercial crop production to support livestock through the supply of quality fodder and other feed materials, (b) the formation of producers into clusters to create viable ranch herd sizes, and (c) creation of cooperatives to facilitate improved access to inputs, infrastructure, finance, markets, and support services.” Ogbeh said there was no going back on the creation of ranches, dismissing the insinuation that the government planned to seize land from owners or communities. He said the conflicts between herdsmen and farmers were not about anti-open grazing laws. He said: “So the conflict didn’t begin because the laws were passed. No, the conflict has been brewing but the laws were enacted in desperation by a state. Farmers went to the governor and complained, ‘they are killing us’, so the governor says, ‘let me pass a law’. If we did what we are doing now 20 years ago, we will not be where we are now. “The truth is that open grazing is no longer viable. We may not end it in one day, but it has to end and government has to help. This conflict is not peculiar to Nigeria alone; it’s happening in Argentina; it happened in the U.S . in the 19th century, in Pakistan and others. So, this is what we should have started doing 20 years ago. We didn’t and that’s why we are where we are. “Lastly, the government has no intention of seizing anybody’s land. So, the idea that somebody is going to forcefully take the land is not true. In Fashola’s farm , there are Fulani residents there who speak Yoruba fluently. “One of them said, ‘we have found peace here’. They produce fresh milk for Friesland Capina. If you see the turnover of Friesland Capina during their annual turnover, you will be amazed. These are the issues. “The ECOWAS Treaty says free movement of human, animals and goods. We had a meeting with the ECOWAS ministers here. We are going to have another. We will tell them, ‘you must do what Nigerians want’. Roaming around is no longer an answer. We may have to shut our borders. How large is the Nigerian border space? 4037 square kilometres is the landmass from Sokoto to Badagry and from Borno to Calabar. Added up it’s plus 830 kilometres of coastline. Half of our borders are open . Should we build a wall? People wander in and out. So it is a very complex thing. “When we implement this thing, how do we prevent cows from West Africa marching in when they like with no respect for our tradition and cultures? These are the problems we face. “In these ranches, we can then say nomadic education can work, the Fulani are in clusters. By 5am, they milk their cows and sell to the milk processing plants which will be installed there. They begin to realise that it pays to stay. “There is an experiment we did in Kano. The firm tried to settle a number of herdsmen in a location and they gave scholarship to their children. If your male child is in school, they buy your milk for N120 per litre but if your girl child is in school, they buy it for N140 per litre and believe me, every morning Fulani send their children to school while they milk their cows. They have to be in one place. So a lot of incentives will come and we will use the cow dungs to generate electricity.” Ortom said over 180,000 internally displaced persons were in eight camps in the state. He said: “We have over 180,000 IDPs in eight camps and over 5,000 people living with relatives. We have had massive support from all over the world and this is attributed to the media, and I commend this. “I believe that after this interaction, there will be more to do. The Presidency is not sleeping. They have devised various ways in giving us additional information to help us shape our opinions and also express our opinions on how best this challenge can be surmounted. “A committee had earlier been set up, headed by my colleague from Ebonyi and, unfortunately, he is not here. He and members of his committee visited Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba, Adamawa, and Zamfara states. Of course, they came back with a report, which was considered and far-reaching decisions were taken as to how they will summon this challenge. “I’d like to appreciate the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo for his able leadership and for helping us to come this far. People say from where I come that ignorance is darker than the night and so when you’re informed, you’re in a better position to represent issues properly. “For me, as the governor of Benue State and someone who has been affected by recent challenges of farmers and herdsmen, I must commend the media in Nigeria. You have done very well, and maybe for other states that have been affected as well, you have represented the issues well.”

OPINION:THE OPERATIC LIFE OF SENATOR JOSHUA DARIYE-LAR

THE OPERATIC LIFE OF SENATOR JOSHUA DARIYE By Davidson Rotshak Lar On June 12, the dreams, hopes and ambitions "One of us" came crashing down . But in some poignant way, His dreams were ours—and so, in the end, were his sins. The life of no ex- governor says more about this country. Joshua Dariye's accomplishments sing of the finest Plateau attributes—daring, audacity, resilience and grit. His fall is an incantation of the nation's flaws, of meanness, prejudice, avarice and corruption. What gave Dariye his driven attributes was the titanic struggle among the various personalities within him. And it was a struggle that never ended; there was never a permanent victory between the dark and the sensitive sides of his nature. Now one, now another personality predominated, creating an overall impression of menace, of torment, of unpredictability and, in the final analysis, of enormous vulnerability to spending funds that weren't his. Plateau people, at their best, are romantics. As was Dariye. He dreamed of noble triumphs in the affairs of the State; He started schools - Plateau University (Bokkos), School of Preliminary Studies(kurgwi); took COE Gindiri to its permanent side, started a fertilizer blending plant, and took care of "Elders" with our subventions, and became too generous to Churches, Big pastors and Bishops. "We are going to leave Plateau better than we met," he told his people over and over again. He embodied, too, another sad Nigerian virtue: "financial generosity." His was the last governor who had a legendary penchant of giving money to people even when he met them on the streets, or building houses and "dashing" aides and cronies. We, as a people, placed too much expectations on him for money even from the time he was in BCC Cement, Gboko. He donated to all religious functions and he reveled in the adulations we gave him. And that continued into his administration. Very few high-placed citizens of the State didn't benefit from him in cash or kind. In some sort of way, his sins is our collective sin. He could be achingly, clumsily kind. Dariye had exceptional powers of perception and intelligence, but little grace with his oath of office and our common wealth. Through self-discernment, Dariye recognized the defects of our human character, and employed that knowledge to manipulate his countrymen. He made of us - churches, pastors, politicians and citizens to expect free money from politicians and other office holders. It was Dariye who helped Jonah Jang (his immediate successor in office of governor) to look too "stingy and miserly" because free money stopped with Jang, even to the so-called Plateau Elders. Perhaps, in all our history, perhaps in all politicians, there is no story to rival that of Joshua Dariye. What is best and weakest in Plateau State politics goes out in reciprocating strength and deficiencies in Joshua Dariye. He is an innocent Mushere boy who listened to false praises and adulations and rose from desperate anonymity to spectacular triumphs. He was the salesman, the striver, the grafter and grifter—exploiting Plateau's energies and license, twisting and becoming twisted, consumed by its passions. He is, today, the loser, the discard, the tragic hero—caught in his con, destroyed by that same rage and resentment he manipulated in others, and saw within himself, but was incapable of curing. Heroes have sinned, and been humbled. Iconic commercial empires have crumbled. The country has spawned a spectacular roster of rogues, outlaws and villains. But there is no single scene in our recent politics and law to match that of June 12, 2018 - a tormented Dariye sobbing in a court dock and pouring out his guts in a rambling plea for mercy. "Always remember others may hate you," he told the gathering of pastors of which I was one, "but those who hate you don't win unless you hate them and then you destroy yourself." I hope he doesn't allow that judgment destroy him. I pray he comes out of prison a stronger, godly old man like Charlse Colson who started the Prison Fellowship after he was humbled from being a powerful aide of US President Richard Nixon to a convicted Prsioner. Dariye's rise and fall are, literally, operatic. His flaws repel as they fascinate. He inspired devoted loyalty and un-chambered hate—at times, or over time, from the same individual. In his multi-faceted character we see flickers of the good, the bad and the ugly. In the end, he is one of us and we share in his sins as well.

DARIYE:"IKON ALLAH" -ARC BANKAT

How the mighty are falling! I remember when I was much younger that at the mention of the name "Dariye", some shivers go through the spine for his mighty presence and charisma wherever he went to. Women, Men, Children, The Old, The Young and just everyone. He appeared on the Political scene in 1998 under the defunct UNCP at the age of 41 and was a darling to all and sundry, defeating the likes of Yohanna Dalyop, the late Yusuf Galadima and others who dominated the scenery and later when the party evolved after the demise of the late Gen. Sani Abacha when the ban was lifted on political activities prior to the return of democracy in 1999 into the PDP who had heavyweights like the Late SD Lar, Alex Ekwueme, Alh. Abubakar Rimi, JD Jang etc., After the evolution of the G18, G25 and later G35 that later became the PDP In the front row of affairs. He was unknown to many but regarded as the brain child of the "Re-engineering" mantra that took the state by storm with prior innovations like the VK Dangin Commission of Enquiry that audited most of the financial activities that preceded the Military regimes before he came. He held reforms in Agriculture, Education, Civil Service, Rural developments, Tourism and Hospitality, Health etc. He made swift impacts as a young man and was applauded by many. LATER... When the usual "opinion arithmetics" befell his office due to incessant demands from the Elders forum, fellow politicians, the hungry, religious bodies, political unions, cultural development associations, youth wings etc., he became the centre of relief to all those who wanted their different demands to be met and suddenly, Dariye evolved into the "Father of All" on the Plateau. That contest costed him his oath of allegiance and sooner, the pressures diverted his attention from the needs of the State to the personal/group needs of many. Some Elders were enrolled into the State's payroll, frequent medical trips of many, payments of school fees for parents who got access to him for their kids, building and completion of religious centres and the list goes on. Chief Dr. Joshua Chibi Dariye, born on July 27, 1957 at Horop, Mushere, in Bokkos LGA. A graduate of Accounting from the Kaduna Polytechnic and member of several professional bodies such as ICAN, A Chartered Accountant, a Fellow of the Association of Business Executives, USA, the Nigerian Institute of Personnel Mngt etc. He holds an MBA from St. Clement's University in Australia and another Master's degree in International Law and Diplomacy from the University of Jos and an Honorary Doctorate degree in Science from the University of Uyo amongst other personal achievements and traditional recognitions from his community, the State and beyond. He started working in 1979 at the Bursary Dept. Of the University of His before heading to the Plateau State Health Service Board in 1980, then the PKF chartered accountants In Jos in 1982 and the accounts dept. Of the Daily Times Nig. Ltd. He returned to the PKF Chartered accountants in 1984 And left in 1988 as an Audit Manager to join the Plateau Publishing Company as Chief Accountant and later became the Deputy Chief Inspector in the Internal audit and control unit of Lion Bank plc. He went on to become the Chief Financial Accountant of Benue Cement Company, Gboko, where he rose to the rank of General Manager, Finance and Administration in 1998 then he resigned to join politics. Dariye Spent 7yrs and 1 month as Governor as his administration was truncated twice by a 6 months long State of Emergency and a 5 months long "illegal" impeachment due to several reasons of politics, security, power struggle, political rivalry with the likes of Nasiru Mantu, DT Sango etc. We all know how all that ended. SOME OF HIS ACHIEVEMENTS AS GOVERNOR - Coll. Of Agriculture, Garkawa. - CASRS, Kurgwi. - PLASU, Bokkos. - moved COE Gindiri to it's permanent site. - upgraded the schools of health tech in Zawan and Pankshin to College stasuses. -He returned some schools to the original missionary owners. - Fertilizer blending plant, Bokkos. - built three cottage hospitals in Angware, Tunkus and Dengi And upgraded those in Mangu, Kwalla and Bokkos to General Hospitals. He completed the SD Lar amusement park initiated by Col. HI Shuaibu, he built the Govt house Chapel, Dadin Kowa Youth Centre. He created Additional 118 Electoral wards state wide and 29 development areas with new Chiefdoms, Districts and village areas. AMONGST OTHER NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS like the monstrously dilapidated Barkin Ladi - Bokkos road, Panyam - Shendam road amongst a lot more in his time and I believe there were alot more as a Senator, as he headed alot of Committees as Chairman, Vice-Chairman and Member. LESSONS... Dariye sponsored several individuals through a scholarship scheme for under-graduate, post-graduate and even the most prestigious NIPSS, Kuru. Not to mention the assistance on the completion of religious buildings, purchase of musical instruments, purchase of attires for cultural troupes etc. And hardly was all these groups seen in court yesterday. Success is a magnet indeed. Some of them even were part of those who threw stones at him on the social media. He gathered every kind of people around him and as it is usual with crowd and charity, wrong advice and opinions took the day. Salaries were owed, projects were abandoned, lives were lost and most critically, State affairs took a downward turn to concentrate on political rivalries. Look where it got us! Those he went all out to fend for ahead of the state are those who are here today calling him unprintable names in the process. In no time will I applaud corruption but let us all be aware of those around us especially when we are occupying a public position and the sad reality is how we possess a cruel tendency to fighting each other at every point in time. Plateau men were used to bring down the Yakubu Gowons, JD Gomwalks, Col. Pam, Gen. ID Bisalla, Nasiru Mantu, SD Lar etc. And till date, we are still experiencing traces of same. When a Plateau man gets to a very high point of influence, we do all we can to cripple them down to the ground. Can we ever get a Plateau man to lead Nigeria someday? And to all our politicians, let's do more to be more accountable, prudent, forward and more responsive to the service code and oaths of offices. DARIYE has taught us a lesson of a lifetime. All these achievements thrown to the dust in a single day through a decade of trials and tribulations. He made his errors and sadly so, a lot more are still made without a fear of posterity. Let this serve as a deterrent..... Truly Yours, Fen'tah. June 13, 2018.

NANS MARKS UNIJOS ASSISTANT REGISTRAR'S BIRTHDAY WITH A SURPRISE

It is no news that the character and simplicity of the University of Jos Assistant Registrar,Registrar's office, Mr Muplang Kangpe popularly known as Muppy is the heart of the students of the reputable University of Jos as everyone wants to have a forum were they will have to dialogue and of-course exchange great ideas for future purpose with him. Today being the 4th day of June 2018 marks a new beginning of joy and an additional year of more greatness to come. Muppy who was taken a back by the strong force of all Institutions, Nans to a surprise birthday was speechless and almost to tears as the atmosphere could not hold back the excitement that filled his eyes. He thanked the Registrar, Mr Monday Danjem and the Vice Chancellor, Professor Sebastian Maimako for a good working relationship since his resumption to office. The surprise event which was led by the very capable Muplang Zumtu, a friend to the registrar and also an almuni of the institution (University of Jos) earned more respect in the eyes of the assistant registrar as none has brought a surprise idea as this one. Muplang also used the opportunity to thank all his friends, colleagues and comrades present for honoring his invite and also for taking out time to appreciate the good being of the assistant registrar. Other Guests present includes: The Former SUG President of the University of Jos, Nanbol Amos, Muplang Zumtu, Peter Ibrahim Guluhun, Longul, Pantu Fwangshak (An SUG president aspirant), Miss Nandak (His Sister), Miss Joy (His Sister) , Staffs of the institution and student well wishers. More cute photos after the cut.... Congratulations once more Mr Muplang Kangpe (Muppy) on your special day. A Happy Birthday to you. We pray for more life, good health and great connections for you. entertainment Events Gist

PHOTOS:APC YOUTH ONLINE SPARK POLITICAL ACTIVITIES IN JOS WITH UNVEILING

JOS was agog with beehive of activities as youths from all the 17 local government area stormed out in hundreds for the unveiling of the APC Youths Online forum and the swearing in of its local Government Coordinators. The chief of Staff of the Government house, chief John Dafan, The chairman of the occasion was ably represented by the Commissioner of secondary education HON. Jude Dakur Also in attendance was the The Deputy Speaker Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Saleh Shehu Yipmong,Rt. Hon. Babayo Gagdi, member Representing kantana Constituency, HIGH Chief George Maqual, the chairman, Plateau state larger house,representative of Senator Joshua Dariye, commissioner for information and communication, FestusFaunter,APC Plateau state youth leader Alex Pam amongst others. The highlight of the event was the swearing in of its 17 local Government coordinators and the conferment of patrons of the group (HON. Rufus Bature-Northern Zone, English. Silas Vem@Central Zone and Pius Hoomen-Southern zone. The group unanimously adopted Dr. Simon Lalong for a second tenure. Senior comrades, youth activists and party faithfuls were all on ground for solidarity.

SCAM ALERT:PANDEMONIUM IN JOS AS INVESTORS CRY WOLF

There is pandemonium around Sabon Barki in Jos as people that invested their monies in another investment scheme are crying wolf to be paid their monies back. The investment scheme that is like MMM is as follows : 👉invest 2500 to get 10k 👉invest 10k to collect 25k but again the people benefiting are not given the exact amount it's now 20k 👉invest 50k to collect 100k 👉invest 100k to collect 200k 👉invest 200k to collect 400k the while thing looks like a scam because people whose money are due for collection can't get it some for over two weeks, three weeks and above . The information they got today is that people should submit their documents for bank payment which during the payment there was no column for account number . Most people are complaining that at this point there is no transparent transaction'they are calling on the Plateau Youth Council and relevant authorities to rescue the situation before it gets out of hand.

APC YOUTHS ONLINE SET TO UNVEIL/SWEAR IN LGA'S CORDINATORS

The APC Youths Online Forum is poised for it's unveiling and swearing in of its local Government Cordinators on the 8th of June, 2018 at Yelwa Club under the Chairmanship of Chief John DaFa'an,The Chief of Staff. His Excellency,Dr Simon Bako Lalong The Executive Governor Of Plateau State will be the Special Guest of honour. Chief Joshua Dariye and Prof John Wade will play the fatherly roles on the Day. The Chief Host is Hon. Letep Dabang the APC Chairman Plateau state. In a press statement Co signed by the Chairman and secretary of the APC Youths Online Forum, Mr Pius Tongmaan and Makut Alfred Mashat respectively, it stated that the unveiling and the swearing in of local Government cordinators will come along with a brief lecture on youths, politics and social media and conferment of its patron to three well-deserving individuals from the three senatorial zones of the state. To assist the chairman as co-chairmen are: Amb.Patrick Nimdai, Barr. Festus Faunter(commissioner lands,survey and Town planning P/state) Hon.Yakubu Datti ( commissioner of information P/state) Hon.Victor Lapang Commissioner for youths and sport Development Sons of Honour Prof. Sonny G.Tyoden Deputy Governor plateau state. Members of the state Executive council. TIC chairmen APC chairmen flag bearers Party stakeholders Guest speaker Rt.Hon Adamu Yusuf Gagdi Member Representing kantana constituency Special Guest Speaker PLHA Hon Ahmed Idris Maje (member house of reps Wase) Hon Edward Pwajok(member house of reps Jos south/Jos East ) Hon Suleiman kwande(member house of Reps Jos North/Bassa) Hon Emmanuel Nanle (Doppa) Special appearance All house of assembly members amingst many party stalwarts in the state. All members of the forum are converging in solidarity with other support groups to make the event a beehive of youth political gathering as we approach the 2019 general elections.

LALONG DONATES NEW BUS TO ECWA FOR MISSION WORKS

Governor Simon Bako Lalong has donated a bus to the ECWA family for the propagation of the gospel at the swearing in of the new Ecwa President. The new President of ECWA, Rev Stephen Panya Baba has commended the Plateau State Governor, Simon Lalong for empowering it's citizens through the prompt payments of salaries, pension and allowances. Rev. Stephen Baba spoke shortly after his inauguration as the new President of ECWA at the ECWA headquarters in Jos, at the send off and swearing-in of the outgoing President Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Gado and himself. According Rev Baba, " You have done excellently in taking care of the salaries of civil servants in the State and also paying pensioners their due, at the twilight of their lives, when they are weak and helpless and in need of their pension payment most". He outline his focus in a speech titled " Re-strategising for ECWA to make greater impact, in empowering its members to reach a lost and dying world with the holistic gospel of our Savour and Lord Jesus Christ". In a goodwill message, Gov Simon Lalong assured the leadership of ECWA of the support and solidarity of the Government and good people of Plateau State. Gov Lalong who was represented by State Commissioner of Information and Communication, Yakubu Dati, commended the peaceful leadership transition in ECWA. According to Gov Lalobg,  "My door is always open to you and your leadership; I therefore plead with you not to relent in availing our Government the advice and support of the Church, which will help us as political leaders to govern in righteousness, so our citizens can reap the bountiful blessings of God upon our land." In his farewell speech, the out-going President, Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Gado appreciated the congregation for their support. Goodwill messages were delivered by the Boss Mustapha, the Secretary of the Government of the Federation, Silas Agara, Deputy Governor of Nassarawa State and his counterpart from Kaduna State, Bala Bantex amongst others. Highlight of the occassion was the presentation of a brand new 26-seatter Toyota Bus for mission activities by Gov Simon Lalong. Presentations were also made by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and the father of the President and former President of ECWA, Rev. Dr. Stephen Panya Baba.