Month: August 2020

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Code Plateau 2.0: PICTDA Calls For Registration, See Link (HERE)

The Code Plateau Program which was kicked off last year by Governor Simon Lalong is set for its second edition as Code Plateau 2.0 begins today in Jos, capital of Plateau State in central Nigeria. The program which is a part of Governor Lalong’s administration’s focus on human capacity building fostered round the digital economy; and targeting young people.

Registration is open. Register here:  CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

The Code Plateau program is designed by the Plateau State Information and Communication Technology Development Agency (PICTDA) to build a pool of highly skilled young people in digital tools.

Code Plateau 2.0 is anchored on a mix of virtual and real-life training sessions.

About 80 successful candidates. inducted into the first cohort in 2019 from over 700 applicants that were screened, are already headlining the core objectives to create new jobs, deepen the employability of young people across sectors, and inspire a new generation of skilled digital entrepreneurs, said Director General of PICTDA, Mr. Daser David, while announcing the start of Code Plateau 2.0.

Over half the trained hands are either fully employed in various organizations or are already on the pathway to becoming productive entrepreneurs in the NextEconomy, added David.

PICTDA helping Abuja plugs into digital economy

The new developers from central Nigeria add to the growing list of critical skill sets that could help drive Africa’s largest economy of over 200 million people as Abuja plugs into the digital economy.

The Code Plateau is focusing on training the youth of Plateau state in ICT to produce an enormous number of talents which would give birth to the desired technology driven economy.

The “Code Plateau” is the flagship of the ‘Silicon Plateau Project’ according to David. It forms the kernel of Governor Lalang’s vision for youth empowerment, employability and an overall new economy for Plateau State.

The program is expected to “create talents through a full-time immersive boot camp that is designed for young people who want to start their career in IT and kick start their portfolio of real-life projects that utilize modern tools. The ultimate goal of Code Plateau is to train, nurture and position these fellows in job internship across the diverse technology companies in Nigeria,” David added in Jos.

According to the PICTDA’s boss, Code Plateau forms part of the framework for development of ICT as an industry which is vital to the economic growth of Plateau State in line with the mandate of PICTDA to drive a technology value in the state.

Code for Plateau

As Code Plateau 2,0 kicks off, PICTDA also plans to launch its global wide participatory innovation platform for developers within and outside Nigeria: The Code for Plateau.

‘Code for Plateau’ is designed to run as an open source project for developers from Plateau state, Nigeria and across the world to provide solutions within a tech community framework able to uniquely addressed the identified needs of Plateau state with more than four million people.

“We intend to roll out our eGovernment architecture while the Code Plateau 2.0 is taking place. We will roll out the modalities for Code for Plateau. We expect everyone in the world to contribute to the first of its kind eGovernment development initiative in Nigeria. We plan to hold workshops and zoom meetings as the plan unfolds,” said David.

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SPEECH BY GOVERNOR LALONG, KSGG AT THE PUBLIC DESTRUCTION OF FORFEITED DRUG EXHIBITS BY THE NDLEA (PLATEAU STATE COMMAND)

SPEECH BY THE EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF PLATEAU STATE, RT. HON. (DR) SIMON BAKO LALONG, KSGG AT THE PUBLIC DESTRUCTION OF FORFEITED DRUG EXHIBITS BY THE NDLEA (PLATEAU STATE COMMAND) HELD ON THE 11TH AUGUST, 2020 AT NANFANG MOUNTAIN, OFF SHEN ROAD, DU DISTRICT OF JOS SOUTH LGA, PLATEAU STATE.

  1. It is with mixed feelings that I address you today at this event where a large cache of illicit narcotic drugs seized by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) are being destroyed. My mixed feelings stem from the fact that while I share in the delight that these drugs were intercepted, the development underscores the danger that we face as a State.
  2. Nevertheless, the people and Government of Plateau State are proud of the tireless efforts of officers and men of the Plateau State Command of the NDLEA for their diligence that resulted in the seizure of these illicit drugs.
  3. The menace of illicit drug production, trafficking, distribution and consumption is not new to our country and indeed to our State. What has continued to raise concerns is the fact that despite concerted efforts by Government, Development Partners, Religious, Traditional and Civil society Organisations, this dangerous trend has continued to grow.
  4. Today, many of the security challenges that we are confronted with such as kidnapping, banditry, armed robbery, cultism, rape and other associated problems such as road accidents are associated with the illicit drug business.
  5. This is why my administration considers this event very key to the progress and development of Plateau State, and is therefore committed to ensuring that the efforts of NDLEA are strengthened towards frustrating and halting the activities of drug peddlers.
  6. With the collaboration of all security agencies and the citizens of the State, the Rescue Administration has worked assiduously to bring to an end recurring crises and criminal activities in this State. We remain committed to consolidating on the gains recorded in order to give our people the right environment to prosper.
  7. I wish to again warn all miscreants and criminal elements that under my watch, Plateau State will remain a no-go-area for them as we shall not rest until we defeat them. We shall use all the resources and instruments available to us to deal decisively with anyone found threatening the peace of our people whether under the influence of drugs or otherwise.
  8. I have been reliably informed that we are today destroying various drugs weighing over
  9. 697Kg which were seized by the NDLEA at various times in the State. They have equally succeeded in apprehending dangerous drug peddlers and their collaborators, some of whom have been tried and convicted and others still undergoing prosecution.
  10. At this juncture, I wish to stress that the fight against illicit drugs and illicit substances is not the responsibility of the NDLEA alone but of all stakeholders. All of us must play our parts in bringing this menace to an end in order to save our present and future generations from destruction.
  11. I am worried that despite all efforts, these drugs continuously find their way onto our streets, homes and society at large. This calls for more vigilance and proactive engagement of parents, guardians, community and traditional rulers in curbing this ugly trend.
  12. Like I have always maintained, traditional, religious and community leaders have a very crucial role to play in ensuring the security of lives and property of the people of our State. I therefore expect them to rise to the occasion by exposing criminal elements within their communities to assist the government maintain peace.
  13. I have directed the Commissioners of Secondary and Higher Education to ensure that they encourage and sustain sensitization and education of students against drug abuse and associated crimes. We need to work ahead by adopting preventive measures that will keep our children away from the damaging impact of drugs.
  14. Using such approach, we shall not only save the lives of many, but also recruit ambassadors and advocates that will help propagate the campaign against this monster which is now threatening our collective existence. A stitch in time they say saves nine.
  15. As for those who are addicted to drugs and have been adversely affected, Plateau State Government shall continue to work with the NDLEA and development partners towards ensuring the rehabilitation of victims. We cannot allow them to waste away because they have God-given endowments that can impact our society positively.
  16. At this point, I wish to commend the synergy among security agencies in the State who have collaborated with the NDLEA for the successes we are celebrating today. I urge you to sustain this robust partnership particularly in intelligence gathering and response.
  17. This call also goes to all voluntary and non-governmental bodies who are always doing their part in assisting the law enforcement agencies with information and resources. This will help us have a peaceful, serene and happy society that we all desire.
  18. Finally, let me appreciate the Chairman/Chief Executive of the NDLEA for his doggedness in getting rid of drugs from our country. Plateau State remains grateful to this agency and its hard working officers and men for their sacrifices to the safety of all.
  19. We assure you of our support and partnership always. Thank you for your attention and God bless you all.

Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong KSGG
Executive Governor, Plateau State &
Chairman, Northern Governor’s Forum

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Police promise to hunt down killers of Anambra Gov. Obiano’s aide

The Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 13; AIG Danmallam Mohammed has vowed to bring killers of the Senior Special Assistant to Anambra Governor Willie Obiano on Security; the late Azubuike Ekwegwalu, to book.

Mohammed, who made the pledge on Monday in an interview with newsmen in his office at Ukpo near Awka; described the incident as “sad and most unfortunate.”

The AIG said he had directed the Anambra Police Commissioner, CP John Abang to commence investigation into the matter; in a bid to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident.

“I am sure that the commissioner of police will intensify intelligence to track down the criminals and make sure that they are brought to book. The people of the state should not express fear or have sleepless nights over the development.

“They should know that in larger societies like this, there are pockets of crimes,” he said.

T Police AIG assured the people, especially family members of the deceased that the culprits would be apprehended; no matter how highly placed they were. Also, he expressed concerns over the increasing wave of cultism in the state; warning cultists to denounce their membership or face the wrath of the law.

Ekwegbalu, 43, was allegedly stabbed to death with a kitchen knife at his residence in the Commissioners’ Quarters, Awka; by unknown assailants on Sunday.

Also, the Police Command’s Spokesman in the state, SP Haruna Mohammed already said a suspect seen within the premises around 1:30am; on the fateful day had been arrested for further investigations.

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Sad: 12-year-old boy murdered his father for accusing him of theft

A 12-year-old boy identified as Kwadwo Acquah has reportedly murdered his father after he was accused of stealing his money.

4wardwego gathered that the 12-year-old boy is a JSS 1 student of a secondary school in Ghana.

According to reports, the incident happened in the Fomena District of the Ashanti region; where  the 60-year-old Adansi Pipiiso had accused the boy of stealing his GHC70.

The boy immediately fled with his mother after striking machete wounds on his victim.

Superintendent Albert Nii Otchere, Fomena District Police Commander speaking on Angel FM in Kumasi on Monday confirmed the sad incident at Adansi Pipiiso.

Supt. Albert Nii Otchere said the boy had first turned his fury on his mom; by slashing her slippers with the machete before turning onto his father to butcher him.

The body of the deceased has since been deposited at the Peaceland Mortuary at Adiembra; near Adansi Asokwa pending autopsy and investigation.

But the Fomena District Police Command has declared a manhunt for the 12-year-old boy and his mother.

In other news, a 30-year-old woman identified as Risikat Olabintan was arrested in 2019; by the men of the Nigerian police force, Ogun state command. The woman reportedly threw her new born baby into a pit in the state.

It was gathered that Olabintan, a resident of Ibukun Oluwapo Community Ishaga Surulere in Owode-Yewa threw her son into the pit shortly after birthing him on Sunday morning.

Fortunately, children who were playing later that day; heard a baby’s cries from the pit located at the back of the compound and raised the alarm.

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Nigerian Singer Sentenced to Death by Hanging for Blasphemy

Kano Sharia Court Sentences a 22-year-old Nigerian singer, Yahaya Sharif-Aminu to death for blasphemy Over Song Allegedly Against Prophet Muhammad

At the court on Monday, the presiding judge, Khadi Aliyu Muhammad Kani, found Aminu guilty and sentenced him to death by hanging after he circulated one of songs via WhatsApp.

The song, according to critics, praised an imam from the Tijaniya Muslim brotherhood, to the extent it elevated him above the Prophet Muhammad.

Following the release of the song in March 2020, the northern vocalist who is currently in detention had gone into hiding after he composed the song.

Protesters had burnt down his family home and gathered outside the headquarters of Hisbah, Islamic police in Kano, demanding action against him.

Commenting on the death sentence, Idris Ibrahim, the leader of the protesters that called for Shariff-Aminu’s arrest said the musician’s case will serve as a deterrent to others.

“The judgement will serve as a warning to others contemplating toeing Yahaya’s path. When I heard about the judgment I was so happy because it showed our protest wasn’t in vain.

“This [judgement] will serve as a deterrent to others who feel they could insult our religion or prophet and go scot-free,” BBC quoted Ibrahim as saying.

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GOVERNOR LALONG SALUTES FORMER COCIN PRESIDENT REV DR. MUSA GOTOM AT 80.

Plateau State Governor and Chairman of the Northern Governors Forum, Simon Bako Lalong has congratulated former President of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) Rev Dr. Musa Gotom on his 80th birthday, describing him as a pillar of the gospel and embodiment of good conduct.


Governor Lalong in a message of felicitation said the revered clergyman has continued to shine the light of Jesus Christ by his consistency in propagating the gospel of salvation and raising leaders within the Church in Plateau and Nigeria at large.


Lalong said “You are a theologian of repute and have earned your place in the hearts of both Christians and people of other faiths by living a life of faith, peace, humility and service. You are someone who practices what you teach and preach as can be seen from your tenure as COCIN General Secretary, three term COCIN President, Principal (Provost) of Theological College of Northern (TCNN) and also a two term President of TEKAN. Your contributions to the growth of the gospel in Plateau State, Northern Region and the entire country is highly recognized and appreciated”.


The Governor also thanked Rev. Dr. Gotom for his contributions over the years towards the success of successive Governments in the State particularly the Rescue Administration where he has offered wise counsel, prayers and words of encouragement.
Lalong wished the octogenarian good health and God’s divine protection in the years ahead.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press to the Governor of Plateau State.
8th August 2020.

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NORTHERN GOVERNORS FROWN AT PERSISTENT ATTACKS IN SOUTHERN KADUNA

The Northern Governors Forum has condemned the recent attack in Southern Kaduna in which about 22 persons were reportedly killed on Wednesday night, as yet to be arrested gunmen attacked four Atyap villages in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area (LGA) of Kaduna State.


In a statement, Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Plateau State Simon Bako Lalong said the persistent attacks on villages in the area despite all efforts by the Kaduna State Government and security agencies to end the violence raises serious concern and condemnation.


Lalong said this recent attack where the Atyab villages were affected shows the desperate attempt by criminal elements to not only cause pain and sorrow among innocent citizens, but also frustrate the efforts of the Kaduna State Government at fostering peace and harmony.


He said “we are deeply saddened by this cycle of violence and blood-letting that is carried out against unarmed and helpless people. This is reprehensible and regrettable. While we call on the security agencies to rise up to the occasion and apprehend these criminals, we also encourage the citizens to assist with relevant intelligence that will lead to the arrest of these blood thirsty people”.


Governor Lalong also said that the Northern Governors Forum maintains its position that any group or individual that is aggrieved for whatsoever reason should seek redress through official channels than resort to self-help which only exacerbates crises and instability.


The Northern Governors Forum commiserated with the victims of the crises and the Government of Kaduna State, pledging its support to Governor Nasir El-rufai as he works with all stakeholders to bring the incessant crises to an end.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham, ANIPR
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of
Plateau State & Chairman, Northern Governors Forum.
6th August 2020.

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Rep. Dachung Musa Bagos Foundation Flags Off Medical Outreach in Jos East.

The member representing Jos South/Jos East in the National Assembly, Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos has flagged off a Community Based Healthcare Medical Outreach in Fobur, Jos East Local Government Area of Plateau State.

Flagging off of the Community Based Healthcare Medical Outreach through the Dachung Musa Bagos Foundation at Fobur, Jos East Local Government Area of Plateau State, the outreach will cater for citizens who are suffering from ailments such as; Malaria, dental hygiene, and eye related problems.

This when done, will see constituents being tested and treated within the various communities across Jos East LGA.

The Dachung Musa Bagos Foundation is a community based Non-governmental, Non- profit making organisation, established in 2011 with the aim of supporting the weak and vulnerable groups in the society.

Speakers at the event eulogized the member for showing quality representation stressing that this shows that the member is living up to the promises he made during campaigns when he came to ask for their votes. They promised to support the member in every way possible to actualise his dream for the constituency. Many others offered emotional prayers and thanksgiving for the gesture by the member.

Responding, the member, Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos thanked the people for standing up for him always. He assured them of better and quality representation. To the cheers of the community, the member announced the full payment of medical bills of one his constituents to be operated upon at the Plateau Specialist hospital.

The member added that one of his cardinal objectives of his mandate now at the moment was to make sure that he facilitates the speeding up of eventual take off of the proposed Federal Polytechnic, Zandi, Jos East LGA.

This when instituted, will naturally advance the development of the area with motorable roads and other developmental facilities.

The member also gave a rundown of his one year scorecard which included but not limited to providing scholarships to students, fertilizers to farmers, drilling and rehabilitation of boreholes across the constituency, construction of roads and bridges, as well as sponsoring about 30 bills in the National Assembly.

He also emphasized that he wouldn’t want the next generation of children to go through some of the hardships he faced as a child but that they will grow up to have a better livelihood if things are put in the right perspective from today.

It will be recalled that the member has championing the slogan “Equipping the Next Generation” of Leaders who he stressed must be properly nurtured for a brighter and more prosperous future.

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Mother prevents arrest of Pastor who impregnated 2 teenage sisters

A couple of days ago that a Lord’s Chosen Pastor identified as Pastor Nduka Anyanwu impregnated two of his teenage church members.

The Nigerian Pastor identified as Pastor Nduka Anyanwu allegedly took advantage of the two young sisters, aged 17 and 13 respectively.

He allegedly began assaulting the 13-year-old girl when she was 9 and began raping the 17-year-old girl when she was 16.

Both girls recently became pregnant and he promised to marry the first one and asked her to keep the child while also allegedly promising to procure an abortion for the younger sister.

A recent video has shown the moment a mother of two teenage girls tried to prevent the arrest of the pastor who allegedly raped and impregnated her daughters.

In the chaotic moment, the mother of the girls was filmed protecting her daughters’ alleged rapist when police officers attempted to arrest him for his actions.

“Leave him. I said he’s not going,” the mother of the girls said as she placed herself between the pastor and the police officer who was trying to take him to the station.

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Stop The Abuse Foundation, the NGO that reported the abuse to the police said the parents of the girls were aware that the pastor has been defiling their daughters. In fact, they claim the cleric has been helping them cast out an evil spirit that brings them bad luck.