Month: May 2026

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Mutfwang Credits God, Plateau Citizens for Administration’s Achievements as Government Clocks Three Years

Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang of Plateau State and his Deputy, Ngo Josephine Piyo, on Sunday offered thanksgiving to God as they marked three years in office, expressing profound gratitude for divine guidance, protection, and the unwavering support of the people of Plateau State.

The thanksgiving service, held at the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) Headquarters Church in Jos, drew a large gathering of political leaders, former governors, serving and former lawmakers, ministers, traditional rulers, religious leaders, government officials, and supporters from across the state.

Speaking during the service, Governor Mutfwang reflected on the challenges that have defined his administration since assuming office in 2023, including the legal battles surrounding his electoral victory and persistent security concerns in parts of the state.

“Through it all, I have learned to trust in Jesus; I have learned to trust in God. Through it all, I have learned to depend upon His Word,” the governor said, attributing his administration’s resilience and successes to God’s grace and the support of Plateau citizens.

Mutfwang highlighted key achievements recorded over the past three years, disclosing that his administration has spent over ₦16 billion on pensions and gratuities while providing more than ₦4 billion in medical assistance to vulnerable residents.

He also pointed to investments in healthcare, transportation, education, agriculture, tourism, water supply, and peacebuilding initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life across the state.

According to the governor, the Plateau Specialist Hospital now boasts one of the most advanced laboratories in the country, with standards recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), while reforms in medical supply management and emergency response services have significantly strengthened healthcare delivery.

Recalling the impact of some of the administration’s interventions, Mutfwang said he was moved to tears after witnessing women celebrate the restoration of water supply in communities that had gone nearly two decades without access to public water.

As his administration enters its fourth year, the governor reaffirmed his commitment to protecting the interests of Plateau people, promoting peace, and driving sustainable development.

He paid special tribute to women, youths, and children who stood by him during the legal battle that culminated in the Supreme Court’s reaffirmation of his mandate, describing their sacrifices and demonstrations of faith as unforgettable.

“I will never forget the sacrifices made by women, youths, and children who stood firm and celebrated the reaffirmation of our mandate. Their faith and solidarity continue to inspire us,” he stated.

Earlier, Deputy Governor Ngo Josephine Piyo thanked citizens for entrusting the administration with the responsibility of rebuilding confidence in governance and fostering unity across the state.

She noted that significant progress had been made in road construction and rehabilitation, healthcare, agriculture, education, tourism, water supply, and youth empowerment, describing the interventions as critical steps toward economic growth and social development.

Delivering goodwill messages, former Governor Rear Admiral Bitrus Atukum (Rtd.), speaking on behalf of former governors, commended Mutfwang’s commitment to transforming Plateau State and urged citizens to continue supporting the administration through prayers and cooperation.

The Gbong Gwom Jos and Chairman of the Plateau State Council of Chiefs and Emirs, Da Jacob Gyang Buba, represented by the Agwom Izere, Da Isaac Wakili, also praised the governor’s efforts in promoting peace, infrastructure development, healthcare, transportation, and agriculture, while cautioning politicians against divisive rhetoric.

In his sermon titled “Thanksgiving and the Call to Unity,” Plateau CAN Chairman, Rev. Dunka Gomwalk, urged citizens to embrace gratitude and work together to overcome insecurity and other challenges facing the state.

“Plateau is under intense pressure from forces that seek to undermine our peace and progress. What unites us must always be greater than what divides us,” he said.

The service featured special prayers for sustained peace, security, and unity in Plateau State, as well as prayers for Governor Mutfwang and his administration as they continue their leadership journey.

Religious leaders at the event described the governor as a committed leader whose dedication to the welfare and development of Plateau State remains evident, urging citizens to remain united in support of the state’s growth and prosperity.

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Sam Odeh Camp Reaffirms Loyalty to NDC, Raises Concerns Over Conduct of Bassa/Jos North Primaries

The campaign headquarters of Hon. Sam Odeh has commended supporters across Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency for their commitment during the recently concluded primary election while expressing concerns over aspects of the exercise’s conduct.

In a statement signed by the Head of Campaign and Strategy, Bakali Maina, the campaign praised party members, stakeholders, and supporters who participated in the process, describing their dedication as a demonstration of loyalty to democratic principles and the party.

The campaign said the events surrounding the primaries further strengthened confidence in Hon. Sam Odeh’s leadership qualities, resilience, and commitment to providing effective representation for the constituency.

According to the statement, the campaign also appreciated the intervention of the party’s state chairman, who reportedly responded to concerns raised by aspirants and stakeholders over the delegate-based primary format initially proposed. The intervention was said to have aligned the process with provisions of the Electoral Act and restored confidence among party members.

However, the campaign expressed dissatisfaction with the handling of the exercise, citing delays and poor communication. It noted that party members and aspirants arrived at the venue as early as 9 a.m. but proceedings did not begin until about 8:45 p.m. Participants were later informed that direct primaries would commence around 10 p.m. after efforts to reach a consensus failed.

The statement further explained that because Jos North was under a government-imposed curfew, aspirants appealed for a more practical arrangement, leading to the exercise being rescheduled for 6 a.m. the following day. Despite supporters gathering at designated locations across Bassa and Jos North at the agreed time, election officials reportedly failed to arrive, and no official communication was provided until later.

The campaign acknowledged the role played by the state chairman in ensuring the process eventually proceeded. It claimed that the turnout and level of support across the constituency indicated that Sam Odeh enjoyed widespread backing among party members.

Despite this, the campaign alleged that a “placeholder candidate” was announced instead of adhering to the outcome of the direct primary process.

While maintaining loyalty to the party, the campaign said it would continue to monitor developments surrounding the decision, emphasizing the need for fairness, transparency, and due process in party affairs.

The statement reiterated confidence in Sam Odeh, describing him as a leader who remained steadfast throughout the process and resisted pressure and inducements.

The campaign also urged supporters to remain calm and focused, stressing that the pursuit of effective representation and justice within democratic institutions requires patience and perseverance.

“We remain steadfast and optimistic as we await the final decisions of the party,” the statement concluded.

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Peter Obi Picks Kwankwaso as Running Mate for 2027 Presidential Election

The presidential candidate of the National Democratic Coalition (NDC), Peter Obi, has officially named former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, as his vice-presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections, signaling a major political alliance ahead of the race.

The announcement confirms growing speculation about a partnership between the two influential political figures and sets the stage for what observers describe as one of the most significant opposition coalitions in recent years.

With the confirmation, Obi and Kwankwaso will lead the NDC’s campaign into the 2027 presidential contest, bringing together their respective political structures and support bases across different regions of the country.

Political analysts say the alliance could reshape the dynamics of the forthcoming election, given the popularity of both leaders among key voter demographics and their strong grassroots appeal.

The development comes shortly after the NDC ratified Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, as its presidential candidate during the party’s national convention held in Abuja on Saturday.

At the convention, Senator Victor Umeh, representing Anambra Central, moved the motion for Obi’s ratification, while former Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege seconded it, drawing loud cheers from party delegates and supporters.

Obi had earlier picked up the party’s presidential nomination and expression of interest forms on May 17. Three days later, he was cleared by the NDC National Screening Committee as the party’s sole presidential aspirant ahead of the primaries.

The Obi-Kwankwaso ticket is expected to intensify political activities ahead of the 2027 elections as parties begin positioning themselves for what is anticipated to be a highly competitive presidential race.

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Senator I.D. Gyang Demands Justice Over Plateau North APC Senatorial Primary

Former Senatorial aspirant for Plateau North, Senator I.D. Gyang, has called on the National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to ensure justice is served in the aftermath of the party’s senatorial primary election in the zone.

In a statement issued by the Director General of the I.D. Gyang Campaign Council, Comrade Lot Adas, the camp expressed concerns over what it described as the absence of a credible and transparent primary election process in Plateau North.

According to the statement, party members were allegedly denied the opportunity to freely elect their preferred candidate through a democratic process, a development the campaign council said undermines internal party democracy and the confidence of party faithful.

The council further alleged that no senatorial primary election was conducted in Plateau North, claiming that results were instead fabricated to favour a predetermined outcome. It maintained that any assertion to the contrary would amount to a disregard for truth, fairness, and due process.

While emphasizing the importance of political leadership within party structures, the statement warned against the imposition of candidates, noting that such actions could alienate loyal party members and weaken the APC’s grassroots support base.

The campaign council also referenced recent comments by the APC National Chairman, who reportedly stated that the National Working Committee is reviewing reports submitted by the Appeal Committee on the conduct of National Assembly primary elections and would take appropriate action.

Senator Gyang’s supporters were urged to remain peaceful, vigilant, and law-abiding while awaiting the outcome of the NWC’s review process.

The statement reiterated that the campaign’s position is rooted in the pursuit of justice, equity, and the protection of the democratic rights of APC members and the people of Plateau North.

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Governor Caleb Mutfwang Marks Three Years in Office, Highlights Achievements and Renewed Hope for Plateau

Governor has expressed gratitude to the people of Plateau State as his administration marks three years in office, reaffirming his commitment to rebuilding the state through peace, security, and development.

In a statement commemorating the anniversary, the governor thanked God and the citizens of the state for their trust, support, and resilience since he assumed office in 2023.

Mutfwang noted that despite facing insecurity, economic challenges, attacks on communities, and political distractions, his administration remained focused on delivering good governance and restoring hope across the state.

According to him, significant efforts have been made in strengthening security through the revitalisation of Operation Rainbow, recruitment and training of over 2,000 community volunteers, improved collaboration with security agencies, and the deployment of modern surveillance technology to enhance intelligence gathering and response.

The governor also highlighted ongoing interventions aimed at supporting displaced communities through rebuilding projects and humanitarian assistance in affected local government areas.

Speaking on education, Mutfwang said his administration reduced tuition fees by 50 percent for Plateau indigenes in state-owned tertiary institutions, increased scholarship funding, renovated classrooms, and expanded educational opportunities for students within and outside Nigeria.

He further stated that the healthcare sector had witnessed improvements through the upgrade of the Plateau Specialist Hospital, recruitment of qualified medical personnel, expansion of health insurance coverage, and enhancement of healthcare facilities across the state.

The governor added that transportation had improved through the Tin City Metro Transport Service and partnerships with airline operators, while investments in agriculture had continued through farmland recovery, subsidised fertiliser distribution, mechanised farming support, and agro-processing projects.

He also pointed to ongoing road construction, water projects, rural electrification, tourism development, urban renewal initiatives, and environmental sanitation efforts as part of the administration’s broader development agenda.

“Certainly, we have not yet reached the mountaintop, but we are no longer in the valley. Step by step, we are rebuilding Plateau together,” the governor stated.

Mutfwang expressed optimism about the future of the state, saying Plateau was rising again and would continue moving toward a more peaceful, united, and prosperous future with the continued support of its people.

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PEPSA: Mandatory Monthly Sanitation Exercise Holds in Plateau on Saturday May 30

The Plateau Environmental Protection and Sanitation Agency (PEPSA) has announced that the routine mandatory monthly sanitation exercise will take place across the state on Saturday, May 30, 2026.

In a statement issued by the agency’s Director General, Samuel Nathaniel Dapiya, residents were urged to actively participate by cleaning their surroundings and complying with all sanitation guidelines during the exercise. Movement restrictions will also be enforced within the stipulated sanitation hours.

PEPSA called on communities to support ongoing environmental sanitation efforts by clearing blocked drainages, waterways, and culverts to allow the free flow of water as the rainy season intensifies.

According to the agency, the exercise is aimed at reducing the risks of flooding, environmental pollution, and other public health concerns across communities in .

The agency further disclosed that its officials will monitor compliance in different parts of the state during the sanitation exercise to ensure residents adhere to environmental sanitation standards.

PEPSA appreciated residents for their continued cooperation and support in maintaining a cleaner, safer, and healthier environment across the state.

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Mother, Daughter Arrested Over Alleged N18m Online Romance Fraud

The Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) has arrested a woman and her daughter for allegedly defrauding a Malta-based victim of over N18 million through an online romance scam.

The suspects, identified as 39-year-old Urowhe Diana and her 22-year-old daughter, Rokibat Oluwasheyi Imoru, were arrested following investigations into allegations of cyber fraud, identity theft, and money laundering.

According to a statement issued by the Acting Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Uwana Imah, the investigation began after intelligence was received from the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU).

Police investigations revealed that a Lagos resident, Emmanuel Amanfo, who is currently on the run, allegedly worked with Rokibat Oluwasheyi Imoru to open and manage several bank accounts used for fraudulent transactions.

The police said funds linked to the alleged scam were transferred through money transfer operators and direct deposits into multiple Nigerian bank accounts belonging to Rokibat. Investigators further alleged that the money was later moved into an Ecobank account owned by her mother, Urowhe Diana, where the funds were allegedly spent.

“One of the victims was identified as a resident of Malta whose identity has been withheld,” the statement noted.

Authorities also disclosed that forensic analysis of the suspects’ digital activities allegedly connected both mother and daughter to the cybercrime operation, leading to their arrest.

The police added that efforts are ongoing to apprehend Emmanuel Amanfo, described as Urowhe Diana’s husband and Rokibat’s stepfather.

The suspects are expected to be charged to court after investigations are concluded.

The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to combating cybercrime and protecting Nigeria’s cyberspace under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu.

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Eid-el-Kabir – ADC Candidate Chetto Urges Peace, Unity in Langtang South

The African Democratic Congress, ADC, candidate for Langtang South Constituency in the Plateau State House of Assembly, Nanmwa Jimmy Chetto, has felicitated Muslim faithful on the occasion of Eid-el-Kabir, urging residents to embrace peace, unity and tolerance for the development of the area.

Chetto, son of the late engineer and politician, Engr. Jimmy Zintim Chetto, described the festival as a period of reflection, sacrifice and renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the ADC flagbearer called on the people of Langtang South to imbibe the values of Eid by promoting harmony, love and mutual understanding across religious and ethnic divides.

“Eid reminds us of the importance of sacrifice and obedience to the will of the Almighty. As we celebrate, let us recommit ourselves to building a united and prosperous Langtang South where every citizen can enjoy peace and development,” he said.

He urged political leaders, youths and traditional rulers in the constituency to work together irrespective of political affiliation, religion or ethnicity, stressing that unity remains critical to tackling insecurity and developmental challenges in the area.

Chetto also assured constituents that, if elected into the Plateau State House of Assembly, he would prioritise legislation aimed at promoting good governance, youth empowerment, agricultural development and improved security.

He further prayed for sustained peace and stability in Nigeria and Plateau State, calling for divine intervention in addressing insecurity, poverty and other socio-economic challenges confronting the nation.

The ADC candidate appealed to eligible voters in Langtang South to support his aspiration, describing the forthcoming elections as an opportunity to elect credible leaders who would genuinely represent the interests of the people.

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Court Approves Defence Witnesses for Angwa Rukuba Attack Suspects

A Plateau State High Court sitting in Jos has granted four suspects standing trial over the 2026 Angwa Rukuba killings permission to call five witnesses each in their defence as proceedings continue in the high-profile case.

The suspects are being prosecuted in connection with the Palm Sunday attack on Angwa Rukuba community in Jos North Local Government Area, where about 30 people were reportedly killed by armed assailants.

Those standing trial include Isa Umar Ibrahim, Auwalu Abubakar, popularly known as Auwalu Dogo, Musa Abubakar Ibrahim, also known as Yaroro, and Ado Ibrahim, who remains at large.

The accused persons are facing charges filed by the Plateau State Government bordering on criminal conspiracy, culpable homicide, illegal possession of firearms, and unlawful dealing in arms and ammunition.

During Tuesday’s case management conference, Justice Gedaliah Fwomyon approved the request by the defence counsel for each defendant to present five witnesses during trial.

The judge stated that the court was determined to ensure speedy hearing of the matter and disclosed that two full days would be allocated for the testimonies of witnesses called by each defendant.

Justice Fwomyon also held that the prosecution had adequately responded to issues raised in the case management information sheet and would rely on the statements already before the court, including those made by the defendants and their witnesses.

In addition, the court ruled that the accused persons could make use of interpreters either provided by the court or sourced personally by the defence team.

The defendants were equally granted leave to contest the admissibility of statements tendered before the court and to call expert witnesses where necessary during the proceedings.

However, the court barred parties from filing fresh interlocutory applications except under exceptional circumstances, noting that only applications already filed and adopted would be entertained.

The matter was adjourned to July 1 and 2, 2026, for commencement of substantive hearing, provided there is no challenge to the court’s jurisdiction.

Justice Fwomyon further ordered that the suspects remain in the custody of the Department of State Services pending the next hearing date.

The Angwa Rukuba killings drew national outrage, prompting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to approve a ₦2 billion relief package for victims and assure residents that those behind the attack would face justice.

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INEC Seeks Reversal of Court Decision on 2027 Election Timetable

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has approached the Court of Appeal to challenge a Federal High Court judgment that nullified the commission’s revised timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general elections.

INEC also filed a motion seeking a stay of execution of the judgment pending the determination of its appeal.

The appeal, dated May 25 and filed by the commission’s counsel, Mr. Alex Izinyon (SAN), contests the ruling delivered on May 20 by Justice Mohammed Umar in a suit instituted by the Youth Party (YP).

Justice Umar had voided the revised 2027 election timetable issued by INEC, ruling that the commission lacked the statutory powers to prescribe timelines for political parties to conduct primaries and other pre-election activities.

The court held that the timetable imposed restrictive deadlines on political parties in violation of provisions of the Electoral Act, 2026.

Dissatisfied with the verdict, INEC argued before the appellate court that the trial court erred in law and failed to properly interpret relevant sections of the Electoral Act.

The commission raised nine grounds of appeal, insisting that the judge failed to address critical jurisdictional issues, including whether the suit filed by the Youth Party was hypothetical and academic in nature.

According to INEC, the omission amounted to a denial of fair hearing.

The electoral body further argued that the trial court adopted a narrow interpretation of Sections 29(1), 82, and 84 of the Electoral Act, 2026, while also failing to apply the provisions of Section 151 of the Act.

INEC urged the Court of Appeal to set aside the judgment and strike out the suit filed by the Youth Party, maintaining that the party lacked the legal standing to institute the action.

In a related application before the Federal High Court, the commission also requested an order staying the execution of the judgment pending the outcome of the appeal process.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), INEC argued that granting the stay was necessary to preserve the subject matter of the dispute and prevent disruptions to preparations for the 2027 general elections.

The legal battle has continued to attract widespread attention within political and legal circles, with stakeholders closely monitoring its implications for the electoral process and preparations ahead of the 2027 polls.