The Plateau Debate Guild has expressed interest in partnering with the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) to strengthen voter education, candidate engagement, and peaceful elections ahead of future polls in the state.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to PLASIEC headquarters on February 4, 2026, the Director General of the Guild, Isaac Sanda, said the organisation has over 15 years’ experience and has successfully organised gubernatorial debates across three election cycles, helping to shape informed voter choices in Plateau State. He noted that this was the first formal engagement with PLASIEC and described the visit as an opportunity to explore areas of collaboration.
Sanda congratulated the Commission on the conduct of credible local government elections and said the Guild is prepared to support PLASIEC through candidate town halls, voter sensitisation, peace advocacy, and social media campaigns, particularly on voter registration and non-violent participation. He stressed that engaging candidates directly would help bridge the communication gap between electoral authorities and voters at the grassroots.
Responding, PLASIEC Chairman, Hon. Plangji Daniel Cishak, commended the Plateau Debate Guild for its credibility and long-standing contribution to democratic discourse. He emphasized that modern elections require inclusivity and active stakeholder participation, noting that the Commission is committed to building a culture of integrity, institutional strength, and best electoral practices that will outlive current leadership.
The Center for the Advocacy of Justice and Rights CAJR has expressed its readiness to partner fully with the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) ahead of the September 2026 local government elections.
During a courtesy visit to PLASIEC headquarters on February 4, 2026, CAJR representative, Sarah Johnson, said the organisation had previously collaborated with the Commission during the 2024 elections through voter sensitisation, training, and grassroots mobilisation. She noted that CAJR’s core focus areas include good governance, social justice, peacebuilding, gender inclusion, and grassroots advocacy, adding that the group now seeks deeper and more structured engagement with PLASIEC.
Johnson explained that CAJR intends to support voter education, stakeholder trainings, and grassroots mobilisation across Plateau’s 17 local government areas, stressing that the organisation wants to be part of PLASIEC’s success story in 2026.
In his response, PLASIEC Chairman, Hon. Plangji Daniel Cishak, welcomed the initiative, describing elections as a collective responsibility that requires credible civil society partnerships. He highlighted the Commission’s commitment to inclusivity, particularly for women, vulnerable groups, and persons with disabilities, noting ongoing infrastructural upgrades to enhance access.
Cishak reaffirmed PLASIEC’s openness to collaboration and assured CAJR of support as preparations for the 2026 elections continue, with due consideration for the 2027 general elections.
The Arewa Christian and Indigenous Pastors Association (ACIPA) has expressed its desire to partner with the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) in promoting credible elections and deepening democratic values across Plateau State.
ACIPA made this known during a courtesy visit to the headquarters of PLASIEC on February 4, 2026. Speaking during the visit, the Chairman of the association, Rev. Luke Shehu, explained that ACIPA was established to complement existing Christian bodies while supporting democratic institutions through advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and grassroots mobilisation.
He emphasized that the independence and adequate funding of State Independent Electoral Commissions, alongside autonomous and well-resourced local governments, remain critical to the sustainability of Nigeria’s democracy.
Rev. Shehu noted that ACIPA is committed to mobilising communities at the grassroots to support peaceful participation in the electoral process and pledged the association’s readiness to collaborate with PLASIEC in voter sensitisation and civic engagement initiatives across the state.
Responding, the Chairman of PLASIEC, Hon. Plangji Daniel Cishak, welcomed ACIPA’s interest in partnership and reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to inclusivity, transparency, and strict adherence to constitutional provisions. He noted that effective collaboration with stakeholders contributed significantly to the relative success of the 2024 local government elections.
Hon. Cishak further restated PLASIEC’s openness to working with credible civil society and faith-based organisations, while calling for sustained support in voter registration sensitisation and Permanent Voter Card (PVC) collection to strengthen democratic participation in Plateau State.
One year ago, on the 4th of February 2025, Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap, mni assumed duties as the Honourable Commissioner of Information and Communication, Plateau State. She thus became the second female occupant of the office in its long history, underscoring the significance of her appointment in an otherwise male dominated field.
Appointed by the Executive Governor, Barr. Caleb Mannaseh Mutfwang to rejig the state information machinery, Rt. Hon. Ramnap simply hit the ground running, bringing to the crowded table a rich rappertoire of public service experience, garnered especially in the legislature where she was at one time deputy speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly.
Her appointment as Commissioner for Information and Communication was no doubt a mark of the governor’s faith in her abilities. Yet, it was also a humbling experience for her to have been saddled with an office so critical to the realisation of the “Time is Now” development agenda.
In line with the administration’s quest for transparency, accountability and good governance, the Honourable Commissioner has indeed deployed her time and talent towards reinventing the ideals that drove the ministry’s operations in its heyday.
Since assuming office last year, she has focused on developing the capacity of staff to meet the emerging standards and deliver optimally on the ministry’s primary mandate. In other words, staff have been positioned to drive initiatives that promote effective communication, transparency, and citizen engagement.
Notably, the commissioner has sustained and improved on some key activities of the ministry such as the Ministerial Press Briefing which brought together Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to present their scorecards, to mark the 2nd year anniversary of the “Time is Now Administration”.
This platform showcased the administration’s accomplishments and commitment to open governance.
Not resting on her oars, the Commissioner initiated the formation of the Information Centre, a modern facility that enhances the ministry’s communication capabilities and also serves as a conference Hall for other ministries.
Aware of the importance of government presence on the information superhighway, Rt. Hon. Joyce Ramnap also led the efforts for the reactivation of the ministry’s website in collaboration with Plateau State Information and Communication Technology Development Agency (PICTDA).
Furthermore, the Hon. Commissioner was at the head of a media tour to inspect projects of the “Time is Now” administration, highlighting the commitment of the administration to development and accountability.
Promoting synergy among state-owned media organizations for the pursuit of a common goal, Ramnap has also engaged the private media on a retainership basis, which has ensured better and more professional reportage of activities in the state.
On the whole, the commissioner’s efforts have focused on strengthening government communication, transparency, and citizen engagement. She has, in this light, led strategic communication reform, fostered strong media relationships, and ensured accurate information dissemination.
The management and staff of the ministry therefore identifies with the Honourable Commissioner as she toes this path that seeks a positive image for Plateau State, and which supports the “Time is Now Administration’s” vision for a prosperous and developed Plateau State.
Happy one year anniversary, Honourable Commissioner!
SIGNED: Nanman Jonah Kparbong, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Communication, Plateau State.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Plateau State has charged the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) to conduct the forthcoming local government council elections with transparency, fairness and inclusiveness.
The call was made during a courtesy visit by the PDP leadership to the PLASIEC headquarters, where the party engaged the commission on preparations for the upcoming polls.
Speaking on behalf of the party, the PDP State Vice Chairman North, Hon. Musa H. Sule, said the visit was aimed at familiarising the party with the commission and introducing newly elected members of the party’s state executive. He described the engagement as both a civic duty and a responsibility, noting that PDP remains a major stakeholder in Plateau State’s democratic process.
Hon. Sule commended PLASIEC for releasing the election timetable and assured the commission of the party’s commitment to peaceful participation and strict adherence to electoral guidelines. He stressed the need for a level playing field for all political parties and urged the commission to continue engaging critical stakeholders to ensure that the will of the people is respected.
Responding, the PLASIEC Chairman, Hon. Plangji Daniel Cishak, welcomed the PDP delegation. He congratulated the PDP officials on their new positions and reaffirmed the commission’s resolve to uphold professionalism, independence and fairness.
Hon. Cishak disclosed that upon assuming office, the commission embarked on major institutional reforms, including reorganization of departments, strengthening staff capacity and promoting a culture of credibility and accountability. He noted that PLASIEC’s inclusive approach contributed to the peaceful conduct of the 2024 local government elections.
The chairman further assured the PDP that all political parties and stakeholders would be carried along in the electoral process, adding that the commission is committed to accommodating vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities, women and youths. He also highlighted ongoing rehabilitation works at the commission’s headquarters to improve accessibility and institutional standards.
Hon. Cishak confirmed that PLASIEC has complied with relevant legal provisions, published notices of election, and is preparing for subsequent activities, including party primaries scheduled between March 7 and March 12.
Both parties expressed optimism for a cordial working relationship and a credible local government election in Plateau State.
The Department of State Services (DSS) on Tuesday arraigned former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and his son, Abdulaziz, before the Federal High Court in Abuja over alleged terrorism financing and unlawful possession of firearms.
Prosecuting counsel, Callistus Eze, told the court that the defendants were facing a five-count charge dated February 2 and filed February 3, seeking leave for the charges to be read. Both defendants pleaded not guilty.
Eze requested a trial date and urged the court to remand the defendants in DSS custody. Defence counsel, Shuiabu Arua, SAN, made an oral application for bail, citing their two-week detention and recent hospitalisation. Justice Joyce Abdulmalik ordered a formal bail application to be filed.
The court adjourned the case to February 20 for trial and remanded the defendants pending the hearing of the bail application.
According to the charge (FHC/ABJ/CR/63/2026), Malami is accused of knowingly abetting terrorism financing while in office by allegedly refusing to prosecute suspected terrorism financiers in November 2022. He and his son are also jointly charged with preparatory acts of terrorism and illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition allegedly found at their Kebbi residence in December 2025.
The Plateau State Government has launched the Sing for Plateau Initiative, a creative talent project aimed at rebranding the state, promoting its cultural heritage and empowering young creatives.
The initiative was unveiled on January 3, 2026, at a press conference in Jos, organised through the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Creativity and Entertainment, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Hospitality and the Plateau Tourism Corporation.
Speaking at the event, Ezra Jinang, Senior Special Assistant to Governor Caleb Mutfwang on Creativity and Entertainment, said the project is designed to tell Plateau’s true story through arts, creativity and positive content, especially as the state marks its Golden Jubilee (50 years).
According to him, Sing for Plateau is a multi-category contest open to all residents of Plateau State, regardless of origin, including Nigerians and foreigners living in the state. The competition covers songs, poetry, dance and content creation, with winners in each category to receive ₦1 million cash prize, while other finalists will also get consolation prizes.
“The time is now for us to tell our stories ourselves, using our creativity. Plateau has always been a hub of talent, and this initiative will help rediscover and showcase that strength,” Jinang said.
He explained that creatives whose art does not fall strictly within the listed categories, such as comedians, MCs or drummers, can participate under the content creation category. Entries are to be submitted with a brief description to the contact details provided on the official flyer.
The competition will climax with a grand Sing for Plateau concert in March 2026, where prizes will be presented by Governor Caleb Mutfwang alongside the Commissioner for Tourism and Culture. A weekly radio programme will also commence to keep the public updated on activities leading to the grand finale.
The Commissioner for Tourism, Culture and Hospitality, Cornelius Doeyok, assured that the Plateau State Government is fully backing the initiative, describing it as a strategic move to change negative perceptions about the state and position the creative economy as a major driver of Plateau’s economy.
“The more positive content we create about Plateau, the better the perception outside the state. This initiative will help redefine Plateau and tell stories that have never been told,” Doeyok said.
Also speaking, the General Manager of Plateau Tourism Corporation, Mr. Chuwang Pwajok, described the project as another step towards unlocking Plateau’s vast creative potential, noting that the state has historically shaped many successful creatives across Nigeria.
He added that the initiative will help position Plateau as a hub for creativity, entertainment and investment in Nigeria and West Africa.
Similarly, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Tourism and Culture, Ephraim Dankyes, welcomed the project, describing Plateau as “the home of creativity, talent and art,” and pledged full support for initiatives that promote the state’s cultural identity.
The Sing for Plateau Initiative is part of broader efforts by the Mutfwang administration to strengthen the creative sector, following recent large-scale events such as the Plateau Christmas Carol and the Family Christmas Festival, which attracted national attention and top celebrities to the state.
Authorities in the City of Tshwane, South Africa, temporarily disconnected electricity supply to the Nigerian High Commission over unpaid utility charges, before restoring power after the задолженность was cleared.
The action was confirmed by Tshwane’s Executive Mayor, Dr. Nasiphi Moya, via a post on X, where she announced that the diplomatic mission had been disconnected for owing the city for electricity services.
The move triggered widespread reactions on social media, with both South Africans and Nigerians expressing surprise that a foreign high commission could default on utility payments in its host country.
Hours later, Mayor Moya provided an update, confirming that the Nigerian High Commission had settled the outstanding bills, prompting the city to reconnect electricity to the premises.
As of the time of this report, neither the Nigerian High Commission nor the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja has released an official statement on the incident.
The development has reignited public concern over the administration of Nigeria’s foreign missions, particularly issues relating to funding, maintenance of diplomatic facilities, and the welfare of embassy personnel abroad.
Nigerian security agencies have concluded investigations into an alleged coup plot aimed at violently overthrowing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, with 40 suspects identified so far.
Those implicated include senior military officers across the Army, Navy and Air Force, a police officer, and several civilians accused of involvement in reconnaissance, funding, logistics and propaganda activities.
Findings from the covert investigation—coordinated by the Army Headquarters and the Department of State Services (DSS)—have now been forwarded to appropriate authorities, according to Defence Headquarters.
Security sources said 13 suspects were initially arrested by the DSS, including two military personnel (one retired), a police officer and 10 civilians. In addition, 16 military officers were detained for alleged direct participation in the plot, two civilians for reconnaissance duties, two others for inciting civil disobedience, and five individuals linked to funding channels.
One soldier reportedly escaped from custody but was later rearrested by DSS operatives in Bauchi.
On Monday, the Defence Headquarters confirmed that investigations had been concluded and transmitted to “appropriate superior authority in line with extant regulations.” The military described the alleged conduct of the officers involved as “inconsistent with the ethics, values and professional standards of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.”
According to intelligence reports, the alleged plot was initially conceived to disrupt the handover of power from former President Muhammadu Buhari to President Tinubu during the May 29, 2023 inauguration. However, the plan was reportedly suspended due to funding and logistical challenges.
Investigators said the plot was allegedly revived in 2025 after nearly ₦1 billion was transferred in tranches into accounts linked to a Bureau De Change operator. A former Bayelsa State governor, Timipre Sylva, and a retired senior military officer identified as Major General Adamu (rtd) were named as alleged financiers. Both, alongside three other suspects, are said to be at large.
Security sources disclosed that one fleeing suspect was traced to a South American country, though exact details were withheld for security reasons. Multiple agencies are reportedly collaborating to dismantle remaining cells linked to the alleged conspiracy, including through cross-border intelligence coordination.
Authorities are also awaiting presidential approval to constitute a court-martial panel for the soldiers involved. At least 25 military officers and personnel are expected to face trial, while an unspecified number of civilians remain in custody under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the DSS.
Alleged Assassination Targets
Earlier intelligence reports indicated that top government officials were allegedly marked for assassination. Those named include President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, as well as Service Chiefs, Guards Brigade commanders and other senior officers.
Sources claimed the plot relied on informants within the Presidential Villa to monitor movements, with plans to simultaneously eliminate key figures and install a military government. Investigators also said some officers were assigned to seize strategic locations, including the Presidential Villa, Niger Barracks, the Armed Forces of Nigeria Headquarters and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
List of Suspects
The list obtained by investigators includes serving and retired military officers, non-commissioned officers, a police officer and civilians:
MA Sadiq (Brigadier General) – Army Headquarters Garrison
MA Ma’aji (Colonel) – Defence Space Administration
S Bappah (Lt. Colonel) – 525 Signal Regiment
AA Hayatu (Lt. Colonel) – 130 Battalion, Ogoja
P Dangnap (Lt. Colonel) – 134 Special Force Battalion
M Almakura (Lt. Colonel) – 197 Special Force Battalion
AA Jarma (Lt. Colonel) – CO, 35 Battalion, Katsina
SM Gana (Lt. Colonel) – 115 Task Force Battalion
AD Dauda (Major) – Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji
JM Ganaks (Major) – Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji
AJ Ibrahim (Major) – Army HQ, Policy and Plans
MM Jiddah (Major) – 26 Battalion
MA Usman (Major) – 35 Battalion
D Yusuf (Major) – FOB Molai
J Iliyasu (Major) – 3 Division Garrison
A Mohammed (Major) – 63 Brigade Garrison
DB Abdullahi (Lt. Commander) – Naval Base Abuja
SB Adamu (Squadron Leader) – National Counter Terrorism Centre
Abdul Abdullahi (Staff Sergeant) – 82 Division Garrison
Ali Isah – Villa Ambulance Driver
ML Mohammed (Captain) – 18 Battalion
UI Yusuf (Wing Commander) – Helicopter Flying School, Enugu
IM Gana (Major General, rtd) – Kubwa, Abuja
Stanley Kingley Amandi – Alleged Propagandist
G Binuga (Captain) – 1 NMF Brigade
AA Yusuf (Captain) – NASFA
Bello (Captain) – 82 Division Garrison
SS Felix (Lieutenant) – 81 Division Provost Group
J Aminu (Lieutenant) – Army Public Relations
Nasiru Ibrahim (Warrant Officer) – 82 Division Garrison
Sanda Usman (Sergeant) – 167 Special Force Battalion
Mohammed Zubairu (Sergeant) – 177 Guards Battalion
Momoh Audu (Corporal) – 343 Artillery Regiment
Ahmed Ibrahim (Inspector) – 24 Police Mobile Force, Presidential Villa
Goni Bukar
Security agencies say investigations remain ongoing as efforts continue to apprehend fleeing suspects and dismantle all networks linked to the alleged coup plot.
Unidentified hoodlums on Saturday violently disrupted a joint event organised by the Labour Party (LP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos State, leaving several party members injured.
The event was convened to formally announce the defection of LP members in Alimosho to the ADC. Trouble began at the first venue, the LP office in Idimu, where over 100 hoodlums reportedly stormed the premises, forcing members and officials to flee for safety.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers, armed with knives, canes and other dangerous objects, assaulted party members and vandalised property, chanting that the LP and ADC were not welcome in Lagos State. Several members sustained varying degrees of injuries during the attack.
Despite the disruption, party officials relocated the ceremony to an alternative venue at the Eco Centre Event Hall in Egbeda. However, the hoodlums allegedly traced the new location and launched another attack, beating members once again before leaving the area.
Speaking on the incident, the LP chairman in Alimosho, Olaranwaju Olushola, popularly known as Heritage, described the attack as unwarranted and alarming, especially as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.
“What is most painful is that many of my members sustained injuries. The hoodlums even invaded our party secretariat in Alimosho, destroying our furniture and flags,” Olushola said, expressing concern over citizens’ freedom to associate and express political choices.
He clarified that the defection had already taken place collectively, noting that the event was only meant to inform the public of their decision. According to him, nearly all LP members in Alimosho, including the leadership, have joined the ADC.
Also speaking, the party secretary in Alimosho, Moses Akujuobi, said the police had earlier stopped plans for an open ceremony, citing the absence of official approval. He explained that efforts to secure clearance were unsuccessful, although security agencies, including the DSS, were informed.
“When we arrived at the first venue, we met heavily armed policemen who told us we could not proceed. While we were still engaging them, hoodlums invaded the place and began beating people, forcing us to abandon the venue,” Akujuobi said.
He added that even after relocating to the Eco Centre in Egbeda, the attackers followed them and carried out another assault on members. According to him, the decision to defect to the ADC was driven by leadership challenges within the LP and ongoing internal litigations.
Heavily armed policemen later arrived at the second venue after the hoodlums had left. A police officer, who spoke anonymously, said officers responded after receiving reports of violence and were relieved that no lives were lost and no serious injuries were recorded.
