Category: News

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Tal Community Development Association Hails Cecilia Fabian for Restoring SSCE Center in GSS Tal

The Tal Community Development Association (TCDA) in Pankshin Local Government Area has expressed heartfelt appreciation to one of its illustrious daughters, Cecilia Fabian, for her outstanding contribution towards the revival of the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) Centre at Government Secondary School (GSS), Tal.

The SSCE Centre, which caters to both WAEC and NECO candidates, was previously de-recognised, leaving students to travel long distances to write their exams but through Cecilia’s effort, the WAEC Center has been restored.

Through Cecilia Fabian’s magnanimity and relentless efforts, the centre has now been fully restored, reigniting hope and easing the academic journey for many students in the area.

According to TCDA, this noble gesture not only reflects Cecilia Fabian’s unwavering passion for education but also underscores her deep love and commitment to the growth and development of her community.

The restoration of this examination centre is monumental relief, the community noted. TCDA notes “Our students can now concentrate better on their studies without the burden of traveling far to write their exams. This will significantly boost academic performance and morale.”

While celebrating her contributions to education and other humanitarian causes, the community offered prayers for divine protection and continued success in all her endeavors.

Tal Community Development Association also appreciated Cecilia for facilitating the approval of Science subjects for WAEC in the school to enable students offering the subjects to sit for their exams in the centre without going to other schools.

They also thanked her for emulating the footsteps of their beloved brothers and sisters who have been working tirelessly towards the success of the Community.

TCDA also reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with government at all levels to ensure education receives the attention it deserves across Plateau State.

Signed:
Gupai Yakubu Emmanuel
Head of Media
For the National President, TCDA

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Dr. Fish Bagged Best CEO of the Year at the 2025 PIBC Awards

A big congratulations to Dr. Fish for emerging as the Best CEO on the Plateau at the 6th Plateau Innovation and Business Conference (PIBC) 2025, featuring the CEOs Hangout & Awards Night!

This prestigious recognition is a testament to Dr. Fish’s exceptional leadership, innovative mindset, and unwavering commitment to excellence in the business ecosystem of Plateau State. Through resilience, quiet but impactful leadership, and a passion for community-driven growth, Dr. Fish has become a beacon of excellence for many aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders in Jos and beyond.

The PIBC Awards continue to shine a spotlight on individuals who are not only transforming their businesses but also actively contributing to the region’s economic development. Dr. Fish’s achievements are a clear example of what it means to lead with vision and purpose.

We’re incredibly proud to celebrate this well-deserved recognition and look forward to seeing more milestones from this trailblazer in the near future.

Want to be part of the innovation and inspiration?
Register now to attend the PIBC 2025 via: www.ihubdigitalsolutions.com.ng/PIBC

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Plateau Lawyers Bar Forum Demands Urgent Action on Bokkos Massacre, Condemns Continued Genocide

PRESS RELEASE BY PLATEAU LAWYERS BAR FORUM ON THE GENOCIDE IN BOKKOS LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA

The Plateau Lawyers Bar Forum (PLBF) vehemently condemns the unabated attacks by a militia on farming communities in Plateau State, particularly the recent violence in Bokkos Local Government Area. These attacks, which have persisted since 2001, have resulted in countless deaths, widespread displacement, and the destruction of livelihoods, yet the response of Federal Government in whose custody all the security agencies in Nigeria, remains grossly inadequate.

It is alarming that the failure of security agencies to protect vulnerable communities has resulted in monumental loss of lives and properties despite repeated assurances by Government that these acts of violence and destruction will end. Where there are arrests, investigations are often conducted in a shoddy and unprofessional manner, resulting in unsuccessful prosecution.

The Federal Government must seriously consider the prudent recommendation of the Director General of the State Security Service (DGSS) advocating for communities to arm themselves for self-defense. The tragic events in Bokkos Local Government Area could have been mitigated, or casualties significantly reduced had communities been equipped to fend off attackers before re-enforcement from overstretched security agencies could arrived.

While Government urgently follows through with this pragmatic suggestion by the Director General of the State Security Service (DSS), we demand immediate action to:

  1. Provide urgent relief and rehabilitation for displaced victims to help them rebuild their lives;
  2. Reinforce military and police presence in vulnerable areas;
  3. Legally empower and supervise community defense groups to prevent further massacres;
  4. Employ scientific method to investigate these massacres in collaboration with legal experts to ensure that investigations yield actionable evidence for prosecution;
  5. Fund and carry out prosecutions of those responsible for these attacks to end the culture of impunity;
  6. The Executive Order by the Plateau State Government on grazing be developed and pass into law as an Anti Opening Grazing Law in line with best practices all over the world.

The suffering endured by the people of Plateau State for over two decades must end. Enough is enough! We call on the Federal Government to take decisive action flowing from the prudent recommendation of the Director General of the State Security Service (DGSS) before more lives are lost. The time for the empty rhetoric about bringing the perpetrators to justice is over.

Dated at Jos, Plateau State this 7th day of April, 2025.

Chairman, Mr. Ledak D. Dafer, Esq.

Secretary, Mr. Niri I. Darong, Esq.

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PLASIEC Hosts Inaugural Planning Meeting for 2025 FOSIECON Delegates Conference

The Forum of State Independent Electoral Commissions of Nigeria (FOSIECON) has officially commenced preparations for its 2025 National Delegates Conference with an inaugural planning committee meeting held at the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) Headquarters in Jos.

Hon. Plangji Daniel Cishak, Chairman of PLASIEC, who hosted the meeting, welcomed high-profile delegates from across the country. He expressed appreciation for their presence in Plateau State, widely regarded as the “Home of Peace and Tourism,” despite occasional security concerns. He highlighted the significance of the forum being held during a period of national constitutional reform, noting that it offers a unique opportunity to strengthen democratic institutions at the grassroots level. According to him, the upcoming conference will help assess electoral successes and challenges while providing recommendations for better election management.

The planning committee includes representatives from Nasarawa, Kaduna, Benue, Bauchi, Ondo, and Adamawa State. Their presence underscores the commitment of FOSIECON to organizing a successful and inclusive conference. He expressed confidence that the conference will have far-reaching impacts on Nigeria’s democracy.

Barrister Ayuba Wendy Osman, Vice Chairman of the Planning Committee and Chairman of the Nasarawa State Independent Electoral Commission (NASIEC), also addressed the media. He disclosed that the proposed date for the conference is between May 20th to 24th, 2025, though this remains tentative as planning continues. He emphasized that the annual conference is a critical platform for SIEC chairmen, commissioners, and secretaries from all 36 states to reflect on their roles, share ideas, and explore new strategies for electoral reform.

Addressing recent calls to scrap SIECs in favor of INEC, Osman reaffirmed the constitutional role of state electoral bodies, arguing that federalism requires a devolution of powers. “You cannot make the center too strong,” he said. “SIECs must continue to carry out their mandate unless the law says otherwise.”

The 2025 FOSIECON conference will center on the theme of strengthening State Electoral Commissions, aiming to enhance electoral integrity and democratic governance at the grassroots level.

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INEC Chairman, Mahmood Not Sacked – Spokesman

INEC

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has disclaimed social media reports that its Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, has been sacked by President Bola Tinubu.

A viral WhatsApp message had indicated that Mahmood was sacked and replaced with one Prof. Olamilekan.

“INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmud Yakubu has been replaced with Prof. Bashiru Olamilekan by President Tinubu,” the message, which had no attribution, read.

In response to a message from Vanguard, the Chief Press Secretary CPS to the INEC Chairman, Mr Rotimi Oyekanmi, simply said: “Please, disregard. It is not true.”

Yakubu, who is rounding off his second tenure in office, is expected to exit the system towards the end of the year.

The process of appointing an INEC chairman is the President nominating a candidate and forwarding his particulars to the Department of State Services, DSS, for profiling.

After such screening, the President thereafter takes the name to the National Council of State for its advisory review. Based on the outcome, the President sends the name to the Senate for screening and confirmation.

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National Security Adviser, Ribadu Vows End to Violence in Plateau, Promises Justice During Visit to Plateau State

Following the recent surge of brutal attacks across communities in Bokkos Local Government Area and other parts of Plateau State, Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has issued a strong warning to perpetrators of violence, declaring: “Enough is enough.”

Speaking after meeting with Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang and top military officials, Ribadu said he was in the state to deliver President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s condolences and appreciation to the people and security forces following the recent wave of attacks that claimed several lives and displaced communities in Bokkos Local Government Area.

Ribadu made this declaration during a visit to the Operation SAFE HAVEN Headquarters in Jos, where he addressed the pressing need for peace and security in the region. His visit comes amidst growing public concern over ongoing killings and displacement in rural communities such as Ruwi, Mangor Tamiso, Daffo, Manguna, Hurti, and Tadai.

Reflecting on the tragic events of January, Ribadu expressed hope that such incidents would never recur. “This incident that we witnessed last January, hopefully we will not see it again. And that is why I come with this message,” he said.

The NSA condemned the violence, calling for immediate and decisive action from security agencies. “We say that enough is enough. It has to stop whatever it takes,” he stated emphatically.

He also pointed out that certain criminal elements were exploiting community peace initiatives, warning that even minor tensions could escalate quickly if not addressed. Despite the complexities of the crisis, Ribadu affirmed that the government is adapting and improving its strategies. “I can assure you, things have improved. And it will even be better as we continue to move across the country and in the Plateau as well,” he noted.

Stressing the central role of peace, Ribadu said, “Without peace, nothing else can function, no development, no growth, no education, no health.”

He cited progress in national security efforts, claiming a significant drop in violence and deaths compared to 2022 and 2023. “Violence, death reduced probably by a reasonable percentage in our country,” he said, adding that many of those responsible for unrest have already been arrested.

Ribadu also urged the public to be cautious about exaggerated casualty figures, noting that some victims remain hospitalized and investigations are ongoing. Nonetheless, he assured the public that justice will be served. “Those who are found responsible, those who are directly connected, will be prosecuted. Justice will be done. You will see the difference.”

Highlighting the government’s resolve, he revealed that nearly 2,000 terrorists had been prosecuted over the past year, with many convictions secured. “This is going to be a continuation. We will not relent. We are serious, we are honest about what we are doing.”

He concluded with a message of hope to the people of Plateau State: “This progress we are making, this continuous improvement will continue. We’ll get to a point where we say, yes, we have crossed and be grateful to God.”

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Lady Allegedly Po¡sons Boyfriend To D3ath Over Cheating, Hides His Body Under Bed

A young woman allegedly poisoned her boyfriend to death for cheating on her in Iyo Polo community, Marine Base, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

It was gathered after k!lling the deceased, she hid his body under the bed inside his room for three days.

According to local reports, residents of the area became suspicious after noticing a foul odor emanating from the victim’s residence.

Concerned neighbors attempted to reach the deceased but received no response.

Their suspicions grew when they observed the suspect acting strangely and refusing entry into the apartment.

Upon notifying law enforcement, officers arrived at the scene and forced their way into the room, where they discovered the decomposing body of the victim.

The suspect was immediately arrested and taken into police custody for further investigation.

Authorities have yet to release an official statement regarding the motive behind the alleged murder.

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Supreme Court Sets Aside Judgment Recognising Abure As LP National Chairman

The Supreme Court has set aside the judgment of the Court of Appeal in Abuja, recognizing Julius Abure as the National Chairman of the Labour Party (LP).

In a unanimous judgment on Friday, a five-member panel of the apex court held that the Court of Appeal lacked the jurisdiction to have pronounced Abure national chairman of the LP, having earlier found that the substance of the case was about the party’s leadership.

It held that the issue of leadership was an internal affair of a party over which courts lacked jurisdiction.

The court allowed the appeal filed by Senator Ester Nenadi Usman and one other and held that it was meritorious.

It proceeded to dismiss the cross-appeal filed by the Abure faction of the LP, deeming it unmeritorious.

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Troops Foil Militia Attacks in Plateau, Recover Arms and Ammunition

Bokkos, Plateau State – April 4, 2025 — Troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH), currently engaged in Operation LAFIYAN JAMA’A, have successfully foiled multiple militia attacks on several communities in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State.

In a series of coordinated operations on April 2, 2025, troops responded swiftly to militia attempts on Tamiso, Daffo, Manguna, Taddai, and Hurti communities. The soldiers engaged the attackers in a fierce battle, overwhelming them and forcing their retreat. During the confrontation, troops recovered an AK-47 rifle and six motorcycles abandoned by the fleeing assailants. Blood trails were also observed along the criminals’ withdrawal route, indicating possible casualties among the attackers.

Continuing the offensive on April 3, troops carried out a clearance operation in Hurti community following intelligence on militia activities within the mountainous terrain. The operation led to another engagement where troops unleashed heavy firepower, forcing the criminals to flee in disarray. The area was thoroughly searched, resulting in the recovery of a locally fabricated pistol, six rounds of 9mm ammunition, and four additional motorcycles.

Meanwhile, in Barkin Ladi LGA, troops from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Gashish, acting on credible intelligence, raided criminal hideouts at Dome Hill, Rahul Mazat, and Anguwa Mamuda. Though the suspects evaded arrest, troops recovered a fabricated revolver rifle, one round of 7.62mm ammunition, and a cash sum of ₦89,800.

Additionally, on the same day in Wase LGA, troops of Sector 2 OPSH, in collaboration with local vigilantes, launched an offensive along the Kampani Zurak road. During the engagement, one bandit was neutralised, and troops recovered an AK-47 rifle magazine, a motorcycle, and other items. Troops remain in pursuit of the fleeing suspects.

Operation SAFE HAVEN has reaffirmed its commitment to dismantling criminal networks and restoring lasting peace in Plateau and its environs. The military continues to dominate affected areas, maintaining pressure on non-state actors and ensuring the safety of law-abiding citizens.

Signed:
Major Samson Nantip Zhakom
Media Information Officer, Operation SAFE HAVEN
April 4, 2025

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National Poverty Eradication Programme, NAPEP, Opens Recruitment Portal For All Nigerians

We wish to inform the general public that the NAPEP recruitment portal 2025 is currently open for registration.

The National Poverty Eradication Programme invites interested and qualified persons who are looking to land their entry role in the corporate world to submit an application.

Applications for the National Poverty Eradication Programme NAPEP is ongoing. We will show you everything you need to know about the application process and how to apply and fill the NAPEP registration form successfully without any challenge.

So if you are applying as an eligible Nigerian, there are lots of opportunities to register for the National Poverty Eradication Programme NAPEP.

If you are interested in the ongoing NAPEP recruitment, then this is the time to take action as the NAPEP registration deadline may not be extended.
National Poverty Eradication Programme NAPEP Application Portal 2025

The NAPEP portal is currently open and interested Nigerians can now submit an application. The NAPEP registration form can be accessed via the official National Poverty Eradication Programme application portal napep-gov.ng/signup

The National Poverty Eradication Programme are for eligible Nigerians from ages 18-65 years. All you need to apply is an active email account and your phone number alongside relevant information.

About the National Poverty Eradication Programme NAPEP

National Poverty Eradication Programme (NAPEP) is a program that is aimed at reducing poverty, in particular, reduction of absolute poverty faced by the current economical challenge of the country.

NAPEP coordinate and oversee various other institutions, including ministries, and develop plans and guidelines for them to follow with regards to poverty reduction. NAPEP goals include training youths in vocational trades, to support internship, and support micro-credit.

The program is designed to reduce poverty for Nigerians with the objectives to create income-earning opportunities, discourage rural-urban drift and grow the local economy.

The programme seeks to connect Nigerians with local job opportunities that apply their expertise, while equipping them with world-class practical knowledge and relevant skills. It does not matter if you have no job experience!

The programme will serve all of Nigeria – from North to South and East to West – ensuring that eligible Nigerians from all corners of the country can participate through merit-based selection.

But before submitting an application, there are certain eligibility requirements you must meet to prove you are fit and ready to be put through the registration process. Below are the requirements.

Eligibility Criteria for NAPEP Registration 2025

To be an eligible NAPEP, you must
1.Be a Nigerian citizen.
2.Be from ages 18-65 years old.
3.Must have the National Identification Number NIN ( To be verified with NIMC)
4.Have good verbal and written communication skills.
5.Demonstrate interest/commitment to contributing to Nigeria’s socio-economic development.
6.Demonstrate interest/commitment in chosen career field.

How To Apply for National Poverty Eradication Programme (NAPEP) 2025
To apply for National Poverty Eradication Programme (NAPEP), follow the steps below:

•Visit the official National Poverty Eradication Programme (NAPEP) portal at napep-gov.ng/signup
•
•Enter your email address and password
•Confirm password
•Click on signup

After completing the application form, you will receive a message concerning the next step of the application process via your registered email address. If you do not receive an email, check your Spam/Junk folder in case the email ended up there or you may visit napep-gov.ng/login to login directly.