Over thirty people have been reported killed while twenty five others sustained various forms of injuries when gunmen attacked Shonong village in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau. The incident which happened at about 7am on Monday has been blamed on Fulani herdsmen by the villagers.......http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/politics-mob/item/722-uver-30-killed-and-25-injured-in-riyom-lga-of-plateau

ViewPointNigeria presents an exclusive interview with the honourable senator representing the Northern senatorial zone of Plateau state, Senator Gyang Nyam Shom (GNS) Pwajok. In this exclusive, he talks about his achievements in his one year in office and then delves into other pressing Plateau issues, including the forthcoming local government elections. Below are the excepts;

Q1. Being a seasoned academic, how have you found the transition from the university lecture hall into the murky waters of politics, firstly as the Director of Research & Planning for the Government house, then as Chief of Staff and now as a senator of the Federal republic of Nigeria?

Thank you for your question: I am very fortunate to have had a very smooth transition from the classroom into the world of politics. Being an academic of political science background, I was already vast in the theory of Nigerian politics and how this interplays to governance. To underscore this fact, I had a fundamental understanding of the key challenges of leadership & governance and therefore when I was thrusted into the politics, the application of those theoretical principles into such practical roles came quite naturally. Of course there were certain things, which I had to learn quickly in order to execute these high profile roles, but the basic requirements of the role were in place –and since I had such a supportive team of administrators and leaders behind me, the transition was very seamless.

For instance, when I was appointed Chief of Staff, I was lucky to have gained essential aptitudes from my previous role of "Director of Planning" and therefore performing such an executive role was not a herculean task. However, the move from the role of Chief of Staff to that of Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria was quite step-change from the types of roles I played in the State Government. What I mean by that is that, it was a move from the "Executive arm of government" into the "Legislative arm" and therefore it presented different challenges. However, as I have said earlier the transition has been very smooth in all aspects.

Picture below: ViewPointNigeria reporter Satmak Dapar and Senator GNS Pwajok



Q2. Being a senator who came into the upper house through bi-election, have you found it difficult to make your mark? Given that most of the other senators were already in the house from 2011 and therefore may have already formed alliances and bonds?

Well, I came into the senate through a power vacuum, which was created by truly unfortunate circumstances, and only God fully understands why such happenings occur. However, to answer your question I joined the senate house at a time when the National Budget was being considered and having been involved in the preparation of the budget on a state level –I found myself standing on the senate floor less than 48 hours after taking oath of office. This therefore made it easy for me to put forward the position of my constituents and to also build strategic partnerships and networks with other senate members. It allowed me to make an immediate impression in such an important area of national discourse.

Also, being a former university lecturer, the senate floor reminds me of a lecture hall –a large audience of people listening to a presenter or proponent. As such it is never a daunting experience when I stand up to engage my colleagues, because I was privileged to be in a position where I lecture large audiences in similar arenas on a regular basis.

Of course the senate house is slightly different from a lecture hall, because it is full of older and more experienced individuals who have accomplished a lot in business (millionaires), the military (Generals), politics (Ex-Ministers & Governors) and the public & private sectors –but this only plays to the advantage of we younger ones because we can tap from this vast experience. So it is indeed a privilege to serve my people in this capacity and bring the desired change to them.

Picture below: ViewPointNigeria reporter Satmak Dapar and Senator GNS Pwajok



Q3. What have been the key challenges of being a legislator saddled with the difficult task of representing a contentious state like Plateau?

As you alluded to earlier, given that I came into senate through the most unfortunate circumstances –i.e., the heightened religious & ethnic conflicts, which culminated into the demise of late Senator Dantong. I always knew that it would be a herculean task overcoming the negative perceptions and publicity, which Plateau state was labelled with. I therefore had to go overboard, reaching out to the key stakeholders –showing genuine reconciliation and forgiveness as a means of fostering lasting peace. This has significantly alleviated some of the already held negative perceptions about Plateau and made our impact felt a lot more.

At that time, the image of Plateau as a state was completely misconstrued as a bigoted and troublesome state, which did not welcome or accommodate foreigners (or settlers as often referred to in the media). The image of the state was therefore in dire need of a re-branding and a make-over. Through active engagement and reaching out, we have been able to undo some of those negativities. Don't forget that Plateau state is situated at the fault-line of the vivid divide between Northern and Southern Nigeria and therefore interests are rife in this area because it is a microcosm of Nigeria –anything that touches Plateau reverberates across the entire nation.

Q4. Tell us about your achievements in the senate so far.

Well first of all let's put it in context –I have been in the senate house less than a year. And in this short time, I have achieved several milestones which I shall talk you through.

Firstly, in the "less-than-one-year", which I have been in the senate house, I have tried to give people an idea of what "effective legislative representation" means, by maintaining regular contact with my constituents and taking into consideration their views and opinions on key issues such as the constitutional review process. Also, I have opened a constituency office in Jos, where I hold regular meetings with the people who have given me their mandate. I hold these sessions to understand their positions on national issues so as to represent them adequately. We also have vibrant representatives located in all the local government councils who have regular contact with people in the grassroots and to bring their opinions, concerns and challenges upwards to my attention.

Secondly, in terms of my constituency project, modalities are currently being finalized to set up "Skills Acquisition Centres" in a variety of areas in the zone. These multi-skill centres will be town-halls which will have computer and vocational skills acquistion capability. Constituents will benefit immensely from this project because it would provide them with lifelong skills which will equip them with income generation capability.

I have served in 6 different committees –including; Aviation, Health, African Integration and NEPAD, Solid Minerals and SURE-P. The experiences and contacts gained through this work have provided me with valuable aptitudes to better serve my constituents.

Also, in line with my mandate, I have delivered several lectures on topical issues which affect the wellbeing of my constituents. For instance I have delivered a lecture on the need for the creation of "State Police" and how that could benefit the Nigerian state.

On the peace and security front, I have instituted a framework which brings warring factions together i.e., Fulanis, Beroms and other tribes into one forum where grievances are aired, ironed-out and reconciliation effected. Through this forum, leaders of these warring factions have come together and pacts have been made to eschew violence and embrace dialogue and forgiveness.

Q5. The timetable for local government election has just been announced as December 7th, given the violence that ensued in Jos North after the 2008 elections. How can the repeat of such bloodshed by avoided?

Well given that my election into the senate is the most recent to be conducted in that area, we can use that as a "barometer" to check the political and security situation in the area. A large number of votes towards my candidature were received from virtually all Local government areas including some parts in Jos North which are often construed as Hausa/Fulani strongholds. Therefore my opinion is that people will not be voting along ethnic or religious lines, but across "cross ethnic and religious fronts –i.e., for the most credible candidate. As such it is my belief that the repeat of 2008 will not happen. Evidence to support my assertion, is that some areas which hitherto certain ethnic groups could not venture in because of fear of retribution and attack have now become open areas to all ethnic groups.

Having said that, it is not to say that we are not bolstering and tightening up security in all areas of the state to ensure that the elections have a smooth sail. We are continuing to monitor movements of large groups of people into the state, to ensure that troublemakers from outside the state do not come in to foment trouble, as has been the case in the past. We are optimistic that the security frameworks which we have in place and the additional tactics being deployed will be sufficient to avert any trouble.

Also, channels for putting forward elections grievances are also being put in place to forestall the occurrence of the breakdown of law and order. So if any groups of individuals are aggrieved with the results of the polls, the proper channels for addressing such are in place. Religious leaders are being courted, the media is being engaged extensively and political stalwarts are also being used to ensure that the election and subsequent reactions afterwards are all done in the confines of civility. Operation Rainbow shall also be used in conjunction with security agencies to guarantee the safety of lives and property.

Q6. Who are your political Mentors?

As well as Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, Jonah Jang and Patrick Wilmott –my political ideologies have been shaped by a myriad of distinguish personalities. One of those who affected me from a very early age was my Grand Father, Da Moses Nyam Rwang who was in the Northern regional assembly in the 1950s and served diligently under that dispensation. He died afterwards are the age of 93, but before that he nurtured my political acumen and horned my social enterprise into what it is today.

It goes without saying that Da Jonah Jang has been a massive influence in shaping my political character and pedigree. Having worked very closely with him, I can say unequivocally that his convictions, self-will and beliefs are indeed worthy of emulation. Specifically, his forthright attitude and transparent manner has been something that has inspired me a lot. If you look at the affairs of Plateau state today, the fact that so much can be achieved by the Jonah Jang administration –with the meager state resources says volumes about the character of this elder statesman. The fact that he has been able to achieve so much and deliver so many capital projects with so little state resources is truly commendable.

Q7. How would you score the Jang administration?

Well, I am part of the administration and I don't believe in self-appraisal, so I'd rather the citizenry assess the gains that have been achieved and score us accordingly. But I shall say this: the Jang administration has brought to fulfillment several things, which hitherto were thought to be impossible. The administration has moved away from the politics of promises to actually fulfilling them. The administration has moved away from "talking the talk" to "walking the walk". Instead of celebrations of developments and achievements at the state level alone (as has been the case in the past), now development has reached the local government levels and these are being celebrated overwhelmingly.

In summary, this administration has set a standard for coming ones to aspire to. Just like the legendary J. D. Gomwalk set a standard in a variety of areas, this administration has scored key gains which even the harshest critics cannot dispute. These gains are tangible, they can be seen, touched and felt and will outlive the administration.

To read more: http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/news-and-events/item/566-exclusive-interview-with-senator-gns-pwajok-senator-representing-plateau-north-senatorial-zone

Plateau State Government has concluded plans to name streets and number housings in Jos. This was disclosed by the Director of Research and planning in the Plateau State Government House, Mr Chris Kwaja in Jos. Kwaja who is the Chairman of the Sub-Committee set up by Governor Jonah Jang to name streets and number houses in Jos metropolis was speaking yesterday on the exercise that will soon commence.........http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/politics-mob/item/561-greater-jos-master-plan-streets-to-be-named-in-jos

News reaching ViewPointNigeria suggests that the paramount chief of Mupun land (Mishkom Mupun) -Da Nuhu Daswep passed-on to eternal glory at approximately 9:30 am this morning (September 11th 2013). He is reported to have died of a protracted illness which has incapacitated him for the past few months. The exact nature of the illness was not clear at the time of filing-in this report, but our source in Jos confirmed that the paramount chief had been on admission in a hospital in the state for quite a long time.

The traditional stool of Mishkom Mupun is domiciled in Langkang but the chief oversees the entire cultural affairs of the Mupun Chiefdom, spanning villages such as Jiblik, Abwor-Dyis, Kagu, Langkang, Asa, Sihin, Jing etc.

For more information: http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/politics-mob/item/560-breaking-news-paramount-chief-of-mupun-land-mishkom-da-nuhu-dawhwep-is-dead

Heavy rainfall in Plateau state this week has resulted to flooding which has wreak havoc in four local government areas. Up to 300 houses are said to have been destroyed and several loved ones missing in the impasse. The four local government areas affected by the flood, include: Jos North, Barkin Ladi, Kanam and Shendam.

When contacted, one of our sources from Kanam LGA said: "Large swaths of farmland have been destroyed and as I speak to you several people and livestock remain unaccounted for".

Confirming the incident, the Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Alh. Alhasan Barde, said they were still in the process of compiling accurate figures of people missing and land/property damage. He went further to say "that the floods have affected four local government areas, resulting in the destruction of homes and property with several people yet to be accounted for. As I speak with you now, I am undertaking an on-spot-assessment of the affected areas and would give you the exact figures of the damage afterwards."

The rain commenced on Sunday afternoon and lasted almost four hours, which then resulted to rain build up and the floods.

It would be recalled that the Plateau state government has repeatedly offered warnings to residents not to build along water channels, urging those currently living along the channels to relocate to avoid possible floods. Last year floodings were especially rife in the Rikkos area of the state resulting in loss of lives and the destruction of property worth several million Naira.

To read more: http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/lifestyle-mob/item/558-flooding-up-to-300-houses-destroyed-in-jos-north-barkin-ladi-shendam-and-kanam

History is replete with examples of how relatively small and unorganised warriors defied and repelled large invading armies. One such example is the case of the small and relatively unorganised tribes of Plateau, who through sheer determination, valour and temerity repelled the uthman Danfodio invading Jihadists from conquering and occupying their lands.

As a consequence, amongst all the states in the North and Middle-belt, Plateau state is perhaps the only state not conquered by the Fulani Jihadists. And therefore it maintained its heritage, as an enclave for small tribes and ethnic minorities who are 95% Christian or animists. Little wonder, when one travels the breath of Plateau –from Jos to Mikang and Lantang South; small tribes like the Berom, Ron Kulere, Mushere, Mupun, Mwaghavul, Angas, Taroh, Long Goemai etc are encountered.

However, this cultural heritage and geographical distribution of Plateau as described above is not represented in Google Earth. For the benefit of those who are not familiar with what Google Earth is; it is a satellite-based software (can be downloaded to phone or computer), which you can use to view your state, city, town, house, school etc.

If you access Google Earth, and search the term Plateau, Nigeria, you'd think the state was a conquered territory and is now occupied by a mainly Hausa/Fulani population, because the entire breath of the state is covered in Mosques –carefully situated in various local governments of the state. The map suggests that Plateau has approximately 12 mosques and only 6 churches.

In the light of this therefore, one would then ask the question; Are these religious buildings the major landmarks of Plateau? Are these the things that Plateau state is best known for? Are these what will attract tourists to our state? Who is behind this mis-representation? What could their motive be? Why is it that important landmarks such as the Riyom rock, Shere Hills, Assop falls, the Jos Wildlife park etc) are less conspicuous but Mosques feature prominently? Which Mosque in Plateau state is so famous that it deserves such prominent representation on Google Earth even more than landmarks like NASCO, JIB etc, Is the population of Plateau state really that Hausa/Fulani are the dominant? Why are there several Mosques in Mangu but the world famous "Swan Springwater" or the famous schools in Gindiri (the citadel of learning of Plateau) is not shown on the map, why is it that several mosques feature in the southern senatorial zone but the Pandang game reserve is not shown?

To the next matter; type-in Mangu, Nigeria and see what comes up. You'd see that next to Mangu itself is another town called Mangu Arna or "Mongu Arna" as they called it. Now, for the benefit of those who don't know what "Mongu Arna" means, it means Mangu for Infidels. "Arna" is a derogatory word used by Northerners to describe someone who is construed to not be of the Islamic faith. I have consulted widely with inhabitants of Mangu to confirm if such a place exists, but all have confirmed that it doesn't but they all claim to have heard it being used in Hausa/Fulani circles. They claim, that Mangu Arna is what the local Hausa Fulani Inhabitants call the main centre of Mangu Local government which is inhabited by Christians and Animists, whilst Mangu Hale –a suburb of Mangu, they refer to as "Mangu Hausawa". With the representation of Mangu Arna or "Mongu Arna" (a derogatory and fictitious name) into Google Earth, it is clear that certain Northern elements are trying to distort and re-write the political and cultural heritage of Plateau people. Below is a snap shot of Mangu from Google Earth.It is therefore shameful and unfortunate that a reputable organisation like "Google", would allowed mischievous Northern elements to infiltrate its folds and continue to attempt the realisation of their hitherto abandoned expansionist agenda. It is however not surprising because these Northern folks are known for their foresight and astute vision; continuously strategizing on ways to expand their influence and horizon by dominating ethnic minorities in Plateau, Benue, Taraba, Southern Kaduna etc. The thought that Google can be caught in such a scandal sends chills up my spine. One thought that such nonsensical situations were only possible in our deranged and confused Nigerian state, where the ultimate law of the land is continuously trounced to allow the implementation of controversial principles such as sharia banking and legislation, but it appears even multi-nationals are not immune to such political manoeuvrings. It would not be far fetch to argue thus: if Plateau state is not careful its cultural and geo-political heritage will be completely distorted, and posterity shall judge us for being so complacent.

In the light of the above arguments, what should illustrious sons of Mangu local government do about the issue? Well, in my opinion –the traditional chief of Mangu and the Chairman of Mwaghavul Development Association (MDA) should write a strongly worded complaint (through the Plateau state government) to Google Nigeria, firstly outlining the derogatory meaning of "Mangu Arna" and then stating that such a place does not exist and then conclude that it be amended or removed immediately.

To read more: http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/opinion-mob/item/556-mangu-arna-an-insult-to-the-cultural-heritage-of-plateau-people

New reaching our newsdesks indicates that Bukuru-born Super Eagles forward, Ahmed Musa, who is currently in training camp with the rest of the super eagles ahead of the qualifiers at the weekend, has on Wednesday 4th September had his house robbed in Jos by 10 armed robbers.

The robbers, were reportedly to have frantically demanded for the whereabouts of his wife and child, however after realising that they were not in the house, they assaulted other family members and then made away with valuables.

Speaking to journalists about the incident, he said "Armed robbers came to my house in Jos around 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday night. They beat up my mother, relatives and security men, and went away with valuables. After they left, my

To read more, Follow the link: http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/sports-mob/item/549-rayfield-jos-born-super-eagles-striker-ahmed-musa-s-house-robbed-by-10-gunmen

News reaching ViewPointNigeria from the Debt Management Office (DMO) indicates that Plateau is one of the three states in the federation with the lowest external debt (as at December 2012). The external debt of the state was estimated to stand at $21.934 million (i.e., approx. N3.487 billion) as at December 31 2012 -this very modest and impressive debt profile was the third lowest in the country. It presents something for Plateau people to be proud about, because the state government has been able to manage the meagre state funds judiciously and has not gone to seek stupendous loans to cover the high security payments to STF members in the state.

The only other states with better external debt figures were Borno and Delta states -Borno state had the lowest, at $14.154 million (approx. N2.250 billion), whilst Delta state followed closely with $18.997 million (approx. N3.020 billion). The low debt burden of Delta state is hardly surprising given the high oil revenue generation capacity of the state, however those of Borno and Plateau state have surprised many analyst/observers given that expenditure on security have been very high in both states because of Boko haram insurgency and religious/ethnic crisis.

States with the highest debt burdens include: Lagos, Kaduna and Cross river states. Lagos leads with an external debt of $611.253 million (about N97.189 billion), followed by Kaduna State which owes $215.683 million (about N34.293 billion) and Cross River State with a debt burden of $113.034 million (about N17.972 billion).

The external debt stock of the nation's 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as at December, 31, 2012 was approximately $2.384 billion (about N379.056 billion), according to figures release by the debt management office (DMO). The figures showed that Abia State's debt stood at $35.911 million; Adamawa State, $30.225 million; Akwa Ibom State, $61.664 million; Anambra State, $26.708 million; Bauchi State,

To read the full article: http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/bus-eco-mob/item/548-plateau-state-has-one-of-the-lowest-external-debts-in-nigeria

The Plateau state chairman of the Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board (MPWB), Alhaji Ado Ismaila has said that Plateau state sponsors more Muslims to pilgrimage compared to other Christian dominated states. He debunked the allegation that Governor Jonah Jang led Government does not like Muslims. The Muslim Pilgrim boss was speaking in Jos during a press briefing to address the preparedness of the state hajj board........http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/politics-mob/item/544-plateau-sponsors-more-muslim-pilgrims-than-other-christian-s-majority-states

Reports reaching ViewPointNigeria news desk indicates that three persons have been killed at Kuka village in Shendam Local Government Area of Plateau.

It was reliably gathered that the three were killed while working on their farms. The assailants launched an attack on the unsuspecting persons who were cultivating yams behind the Kuka market......http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/politics-mob/item/540-3-farmers-killed-in-shendam-lga-of-plateau

The Plateau state Governor Da Jonah Jang has said that he was investigated and vindicated by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for genocide. The Governor was speaking when the United States of America's ambassador, Mr Martin Brennan paid him a visit in Jos the Plateau state capital.

Jang stated that he was accused of genocide and reported to the ICC but was vindicated when investigation was carried out and he was found to be innocent. The Governor also blamed the failure in addressing the threat posed by the presence of aliens in the state and country at large in complicating the present security challenge.....http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/politics-mob/item/536-icc-investigated-and-cleared-me-of-genocide-in-jos-crisis-jang

At a time when the dream of most Nigerian youths is to find themselves in Europe, U.S or even China, a young Plateau man is forfeiting all the luxuries of the greener pasture he enjoys in Germany in order to come and serve his home State, or so he wants us to believe.

In the last few months, Daniel Kutchin has been announcing his intention to vie for the most coveted political seat in Plateau State. So far, he is the only candidate, to the best of my knowledge, who has publicly announced his aspiration to become the Governor of Plateau State. However, I am certain that by the eleventh hour, we may lose count of gubernatorial candidates in Plateau State, in anycase, Kutchin has made his hay on time.

Since the commencement of the Fourth Republic, and fourteen years on, Plateau has never had a governor who has measured up to eighty percent (80%) approval from the electorates at the end of his tenure, although, unarguably, Jang proves to be better than Joshua Dariye, while not denying the fact that Dariye still has more charisma (I can't figure out what transcendental means he uses to achieve this). Late J. D. Gomwalk, Governor of the defunct Benue-Plateau State, flaunts an unbeatable record of infrastructural development, passionate leadership and foresight which have yet to be surpassed. In this democratic era, Plateau State remains in dire need of a political deus ex machina come 2015, and the only person at sight now is Dr. Daniel Kutchin.Candidly, I have never heard of the name Daniel Kutchin until this year, 2013, and with regard to his ambition, I checked his profile and was awed by his intellectual prowess; to summarize most shallowly, Dr. Kutchin is a Ph.D holder in nuclear physics, an IT expert and a CISCO Certified internetwork expert. He has spent over 25 years comfortably in Germany. He has served under a Presidential Committee on Nuclear Energy aside from the many roles and positions he held among Nigerian people in Diaspora. Politically, Kutchin is coming back to Plateau State as a saint. He has not stepped upon anyone's toes and he is without foes yet. It is not the same case for our home-based politicians who are nursing the same aspiration; If they declare their intentions this early, it will be followed by tons of propaganda and blackmail that will crush them in a week, perhaps that is the main reason why they would all prefer to launch out at the same time. In this regard, Kutchin has a tabula rasa to his advantage but Plateau people must be cautious lest they experience a replay of James Ibori or Dimeji Bankole if they subscribe to the unfounded notion that all things from abroad (including humans) are of higher quality.

Last week, Dr. Kutchin was interviewed by ViewPoint Nigeria, an online newspaper agency, and though talk is cheap, but if words of politicians are anything to go by, Dr. Kutchin offers a broad ray of hope for Plateau people. Already, Governor Jonah Jang has created an extra large pair of boots for his successor but in Dr. Kutchin's words, "Jang will not continue to remain a shadow over me". He said so in response to the question 'do you think you will be able to match what Jang has achieved? Kutchin agreed that Jang has done well but pledged to place more emphasis on Infrastructural development, agriculture, health and education sectors. For anyone that has experienced Plateau Thoroughly, the names Derek Joy, Karl Kumm and J.D Gomwalk are as common as table salt. These people are the ones Kutchin looks up to and often pictures himself in their shoes. If Kutchin truly looks up to them, then we can be certain that he is heading for the stars.

If elections were conducted on social media, I would safely prognosticate, even from now, that Dr. Kutchin will be the Governor of Plateau State, however, less that thirty percent (30%) of Plateau people are on the social media and of the same percentage, less than a quarter of them concern themselves with politics on social media. There is every need for him to reach every nook and cranny of the state before 2015. People want to be heard, felt and touched even without money. Kutchin has declared that he is a bona fide PDP member, without being told we can assume that he would be contesting under the Peoples' Democratic Party, a party in which not many people are optimistic it can deliver in 2015. Aside that, there are other grass root politicians in the same party that could rob him of his ambition and give the highest bidder, as the case always is.

Only time will tell who the cap really fits and who the people want to wear the cap – if they are actually allowed to decide - but Dr. Daniel Kutchin is, in my opinion, a worthy candidate given his record of achievements. People have strained their ears to hear names of prospective successors to Jonah David Jang but the name that keeps popping up is Daniel Kutchin, so I ask – Is Daniel Kutchin the much anticipated Messiah?

http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/politics-mob/item/515-plateau-2015-could-daniel-kutchin-be-the-anticipated-messiah-by-bizum-yadok

News reaching ViewPointNigeria suggests that gunmen have killed 18 people, in a Wednesday night attack (14/08/13) at Bakwai village of Bokkos LGA. The dead were said to include several children and a 70 year old woman. Confirming the incident, Navy Capt. Jude Akpa, media officer of the Special Task Force (STF), said the attackers launched a clandestine attack on the village, and in the process shot and injured two officers of the STF who were on guard to the area. He could not provide definite numbers on the casualty figures, but confirmed that men of the STF killed six of the attackers and made some arrest.

The Chairman of the Local government, Hon. Zakka Akos, however confirmed that 18 bodies had been recovered at the scene of the attack. Additionally, a staff of the Bokkos Cottage Hospital corroborated statements made by the chairman in respect of the casualty figures. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) quoted one of the victims, Mr. Majau Yohanna, as saying the attackers invaded the village at approx. 7 p.m shortly after they (the villagers) returned from the farm. "They came in large numbers and had very sophisticated weapons", the victim who is currently on admission at the Bingham University Teaching Hospital (BUTH), Jos said. According to him, "The attackers just descended on the villagers and started shooting everyone on sight".

"We had to run for our dear lives and in the process, some of us were shot while trying to escape. "I was shot on my right rib and it was just God that saved me. It is a miracle that I am still alive", he said. Thomas Mafai, a relation of Yohanna, who rushed him to BUTH because of the serious injuries he sustained, claimed that he counted 20 bodies killed during the attack on the village. He also confirmed that six of the attackers were killed by men of the STF.

http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/politics-mob/item/509-bokkos-gunmen-kill-18-in-clandestine-attack

ViewPointNigeria (VPN) presents an exclusive interview with German based nuclear scientist/physicist Dr Daniel Kutchin –an aspirant for the 2015 gubernatorial seat in Plateau state. In this exclusive, he talks about his ambition and what he hopes to achieve given the mandate/mantle of leadership of our great state and then delves into other pressing issues affecting the state and Nigeria in general, below are the excerpts.

For the benefit of people whom your candidature may be new to, please could you introduce yourself?

My name is Daniel Yakubu Kutchin. I was born on Friday, the 6th of July 1962 at Ganin Daji in Barkin Ladi local government area. My father moved from Ampang West in Mangu LGA to Barkin Ladi in pursuit of a better life during the tin mining boom of the mid-1950s. My mother, Mrs Christiana Nafiyak was a potato trader and she supported the family through buying and selling.

I am the first born of nine, all of whom were born in Ganan Daji. I went to St Matthias Primary School then proceeded to Boys' Secondary School (BSS) Gindiri, from 1973 to 1978 and afterwards I enrolled at the School for Preliminary Studies (SPS) Keffi finishing in 1980. After that, I secured admission into Ahmadu Bello University to study Physics; I completed that in 1983, earning a BSc. before undertaking the compulsory National Youth Service (NYSC) in Ondo State. Thereafter, I returned to ABU Zaria to take up a role as a graduate assistant. During that time, I was privileged to do my MSc in Nuclear Physics and then taught there for 5 years till 1989.

I then left for Germany to do a PhD in nuclear physics, researching nuclear reactors for a variety of applications including nuclear bombs. Following the completion of my PhD study, I was unable to return back to my job at ABU, because there was an Academic Staff of University Union (ASUU) strike. I therefore opted to stay behind in Germany and then took courses in Information Technology whilst awaiting the resolution of the strike. I got a job with Siemens and became a network specialist. I left Siemens in the year 2003 to become an independent consultant and thereafter obtained one of the highest certificates in IT called "CISCO certified internetwork expert". I worked independently until last week when I finally ended my career in IT to dedicate my life to serving Africa. I will be campaigning now till 2015 when elections take place.

Could we not say you are over qualified for the position of Governor being a nuclear physicist? Why should a nuclear physicist who should be out there sorting out problems of humanity, such as the power issues in Nigeria be concerned with politics?

Well to answer your question, I shall refer to Angela Merkel the present chancellor of Germany –she is equally a nuclear physicist and has done exceptionally well in taking important political decisions. And to further underscore her calibre, virtually all the member of her cabinet, including advisers and decision makers are PhD holders. This demonstrates the importance of putting the most qualified people in the right positions. If elected governor, I shall be imbibing some of her leadership principles in order to bring the desired change to our dear state.

But just to add, being a nuclear scientist (PhD), I don't feel over qualified to run for the position of governor because I have learnt that even some of the other contenders are also professors and seasoned professionals in their own right. I believe this can only be a good thing for Plateau State.

Many people are of the opinion that Jang scores highly in infrastructural development, including the building of roads, bridges, and houses/offices. If elected Governor in 2015, do you think you will be able to match what Jang has achieved or would he continue to be a shadow over you?

What Governor Jang has done in the area of infrastructure is very laudable. It is in line with the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), which encourages Africa to develop its infrastructure and social capital in order to support its ever-increasing population/citizenry. Jang will not continue to remain a shadow over me if I am elected Governor of Plateau state, because I have already structured my manifesto to "Re-build Plateau" and improve what already exists. So as a matter of fact, I shall be exploring key areas, which require development and working hard to bring the requisite development to the people, while consolidating on whatever gains have been scored by the Jang and previous administrations. There is always room for improvement on any laudable project –so we shall be looking to go over and beyond what any previous administrations have achieved.

Can you be specific on what particular areas you will be improving when elected?

We need more infrastructural development given the neglect that Plateau has suffered in past administrations. Infrastructural development will still be an area of focus, along with agriculture, health and the education sectors, which are key and primary to every thriving economy.

This may be too early to ask, but have you considered the choice of a running mate?

Not yet, but negotiations are currently on going in that respect. For the record however, I can confirm that you can expect my running mate to be someone who reflects what we stand for, someone who is competent, who has a heart for Plateau and is capable of bringing change to our people.

Are you a registered member of any party? And what political platform would you be running under?

I am a registered member of the PDP in Germany and I shall be going to Nigeria in a couple of months to regularise my membership in the Ampang West ward. So to answer your question simply, I shall be running on the platform of the PDP.

Given your very humble upbringing, who would you say has had the most influence on your life (perhaps as a mentor)?

Many people have been influential in my life, these range from my immediate family to colleagues and friends but I cannot forget one person who has been quite cardinal in my formative years; my school principal at BSS Gindiri, a man called Mr Derek C Joy. He admitted me to the school and was there till 1977 when he left for Nakam Memorial Secondary School, Panyam. To underscore how influential he is in my life, when I face challenging situations today, I always ask myself –What would Derek Joy do in this situation? Unfortunately, he died a few years ago, but he has left an indelible imprint on my heart that cannot be erased.

In my up coming book, entitled "Born in Nigeria, living in Germany and an African diaspora". 'I identified a group of Europeans who were upright and served Africa diligently. One of them was Mr D C Joy and another was Karl Kumm. Karl Kumm founded the church formerly known as Church of Christ in Nigeria (COCIN), now called Church of Christ in Nations. He founded it in 1905 and a little about him is that he was born in Germany. Recently I went to his place of birth in Osterode near Hanover and it gave me an insight into his activities and later that of Derek Joy. These people are great men we should identify with. They are towering figures who had big visions for Africa.

I recently read a book about Karl Kumm and a quotation of his was that "Africa was a continent of the future". His whole life was dedicated in educating, "Christianising" Africans and strengthening them against the Arab slave raiders. He really saw a great future in Africa and this motivated the next generation of missionaries including Mr Joy who came to Africa tracing the root of Karl Kumm and settled in Gindiri Nigeria. They served us well as they gave their lives, wellbeing and pleasures to educate us. The first Governor of Plateau State then Benue-Plateau was a talented individual and product of Gindiri. We have a fond memory of him in Plateau state and I advise anyone who wants to work solemnly for the benefit of Plateau to look up to these two individuals.

Plateau state has been engulfed by a series of ethno-religious crisis and disturbances for the last decade. How would you approach the very challenging task of preventing further escalation of violence?

I was lucky to be involved in crisis management and resolution in Plateau state, since 2009. And through my interactions, I have been able to identify some themes which I reckon are the root causes of the disturbances. Firstly, the economy is a key culprit. You'd agree that in the history of Plateau state, we have witnessed several periods of economic boom, including that of tin mining. Now, since that resource has been completely depleted and there is no money coming from that area, tensions are erupting in terms of economic survivability. Secondly, the splitting of Plateau into other states including Benue and more recently Nasarawa state has put immense strain on the scarce and limited available resources.

In view of the above, my prerogative would be to enjoin Plateau state and Nigeria to modernise its citizenship laws, to be consistent with those found in other parts of the world. Plateau state does not need to re-invent the wheel by developing new citizenship laws; it simply needs to adopt those found in civilised society. A key component of that would be to make people who have migrated from other areas (so called settlers), who now live within us to feel welcome and cherished.

Plateau state is blessed with a lot of tourist attractions. If elected governor, how would you go about boosting the tourism potential of the state as a means of revenue generation?

In my opinion, if we genuinely wish to develop our tourism potential, then we need to start by attracting our Jos residents before we think about other people outside. If we significantly harness and upgrade our tourism opportunities and we are able to attract Jos residents, I assure you that it would be easier to attract people outside of the state and abroad.

Perhaps it would make sense to engage a consulting group to advise on a blueprint on how we can develop our tourism potential in the state over a 5 or 10-year period. Basically to develop our tourism capability we will need to have access to steady electricity and water supply, shopping outlets and transportation to the tourist sites. This will be of benefit to the economy and provide jobs to our people.

Being a Plateau professional who has been based in Germany for a long time, what plans do you have about leveraging on some of your connections to attract foreign direct investment to Plateau?

Good question. I have been active in the Nigerian diaspora community in Germany and Europe for several years and I can say that I am well networked in that community. The Nigerian diaspora share my vision of returning home to explore investment opportunities and partners. One key aspect is the area of bonds trading –the idea of selling bonds to raise funds/capital for key projects is a fantastic idea that presents a win-win scenario for both people in diaspora and those in Nigeria. When government works out modalities for auctioning or trading specific bonds at attractive rates, people in diaspora will be drawn to such opportunities and that will bring development.

You are a PDP member! Do you believe in the principle of zoning the gubernatorial seat of Plateau state to the southern senatorial zone?

Good question! I cannot say that I haven't heard of the purported zoning issue, because I have. However the recent proclamation by the governor has put this issue to rest, since he clearly stated that he still doesn't know his successor and that the race was an open one. I suppose if we are to follow the principle of zoning, then we could argue that the central zone has had its shot through Joshua Dariye and that Plateau North has fulfilled its quota through Jonah Jang. And therefore the next candidate should rightly come from the southern senatorial zone. However, I know that Plateau people have risen above the trivial sentiments of zoning and would prefer to have the best candidate because the concept of governance is not about the sharing of the commonwealth of the people through sectionalisation but about service to the people.

Given that plateau people are highly enlightened and knowledgeable, I am convince that they would choose the most competent candidate, with a proven ability to lead and govern as opposed to choosing based on a retrogressive zoning arrangement. The chosen person should realise that he or she has the mandate of the entire Plateau population and therefore should govern with fairness and equity, devoid of tribal, ethnic or religious sentiments.

Are you in agreement with the idea of further splitting Plateau into two?

I am not in support of such a divisive idea. And I'd give you my reasons –I currently reside in an area of Germany which has a population of approximately 11 million, with a budget that is approximately 22 times that of Plateau state, but the area is still ran as a single entity. So in my opinion, Plateau state is not too big for governance. Again, let us not forget that the entire population of Nigeria is only the size of a mere state in India. So instead of continuing with the divisive mentality, perhaps what we need to do is to understand what is causing people to want their domains to be fragmented into smaller entities. Aside the concept of adding more lawmakers on to the payroll of government, I cannot point to the specific benefit to the Plateau man.

Do you agree with the way President Goodluck Jonathan is tackling Boko Haram?

Well, in my opinion he has done a relatively satisfactory job, given that the frequency of attacks has reduced drastically. However, with every attack that occurs, it goes to show that more needs to be done to curb the ever present menance and restore confidence in the security forces. Of course Goodluck Jonathan has done well to reduce the incidences of the attacks, but more still needs to be done because there are still soldiers on the streets and several areas remain no go areas for specific ethnic groups.

Should you wish to comment on any of the questions, please leave your thoughts on the page or contact Daniel Kutchin directly through the email address daniel@kutchin.com

Four women were on Wednesday paraded by the Plateau state police command for allegedly selling an eight month old baby girl amongst themselves in a serial sale that began with the baby's grandmother......http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/politics-mob/item/495-baby-recovered-from-buyers-by-plateau-police

New measures to curb soaring levels of mobile phone theft worldwide are to be tested in New York and San Francisco. Prosecutors will test measures on Apple's iPhone 5 and Samsung's Galaxy S4 to measure effectiveness against common tactics used by thieves........http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/tech-mob/item/486-phone-anti-theft-put-through-paces-in-new-york-and-san-francisco-bbc

Woolwich murder suspect Michael Adebolajo has been assaulted in prison, according to Sky sources. It was gathered that Adebolajo lost two of his teeth during a violent confrontation. Adebolajo, 28, of Romford, Essex, and Michael Adebowale, 22, of Greenwich, London, are both charged with the murder of Drummer Lee Rigby in May........http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/world-mob/item/483-london-soldier-killing-michael-adebolajo-assaulted-in-jail-pictures

The statements release by four northern governors after visiting the Rivers State Governor in Port harcourt on Tuesday, July 16, 2013, should serve as a lesson to Nigerian leaders on how not to be contradictory in public policy.

According to reports, the visiting governors said in a communique that "with the way the police is being used, we do not see the need for state governments to fund an antagonistic police, and may be forced to reconsider our position on the financial contribution of our states towards the funding of the Nigeria Police. "Arising from the action of the police, and Mr. Joseph Mbu (the Commissioner of Police) in Rivers State, the call for state police as a constitutional necessity has become a necessity".

Tuesday's call, or a leaning on such a "constitutional necessity" as they call it, is indeed a double sommersault from consensus.

It is on record that almost all Nigerian governors had in June 2012, agreed to prevail on the Federal Government to urgently consider the creation of state police as a solution to the state of violence in the country.

But about a month after that, most northern states governors had backtracked and opted to drop their demand for the creation of state police. Their reasons?

1. The country may not presently be ripe for a state police because most of them were not financially buoyant to own such an institution;2. State police might be used by any government in power to muzzle the opposition and breed tyranny;3. State police may breed more security problems in the North than addressing the insecurity in the region;4. "We also think that funding is a major issue the governors have been considering. It is not a tea party to fund any police system when you talk of staffing, equipment and providing adequate security " - one vociferous opponent was quoted as saying.

And in less than one year after this reverse option, four northern states leaders are coming out publicly to opt for the very position that Governor Jonah Jang had consistently and persistently stood on!

He has been well aware that his opposers had not placed other more convincing and coherent alternatives to his position. Jang's reasons for calling for the creation of state police are hinged on the protracted attacks on communities in the state, "As a government, we have sustained our efforts in tackling the peace and security challenge. Some of these include establishing the Inter-religious Committee for Peace and Harmony, holding stakeholders' meetings, establishment of Operation Rainbow, and producing white papers on reports of investigations into crises in Jos".

Those calling for state police now are doing so as an after-thought and not for nationalistic reasons. Their calls are stemming from their own induced interpretation of certain events beyond their political easy control - and so would wish to see a state police that is readily available to handle a delicate political operation.

The Nigerian Constitution ascribes governors the status of chief security officers of their respective states when in reality they have no control over the federal police - yet they are asked to fund the federal police too!

Therefore, the Plateau State Government strongly believes that the establishment of state police will promote deeper practice of democratic federalism. We maintain our consistency on this very matter.

For those just waking up to this reality in far away states other than theirs, it does appear, THE CHICKEN HAS FINALLY COME HOME TO ROOST.

http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/politics-mob/item/481-creation-of-state-police-a-case-of-the-chicken-coming-back-home-to-roost-by-yiljap-abraham

On Monday, July 8, 2013, Nigerians received news of the highly anticipated ceasefire by Boko Haram with a high sense of regard and mixed feelings. Most people questioned the sincerity of the sect while others cast their doubts on the capacity of the Federal Government amnesty committee to actually sauce out something meaningful out of the negotiations.

In an interview with Radio France Hausa service, on Monday July 8, Imam Muhammadu Marwana, the newly acclaimed spokesman of the Shekau-led Boko Haram sect said they had signed a ceasefire agreement with the amnesty committee under the chairmanship of Alh. Tanimu Turaki who also doubles as Minister for Special Duties. During the interview, Imam Marwana took advantage of the lavished impunity of the system to forgive the government and the Nigerian people for the injustice meted out to them (for a moment, he sounded like Bode Geoge to me). He also sought forgiveness from Nigerians and other citizens of the world that they had killed, maimed or disadvantaged.

His tone during the interview was as though Boko Haram's offence was as insignificant and inadvertent as hitting a dog on the road by accident. I couldn't even tell what he was forgiving Nigerians for, but for the record, since its sudden explosion in 2009, Boko Haram's related attacks and incidences have left no less than 4,000 people dead, thousands more injured and hundreds of thousands displaced and hopeless. We have no idea how many more people are still on Boko Haram's death row or how many places they have yet to attack. The ceasefire agreement being touted gives the impression that both the Federal Government and Boko Haram have an aggressive might. Although I am not a soldier, my understanding of a ceasefire does not include a situation where one party is being overpowered by the other. At that point, it is no longer a ceasefire, it is called on unconditional surrender. For those of us who were not alive during the Nigerian Civil War, History has taught us that the Biafrans surrendered when they saw that they were being subdued. Let me quickly add that it was in spite of the fact that the Biafrans were fighting a just course. The Federal Government should be wise enough to renege that agreement because: It is beyond mere coincidence that the agreement came in almost at the eve of the Holy Month of Ramadan, since all members are devout, it will only be reasonable for them to observe their obligations of the Holy Month. I remember clearly that in the Ramadan month of 2010 & 2011, Plateau recorded its most peaceful period of the year. There is the likelihood that the ceasefire is temporary pending the duration of the Holy Month. No offence meant, but I feel this is the period in which the insurgents would be at their lowest ebb thus creating an opportunity for the soldiers to uncover them. Yes, It sounds inhuman to attack a hungry an unarmed offender but that is what they do to their innocent victims in schools, worship centres and other public

The agreement came exactly 82 days after the Presidential Committee on Dialogue and Peaceful Resolution was inaugurated. At this point, I don't just smell a big rat, I smell an Elephant. There is a looming impression that these 25 guys created a smokescreen to disguise the fact that they were unable to achieve much within the 90 days that they were given. This was the same committee that claimed they met with Kabiru Sokoto in prison, a claim kabiru Sokoto denied, and they also pushed for the release of Boko Haram's relatives hoping it would bring them out of their hiding places but to no avail. Finally, in order to save their faces from shame, they came out with the Nollywood blockbuster; 'The Ceasefire'. If not, when has Iman Muhammadu Marwana replaced Muhammed Ibu Abdulazeez, the real spokesman for the Boko Haram sect? Where is shekau in the whole motion picture? I don't believe that there can be any truce between Boko Haram and the Federal Government without Shekau on the negotiation table. And who else is responsible for the killing of 30 students in Yobe State apart from Boko Haram? Had these 25 people attained 90 days without achieving anything, or even staging a drama, the bulk of the shame would fall on the Sultan, Northern council of chiefs, Northern Governors and the Arewa consultative forum. Alas, they held on to an end-of-the-hour lifeline.

http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/opinion-mob/item/479-no-not-cease-fire-boko-haram-should-surrender-by-bizum-yadok

The Plateau State chapter of the All Progressive Congress (APC) has said it is confident that 2015 would be the year when PDP would be shown the way out.

In a statement signed by its organising secretary Mr. Garba Pankwal, he said PDP has been dominant since the begining of the democratic dispensation in 1999 and all efforts by opposition parties to wrestle power from them have failed, but we are confident that this time would be different.

He further said that the only legacy left behind by PDP was that of bad governance, high corruption and embezzlement of public funds, averring that the 15 years they have been in power have brought untold hardship to ordinary Plateau citizens.

Pankwal then condemned the Plateau State Government for its inability to conduct Local government Elections which is 3 years overdue, saying the ruling party is afraid of losing all the councils to opposition parties. He said "It is undemocratic to refused to conduct council elections, it runs contrary to the provision of the 1999 constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria".

In introducing the party to newsmen, he went on to say that APC is a political party founded on the pillar of neutrality, which promotes national reconciliation, peace and unity. "It is a political party like none other, it creates new democratic frontiers, reinvents political competitiveness and challenges the status quo based on the strategic objective of decentralising and democratising power," he said.

He went on to clarify in his statement that the three political Parties in the state, ACN, ANPP, and CPC had taken final decision regarding the merger to become APC and had unanimously passed a vote of confidence on the APC interim national chairman Chief Bisi Akande.

http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/politics-mob/item/478-plateau-apc-says-it-is-confident-of-defeating-pdp-in-2015

ViewPointNigeria (VPN) was privileged to catch up with Hon. John Adamu Longhor (Hon. JL) at the June edition of the Plateau State Association (PSA) meeting on 29th June 2013 in Orpington, London and asked pertinent questions about topical Plateau issues, including the legacy of the present Jang administration and the current security situation plaguing Plateau state/Nigeria, below are the excerpts.

(1) VPN - Could you summarize your thoughts on the present security situation in Plateau state/Nigeria?

Hon JL - The current security situation is indeed precarious and unfortunate given the wanton destruction of lives and property across Plateau state and the nation. However I am not surprise at the happenings because if you look at how Goodluck Jonathan came to power, he overturned the old power brigade which had been there for a long time and didn't think power could be taken away from them. Specifically, the northern oligarchy, felt cheated out of the opportunity to fill the power vacuum after the death of Umaru Yar'adua. These people had enjoyed power for over 35 years and had benefited so much from the status quo and the thought of losing the benefits that power brings irked them into taking negative action. They therefore vowed to unleash mayhem and make the country ungovernable for the Goodluck Jonathan government.

Behind the threats and the clamour for political power, is also the politics of oil. It is no secret that 83% of the oil blocks in Nigeria are owned by Northerners, including the vessels used for lifting the oil –therefore these people felt that their investment positions were under threat.

(2) VPN - With the military onslaught on Boko Haram a few weeks ago, are you in support of the decision of the Federal Government to tow that line of action?

Hon JL- There is no doubt that Goodluck Jonathan is one of the most tolerant presidents that Nigeria has ever produced. The gentleman offered an "olive branch" (i.e., amnesty) to the sect, asking them to come to the table for negotiations so as to resolve their grievances. However they whole-heartedly rejected the offer and therefore it left the Federal Government no choice but to take military action against them. Now don't get me wrong, it is unfortunate that innocent lives may have been lost in the process, but I can categorically say that the action was the right one because it would bring long-term stability. Additionally, no one can accuse the Goodluck Jonathan government of not trying to engage with the sect because the opportunity was given to them to come to the negotiation table and they rejected it.

(3) VPN - What is your take on Goodluck Jonathan's supposed ambition to contest the 2015 presidency? What implications may this have for the stability of Nigeria?

Hon JL - Well, certain people will argue that Goodluck Jonathan's decision to contest the presidency portends great danger for the unity of Nigeria, given the recent antecedents of Boko Haram. But I am convinced that any decision by a part of the nation, to use Boko Haram as a means of dividing Nigeria shall not work. Nigeria has come a long way since our independence in 1960 and we have been through thick and thin together, so I think any group of individuals looking to foment trouble will find that it will be rejected by the majority of well meaning Nigerians. One thing I am very convinced about is that, by 2014 there shall be nothing like Boko Haram.

(4) VPN - How would you score the present Jang administration?

Hon JL - There is no gainsaying that Jang has brought immense infrastructural development to Plateau state. Several kilometres of roads have been constructed in various localities of the state and most parts of Jos metropolis are wearing a new look. However I question whether his priority is right. For instance, why would you deny workers their salaries and allowances while you spend billions of Naira on another Government house? What is wrong with the present one? Several families are languishing in hospitals without funds to pay for health care, several children as living at home with their parents without school fees to go to school –is that what we call development?

Another grouse with the present administration is the issue of it being an exclusive Government for people of certain tribal origins. It appears that once you are not of the same tribal stock, you are excluded or treated as an outsider and this has real ramifications for the unity of Plateau state. Plateau state has always remained one in the face of challenges and strife, therefore any nepotic and tribalistic sentiments/agendas should not be part us. To answer your question then, Yes he has done quite well in certain areas, but he has not impressed us in others.

(5) VPN - As a seasoned Plateau politician, what is next for you? What plans do you have for 2015?

Hon JL - Well, as someone who was been born in to politics I am always involved whether directly or indirectly. The experiences gained through my work with PDP and being a former member of the House of Representatives has provided me with the capacity to contribute on a variety of areas. I remain very committed to the Plateau cause and that has been my guiding principle. I am however unable to juxtapose on my involvement or non-involvement at this early stage.

(6) VPN - Given the agitations for the creation of another state out of Plateau, are you in support of this idea?

Hon JL - Any idea which seeks to bring development closer to the people –I will support. And the basis of my support of this idea, is as follows: if Plateau state is split into two, it will significantly multiply the political opportunities of the state. To better illustrate this point, I'd give you an example – Take a state like Kano for instance, it has 24 House of Representative members, if you add those of Jigawa (which was carved out of Kano and has 18 seats), it gives you a total of 32 for Just Kano and Jigawa. Now compare that with that of 4 states in the middlebelt which each have 8 seats (i.e.,Plateau, Benue, Kogi and Niger states) and also total to 32. You can see that the injustice is quite remarkable; that 2 states would have a combined total of 32 House of Representative members, which is equal to that of 4 states. I make bold to say that in Kano almost all villages are Local Government head quarters. Why can't that be the case for Mangu Local Government area which stretches from Jakatai near Dorowa Babuje in Barkin Ladi, all the way to the boundaries of Shendam?

There is no doubt that those opposed to this idea are just doing so based on sentiments and without any sound arguments to its rejection.

(7) VPN - Given the recent hullabaloo about the marginalisation of Plateau citizens in Federal appointments, who is to blame?

Hon JL - Very good question –I have asked this question many times myself. Firstly, that Plateau people are marginalised in appointments is hardly surprising to me. The key question is; who do we have in Plateau with the aggressive nature of lobbying comparable to some of the big weights in Nigeria? None!

If you scout through all the Plateau leaders, who can command respect and approbation that will make Goodluck Jonathan to listen? None! If you go to Taraba, T Y Danjuma remains an authority in daily life, the mere mention of his name commands people's attention –unfortunately Plateau state does not have people of similar calibre.

The situation is even more unfortunate because Plateau people gave Goodluck Jonathan the largest votes of any other –therefore you would have thought that he'd have a soft spot for the people of the state. However as we do not have people who can lobby effectively, we seem to have been losing out in all areas.

http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/politics-mob/item/474-jang-scores-highly-in-infrastructural-development-but-i-question-if-his-priority-is-right-former-house-of-reps-member-hon-john-adamu-longhor-exclusive-interview

As I sit to ponder the above theme, I couldn't contain the pain ravaging me. At a time when the good people of plateau are beginning to heave a sigh of relief following the wave of peace blowing across the state, Wednesday the 26th of June 2013, saw another release of "hells fury" on the unsuspecting people of Langtang South Local Government Area of the state. It was a bloody attack that left scores of people dead, injured, hopeless and homeless. The attack was said to have been carried out by hoodlums suspected to be Fulani Mercenaries. These same assailants having wreaked unprecedented havoc on the people of Riyom, Barkin Ladi, Jos South and Bokkos LGAs in recent times are now swinging the pendulum of deadly attack to the people of Taroh in Langtang South LGA. According to reports, about 6,000 people have been rendered homeless and are currently taking refuge at the Council Secretariat.

According to the member representing Langtang North and south in the federal House of Representatives Hon. Beni Lar, more than 60 people were killed. Interestingly, the special task force (STF) troops were able to kill about 20 of the attackers but some disappeared in the thin air. The questions increasingly agitating the minds of Plateau people are: who are these assailants? Where do they come from? And why do they plot evil against the good people of Plateau?

http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/politics-mob/item/469-killing-spree-on-the-plateau-when-will-it-end-by-satmak-dapar

Elders in Langtang, Plateau, have implored owners of weapons to surrender them to the security agencies.

The call comes after a meeting of key political office holders in the area. In a communiqué, the elders said they have noticed influx of aliens into many settlements in the Senatorial District.....http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/politics-mob/item/464-elders-in-langtang-urge-communities-to-surrender-their-weapons

The people of Plateau North senatorial district have rejected the 6 year single term proposal of the Senate for the President and Governors. Also rejected was the financial autonomy to the State Houses of Assembly. The resolution was taken on Tuesday in Jos at the end of a one day deliberation organised by the Senator representing the zone, Mr Gyang Pwajok ......http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/politics-mob/item/459-plateau-north-senatorial-zone-rejects-6-year-single-tenure-and-financial-autonomy-to-state-assemblies

The textile companies were spread across the land in the years following Nigeria's independence. Kano and Kaduna states had a large concentration of these industries in the northern part. In Kaduna, the localization of the textile industries was at the Kakuri/Makera industrial axis. The United Textiles popularly called UNTL, Kaduna Textiles known as KTL, Arewa Textiles. Others were Supertex,Nortex and a host of other subsidiaries.

The textile industries provided a huge source of employment for all kinds of labour from skilled, semi skilled and unskilled labour. People from different parts of the country and even expartraite workers came to work in the textiles. The textiles were among the factors that contributed to the cosmopolitan life of Kaduna state due to the melting of different tribes, religions and people in the former known liberal state. There were geographical, occupational, vertical, horizontal mobilities of labour. School leavers who could not afford further education had a chance of starting and earning a livelihood with little or no skills.

The textile industries helped in booming the economy of Kaduna state and steered the state away from depending solely on civil service jobs. The multiplier effect was a corresponding rise in income earners whose expenditures and savings led to increased commerce and trade, increased investment, increased industrialization and rise in the standards of living of residents.There was serious linkage between the industries and suppliers of the textile raw materials like cotton farmers on one hand and the textile semi finished goods served as forward integration to other industries. Another linkage occured between the textiles and distribitors, merchants, sellers among others. The food industry got a boost from the massive employees of these textiles. The landlords benefitted in no small means, same for the schools of their children and the beer industry. The government got a huge chunk of taxes from their personal income tax, VAT, corporate taxes and ad volerem taxes.

To read more: http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/politics-mob/item/456-death-by-textiles-the-untold-story-by-samuel-stephen-wakdok

The Carter Center congratulates Nasarawa and Plateau states for becoming the first Nigerian states to stop transmission of lymphatic filariasis (LF), a parasitic disease most commonly known for causing elephantiasis, according to a Carter Center press release June 13.

"Nasarawa's and Plateau's achievement, stopping transmission of lymphatic filariasis in two states of Nigeria, Africa's most endemic country, demonstrates that eradication is possible and more than 1 billion people can be protected from this debilitating disease forever," said former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, founder of The Carter Center, which has supported the two Nigerian state governments since 1999 in their effort to prove that LF can be wiped out using currently available tools......http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/lifestyle-mob/item/452-plateau-and-nasarawa-states-stop-the-transmission-of-lymphatic-filariasis-carter-center-congratulates-the-achievement

Jos –News reaching ViewPointNigeria indicates that the father to the immediate past deputy Governor of Plateau State, Mrs. Pauline Tallen has died at the age of 102. He was said to have passed-on at his residence in Jos on the 9th of June 2013.

The Governor of Plateau State, Da Jonah Jang was said to have put aside previous bitterness and confrontations to visit the family home of the former deputy Governor on Tuesday to pay his condolences. During the visit, he said the late Mr. Paul Kattiem will be given a state burial in recognition of his immense contributions to the development of Plateau State..........http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/politics-mob/item/449-jonah-jang-mourns-with-pauline-tallen-over-death-of-her-father

Nigeria would have been in her 20th year since the birth of 4th republic today, 12th of June 2013, but it was aborted by the IBB Junta; nevertheless, the 12th of June is marked with public holidays in Lagos and Ogun States Annually. Some other western State reminisce the event nostalgically with lectures, symposiums and debates on what Nigeria could have been, and what it could still be using the 1993 election as a parameter. For the record, I would State, in concordance with the analysis of international electoral monitoring teams, that the 1993 elections was fairest and most credible elections Nigeria has ever had.....http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/opinion-mob/item/450-between-abiola-and-obasanjo-the-democracy-day-mistake-by-bizum-yadok

The former head of state General Abdusalam Abubakar has applauded Governor Jonah Jang of Plateau State for the peace being experienced in the state. He stated this when he visited Governor Jang in Jos. He said "may this evil never visit us again". He noted that peace building is a collective effort and called for it to be sustained.........http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/politics-mob/item/448-gen-abdulsalam-abubakar-pays-courtesy-call-on-gov-jonah-jang-photos

There is absolutely no meaningful development on campus that surpasses the general safety of students and properties. This goes to allude the fact that the government and management of higher institutions are ideally hoped to leave no stone unturned in ensuring a serene academic environment that creates room for effective assimilation of whatever is being taught in classrooms.

As a matter of fact, students in Nigerian campuses have over the years been battling with protracted insecurity leading to loss of precious lives and destruction of valuables. Some of the activities fueling insecurity are clashes by cultists, armed-robbery, free for all show by harlots and bloody upheavals by political opponents and unionism desperados.......http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/opinion-mob/item/447-insecurity-on-campus-a-depressing-challenge-by-dapar-satmak-alexander

Nigerian Minister of Finance who is also the coordinating minister for the Economy, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has stated that that nation's external debt stood at $6.67 billion (about N1.035 trillion) which is 3 per cent of Gross Domestic Product, GDP. She said that the country spent $8.0429 billion in 2006 to service external debt and $10.1072 in 2005 prior to the debt relief of 2006.

The minister said it was important to make the clarification to clear the air on the on-going debate over the nation's indebtedness. She added , "the external debt is typically owed to foreign creditors such as multilateral agencies [like the Africa Development Bank, World Bank, the Islamic Development Bank], as well as other bilateral sources [including the China Exim Bank, the French Development Bank or the Japanese Aid Agency], or to private creditors such as investors in our Eurobonds."..........
http://www.viewpointnigeria.com/bus-eco-mob/item/443-nigeria-external-debt-stands-at-6-67-billion-okonjo-iweala