NEWS
Governor Mutfwang Commission 20 Sienna Buses for Abuja Route in a Subsidized Rate
From Jude Dangwam, Jos
The Executive Governor of Plateau State Barr Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has commission 20 Sienna buses for Jos to Abuja route as part of efforts in reducing the cost of transportation fee occasion by the hash economy.Mutfwang represented by his Deputy, Her Excellency Ngo Josephine Piyo at the Plateau Riders Terminal on Tuesday in Jos the state capital.
He said the Rebirth Project reflects the state government’s recognition of the importance of modernizing and improving transportation infrastructure in State, adding that the buses will ply the Jos – Abuja route which is a significant improvement in connectivity between the two important cities. The Governor disclosed that the 20 Sienna buses are also equipped with state-of-the-art tracking systems in ensuring passengers safety, and providing real-time monitoring of their locations which makes it reliable and comfortable transportation options for commuters traveling between Jos and Abuja, contributing to the increased mobility and economic activities in both cities. “The establishment of Plateau Express Logistics, a subsidiary of Plateau Express Services underscores our administration’s commitment to providing efficient and effective logistics solutions. “The advanced tracking systems for the fleet of vehicles, and the logistics arm will employ cutting-edge technology to optimize route planning, minimize delivery times, and ensure the secure and timely transportation of goods.”It will play a crucial role in facilitating the seamless movement of goods and materials, supporting businesses, industries, and individuals in Plateau State.” He statedMutfwang maintained that the introduction of a mobile booking app represents a leap forward in embracing digital technology to enhance customer experience and streamline the booking process.The General Manager of the Plateau Riders, Mr. Samuel Gwot noted that the charges of N9,000 and N5000 for a coaster bus is considerate as they are no more in the leagues of the Sharon, Vectra and old motorists but have upgraded their services to compete in a market where private transport companies like VALGEE TRANPSORT SERVICES and others charges N15’000 from Jos to Abuja. “Before now, the revenue goes into the pockets of drivers and other stakeholders who are not our staff. Excess luggage is a revenue for us, but before a boy loading the vehicle who is not our staff will charge customers a subjective price, they will argue for about 30 mins and then he will collect the money, take his own share, the driver gets his share and the peanuts will come to us.”When I came in, 90% of our drivers were adhoc staff with no file. They were earning just N10,000.00 but in a day a driver could also make N10,000.00 daily from waybills. Some drivers deliberately make excuses in order to collect as much way bills as possible.
“Now both old and new drivers have gone through a rigorous recruitment process, medical examinations and training. They have signed a new contract and will earn a minimum of N40,000.00 with other allowances and welfare packages like health insurance and life insurance. They will be rewarded for good driving every month.” He stated He said the monthly performance appraisal of the Transport Service will clean out the bad eggs amongst them. “These drivers have signed a new contract not to engage in any corrupt practices.” He assured the public The MD reiterated that passengers have two options to travel in. “We have the Gida- Gida Express Coaster Bus that goes for just N5000. This 25 seater bus will leave both Abuja and Jos every 12 noon everyday. The second option is the air conditioned Toyota Sienna that operates between 6am and 4pm for N9000.” He notedThe Commissioner of Transportation Hon. Davou Gyang Jatau hinted that the Tin City Metro Services Ltd which is the palliative arm of the transport system in the state, a social programmes of the Mutfwang administration, remain a quick intervention that will alleviate the sufferings of commuters within the metropolis set to be commissioned by the Governor of Plateau State on the 7th of May 2024.
From Ayinde Akintade, Osogbo
Justice Lateef Adegoke of the Osun State High Court, sitting in Iwo, yesterday sentenced an Islamic cleric, Kabiru Ibrahim, to death by hanging for the murder of one Adeleke Lukman, in what was described as a money ritual scheme.The convict was charged with three counts: conspiracy, murder, and stealing, contrary to Sections 324, 319(1), and 390 of the Criminal Code, Cap.
34, Laws of Osun State. The prosecution, led by Abiodun Badiora Esq. from the Ministry of Justice, alongside Ajibola Slade and Omotayo Babalola, told the court that Kabiru Ibrahim was a spiritualist whom the deceased regularly consulted for spiritual advice.According to the prosecution, the deceased, Adeleke Lukman, approached the cleric after planning to purchase land. Kabiru allegedly asked him to bring the money for an overnight prayer before making the payment to the land vendor. Lukman was never seen again after that meeting. During the search for him, his family was informed by a community member (name withheld) that Lukman was last seen being taken to Kabiru Ibrahim’s residence. When the family confronted the cleric, he initially denied having seen the deceased for over two weeks. However, the community member refuted this claim, stating he had personally taken Lukman to the cleric’s house just a day prior to his disappearance. The matter was reported to the police, and during interrogation, Kabiru confessed to the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) that he had murdered the deceased. He led the authorities to the Ilesa/Akure expressway, where the remains of Lukman were found inside a sack. One of his palms had been severed. Photographic evidence of the scene was tendered in court. The prosecution called six witnesses and presented several exhibits, including Kabiru’s extrajudicial confession. Additionally, it was revealed that Kabiru had stolen ₦300,000 from the deceased on August 24, 2016. The defense counsel, Chidera Eze Esq., did not respond to the prosecution’s final written address. Justice Adegoke found Kabiru Ibrahim guilty of both murder and stealing. He sentenced him to seven years imprisonment for the Stealing and sentenced to death by hanging for the murder
From Ajiya Ayuba,Bauchi
The Commandant of the Nigeria Army School of Armour Bauchi, Major General A H Ahmed, said they are facing metrics war fare that requires different lines of operations to tackle the security challenges facing the country. He said that tackling security challenges involves the government which is the constituted authority, the people and the military.
The Commandant stated this when the General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigeria Army/Commander Operation Safe Heaven to the 3 Division Operations planning Cadre from 26-30 May 2025, held at the 33 Artillery Brigade Vulcan officers mess, Shadawanka Barracks. At the program themed: Leadership capacity building: A panacea for operational effectiveness, the Commandant said that the main reason of the program is for the Cadre to improve the skills and proficiency of junior and mid-level officers in joint and single service operation planning process. He urged the Cadre to wake up to their call and refreshen their minds on all their responsibilities, to also equip themselves with new innovative policies of the Nigeria Army and the armed forces in General. He further said that the initiative will also enhance inter-agency collaboration and cooperation with the sister security agencies that are all in attendance for the programme. According to the commandant “Operations are activities we conduct daily in other to counter our involving security challenges, so is a platform that we can bring new challenges to be discuss issues that will brings the end of security in the country ” “This training is not only holding in Bauchi State, but all over Nigeria Armies such program are conducted, also at the same time, as we are commited to fighting in the front lines, we also don’t relegate training. The Commandant of the Nigeria Army School of Armour, Major General A H Ahmed urged the junior Cadre to utilize the golden opportunity provided to them by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General O O. Oluyede who he observed has spent a lot of money for the training of the junior Cadre to be successful.
By Francis Sadhere, Delta
The Critical Stakeholders Forum of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) has passed a vote of confidence in the Administrator, High Chief (Dr.) Dennis B. Otuaro, reaffirming their strong belief in his competence, visionary leadership, and dedication to transforming the programme.
In a press release signed by Chief Reuben C. Wilson, Chairman of the Forum, the group described Dr. Otuaro as a blessing to the PAP and the entire Niger Delta region.They commended his efforts in repositioning and sanitizing the programme to effectively fulfill its core mandate of rehabilitating, training, and reintegrating former agitators.The Forum noted that under Dr. Otuaro’s leadership, the PAP has witnessed a renewed focus, with increased transparency, accountability, and results-driven implementation. His reforms, they said, have transformed the Amnesty Programme into a more productive and impactful initiative.The group strongly condemned recent criticisms against Dr. Otuaro, which they characterized as baseless, politically motivated, and detrimental to the progress of the PAP.They specifically addressed statements made by Owusu Owupele and his group, urging them to conduct a thorough and objective assessment of the Administrator’s policies before making public commentary.They called on Owupele and his associates to tender an unreserved apology for what they described as malicious and unfounded allegations.“It is disheartening to witness deliberate attempts to tarnish the image of an administrator who has shown uncommon commitment to the wellbeing of the Niger Delta,” the statement read. “High Chief (Dr.) Dennis Otuaro has restored integrity and focus to the PAP. He deserves encouragement, not vilification.” The Forum emphasized that while criticism is a legitimate part of democratic governance, it must be constructive, factual, and devoid of bitterness and political sentiments. They warned that unfounded attacks can demoralize public servants and undermine national development efforts.Reiterating their unwavering support, the Forum called on all well-meaning Niger Deltans and beneficiaries of the PAP to unite behind Dr. Otuaro’s vision. They stressed that the success of the programme is in the collective interest of the region and the country at large.“A stable, peaceful, and productive Niger Delta is essential for national progress,” the statement concluded. “We urge all stakeholders to create an enabling environment for Dr. Otuaro to continue his remarkable work. Let us focus on building, not destroying.
Murder: Court Sentences Cleric To Death By Hanging
ShareFrom Ayinde Akintade, Osogbo Justice Lateef Adegoke of the Osun State High Court, sitting in Iwo, yesterday sentenced an Islamic...
We Are Facing Metric War Fare – Army
Share From Ajiya Ayuba,Bauchi The Commandant of the Nigeria Army School of Armour Bauchi, Major General A H Ahmed, said...
Stakeholders Forum Reaffirms Support for PAP Administrator Otuaro
ShareBy Francis Sadhere, Delta The Critical Stakeholders Forum of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) has passed a vote of confidence...
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