From Attah Ede, Makurdi

A socio-cultural organization known as Zone “A” People’s Assembly (ZAPA), in Benue State, has called on political leaders and other stakeholders in the State to desist from persistent verbal attacks and misguided utterances against their fellow leaders the overall development of the state.

The group in a statement signed by its convener, Prince Jonathan Amokaha and the Secretary, Comrade Ochefu Gilbert titled  “Sustained attacks on the Zone and it’s people by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and former Governor of Benue state, Senator George Akume”, cautioned against unwarranted statement.

The organization pointed out instances where and when Senator Akume, directly and publicly insulted some of their prominent sons like Senators Barnabas Gemade, Joseph Akaagerger and Gabriel Torwua Suswam

Others include the Governor of Benue state, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, the Tor Tiv, Prof. Iorzua Ayatse, late Col. Benjamin Aboho (Rtd), and Ambassador James Gbasha etc.

“As an organization of youths whose vision is that of a greater and peaceful Benue, BENUE YOUTHS OF VISION received that press conference by ZAPA with worry.

“We are worried because after a thorough background check, we confirmed unfortunately that much of what was said by ZAPA is true. It is most unfortunate because these developments have the propensity of causing divisions and bad blood amongst our people.

“In light of the above, we call on our leader and father, Sen. George Akume, SGF, the Just George of our time to take a deep breath and reconsider his leadership style, bearing in mind that all Benue people are his people and he is our leader.

“Let it be known to our leader, Senator George Akume that in such a position as the SGF, all Benue people, irrespective of which part of the state they come from, whichever political party they belong to and whether they support him or not, are looking up to him for democracy dividends.

“Similarly, we also call on ZAPA and all other Benue people of goodwill to note that as human, Senator Akume is not infallible and so we should continue to support and pray for the SGF and indeed the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as well of Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Alia, the governor of Benue State and all sons of Benue state including Sen. Gabriel Torwua Suswam, Sen. Barnabas Gemade, Sen. David Mark, Sen. Abba Morro, Sen. Iyorchia Ayu, the Tor Tiv, Och’ Idoma etc.

“We wish to reiterate that, fighting ourselves will not take us anywhere, infact, it can only take us backwards. Let all stakeholders in the Benue project sheath their swords and give room for dialogue.

“We want a Benue where there is peace, development and unity of purpose among all its sons and daughters”.

From Jude Dangwam, Jos

Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang has presented a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) to the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) for a parcel of land earmarked for the construction of a 132/33KV transmission substation in the Southern part of Plateau State.

The development is part of his commitment toward revitalizing the power sector in Plateau State aimed at promoting industrialization.

Presenting the C of O to the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of NDPHC, Engr. Jennifer Adighije, at her office in Abuja, the Governor expressed optimism that the project, when completed, will transform the social and industrial landscape of the benefitting areas.

Mutfwang through his Director of Press and Public Affairs Gyang Bere noted thus, “This landmark project is aimed at extending electricity transmission from Lafia in Nasarawa State to Shendam, Plateau State, covering the Southern and Central Senatorial Districts. The initiative is expected to stimulate industrialization and enhance business activities across the zones.

“The substation would address the longstanding electricity challenges faced by the Southern and Central Senatorial Districts of the state.” He noted

Mutfwang explained that the substation will support the smooth commencement of the Special Agro-Processing Zone by the African Development Bank (AfDB) and attract private sector investments to Plateau State.

The Governor acknowledging the contributions of NDPHC to Nigeria’s electricity generation and transmission, and appealed for the priority of the project, adding that Plateau State has the potential for generating wind and solar energy, hinting recent legislative advancements in the state on power which includes the Electricity Market Law and Energy Corporation Law to enable the state generate and sell electricity to neighboring states.

The Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company Jenifer Adighije noted that the Governor is the first state governor to visit her since her appointment and commended his commitment to transforming Plateau State’s industrial landscape and assured him of the NDPHC’s dedication to execute the project.

“You are the first governor to visit us, and we are compelled to match your zeal with our commitment. With our generation capacity far exceeding demand, partnering with you is a pivotal opportunity. Your passion for industrialization is inspiring, and we are eager to collaborate with you to realize this vision,” Adighije stated.

By Nasir Dambatta

Governor Uba Sani has once again underscored his commitment to fostering unity among Kaduna’s diverse religious communities, attending both the 2024 Kaduna Unity Christmas Carol and a Maulud celebration in Zaria within the same week.On December 21, the Governor graced The 2024 Kaduna Unity Christmas Carol at ECWA Goodnews Church, Narayi Highcost, an event organized by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Kaduna Chapter.

The Carol, an annual tradition, brought together Christians from across the state in a celebration of joy, love, and togetherness. Governor Sani’s presence at the event highlighted his inclusive leadership and his efforts to strengthen interfaith harmony in a state known for its rich religious diversity.Shortly after, on December 22, Governor Sani attended a Maulud celebration in Zaria, organized by the Fityanul Islam group. Maulud, which commemorates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), is a time for reflection, prayer, and communal unity. The gathering in Zaria was attended by numerous dignitaries and religious scholars who reflected on the Prophet’s teachings of compassion, tolerance, and peace—values that resonate deeply with the Governor’s vision for Kaduna.Observers said the Governor’s presence at both events was a powerful reminder of his dedication to fostering peaceful coexistence between Muslims and Christians in the state. “Through these actions, Governor Uba Sani is leading by example, demonstrating that religious celebrations and dialogue can serve as a foundation for a united, progressive society.”, one of the observers said.