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Plateau Commemorates Victims With Seven-Day Mourning Period

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In the aftermath of the Christmas eve attacks in Plateau State that claimed the lives of over 150 individuals in certain communities, Governor Caleb Mutfwang has announced a seven-day mourning period beginning January 1.

The Governor made the declaration in his New Year statewide broadcast to the people on Monday.

Additionally, the governor granted a state pardon to Danladi Musa, previously serving a life sentence, and converted the sentences of three others to lesser terms.

He said, “It is true that we ended the year 2023 on a sad note because of the many precious lives we lost including but not limited to over 400 between April and June, 2023 as well as the over 160 in the recent Christmas genocide.

“From small eruptions of conflict sometime in 2001, no one could have imagined that our dear state would witness such unquantifiable bloodshed of innocent lives, some known and others unknown. It is quite grievous to  my heart that Plateau State has today become the cynosure of the whole nation and indeed the world for the wrong reasons.

“These unprovoked and simultaneous attacks in different villages were clearly premeditated and coordinated. These series of attacks on our people are a clear case of criminality, insurgency and terrorism and must be seen and handled in that manner if we must succeed in halting this wanton destruction of lives and property.”

Recall that on December 24, 2023, armed individuals raided Ndun, Ngyong, Murfet, Makundary, Tamiso, Chiang, Tahore, Gawarba, Dares, Meyenga, Darwat, and Butura Kampani villages across Barkin Ladi, Mangu, and Bokkos regions of the state. They set houses on fire and opened fire on the inhabitants.

Mutfwang expressed his condolences to the people of Plateau, particularly the impacted communities and the families who lost their loved ones in these tragic incidents.

He added “My heart goes out to you and be assured that my family, the entire government and I deeply share in your grief. We will not rest on our oars but will tirelessly collaborate with the Federal Government to bring an end to these tragedies and bring succour to affected persons and communities.

“As a mark of honour for the memory of the deceased, I wish to declare a week of mourning from January 1to January 8, 2024.

“During this period of mourning, flags will fly at half-mast. I urge all citizens to use these days for intense prayers to seek the intervention of the Almighty God in defending our territories and against wicked men that have risen against us.

“I wish to plead with our Muslim clerics to dedicate Friday, January 5, 2024 and our Christian clergy to use Sunday January 7, 2024 as special prayer days for lasting peace to return to the Plateau. Monday 8th January, 2024 will be observed as our official state day of mourning.”

The governor emphasized that despite these attacks, the resilience and determination of the people remained unshaken as they stood firm to protect their territory and thrive within it.

He expressed optimism that 2024 would showcase their fortitude and resilience amid these challenges.

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National Assembly In Top Gear For Tinubu’s 2025 Budget Presentation

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The National Assembly management team, led by Clerk Sani Magaji Tambawal, has ramped up efforts to ensure a seamless presentation of the 2025 Appropriation Bill by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The event, scheduled for a joint session of the Senate and House of Representatives, is regarded as a significant moment in Nigeria’s legislative calendar.

Preparations include a thorough inspection of the assembly chambers to ensure all facilities are fully functional.

READ MORE: PDP Governors Probe Ondo Polls, Criticizes Edo Result

Deputy Clerk Kamoru Ogunlana, who is overseeing the technical arrangements, confirmed that key systems, including microphones, sound equipment, and other audio-visual tools, have been tested to ensure smooth communication during the session.

“We are working tirelessly to ensure that the National Assembly is fully prepared to receive Mr. President and provide a conducive environment for this significant moment in our democratic process,” Ogunlana stated.

Seating arrangements are also being finalized to accommodate lawmakers, government officials, and other dignitaries expected at the session.

Security measures are being reviewed in collaboration with relevant agencies to ensure the safety of all attendees. Meanwhile, press accreditation is being managed to facilitate effective media coverage.

The 2025 budget presentation is expected to highlight the government’s economic priorities while reinforcing the partnership between the executive and legislative arms of government.

As the session approaches, the National Assembly has expressed its commitment to upholding Nigeria’s democratic values and providing a platform for transparent governance.

 

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Edo: Gov Okpebholo Launches Probe Into Obaseki Administration

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Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has announced the establishment of a 14-member Assets Verification Committee to examine the financial records and asset management of the previous administration led by Godwin Obaseki.

In a statement released on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the governor revealed that the committee would be inaugurated on Tuesday, November 26, in Benin City.

RELATED NEWS: Gov Okpebhole Suspends Revenue Collection, Orders Arrest Of Violators

The panel is tasked with creating a detailed account of the state’s assets and liabilities to ensure transparency and accountability.

The committee will be chaired by Ernest Umakhihe, with Anslem Ojezua as Deputy Chairman and Frank Edebor as Secretary. Other members include Kassim Afegbua, Patrick Ikhariale, Taiwo Akerele, Patrick Idiake, Rasaq Bello-Osagie, Fredrick Unopah, Abdallah Eugenia, Patrick Obahiagbon, Kenny Okojie, Lyndsey Tes-Sorae, and Abass Braimoh.

Explaining the rationale behind the committee, Mr. Itua stated, “Despite repeated calls for a more holistic database of the assets and liabilities of the previous administration, the Godwin Obaseki-led government presented a scanty and limited report.”

He added that the initiative reflects the governor’s commitment to his campaign promises.

“In line with the governor’s campaign promise to ensure probity, accountability, and transparency in government, and to deepen the governance process, a committee made up of respected sons and daughters from Edo State has to be constituted,” the statement noted.

The committee’s work is expected to pave the way for a more accountable and developmental governance structure in Edo State.

 

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NECO Expands Global Footprints, Accredits Niger, Equatorial Guinea Schools

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In a bid to increase its global presence, the National Examination Council (NECO) has accredited more foreign schools.

This was contained in a statement issued under the signature of its Acting Director of Public Relations, Azeez Sanni, on Saturday.

He revealed that the accredited schools are in Niger Republic and Equatorial Guinea.

Recall that last year, the examination body accredited some centres in Niger Republic to enable Nigerian students in the Francophone country to sit for the examinations.

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The statement read, “Determined to broaden its horizon and expand its global presence, the National Examinations Council has accredited more foreign schools to write the Senior School Certificate Examination and the Basic Education Certificate Examination.

“The newly accredited schools, in addition to the existing ones, are in Niger Republic and Equatorial Guinea.

“NECO accreditation team visited the Schools to assess their readiness to write the SSCE and BECE.

“The accreditation 5eam inspected classrooms, laboratories, libraries, computer laboratories, workshops, examination halls and sports facilities to determine their adequacy and suitability for NECO examinations.

“After a thorough evaluation and comprehensive assessment, the schools were granted full SSCE and full BECE accreditation status.”

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