Mr Plangji Daniel Cishak, Chairman, Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) (Middle), addressing Journalists
By Ezekiel Dontinna
All arrangements are on top gear by the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC), to host the 13th Delegates Conference of Forum of Independent Electoral Commissions of Nigeria (FOSIECON) from May 21 to 23, 2025.
The Plateau State Chairman of PLASIEC, Plangji Daniel Cishak, disclosed this yesterday, while addressing Journalists at the press briefing, held at the PLASIEC headquarters Jos, the State capital.
He commended Journalists on the Plateau for their collective efforts that had consistently helped in informing, educating, and shaping public opinion in reinforcing democratic values and building public confidence in electoral processes.
“As we now look forward to another event of national significance, we are once again counting on you to rise to the moment with the highest standards of journalistic integrity. I am confident that you will not fail us.
“It is with great pleasure that I officially announce that, Plateau State will host the 13th National Delegates Conference of the Forum of Independent Electoral Commissions of Nigeria (FOSIECON).
“This 3-day event is scheduled to take place from the 21st to the 23rd of May 2025, right here in Jos, Plateau State, the Home of Peace and Tourism”, he highlighted.
Unveiling the theme for this year’s Conference: “Local Government Elections in Nigeria: Issues, Challenges and Opportunities”, the Chairman reiterated that this year’s theme called for sober reflection, informed debate, and actionable outcomes.
He said, they were expecting no fewer than 304 delegates drawn from the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory with Chairmen, Commissioners, and Secretaries of various State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs) as delegates at the conference.
Cishak, however, disclosed that the opening ceremony would be held under the distinguished chairmanship of His Majesty, the Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Jacob Gyang Buba, whose leadership continued to serve as a source of institutional wisdom and moral direction.
Ambassador Nanpon Danjuma Sheni, the PIDAN President
Control your emotions, the fiery depths of anger can forge chains of regret. Mastering your temper is a lifelong journey.
Anger can be a fleeting spark, but its consequences can burn bridges, damage relationships, and haunt your conscience.
Cultivate self-restraint, awareness, empathy, and calmness to navigate life’s challenges with wisdom and peace.
Anger may ignite quickly, but its embers can smolder for a lifetime. Train yourself to respond, not react. Just try to be calming down no matter the provocation.
The Lord said “ He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city”.
Guide your tongue and be careful what you say. If you have used your tongue wrongly, go and apologize because that word,‘I am sorry’, is very powerful!! It’s a healer and a restorer. You will be fine.
A leadership crisis is rapidly unfolding at Isa Mustapha Agwai I Polytechnic, Lafia, threatening to plunge the institution into administrative chaos and erode public trust.
The crisis stems from the controversial removal of the former Rector, Dr. Justina Kotso, following the adoption of a white paper issued by an independent panel set up by the Nasarawa State Government.
The directive mandated her to hand over to the next most senior principal officer, excluding members of the Governing Council.
However, this instruction became a flashpoint when Dr. Kotso handed over to Dr. Nurudeen Muazu Maifata, the Polytechnic Librarian, sparking outrage over what many described as an illegitimate succession.
Dr. Maifata was appointed Acting Rector for a six-month tenure beginning May 2024. However, he continued in office until March 28, 2025—far beyond the legal term limit.
This extended stay has been widely condemned as a violation of the Polytechnic’s governing law, which stipulates that an Acting Rector “shall not hold office for more than six (6) months.”
The law also prohibits the appointment of a sole administrator, a clause observers argue is now being blatantly ignored.
Disputed Recruitment Process for Substantive Rector, tensions escalated further following the publication of an advertorial on March 13, 2025, by the Polytechnic’s newly constituted Governing Council, chaired by Professor Sunusi Liman, inviting applications for the position of substantive Rector.
However, academic staff claimed the requirements outlined in the advertorial failed to meet both the Polytechnic’s enabling law and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) guidelines.
The advert called for a minimum of ten years of teaching experience in tertiary institutions, including four years in a Polytechnic.
In contrast, the Polytechnic Law mandates 15 years of cognate experience, while NBTE requires 17 years, including 10 in a Polytechnic and at least five years on the rank of Chief Lecturer.
Lecturers alleged that the criteria were deliberately diluted to favour a preferred candidate with just four years of Polytechnic experience.
Search Team Marginalized, Qualified Applicants Disqualified:
In accordance with statutory procedures, a Search Team composed of Chief Lecturers was constituted to oversee the selection process.
However, insiders said the team was sidelined by the Governing Council, which unilaterally shortlisted and interviewed candidates—an act many argue violates the institution’s enabling law.
In protest, the Search Team issued a letter dated May 3, 2025, signed by members Abubakar Ibn Umar, Solomon J. Anzene, Bala Zakari Yakubu, and Dr. Martina Pojwan Alexander.
The letter, addressed to the Council Chairman and copied to the Nasarawa State Governor and the Commissioner for Education, accused the Council of usurping its role.
“The Committee was not given any applications to screen, nor did it submit any list of candidates to the Governing Council for interview, hence, in the interest of fairness and justice, we demand the opportunity to carry out our statutory duties,” the letter stated.
To the dismay of many, qualified applicants—including two former Deputy Rectors and a long-serving Chief Lecturer now a professor at Nasarawa State University—were disqualified. Some of these candidates had previously been shortlisted by a former Council for the Rector’s position.
“This magnitude of injustice is unacceptable in an academic environment,” lamented a lecturer. “Rules must be followed. You cannot disqualify qualified candidates just to pave way for your favourite.”
Controversial List Submitted to Governor
Despite the mounting controversy, a shortlist of three candidates has been forwarded to the Nasarawa State Governor, who serves as the institution’s Visitor.
Among the nominees is Dr. Maifata, whose eligibility is widely disputed. Sources within the registry Department of the Polytechnic allege he joined the Polytechnic as Librarian I on Grade Level 9, bypassing more senior colleagues, and has not attained the requisite 15 years of service. He is also not a Chief Lecturer or its equivalent—a core requirement for the Rector position.
Also on the list is Professor Musa Dalhatu, a former Senior Lecturer at the Polytechnic and one-time TETFund Desk Officer who was reportedly indicted for misappropriation of funds during Professor Silas Gyar’s administration. Dalhatu is currently affiliated with the Federal University of Lafia but does not meet the legal qualifications for consideration.
The third candidate is Dr. Patrick E. Kigbu, an Industrial Chemist and Chief Lecturer at Kaduna Polytechnic. He previously participated in the selection process that led to Dr. Kotso’s appointment.
Allegations of Victimization and Power Abuse
In a separate development, eight Chief Lecturers who submitted a petition following their opposition to the recruitment process alleged victimisation. Four of them, who held directorial roles, were abruptly removed from office. Their removal letters, obtained by this reporter, were signed directly by Dr. Maifata—bypassing the Registrar, the appropriate channel for such administrative actions.
Multiple letters of complaint have been submitted by unions, including the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) IMAP Lafia Chapter, SSANIP, and the ASUP National Body, calling for the immediate re- advertisement of the positions of the Rector and registrar adhere to NBTE template strictly in other to have a transparent selection process. So far, the Governing Council has remained unyielding.
Low Morale and a Campus on Edge
Since November 2024, staff morale has significantly deteriorated. Both academic and non-academic personnel are increasingly anxious about the institution’s future, with many now calling for urgent government intervention.
One lecturer highlighted further violations, citing the case of the Director of Information and Protocol, Wakeel Muktar, who is due for retirement by july 2025. “By Gazetted law, non-teaching staff retire at 60. Yet the Registrar advert pegs the age limit at 59. This inconsistency further undermines the legitimacy of the process,” since the present council is using the gazetted law as against the principal law which state 65 years for both staff” a lecturer noted.
A Call to Action
Amid growing unrest, stakeholders within the Polytechnic are urging the Nasarawa State Government to restore order and credibility by re-advertising both the Rector and Registrar positions under proper guidelines—as was recently done at the State College of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Lafia, where the NBTE template was fully adopted.
Staff and concerned observers are also calling on the State House of Assembly to revisit and amend the institution’s enabling law to prevent future abuse.
Until transparency is restored and legality upheld, Isa Mustapha Agwai I Polytechnic risks descending into deeper crisis, with grave implications for its academic mission and public image.
Meanwhile, efforts to reach the Governing Council Chairman of the Polytechnic Professor Sunusi Liman was unsuccessful.
Ambassador Nanpon Danjuma Sheni, the PIDAN President
In whispers of doubt, let dreams roar loud. In shadows of fear, let courage be the spotlight. God’s glory shines brightest in the humblest places.
Your small space isn’t a limitation, but a launchpad for greatness. Where doubt whispers, let your dreams shout louder. Where excuses linger, let your efforts silence them.
Make bold moves, igniting a ripple effect that shifts your world. Let God’s power amplify your steps, and watch as He makes a way where there seems to be no way.
You will be fine. The Lord Encourages….Good morning and have a blessed Tuesday..
The Vice Chancellor, Karl Kumm University, Vom, Nigeria, Prof Nanven Audu Gambo, has described the late former Deputy Governor of Plateau State, Prof Sonni Tyoden as a leader who served humanity selflessly and sacrificially.
This was contained in a press statement signed by the University VC’s Protocol and Information Officer, Bulus Gambo, and made available to newsmen in Jos, the Plateau State capital Monday.
Professor Audu Nanven Gambo, the Vice Chancellor Karl-Kumm University Vom, Nigeria
Speaking during a condolence visit to the family of the deceased at Rayfield Jos, alongside Management of the University, Prof Gambo eulogized the late Professor Tyoden over his reconciliatory skill and uncompromising adherence to due process when he served as the Vice Chancellor of Unijos between 2006 and 2011.
Professor Audu Nanven Gambo sympathizing with the wife of late Professor Tyoden
“He promoted the culture of good governance as the Deputy Governor of Plateau State between 2015 and 2023. We are shock over the sudden demise of Prof Tyoden because he had served humanity faithfully and with the utmost sense of integrity.
“For instance, when he served as the VC of Unijos, the institution was ranked the second best nationally. We urged the deceased family and sympathizers not to mourn as unbelievers knowing too well that the deceased has found rest in the bosom of our Lord Jesus Christ”, he consoled.
Late Professor Sonni Gwanle Tyoden, former Plateau State Deputy Governor and Vice Chancellor, University of Jos
Responding, a brother of the deceased, Mr Gyemu Tyoden, thanked the Vice Chancellor of Karl Kumm University, Prof Nanven Audu Gambo and his management team for identifying with them during their moment of grief.
He explained that, though, the deceased death was painful, but they were comforted with his enduring legacies which would linger in their memories for a long time.
Highlight of the condolence visit was the presentation of condolence letter to the deceased brother, Gyemu Tyoden, who led the Vice Chancellor of Karl Kumm University, Prof Nanven Audu Gambo and his management team to sympathize with the wife of the former Deputy Governor, Mrs. Abigail Tyoden.
Rume Raphael Chinkik, son to late famous Former Acting Provost, Federal College of Education, Pankshin which is now Federal University of Education, Dah Thomas Rume, of blessed memory.
He is Fier by tribe and was born 21st December 1975. Happily married and blessed with four children, Ralph possess an exceptional qualities of a true leader, with listening skills and approachable.
Qualities such as these are required for legislative business. He is well equipped with theoretical knowledge and practicals for a moment like this when the society is yearning for such.
A professional in project and Construction Management. This answers the question on whether he is academically and professionally qualified.
Records indicate that Builder Ralph is an outstanding professional Builder who started his building work in Government Science and Technical College Bukuru, popularly known as BUTECH, to the University level.
He has almost thirty years of experience in the build environment. As a professional builder, he does not only build houses and bridges alone, but human capacity, which is a topic for another day.
He is familiar with national issues of collapse buildings and bridges which it has posed threat to lives and property.
Some communities in Pankshin North, Pankshin LGA and indeed Plateau State are excommunicated from their neighbours due to bridge collapses. Ralph is committed to ensuring excellent legislation and proper execution of projects.
HIS PROFESSIONAL WORK SPEAKES:
Construction of 88 Proto-type Chalet at Plateau State University Bokkos (completed); Construction of School of Science and Foundation Studies at Plateau State University Bokkos (completed); Construction of Four (4) Bed Room Duplex at Rayfield Jos (completed); Construction of eight (8) Proto-type three (3) bedroom bungalows at Masaka Nasarawa State; Construction of School of Management Science at Plateau State University Bokkos (completed); Construction of Open Air and construction of four (4) bedroom bungalows at Rayfield etc.
As a builder, we believed he has the capacity to not only build Pankshin North, Pankshin, Plateau State but the Nation at large.
Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of Redeemed Christian Church of God
The General Overseer of The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has called on Christians to put their trust wholly in God, declaring that “God is more than enough” and nothing is too difficult for Him to do.
Pastor Adeboye made the remarks on Sunday during an interdenominational service held at the RCCG Northern Camp Ground in Kassa, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area. The service marked the conclusion of the RCCG 2025 Northern Region Ministers and Workers Conference.
Speaking on the theme “Divine Manifestation,” Pastor Adeboye drew inspiration from Jeremiah 32:27 and Psalm 2:1-4, assuring worshippers that God remains capable of restoring lost glory, especially for Plateau State.
“It doesn’t take God time to do what He says,” Adeboye said. “Whatever was not planted by Him will be uprooted. When your time for manifestation comes, you will weep no more.”
He encouraged Christians to remain steadfast in faith, submit to God, and live righteously. “Stop pretending to be Christians. When He saves your soul, run from sin. God will work through those who truly abide in Him,” he added.
Addressing the socio-political climate in Plateau, Pastor Adeboye prophesied a positive turnaround for the state. “Plateau will reclaim its lost glory,” he declared.
Representing Governor Caleb Mutfwang at the event, the Secretary to the State Government, Samuel Jatau, thanked Pastor Adeboye for his continued prayers and belief in the state’s potential. “Despite the challenges, Plateau remains one of the safest states in Northern Nigeria,” he said.
Earlier, Pastor James Dagunduro, the Deputy Continental Overseer, led prayers for peace in Plateau, particularly in light of recent violence in some communities.
Pastor Tony Curtis Ukagwu, the Regional pastor, welcomed participants and described the gathering as a divine opportunity for believers to reconnect with God. Pastor Ezekiel Odeyemi, Continental Overseer African Continent 2, also emphasized the importance of unity in the faith and a return to God.
The service featured songs of praise & worship from the RCCG Mass Choir , Region 8 Praise Team, Pastor’s Seeds Fellowship, Women fellowship Choir ( Zumuntan mata ). intercessory prayers for Plateau and Nigeria, and testimonies from congregants who shared personal experiences of divine intervention.
Ambassador Nanpon Danjuma Sheni, the PIDAN President
Within you burns a sacred flame, untouched by wind or rain. The storm may roar, the skies may darken, but your light divine, eternal does not falter.
Let your passion be a prayer, your resilience a hymn, your determination a quiet force that parts the shadows and lights the way.
Shine not just for yourself or your family alone but for those lost in the tempest. For even in the fiercest night, a single soul ablaze with purpose can guide the world home.
You are different, created for a purpose, just believe it and take those steps calling for expression from within you.
You will be fine. The Lord restores… Good morning and have a blessed Monday….
Ambassador Nanpon Danjuma Sheni, the PIDAN President
Refuse to be ordinary. Embrace the blue oceans. Your life’s purpose isn’t found in playing it safe, but in daring to rise, taking bold risks and steps, and rewriting your story.
Unleash your potential, shattering glass ceilings of limitations, and forge a legacy that inspires generations after you because you are the light of the world not the light of your village.
The greatest rewards lie beyond the boundaries of comfort and fear. Rise, Leap, the world is waiting for your manifestation, and let your greatness unfold.
The lord said, “For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.
The government of Plateau State is pleased to inform the General Public that efforts are underway to establish an Alternative Burial Ground to address the growing need for burial spaces across the State.
In line with this initiative, the Government has inaugurated a Committee to engage the Public to contribute ideas and suggestions for a suitable site.
Members of the Public, Organizations, Religious Groups, CBOs, NGOs and CSOs are hereby invited to submit memos, proposals or suggestions that may assist in the establishment of the Alternative Burial Ground.
This could include recommendations on suitable locations, environmental considerations, or any other information that would aid the success of the project.
Additionally, Individuals, Groups or Organizations that own land suitable for the establishment of an Alternative Burial Ground are encouraged to submit their offers.
Thelandshouldmeetthefollowingbasicrequirements: A Landmass of not less than 4 hectares Located in a suitable, accessible area that aligns with in the greater Jos Master Plan.
Be able to accommodate future burial needs with minimal disruption to surrounding communities.
All memos, proposals, and offers of Land should be directed to: TheChairman, Alternative Burial Ground Committee, Office of the Permanent Secretary, Plateau State Ministry of Lands, Survey and Town Planning.
Phone No: 08033221122, 0803638564 The deadline for submission is two weeks from date of this announcement.
Ambassador Nanpon Danjuma Sheni, the PIDAN President
Nobody can truly take away your pain but God. He is the only one who fully sees the weight you carry, the tears you hide, and the battles you fight in silence.
People may comfort you, support you, or walk beside you, but only God can heal the deep places no one else can reach.
So, if no one can take away your pain, don’t give anyone the power to take away your Happiness.
Protect your peace. Guard your heart. Let joy come from within, anchored in your faith, not in the shifting actions of man or opinions of others.
What God gives, no one can steal because His story never ends in ashes. The Lord restores. Good morning and have a blessed Weekend..
The Government of Plateau State is pleased to inform the General Public that efforts are underway to establish an Alternative Burial Ground to address the growing need for burial spaces across the State.
In line with this initiative, the Government, has inaugurated a Committee, to engage the Public to contribute ideas and suggestions for a suitable Alternative Burial Ground.
Members of the Public, Organizations, Religious Groups, CBOs, NGOs and CSOs are hereby invited to submit memos, proposals or suggestions that may assist in the establishment of the Alternative Burial Ground.
This could include recommendations on suitable locations, environmental considerations, or any other information that would help shape the success of the project. Additionally, Individuals, Groups or Organizations that own Land suitable for the establishment of an Alternative Burial Ground are encouraged to submit their offers. The Land should meet the following basic requirements:
A Land mass of not less than 4 hectares Located in a suitable, accessible area that aligns within the greater Jos Master Plan. Be able to accommodate future burial needs with minimal disruption to surrounding communities.
All memos, proposals, and offers of Land should be directed to: The Chairman, Alternative Burial Ground Committee, Office of the Permanent Secretary, Plateau State Ministry of Lands, Survey and Town Planning.
Phone No: The deadline for submission is two weeks from date of this announcement.
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