DISTRICTS CREATION: ADHA RECEIVES 28 MEMORS..TO ORGANISE PUBLIC HEARING

Ad Hoc Committee for the Creation of New Districts of the Adamawa State House of Assembly so far received 28 memoranda from different communities agitating for the creation of new districts.

The 28 communities have appealed to the hallowed chamber to consider their memoranda while granting approval for the creation of additional districts in and around the state.

The Chairman of the committee and member representing Jada Mbulo constituency, Hon. Hammantukur Yetisuri, made this known while fielding questions from NEWS PLATFORM on Tuesday.

Hon. Yetisuri, said that the committee has received 28 memoranda seeking for the creation of new districts in various communities, saying that the committee is yet to close submission of memors from interested communities.

The Majority Leader of the assembly disclosed that the committee is set to organise public hearing after which the members of the committee will visit all the proposed headquarters of the new districts for verification.

He added that a criteria has been given to the committee with which the committee is going to use to know the community that is qualified to get a district. 

The communities that so far forwarded their memoranda include;Yandang in Mayo Belwa LGA, Mbangan, Komo, Nassarawo, Nwuding and Mayo Kalaye in Jada, LGA, Libo, Tamali, Gurum, District Committee and Elders Forum and Shelleng Traditional Council from Shelleng LGA.

Others are; Mubi Emirate Council, Yeliso in Toungo LGA, and Gereng in Girei LGA, Bazza, District Head of Futu and Michika Elders Council in Michika LGA, Sukur Sakun Devt Area in Madagali LGA, Gabun in Gombi LGA, Batta Traditional Council as well as Mbula in Demsa

Others include; Bachama Traditional Council, Farang in Fufore LGA, Ganye Traditional Council, Murke in Song LGA, Yadafa in Mubi South and Jimeta Concerned Citizens, Yola North LGA.

COURT SENTENCES 4 "SHILA" BOYS TO 5 YRS IN PRISON EACH

Four (4) members of the dreaded "Shila" group terrorising the inhabitants of Jimeta and Yola towns in Adamawa State will spend 5 years each in prison for criminal conspiracy and extortion.

The convicts are; Usman Ahmed, Abdullahi Salihu, Hamza Abdullahi and Aliyu Ishaku,all residents of NEPA in Yola North Local Government Area, Adamawa state.

Magistrate Nafisatu Bala, of Chief Magistrate Court 5, convicted and sentenced the suspects to 5 years in prison after they were tried and found guilty as charged.

The judge, however, gave the convicts an option of N60,000, fine each and also ordered that compensation of N1million be paid to Ibrahim Aliyu, owner of tricycle used by the convicts to perpetuate the crime.

On arraignment on the 10th October, 2021, by the prosecutor, Seargent Ahmed Abubakar, the convicts confessed to have snatched 5 handsets from their victims.

One of them, Aliyu Ishaku who operated a leased tricycle belonging to Ibrahim Aliyu, was said to have in turn hired the tricycle to the 3 other convicts to carry out "Shila" operations within the Jimeta and Yola metropolis. 

After every operation, the convicts used to pay the sum of N8000 as daily returns for the hired tricycle to Ishaku even when he knew that they were using it to attack and dispossess people of their valuables.

During one of their operations around Dougirei area  in Jimeta, the convicts were said to have violently attacked people and dispossed them of 5 handsets, but luck ran out of them as they were intercepted by a mob.

NEWS PLATFORM learnt that it took the intervention of the operatives of the police command to rescue them from being burnt alive.  

It was further learnt that while the mob were trying to burn the convicts alive, somebody stole the tricycle being used by the "Shila" group at the scene of the incident.

The operatives were said to have rescued them and took them to the state Criminal Investigation Department of the state police command for investigation.

But when Ishaku was informed about the incident involving his partners in crime, and that the tricycle had been stolen, he quickly approached the original owner of the tricycle, Ibrahim Aliyu, and lied to him that the police have impounded his tricycle and it is at the CID.

It was at this juncture that the accomplis of the "shila" group, Ishaku and the real owner of the tricycle drove to the CID to make case for the impounded tricycle to be released when he met his waterloo.

However, when the convicts saw them at the CID, they alerted the police that Ishaku is their partner in crime, and that he used to lease his tricycle to them to carryout operations in return for #8000 daily, as such he should be arrested.

He was there and then arrested and taken to court along side the 3 suspects for prosecution during which they were all found guilty as charged.

Earlier, after the plea of the convicts, the prosecutor, Seargent Ahmed Abubakar, called a witness who corroborated their plea and subsequently applied for summary trial of the defendants and now convicts.

TRAGEDY: MAN IMPREGNATES, KILLS GIRLFRIEND DURING ABORTION IN ADAMAWA

A 21 year old Photographer, Muhammed Zubairu, on Monday, admitted impregnating his girlfriend, Miss Sane Fidelis, as well as causing her death while trying to abort the pregnancy.

Muhammed, of Sabon Pegi, Mayo Belwa Local Government Area, Adamawa state allegedly impregnated Miss Fidelis, where he conspired with one other and caused her death while aborting the pregnancy.

Already, the Chief Magistrate Court number I in Yola, has remanded the accused person in a prison custody after he had confessed to alleged culpable homicide.

Muhammed, was arraigned for criminal conspiracy and causing death by an act done with an intent to cause abortion which contravened sections 60 and 204 of the penal code law.

He was said to have conspired with one other, supplied some drugs and administered same on the lady in an effort to carry out a clandestine abortion where they ended up terminating her life.

After administrating the drugs with an intention of killing the baby, Miss Sane Fidelis, developed some medical complication and subsequently died at the specialist hospital in Yola.

The matter was earlier reported to the police in Mayo Belwa LGA by the deceased's sister, Siyona Fidelis, on the 4th November, 2021, after which the accused person was apprehended.

Speaking to NEWS PLATFORM, the dedendant said that he had sexual intercouse with the deceased on 3 occasions only, and that when the girl approached him with the pregnancy, they supplied some drugs in order to terminate it.

He added that in order to prove that she truly took in for him, he gave her the drugs and asked her to take it, and that she took the drugs on the spot after which she started complainant of her stomarch and later died of complication.

When asked to enter his plea, the defendant told the court that he committed the crime as alleged after the First Information Report was read to him as applied by the prosecutor, ASP Francis Audu.

ASP Francis, prayed the court to adjourn the matter to enable the prosecution compile case file and transmit same to DPP for legal advice.

Ruling, Magistrate Alheri Ishaku, ordered the remand of defendant in prison custody and adjourned the matter to the 13th December, 2021 for further mention.

WOMAN POINSONS 2 NEIGHBOUR's KIDS TO DEATH IN ADAMAWA

A 28 year old housewife, Victoria Yohanna, accused of killing 2 of her neighbour's children with a substance suspected to be poison has landed in Yola prison in Adamawa State.

Victoria, who hails from Mataka village, Mildu district in Madagali LGA, allegedly gave poisonous substance to 2 of her neighbour's children leading to their untimely death. 

She was accused of causing the death of Dali Augustine(5 years old) and Kwanye Augustine(3 years old) on the 2nd November, 2021, after she allegedly gave them a substance.

The father of the deceased, Markus Dali, reported to the police in Madagali LGA that the housewife gave substance suspected to be a poison to his children, and that his kids died after consuming the substance.

According to him, they rushed the children to Michika General Hospital for medical attention, but that between 8th and 9th November, 2021, the children died as confirmed by a medical doctor.

The mother of 3 was arrested and arraigned before Chief Magistrate court 1, Yola on Friday, for alleged culpable homicide contrary to section 191 of the penal code law, 2018.

But the nursing mother vehemently denied killing the children when the content of the FIR was read and explained to her following an application by the prosecutor, Inspector Hamza Abdullahi.

NEWS PLATFORM learnt that Victoria, saw the children following their mother who was going out on that fateful day where she advised them to return back home.

It was gathered that after the children returned back home, they fell sick and passed on at Michika General Hospital as a result of the sickness, but since then, people started accusing the woman as the one who killed them.

After the case was mentioned, the court presided by Chief Magistrate Abdullahi Mohammed Digil, adjourned the matter to the 30th December, 2021, so as to enable the prosecution duplicate case file and transmit same to DPP for legal advice.

APC STALWART PUNCHES LAWYER, THREATENS TO KILL HIM, PAY COMPENSATION TO GOVT

A Stalwart of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Adamawa state, Mairiga Yahaya Jada, has been remanded for allegedly punching and threatening to kill Yola based legal practitioner, Barr. Haggai Abdullahi Gasu.

Mairiga, allegedly punched Barr. Haggai Gasu, as well as threatened to kill him and pay compensation to his family or Adamawa state government and go scot free.

Already, an Upper Area Court No. 4, Yola, presided by Hon. Ibrahim Musa Ulenda on Friday, ordered for the remand of the defendant in prison custody.

Hon. Ulenda, issued the order when the defendant was arraigned before him over alleged criminal intimidation, defamation of character, use of insulting and abusive language and hurt.

The offences, according to the complainant, contravened sections 381, 377, 385 and 217 and punishable under sections 383, 378, 385 and 230 (1) of the state penal code law 2018.

Earlier, the complainant in a direct criminal complaint pursuant to section 90(1) 111 and 112 of the Admininstration of Criminal Justice Law, 2018, said that the incident occured on the 19th November, 2021, at Rumde Baru in Jambutu, Yola North LGA.

Barr. Haggai, averred that he was at his client's bakery at Rumde Baru together with the buyer of the bakery, Ward Head and other people when the defendant came and started insulting/abusing him unnecessarily.

He informed the court that while he was standing and watching him, he drew nearer to him and punched (hit) him on his left eye and continued insulting and calling him quack as well as charge and bail lawyer.

He further alleged that the defendant threatened to make his life miserable or kill him, pay compensation to his family or to the state government and go scot free.

According to him, the defendant boasted that they are the Government of Adamawa State and that they can do whatever they want even to kill anybody and go free because they have government back up.

Barr. Haggai Gasu, told the court that Mairiga, further boasted that the Police, DSS and Soldiers belong to them, and that they can deal with anybody and sleep well.

But when the content of the complaint was read and interpreted to him in Hausa Language, he denied committing the offence.

Thereafter, counsel to the defendant, Faiz Abdullahi, applied for bail of his client. But Barr. Y. M. Pam, who appeared along side 5 other young lawyers for the complainant, objected the bail application.

After long submissions from counsels, the new Upper Area Court presided by erstwhile judge of Chief Magistrate Court 2 Yola, Ibrahim Musa Ulenda, adjourned the matter to the 29th November, 2021 for ruling on bail application.

Meanwhile, the court ordered that the defendant be remanded at Yola Correctional Center till then.

MAN JAILED 15 YRS FOR STEALING 16 HANDSETS IN ADAMAWA

A man, Abdulazeez Adamu, has been jailed for 15 years for the offence of theft in a dwelling house.

Abdulazeez Adamu, has also been sentenced to 6 months in prison for being in possession of dangerous weapons.

For the offence of theft in a dwelling house, he was convicted with an option of N150, 000 fine, while for the offence of possession of dangerous weapons, he was jailed 6 months without option of fine. 

Furthermore, the convict was ordered to pay the sum of N500, 000, as compensation. 

Chief Magistrate Abdullahi Mohammed Digil, led Chief Magistrate Court 1, Yola convicted and sentenced the defendant after he was found guilty.

He was charged with string of offences including conspiracy, theft in dwelling house, criminal force, assault, voluntarily causing of grievious hurt, unlawful possession of dangerous weapons.

The offences, according to the prosecution, contravened sections 60, 288, 279, 219, 240, 241 and 399 of the penal code law of the state, 2018.

Abdulazeez, 22 and hails from Nasarawo Borehole in Jimeta Yola, in concert with 2 others (now at large) carted away TV set, HP laptop and 16 handsets valued N734, 000, while armed with weapons.

The stolen items belong to Rebeccah Samuel, Omri, Rhoda Chiroma, Wedelo Pwamboki, Walia Hamman and Mary Zaro, residents of Bekaji in Yola, who jointly reported the matter to the police on the 11th November, 2021.

During one of their operations at Karewa axtension, the convict hit a security guard, Mohammed Umar, with a cutlass on the head and shoulder where the victim sustained grievious injuries.

The security guard raised alarm which attracted the occupants and his colleague who was on duty in a neighbouring house where they rushed to the scene to rescue him.

But before they could reach the scene, the convict and his accomplices ran to unknown destinations, until he was trailed/arrested by vigilantes after an emergency call was put to them.

During trial, the prosecutor, Seargent Galeon Nimrod, attached to Karewa Division, called a witness, Mohammed Umar, who narrated what transpired and his encounter with Abdulazeez.

When the convict was asked to cross examine the prosecution witness, he told the court that the testimony of the witness is true.

Thereafter, Sgt Galeon, prayed the court to try him summarily based on his admittance couple with the testimony of the witness.

In his ruling, Chief Magistrate Digil, held that based on the plea of the defendant couple with the testimony of the witness which was not challenged, the court had found him guilty as charged.

He ruled that "this court has sentenced you Abdulazeez Adamu, to 15 years or you pay an alternative fine of N150, 000, for theft and also sentenced you to 6 months imprisonment for being in possession of dangerous weapons without option of fine".

He added that whoever that is not satisfied with the verdict has a right to appeal to high court Yola within 30 days.

ADAMAWA GUBER: NAMDAS IS THE BEST TO FLY APC TICKET- LAWAN

Former Organizing Secretary of the All Progressives Congress(APC), Adamawa state, Comrade Ahmed Lawan, has called on the party to support the candidature of Hon. Abdulrazak Namdas, to enable him fly the party's flag come 2023 governorship election.

Comrade Lawan declared that Namdas is the only candidate that can win the governorship election for the party come 2023.

It could be recalled that Hon. Namdas, a member of the House of Representatives representing Ganye, Jada, Toungo, and Mayo-Belwa  declared his interest to contest for the office of the governor in the state.

Comrade Lawan who was among stakeholders who visited Namdas at his Abuja residence recently, said that Namdas is the only candidate who can fly the party's ticket and win election.

Comrade Lawan, who is contesting for APC National Organizing Secretary, said that the visit became imperative following the show of love by the Federal Lawmaker after they had lost out during the just concluded congresses. 

According to him, Hon. Namdas was among the first people who called and identified with them after the exercise; hence, the decision to visit him and pledge their unalloyed support towards his success.

"In our capacity as stakeholders of the APC who were former officials of the party and also contested at the last congresses, we have decided to visit Namdas and thank him for his support as well as register our support to his aspiration of becoming the governor of Adamawa state".

"All 18 of us agreed to support his aspiration and ensure that he gets the party's ticket because he is the only candidate that can win the election for us. We have searched and found out that nobody can win the governorship election in the state for our great party if not him due to his pedigree, experience, and track records," Lawan said.

He described him as a grassroots politician who has vast experience in working with people and succeeded in representing his constituency despite having the largest in the country with four local governments. 

"Hon. Namdas is one politician that is accepted by almost all the stakeholders of our party and even those outside the party. He has proven his worth by ensuring the delivery of the dividend of democracy to his people. We are proud of what he has been doing and we are confident that he is the best for us," he added.

He further stressed that they had resolved to work for Namdas and ensure that he does not only become the party's flag bearer but win the election and become the next governor of Adamawa state.

"We are going to use our resources and experience to work day and night to promote the candidature of Hon. Namdas because we believe that he is the best for us," he added.

Speaking on the alleged plot by the wife of the President, Aisha Buhari to impose her younger brother, Halilu Modi on the party to be its candidate, Lawan said that the party will stand united and resist such moves. 

He stated that a popular candidate which according to him is Namdas will emerge as the party's flag bearer for the 2023 election. 

"Politics is not military rule where decisions can be imposed on people. It is a game of numbers and every individual has the right to decide what happens in the party. We will not listen to any of such rumors but focus on selling our candidate who is Namdas"

"I've said in several fora that if we want to win the election, we must go with Namdas, he is our only option now. We will not condone the imposition of candidate; we will fight it with all we have," Lawan said.

NECAS BOSS DONATES 3 BLOCKS OF CLASSROOMS TO ALMA MATER

National Chairman of Northeast Commodity Association (NECAS), who is also the new Dan Lawan Adamawa, Alhaji Sadiq Daware, has donated 3 blocks of classrooms to his alma mater.

According to Alhaji Daware, the gesture is a practical way of giving back to his old school, Government Junior Secondary School, Pariya in Fufore LGA, which served as a stepping stone to his educational background.

More so, the donation of the classrooms is aimed at complimenting the effort of the government in the education sector. 

During the commissioning ceremony, students and staff of the school accorded Alhaji Sadiq Daware, a rousing welcome as an old boy and for overhauling the entire structure of the school. 

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner Ministry of Education, Mrs Wilbina Jackson, appreciated the effort of the Dan Lawan Adamawa, urging other well meaning individuals to follow suit.

In his remarks, Alhaji Sadiq Daware, said that the initiative is nothing but a community service, and promised to do more for the betterment of the school and community at large. 

Responding, the Chairman Parents Teachers Association (PTA) of the school who could not hide his feelings, urged Dan Lawan Adamawa to maintain the spirit.

The NECAS Chairman and Cmmissioner of Education, Mrs Wilbina Jackson, accompanied by Dr. Steven Maduwa as well as the District Head of Daware, went round and assessed the newly renovated blocks of classrooms.

The intervention by the Dan Lawan Adamawa will no doubt go a long way in upgrading the educational status of the area and thge State as a whole.

NECAS BOSS DONATES 3 BLOCKS OF CLASSROOMS TO ALTER MATER

National Chairman of Northeast Commodity Association (NECAS), who is also the new Dan Lawan Adamawa, Alhaji Sadiq Daware, has donated 3 blocks of classrooms to his alma mater.

According to Alhaji Daware, the gesture is a practical way of giving back to his old school, Government Junior Secondary School, Pariya in Fufore LGA, which served as a stepping stone to his educational background.

More so, the donation of the classrooms is aimed at complimenting the effort of the government in the education sector. 

During the commissioning ceremony, students and staff of the school accorded Alhaji Sadiq Daware, a rousing welcome as an old boy and for overhauling the entire structure of the school. 

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner Ministry of Education, Mrs Wilbina Jackson, appreciated the effort of the Dan Lawan Adamawa, urging other well meaning individuals to follow suit.

In his remarks, Alhaji Sadiq Daware, said that the initiative is nothing but a community service, and promised to do more for the betterment of the school and community at large. 

Responding, the Chairman Parents Teachers Association (PTA) of the school who could not hide his feelings, urged Dan Lawan Adamawa to maintain the spirit.

The NECAS Chairman and Cmmissioner of Education, Mrs Wilbina Jackson, accompanied by Dr. Steven Maduwa as well as the District Head of Daware, went round and assessed the newly renovated blocks of classrooms.

The intervention by the Dan Lawan Adamawa will no doubt go a long way in upgrading the educational status of the area and thge State as a whole.

DEVT: ADHA CALLS FOR CREATION OF MARKET, HOSPITAL, SCH AT MALKOHI HOUSING UNIT

Adamawa State House of Assembly Standing Committee on Housing and Urban Development on Tuesday, called on the government to provide social amenities at 1000 Housing Unit being constructed at Malkohi.

The assembly committee observed that the provision of social amenities such as road network, school, market square, recreational centre, hospital, planting of trees will open up new job opportunities for the citizens in the state.

However, the committee headed by the All Progressives Congress (APC) Lawmaker, Hon. Abubakar Isa, representing Shelleng constituency, applauded government's commitment towards providing social amenities to its citizens.

Hon. Isa, who made the call while inspecting the 1000 housing unit at Malkohi, Yola South LGA yestarday, noted with satisfaction the quality of work being executed at the site, saying that the laudable project attests to government’s commitment towards meeting the yearnings and aspirations of the electorate.

Hon. Isa(Marafan Shelleng) who was accompanied by a member of the committee, Hon. Abdullahi Ahmadu ( APC Leko Koma), specifically, commended the Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development and his team for properly supervising the project, and reiterated the assembly's support to the ministry.

Speaking while recieving the committee, the Commissioner of the Ministry, Hon. Barr. Sunday Mathew Nyagra, said that the state government is committed to providing infrastructural development especially affordable houses to the people.

Hon. Barr. Nyagra, explained that already the state government has put all necessary measures to ensure that basic amenities are provided in the housing estate.

Hon. Barr. Sunday Mathew Nyagra, appreciated the committee members for the visit and assured them of his ministrie's support at all times.

YOLA COURT SENTENCES "SHILA" BOY 8 YRS IN PRISON AFTER ESCAPING TO CAMEROON

A 22 year old notorious "Shila" boy, Gaddafi Musa, was on Tuesday, convicted and sentenced to 8 years in prison without option of fine for the offence of extortion.

Gaddafi, bagged the prison term after he was tried and found guilty for the offence which contravened section 285 of the state penal code law, 2018. 

Magistrate Jiyina Ayuba Bwangali, handed down the verdict when the defendant who was apprehended after he had escaped to Cameroon Republic was arraigned before her for prosecution.

NEWS PLATFORM gathered that the convict escaped to Cameroon republic in order to avoid being arrested where he had spent 1 month and 2 weeks before returning to Nigeria when things became very hard for him in Cameroon.

Gaddafi Musa, of Wuro Kuturu, Yola North Local Government Area, conspired with Aminu Adamu and Yusuf Adamu, and invaded Umar Faruk Ibrahim's residence around 2:00am, where they threatened to kill him and his younger brother, Nasiru Ibrahim.

The trio who armed themselves with cutllases and knives during their operation; however, carted away with 2 of their victims' phones valued N100, 000 and N20, 000 respectively. 

Aminu and Yusuf later sold the phone valued N100, 000, to one Ayuba Abdullahi, at the sum of N10, 000, only.

But as fate will have it, Aminu, Yusuf and Ayuba, the receiver of stolen property, were nabbed by the vigilantes and arraigned before the court presided by its former judge, Magistrate Japhet Ibrahim Basani.

Magistrate Basani, sentenced Aminu Adamu and Yusuf Adamu to 7 years in prison each without option of fine, while, Ayuba Abdullahi, was slammed 5 year prison term with N100, 000 option of fine for criminal conspiracy, extortion and theft.

But Gaddafi Musa, who got wind of the arrest of his accomplices, escaped to Cameroon republic, where he spent over a month before returning to Nigeria.

Instead of returning to Yola, his home town, Gaddafi, stopped at Farang in Fufore Local Government Area, where he spent over a week, and later came back to Yola after he was informed about the conviction of the duo.

Few days later, the prosecutor, Seargent Kabiru Abubakar, who acted on tip off, led a team which arrested Gaddafi on the 21st October, 2021 and arraigned before the chief magistrate court on the 22nd October, 2021.

While in court, Gaddafi, pleaded guilty to the offence as charged by the prosecution, after which Seargent Kabiru, the prosecutor called a witness, Nasiru Ibrahim, who corroborated his guilt plea and subsequently applied for summary trial of the defendant.

In her ruling on Tuesday, Magistrate Jiyina Ayuba Bwangali, convicted and sentenced him to 8 years in prison without option of fine.

ADHA APPROVES N23.6BILLION VIREMENT FOR GOV FINTIRI

Adamawa State House of Assembly on Monday, approved the whooping N23.623 billion virement for Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri.

The virement, is for the services of the state from October to December, 2021.

Governor Finitiri, had in a letter sent to the assembly, requested the state legislators to graciously okay the viremernt for his government.

But at a resumed plenary session on Monday, the members of the assembly unanimously considered a report on the virement as presented and subsequently approved it.

The approval followed the presentatation of a report by the Committee on Finance, Budget and Appropriation headed by Hon. Kate Raymond Mamuno(Demsa).

After the approval, the Deputy Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Pwamwakeno Mackondo, who presided over the sitting, directed the Clerk to the House to communicate the resolution of the Assembly to the executive arm.

Speaking to newsmen after the approval of the virement, the chairman House Committee on Finance, Budget and Appropriation, Hon. Kate Raymond Mamuno(Demsa) explained that the virement is a constitutional matter, and that government can vire money from a sub head to the other.

She added that it is all about transfering money approved by legislators from a sub head to the other and nothing else, saying that the government is only seeking the transfer of such money from the approved budget to serve the state.

RE: POLICE ARREST 15 SUSPECTED CULT MEMBERS DURING INITIATION IN ADAMAWA UNIVERSITY.

A rejoinder to stories making the round on social media about arrest of 15 suspected cultists at Adamawa State University by one Jonathan Filibus could ordinarily be ignored for its inconsistency in ascertaining the facts of the story before it was published. More so that the Management of Adamawa State University would not want to join issues with any one, since the matter is being investigated by the Adamawa State Police Command.

However, the facts of the published story should be presented in the right perspective to avoid tarnishing the good image of ADSU.  The caption of the story is misleading because the arrested suspected cultists are not students of Adamawa State University as reported. The Chief Security Officer, Federal Polytechnic, Mubi confirmed that the arrested suspects comprised of  students from Federal Polytechnic, Mubi (5) College of Heath Technology (3), non students from Mubi town (6) with only (1) from ADSU, making the total of 15.

Furthermore, the complainant in this case is Federal Polytechnic Mubi not ADSU and the suspected cultist were arrested behind the Federal Polytechnic Campus not ADSU Campus.

It is therefore unfair to ADSU the way and manner the report was crafted and presented without any recourse to the Management of ADSU as the ethics of the profession demands.

This act of unprofessionalism is unacceptable by the Management of ADSU and perceived as targeted to damage the corporate image of the institution and to also create panic in the minds of students, staff, parents and the general public.

The University demands that Jonathan Filibus retracts his story and present the facts in the correct perspective to the general public.

Signed:

MANAGEMENT

RE: POLICE ARREST 15 SUSPECTED CULT MEMBERS DURING INITIATION IN ADAMAWA UNIVERSITY

.

A rejoinder to stories making the round on social media about arrest of 15 suspected cultists at Adamawa State University by one Jonathan Filibus could ordinarily be ignored for its inconsistency in ascertaining the facts of the story before it was published. More so that the Management of Adamawa State University would not want to join issues with any one, since the matter is being investigated by the Adamawa State Police Command.

However, the facts of the published story should be presented in the right perspective to avoid tarnishing the good image of ADSU.  The caption of the story is misleading because the arrested suspected cultists are not students of Adamawa State University as reported. The Chief Security Officer, Federal Polytechnic, Mubi confirmed that the arrested suspects comprised of  students from Federal Polytechnic, Mubi (5) College of Heath Technology (3), non students from Mubi town (6) with only (1) from ADSU, making the total of 15.

Furthermore, the complainant in this case is Federal Polytechnic Mubi not ADSU and the suspected cultist were arrested behind the Federal Polytechnic Campus not ADSU Campus.

It is therefore unfair to ADSU the way and manner the report was crafted and presented without any recourse to the Management of ADSU as the ethics of the profession demands.

This act of unprofessionalism is unacceptable by the Management of ADSU and perceived as targeted to damage the corporate image of the institution and to also create panic in the minds of students, staff, parents and the general public.

The University demands that Jonathan Filibus retracts his story and present the facts in the correct perspective to the general public.

Signed:

MANAGEMENT....WE IN THE NEWS PLATFORM, STAND BY OUR STORY ...Editor.

ADAMAWA POLICE ARREST 15 CULT MEMBERS IN ADSU MUBI

Operatives of the Adamawa State Police Command have arrested 15 suspected cult members during cult initiation at the State University Mubi.

According to the command, the operatives recovered axe, charms among other items from the suspects.

This is coming as the university on Thursday, announced the suspension of academic activities for 2 weeks as a result of hostel allocation racketeering on the institution's portal.

The spokesman of the police command, DSP Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje who confirmed the arrest to NEWS PLATFORM on Sunday, disclosed that the suspects were apprehended during cult initiation on Sunday.

He stated that the suspects belong to the most notorious cult group, Neo Black Movement who allegedly initiate other students as well as wreck havoc in the institution. 

DSP Nguroje told NEWS PLATFORM that the suspects would be paraded by the command during the week.

Meanwhile, the university in a circular released by the School Academic Secretary, Mrs A.J. Tafida, and made available to NEWS PLATFORM by the Information Officer, Belmond Benson, on Sunday,  said that the decision to suspend activities became necessary following 8th extra ordinary meeting by senate of the institution where it directed for the suspension of the activities.

The senate during meeting held on the 18th November, 2021, considered a report on hostel allocation racketeering on the portal and resolved that registration for the 2021/ 2022 Academic Session and other activities be suspended and advised all students to vacate the university premises.

NEWS PLATFORM was informed on Sunday that the management of the university had last week constituted a committee with a mandate to investigate hostel racketeering on the portal and given 2 weeks within which to submit its findings.

 

ADAMAWA GOVERNOR, FINTIRI TRANSFORMS CHRISTIAN PILGRIM's BOARD

By Padio Phineas.

Adamawa state governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has earned the respect of Christians in the state and beyond.

The governor, it was learnt will go down in history as one who has left his name in the sand of Christian history, for transforming Christian pilgrims Welfare Board (CPWB), by repositioning it to achieve its mandate.

Consequently, Christian community in Adamawa State has noted with eulogy the commitment of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri towards the spiritual development of the people.

Several Christian leaders spoken to said the governor has for the first time in a long while, restored the lost glory the CPWB.

As according to them, the board has become a prideful place, seeing activities for pilgrimage have been retracted to the old days of transparent operations.

Recalled, in the recent past, the board was plagued with unprintable corrupt practices, which also gave Christianity bad impression in the eyes of the world.

However, immediately he took the reins of power, Governor Fintiri, shoved for a capable and prudent administrator, Rev. Zenald Love, who immediately reorganised the board and equally restored it's lost glory.

Currently, the board has functional administrative departments, namely: Department of Administration, Department of Finance, Department of Operations, Department of Planning and Statistics and Department of Media and Communication.

This was achieved through tac and ingenuity of the Executive Secretary, in collaboration with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), under the leadership of Most Rev. Stephen Dami Mamza, who is also the Catholic Bishop of Yola Diocese.

Unlike in the past, the board now is run by a team of competent Individuals, as management. This is a clear departure from what obtained in the past, when the Executive Secretary held sway as alpha and omega.

Owing to the remarkable reorganisation, preparations for the 2021 Christian pilgrimage have almost been concluded, which has already been remarked as the best so far.

This is because, besides a forecasted hitch free performance of pilgrimage this year, prospective Pilgrims have been afforded the opportunity to apply for the exercise online.

Also for the very first time, pilgrims have underwent rigorous screening process, this was attested to by prominent Christian leaders in the state.

Their Royal Majesties,  Hama Bata, Alhamdu Teneke and Kwandi Nuguraya, Dishion Dansanda II, have both given their good impressions about the changes at CPWB.

They categorically eulogised Governor Fintiri for his foresight, in appointing a prudent administrator to right the wrongs at the board.

BRIG. GEN. ZIRKUSHU's DEATH, A RUDE SHOCK - BARR. NGGILIRI

Former Governor of Adamawa State, Barr. Bala James Nggilari, has described as a rude shock the death of Brig. Gen. Dzarma Zirkushu.

Barr. Nggilari, in a condolence message made available to NEWS PLATFORM on Friday, said "the death of Brg. Gen. Zirkushu, came to me as a rude and unpleasant shock".

According to him, the slain army general gallantly fought for the course of peace in northeast and Nigeria, and further described him as a dedicated and loyal soldier even in the face of threat to national unity and security .

The former Governor added that the Hoba Community, Adamawa State and Nigeria in general lost a rare gem, insisting that "he was our hero".

He further stated thus:" Though we mourn your early departure, we are comforted in the fact that you have paid you dues; you served your father Land".

He explained that Brg. Gen. Dzarma, "fought the good fight, finished the race and kept the faith”.

Barr. Bala James Nggilari, extended his heartfelt condolences to his immediate family, friends, Hoba community and the Nigerian Army, saying that indeed it is a trying moment for them; however, prayed God to heal and comfort them.

COURT REMANDS 3 FOR ROBBING 6 PEOPLE OF N6.8MILLION IN YOLA

An Upper Area Court 4 sitting in Yola, Adamawa state on Thursday, ordered the remand of 3 men accused of robbing 6 persons of N6.8million in Yola.

Hon. Ibrahim Musa Ulenda, the presiding judge of the court issued the order when the accused persons were arraigned before him for the alleged offence.

The defendants include; Sirajo Muhammed, 40, resident of Yankaji, Jos North LGA, Plateau State, Benjamin John, 48, resident of Namso street, Sabon Tasha, Kaduna South LGA Kaduna State and Mustapha Abubakar, 45 and hails from zoo road, Kumboso LGA, Kano state.

The offence, according to the prosecution, contravened the provisions of Sections 60 and 277 of the State Penal Code law, 2018.

The defendants allegedly robbed Hajiya Ajuji Umar of N1.5million, Ibrahim Aliyu, N600, 000, Saidu Abubakar, N950, 000, Jega Daniel, N500, 000, Adamu Sallau, N2.5million and Sefina Enock, 240, 000 

NEWS PLATFORM recalled that the suspects who specialise in trailing and robbing customers after making cash withdrawals from their various banks, were apprehended by the Crack Squad of the police command.

The operatives recovered a vehicle, the sum of N26,000, cash, 2 master keys and 4 handsets among others from the trio who had terrorised customers along bank road in Jimeta Yola as well as in Mubi.

But while in court, the defendants denied robbing the people of their money when the First Information Report(FIR) tendered by the prosecutor, Inspector Nanugi Taheri, was read to them.

Thereafter, counsel to the defendants, Mahmud Ahmed, applied for bail of all the defendants, saying that the offence is bailable in nature, and pleaded with the court to grant them bail.

Ruling on the bail application, Hon. Ibrahim Musa Ulenda, admitted them to bail in the sum of N500, 000, each in cognisance of 1 reliable surety each in the like sum who must be their respective District Heads from their various communities/states per the content of the FIR.

Hon. Ulenda, added that in line with the provision of section 166(1) and (2) of Adamawa State Administration of Criminal Justice Law, 2018, the cash deposit of the sum of 1.5million for the 3 shall be deposited to the registry of the court pending the hearing and determination of the case.

He however ordered that the defendants be remanded in prison custody and adjourned the case to the 29th November, 2021 for hearing. 

            

POLICE ALLAY FEAR OVER THREAT TO ATTACK ADAMAWA COMMUNITY OVER N30 MILLION

The Adamawa State Police Command has allayed the fears of residents of Fa, a Gaya community in Hong Local Government Area over rumours of attack.

The inhabitants of the community have been thrown into panic following an online report that the community will be attacked failure to pay N30million ransom.

It is against this backdrop that the command in a press release by its spokesman, DSP Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje, which was made available to NEWS PLATFORM, on Thursday, called on the public to disregard the report.

DSP Nguroje, assured the community of adequate security measures, insisting that the commissioner of police, Mohammed Ahmed Barde, has ordered for 24 hour suveillance.

He said that " the command with other sister agencies have put in place a robust crime prevention strategies such as surveillance, foot and vehicular patrols, joint stop and search operation, visibility policing and information gathering to forestall any breach of peace and ensure public safety in and around the community"

The command enjoined the inhabitants of the community to go about their legitimate activities without any fear or apprehension, saying that the Divisional Police Officer, Operational Commanders and their supervisory Area Commanders were directed to ensure the safety and security of the community .

He said that the Strategic Officers will strengthen the visibility policing structure and carry-out confidence building patrols particularly around residential areas, entry and exit roads to prevent and arrest any ugly situation.  

He urged on the community to continue in supporting the police and other security agencies in their efforts at ensuring peaceful coexistence, public safety, public order and public security.

            

                 

NOTORIOUS ROBBER JAILED 3 YRS FOR THEFT OF N256, 000 PROPERTY IN YOLA

An Upper Area Court 4 in Adamawa State has convicted and sentenced a 25 year old notorious robber, Abdullahi Muhammed, to 3 years in prison without option of fine.

The court's judge, Hon. Ibrahim Musa Ulenda, handed down the verdict after Abdullahi, said to be a recidivist was tried and found guilty for the offence of theft contrary to section 276 of the state penal code law.

Earlier, when the case was called, the convict who was nabbed on the 14th October, 2021, and subsequently arraigned before the court, admitted perpetrating the crime.

He confessed to carting away an Infinix hot 6, HP laptop, 2 Techno handsets worth N45, 000, 148, 000 and N63, 000, respectively which amounted to N256, 000.

According to the prosecution, one Faruk Hafis of Jambutu ward, came to Doubeli police station and reported that the convict who hails from Demsawo, entered Nafan filling station and made away with his infinix.

Equally, another victim simply identified as Abubakar Adamu, of Demsawo ward stormed the police station, and complained that the convict conspired with others now at large and invaded his house and stole the aforementioned laptop and 2 Techno handsets.

He was later apprehended and charged to court on First Information Report tendered by Seargent Kabiru Abubakar, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Mohammed Ahmed Barde.

When the case was mentioned and guilt plea corroborated by a witness at later date, the prosecutor, Seargent Kabiru, applied that the defendant and now convict be accorded summary trial.

In its ruling, the new Upper Area Court presided by its pioneer judge and former judge of Chief Magistrate Court 2 Yola, Ibrahim Musa Ulenda, convicted and sentenced him to 3 years without option of fine.

NEWS PLATFORM learnt that when the news of Abdullahi's conviction broke out, his victims and residents of Demsawo went on a wild jubilation and hailed the court for its wise decision, saying that they can now sleep with their eyes closed.

POLICE RESCUE NURSING MOTHER, BABY, ARREST 3 KIDNAPPERS IN ADAMAWA

In its renewed commitment to curtailing crime in and around Adamawa State, the operatives of the state police command attached to Gombi Division and professional hunters have rescued a nursing mother and her 2 year baby.

The nursing mother and baby (Jimrewa Las and Grace Las) were resued on the 15th November, 2021, by the police in collaboration with the hunters.

According to the command, the victims were rescued unharmed after a gun duel between the operatives and the kidnappers during which the suspects were wounded and escaped with bullet wounds.

The 3 suspected kidnappers

The command's spokesman, DSP Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje, in a press release made available to NEWS PLATFORM on Wednesday, said that the command's operatives attached to Intelligent Bureau (SIB) and Members of Miyetti Allah (MACBAN) also arrested 3 suspected kidnappers.

DSP Nguroje, disclosed that the men in a joint operation with MACBAN apprehended the suspects on the 12th November, 2021, after they had vigorously pursuit the hoodlums to their hideout in Balhoni Hills, Fufore LGA.

He added that the suspects earlier kidnapped one Ali Yusuf of Kadarbu village in Fufore LGA and demanded the sum N2.5million as ransom via a letter of threat attached with a live ammunition and dropped to his relatives.

The suspects, according to him, include Samaila Tukur, 30, Dawe Yunusa, 28 and Abdullahi Adamu, 25 years, and that all of them reside at Kadarbu village, Daware District in Fufore LGA.

According to him, the breakthrough is part of the reinvigorated special action plan against kidnapping, armed robbery and other violent crimes across the state.

DSP Nguroje, disclosed that the command's frequent operation is aimed at preventing and dislodging kidnappers as well as denying them space to regroup.

He extended the assurance of the Commussioner of Police, Mohammed Ahmed Barde, to the government and the people of the state of its readiness to continue to do all within its powers to guarantee a stable security across the State.

He called on the civil populace to work with the police and other security agencies in the joint task of safeguarding our state, especially in the area of providing useful, relevant and timely information.

 

CP Mohammed Ahmed Barde, assured that the law must certainly take it course as the suspects will be charged to court upon completion of investigation.

           

POLICE RESCUE NURSING MOTHER, BABY, ARREST 3 KIDNAPPERS IN ADAMAWA

In its renewed commitment to curtailing crime in and around Adamawa State, the operatives of the state police command attached to Gombi Division and professional hunters have rescued a nursing mother and her 2 year baby.

The nursing mother and baby (Jimrewa Las and Grace Las) were resued on the 15th November, 2021, by the police in collaboration with the hunters.

The 3 suspected kidnappers

According to the command, the victims were rescued unharmed after a gun duel between the operatives and the kidnappers during which the suspects were wounded and escaped with bullet wounds.

The command's spokesman, DSP Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje, in a press release made available to NEWS PLATFORM on Wednesday, said that the command's operatives attached to Intelligent Bureau (SIB) and Members of Miyetti Allah (MACBAN) also arrested 3 suspected kidnappers.

DSP Nguroje, disclosed that the men in a joint operation with MACBAN apprehended the suspects on the 12th November, 2021, after they had vigorously pursuit the hoodlums to their hideout in Balhoni Hills, Fufore LGA.

He added that the suspects earlier kidnapped one Ali Yusuf of Kadarbu village in Fufore LGA and demanded the sum N2.5million as ransom via a letter of threat attached with a live ammunition and dropped to his relatives.

The suspects, according to him, include Samaila Tukur, 30, Dawe Yunusa, 28 and Abdullahi Adamu, 25 years, and that all of them reside at Kadarbu village, Daware District in Fufore LGA.

According to him, the breakthrough is part of the reinvigorated special action plan against kidnapping, armed robbery and other violent crimes across the state.

DSP Nguroje, disclosed that the command's frequent operation is aimed at preventing and dislodging kidnappers as well as denying them space to regroup.

He extended the assurance of the Commussioner of Police, Mohammed Ahmed Barde, to the government and the people of the state of its readiness to continue to do all within its powers to guarantee a stable security across the State.

He called on the civil populace to work with the police and other security agencies in the joint task of safeguarding our state, especially in the area of providing useful, relevant and timely information.

 

CP Mohammed Ahmed Barde, assured that the law must certainly take it course as the suspects will be charged to court upon completion of investigation.

           

ADAMAWA POLICE RESCUE NURSING MOTHER, BABY, ARREST 3 KIDNAPPERS

In its renewed commitment to curtailing crime in and around Adamawa State, the operatives of the state police command attached to Gombi Division and professional hunters have rescued a nursing mother and her 2 year baby.

The nursing mother and baby (Jimrewa Las and Grace Las) were resued on the 15th November, 2021, by the police in collaboration with the hunters.

According to the command, the victims were rescued unharmed after a gun duel between the operatives and the kidnappers during which the suspects were wounded and escaped with bullet wounds.

The suspects

The command's spokesman, DSP Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje, in a press release made available to NEWS PLATFORM on Wednesday, said that the command's operatives attached to Intelligent Bureau (SIB) and Members of Miyetti Allah (MACBAN) also arrested 3 suspected kidnappers.

DSP Nguroje, disclosed that the men in a joint operation with MACBAN apprehended the suspects on the 12th November, 2021, after they had vigorously pursuit the hoodlums to their hideout in Balhoni Hills, Fufore LGA.

He added that the suspects earlier kidnapped one Ali Yusuf of Kadarbu village in Fufore LGA and demanded the sum N2.5million as ransom via a letter of threat attached with a live ammunition and dropped to his relatives.

The suspects, according to him, include Samaila Tukur, 30, Dawe Yunusa, 28 and Abdullahi Adamu, 25 years, and that all of them reside at Kadarbu village, Daware District in Fufore LGA.

According to him, the breakthrough is part of the reinvigorated special action plan against kidnapping, armed robbery and other violent crimes across the state.

DSP Nguroje, disclosed that the command's frequent operation is aimed at preventing and dislodging kidnappers as well as denying them space to regroup.

He extended the assurance of the Commussioner of Police, Mohammed Ahmed Barde, to the government and the people of the state of its readiness to continue to do all within its powers to guarantee a stable security across the State.

He called on the civil populace to work with the police and other security agencies in the joint task of safeguarding our state, especially in the area of providing useful, relevant and timely information.

 

CP Mohammed Ahmed Barde, assured that the law must certainly take it course as the suspects will be charged to court upon completion of investigation.

           

ADHA BEGINS SCRUTINY OF N163.6 BILLION BUDGET AS 25 MDAs SET APPEAR

Adamawa State House of Assembly on Monday, began scrunity of N163.6billion budget estimates presented before it by Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintirti, for the services of the state in the year 2022.

It is a tradition for the assembly to invite ministries, boards and parastatals to appear before various House of Assembly Standing Committees to defend what was appropriated for them by the Govenor.

To this end, the assembly invited no fewer than 25 MDAs who have since started trooping into the assembly complex with a view to making clarifications on what Fintiri appropriated for them to expend.

Some of the MDAs so far defended their budget on Monday include; ministry of commerce and Industry, special duties and state planning, while the ministries of education, tertiary and professional institutions and health and human services are expected to appear on Tuesday.

While the commissioner ministry of commerce and industry, Hon. Justina Obadiah Nkom, and other principal officers appeared before Hon. Umar Musa Bororo(Mubi South), a delegation from state planning appeared before Hon. Joseph Ayuba Kwada(Michika constituency) for the exercise.

Other MDAs set to defend their appropriation bill on Tuesday include; ministries of agriculture, youth, sports, culture and tourism, finance, appropriation and budget and environment and natural resources. 

Earlier, speaking while declaring the exercise open, the Speaker of the assembly, Rt. Hon. Aminu Iya Abbas, said that it is constitutionally stipulated for the MDAs to appear and clarify how they plan to expend their budget.

The Speaker, who was represented by the Deputy, Rt. Hon. Pwamwakeno Mackondo(Numan) observed that the issue of budget is not about appropriating and approving, but how it is going to be implemented to improve the living standard of the people at the grasstroots.

In her remarks during the event, the Chairman House Standing Committee on Finance, Budget and Appropriation and Member representing Demsa constituency, Hon. Kate Raymond Mamuno, stated that the concern of the assembly is sanity, transparency and accountability in the implementation.

The only female legislator said that the budget is not for the assembly but the entire citizens of the state, and stressed the commitment of her committee and that of the assembly to ensure its sustainability. 

Responding on behalf of the MDAs, the commissioner ministry of Land and Survey, Hon. Umar Mohammed Madagali, assured that the MDAs will corperate with the assembly to ensure accountability in the implementation.

Hon. Umar, explained that the budget was designed to sustain the developmental projects recorded so far, saying that Governor Fintiri, is determined to provide more dividends of democracy.

He assured the people of the state to expect more good things from the 2022 budget and from the Fintiri led administration and appreciated the assembly for the invitation.

Hon. Members who attended the opening ceremony of the defense include; Hon. Hamidu Sajo Lekki(Yola North), Hon. Adwawa Donglock(Guyuk), Hon. Abdullahi Umar Yapak(Verre), Hon. Shuiabu Musa(Mubi North), Rt. Hon. Kabiru Mijinyawa(Yola South), Hon. Mohammed Mutawali(Girei), Hon. Alhassan Hamanjoda(Ganye), Hon. Isa Yahaya(Maiha), Hon. Simon Isa(Song) and Hon. Myandassa Bauna(Lamurde).

FARMER/HERDER CLASHES: INT'L NGO TRAINS YOUTHS ON PEACE BUILDING

Worried by the spate of farmer and herder clashes over natural resources in Adamawa State of Nigeria in recent times, an international organisation, Search for Common Ground in conjuction with Two (2) other organisations has trained Twenty (20) Youths on how to build peace and social cohesion.

The NGO in collaboration with International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and Mercy Corps, being funded by the European Union provided the 3 day training for diverse youths in the state.

According to the organisers of the event, the organisations are implementing a project entitled, "COMITAS" (Contributing to the Mitigation of Conflict over Natural Resources between farmer and herder communities in Adamawa State).

The induction program is coming when the atmosphere in some parts of the state is charged with clashes between farmers and herdsmen which result to loss of lives and property from both sides; hence, the significance of the program not only to the participants but the state in general.

More importantly, the event attracted participants who have influence on social media and equipped them on how they can contribute to the mitigation of the protracted conflicts through the production of films and content on their social media handles with a view to changing negative narratives on the burning issue.

Additionally, it introduced the participants into the COMITAS Fellowship where it provided them with an in-depth understanding of the fellowship program, project objectives, how they can intertwine, and how they can accomplish it.

Cross section of the youth who bared their minds to newsmen during the event held at Alheri Hotel in Yola, the Adamawa State capital recently, appreciated the EU funded organisations for providing rare opportunity for them to contribute their part in building peaceful coexistence between herders and farmers.

Fielding questions from newsmen, a participant, Dogara Iliya, said that he had learnt on how to craft or tell a compelling story to the people be it on the social media and how to engage them humanly, saying that "it was a rigorous training for us".

Dogara, further stated thus:" my engagement on social media is going to be different entirely after this training most especially on knowledge and information sharing". 

On her part, Aisha Nana Bello, said that she was excited to be part of the fellowship, adding that she has been equipped with knowledge on how she will contribute her part to promote peace.

Aisha Nana, told newsmen that " I have learnt on how to establish common ground in whatever I am going to do", stating further that she can now be able to use communication skills in addressing issues.

Addressing the participants earlier, the Head of Office Search for Common Ground, Middle Belt, Chris Ogbonna, disclosed that the fellowship program is part of way of reaching out to young people and not limited to students, but young people who are media influencers, or have certain level of leadership capacities in their different communities. 

Ogbonna, who is also the State Project Manager COMITAS Project, pointed out that it is a Nine (9) month programme that will build capacity in order to change negative stereotypes, adding that the target is how to change the narratives around the farmer and herder conflicts.

While baring her mind to newsmen, the Media Co-ordinator Search for Common Ground, Adamawa State, Nandak Chingle, stated that they expect that at the end of 9 months they will see difference in the information that they share.

Nandak, explained that what they want is a kind of change in negative narratives concerning conflicts in and around Adamawa State.

FARMER/HERDER CLASHES: INT'L NGO TRAINS 20 YOUTHS ON PEACE BUILDING

Worried by the spate of farmer and herder clashes over natural resources in Adamawa State of Nigeria in recent times, an international organisation, Search for Common Ground in conjuction with Two (2) other organisations has trained Twenty (20) Youths on how to build peace and social cohesion.

The NGO in collaboration with International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and Mercy Corps, being funded by the European Union provided the 3 day training for diverse youths in the state.

According to the organisers of the event, the organisations are implementing a project entitled, "COMITAS" (Contributing to the Mitigation of Conflict over Natural Resources between farmer and herder communities in Adamawa State).

The induction program is coming when the atmosphere in some parts of the state is charged with clashes between farmers and herdsmen which result to loss of lives and property from both sides; hence, the significance of the program not only to the participants but the state in general.

More importantly, the event attracted participants who have influence on social media and equipped them on how they can contribute to the mitigation of the protracted conflicts through the production of films and content on their social media handles with a view to changing negative narratives on the burning issue.

Additionally, it introduced the participants into the COMITAS Fellowship where it provided them with an in-depth understanding of the fellowship program, project objectives, how they can intertwine, and how they can accomplish it.

Cross section of the youth who bared their minds to newsmen during the event held at Alheri Hotel in Yola, the Adamawa State capital recently, appreciated the UN funded organisations for providing rare opportunity for them to contribute their part in building peaceful coexistence between herders and farmers.

Fielding questions from newsmen, a participant, Dogara Iliya, said that he had learnt on how to craft or tell a compelling story to the people be it on the social media and how to engage them humanly, saying that "it was a rigorous training for us".

Dogara, further stated thus:" my engagement on social media is going to be different entirely after this training most especially on knowledge and information sharing". 

On her part, Aisha Nana Bello, said that she was excited to be part of the fellowship, adding that she has been equipped with knowledge on how she will contribute her part to promote peace.

Aisha Nana, told newsmen that " I have learnt on how to establish common ground in whatever I am going to do", stating further that she can now be able to use communication skills in addressing issues.

Addressing the participants earlier, the Head of Office Search for Common Ground, Middle Belt, Chris Ogbonna, disclosed that the fellowship program is part of way of reaching out to young people and not limited to students, but young people who are media influencers, or have certain level of leadership capacities in their different communities. 

Ogbonna, who is also the State Project Manager COMITAS Project, pointed out that it is a Nine (9) month programme that will build capacity in order to change negative stereotypes, adding that the target is how to change the narratives around the farmer and herder conflicts.

While baring her mind to newsmen, the Media Co-ordinator Search for Common Ground, Adamawa State, Nandak Chingle, stated that they expect that at the end of 9 months they will see difference in the information that they share.

Nandak, explained that what they want is a kind of change in negative narratives concerning conflicts in and around Adamawa State.

ADAMAWA 2023: HON. NAMDAS FORMS "HOUSE TO HOUSE" CONTACT TEAMS

As part of strategies to actualise his governorship ambition, a gubernatorial aspirant under ther platform of the All Progressives Congress(APC), Hon. Abdulrazak Namdas, has formed a special "House to House" contact teams.

The contact teams comprise of 2 elderly men and 2 women each across the 21 Local Government Areas, so that each and every one of them will go house to house in order to mobilise support towards his victory.

They were selected based on their credibility, acceptability, capacity and wealth of experince in politics so as to canvass massive support for whom they describe as competent, acceptable and electable gubernatorial aspirant in the state.

Addressing the teams separately at Lelewal Hotel on Saturday, Hon. Namdas, who is the member representing Ganye, Jada, Toungo and Mayo Belwa at the House of Representatives, appreciated them for accepting to work towards ensuring his victory come 2023.

Hon. Namdas, told them that he did not recommend any name for selection, saying that they were selected by their people due to the confidence they reposed in them as men and women who have the capacity to deliver on their assignment. 

He assured them that his movement will bring real change people are yearning for, and pleaded with them to forget about what transpared at the just concluded congresses; instead, they should be committed and focused and strive to form government that will bring real change.

He said that the major problem of the country at the moment is the security of lives and property and as Chairman House Committee on Army, he has garnered enough experience in the security sector, and that he is well prepared to tackle insecurity headlong as well as bring real transformation in the education sector.

He told them that the issue of position at the party level will be useless if they do not form government come 2023, saying that if they do not win elections, it means the problem is not from the ruling party but from them.

Speaking earlier, Hon. Abdulrahaman Shuaibu, strong supporter of Hon. Namdas, informed them that they were selected and entrusted with the responsibilty to go house to house and seek support/annoiting of elderly men and women across the state to ensure the success of Hon. Namdas.

Hon. Shuaibu, said that they were selected in order to represent their aspirant as he cannot be everywhere at the same time, urging them to reach out to their people in their houses, mosques, churches, market squares in order to advertise people oriented programmes of Hon. Namdas.

In her remarks, the Women Leader of the APC, Hajiya Hauwa Koma, tasked women to ensure they capture everywhere for Namdas, and advised them to ensure that they plant their agents everywhere to work for his victory, and that winning and general is the major issue.

Coordinator Women for Namdas, Hon. Halima Hayatu, vowed to ensure that Hon. Namdas, takes over Dougirei government house in Yola, come 2023, saying that women never fails and that they will not fail him.

Cross section men and women from across the 21 LGAs who spoke during event,  pledged their unalloyed loyalty and support to his guber ambition, assuring Hon. Namdas, to count on their 100 percent support.

They expressed optimism that with the caliber of people who comprise the teams, there is no doubt whatsoever on clinching the forthcoming primaries and general election, and promised to work round the clock to see to the victory of Hon. Namdas.

ADAMAWA 2023: HON. NAMDAS FORMS "HOUSE TO HOUSE" CONTACT TEAMS

As part of strategies to actualise his governorship ambition, a gubernatorial aspirant under ther platform of the All Progressives Congress(APC), Hon. Abdulrazak Namdas, has formed a special "House to House" contact teams.

The contact teams comprise of 2 elderly men and 2 women each across the 21 Local Government Areas, so that each and every one of them will go house to house in order to mobilise support towards his victory.

They were selected based on their credibility, acceptability, capacity and wealth of experince in politics so as to canvass massive support for whom they describe as competent, acceptable and electable gubernatorial aspirant in the state.

Addressing the teams separately at Lelewal Hotel on Saturday, Hon. Namdas, who is the member representing Ganye, Jada, Toungo and Mayo Belwa at the House of Representatives, appreciated them for accepting to work towards ensuring his victory come 2023.

Hon. Namdas, told them that he did not recommend any name for selection, saying that they were selected by their people due to the confidence they reposed in them as men and women who have the capacity to deliver on their assignment. 

He assured them that his movement will bring real change people are yearning for, and pleaded with them to forget about what transpared at the just concluded congresses; instead, they should be committed and focused and strive to form government that will bring real change.

He said that the major problem of the country at the moment is the security of lives and property and as Chairman House Committee on Army, he has garnered enough experience in the security sector, and that he is well prepared to tackle insecurity headlong as well as bring real transformation in the education sector.

He told them that the issue of position at the party level will be useless if they do not form government come 2023, saying that if they do not win elections, it means the problem is not from the ruling party but from them.

Speaking earlier, Hon. Abdulrahaman Shuaibu, strong supporter of Hon. Namdas, informed them that they were selected and entrusted with the responsibilty to go house to house and seek support/annoiting of elderly men and women across the state to ensure the success of Hon. Namdas.

Hon. Shuaibu, said that they were selected in order to represent their aspirant as he cannot be everywhere at the same time, urging them to reach out to their people in their houses, mosques, churches, market squares in order to advertise people oriented programmes of Hon. Namdas.

In her remarks, the Women Leader of the APC, Hajiya Hauwa Koma, tasked women to ensure they capture everywhere for Namdas, and advised them to ensure that they plant their agents everywhere to work for his victory, and that winning and general is the major issue.

Coordinator Women for Namdas, Hon. Halima Hayatu, vowed to ensure that Hon. Namdas, takes over Dougirei government house in Yola, come 2023, saying that women never fails and that they will not fail him.

Cross section men and women from across the 21 LGAs who spoke during event,  pledged their unalloyed loyalty and support to his guber ambition, assuring Hon. Namdas, to count on their 100 percent support.

They expressed optimism that with the caliber of people who comprise the teams, there is no doubt whatsoever on clinching the forthcoming primaries and general election, and promised to work round the clock to see to the victory of Hon. Namdas.