The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Reports

  • Bruit Costaud, Nasarawa partner on strategic communications, policy enhancement, others

    Bruit Costaud, Nasarawa partner on strategic communications, policy enhancement, others

    An international leading and policy consulting firm,  Bruit Costaud and the Nasarawa State Government have announced move to partner on driving strategic communications, policy development, dispute resolution, among others.

    The partnership is to provide  advisory services on visibility at national and international fora, expos, and foreign media appearances to drive needed development for the state.

    This was made known when the Managing Partner, and former Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, paid a courtesy visit to the Nasarawa Governor, Sule Abdullahi, on Tuesday in Nasarawa state. 

    The major objective was to introduce Bruit Costaud, also known as BC Advisory of the world-renowned Ballard Partners Group and Africa’s foremost government affairs outfit.

    While Sule’s achievements in governance, infrastructure and grassroots engagement were lauded, Mohammed highlighted  Nasarawa’s unique potential for growth and development, given its strategic proximity to the Federal Capital Territory.

    His words: “Given your position as the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, we believe that the services offered by Bruit Costaud can significantly complement your efforts to ensure proper communication and dissemination of key information to manage any crisis given the current economic situation in Nigeria. 

    “We do not seek to compete or replace the excellent work being carried out by your team, but we propose to collaborate, complement and give more visibility to what your team is doing. 

    “Our firm’s expertise in policy, communications, diplomacy, and stakeholder engagement can aid in shaping effective strategies to enhance your administration’s economic policies and overall good governance. This becomes more crucial in the wake of the current economic crisis and the efforts of state governments, particularly Nasarawa State in ameliorating the economic hardship and bringing down the high cost of living.

    “To achieve this, we invite you to explore our specifically tailored services in the following areas: Development of a comprehensive communications strategy to amplify the projects and policies of Nasarawa State through social media and testimony series in the form of brief sectoral documentaries. 

    “Provision of advisory services on visibility for the state at national and international fora, expos, and foreign media appearances for the governor. Facilitation of capacity building for Information Officers on strategic communications, social media engagement and countering fake news and hate speech. 

    “Facilitation of capacity building for public officials: conduct training sessions for public officials on effective communication strategies, media relations, public speaking, and international engagement protocols. Conduct special sessions with public officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders, security chiefs, civil society and media on peace and conflict resolution. 

    “Provision of legislative advocacy on the enactment of favorable legislation for solid minerals producing states. Amplification of the state government’s humanitarian and economic interventions to manage the current economic crisis in the country,” he stated.

    Responding, Sule expressed optimism about the collaboration and its potential to drive positive change in the state. 

    He emphasised the importance of effective communication in building trust between the government and the people, and highlighted the role that Bruit Costaud will play in achieving this goal.

    “This, indeed, is an area that we would be interested in working with you after they go through it and review it. I have seen one of the things they have been posting actually to me about which areas they are planning in order to explore all the opportunities of NACCIMA. 

    “And I’m happy when you mentioned that you are not here to take anybody’s responsibilities but to collaborate, you know and see how we can work together. Another key aspect, which you have mentioned is actually on human capital development, because for us in Nasarawa state, we consider human capital development a key and we’re very serious about it.

    “You mentioned an area where you had gone through a lot of challenges. Maybe you will take us out of it – fake news. Fake news is very common especially here in Nasarawa where someone reported that N40 million was stolen from the bedroom of the governor.

    “I didn’t report that, I didn’t know how that happened. I don’t have N40 million in my bedroom. Unfortunately, some people took it seriously,” he said.

  • FCT rolls out ‘digitalised’ intra-city transport system

    FCT rolls out ‘digitalised’ intra-city transport system

    With the introduction of 15 air-conditioned 60-seater luxury buses fitted with free wi-fi in Abuja yesterday, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike has begun a repositioning process for intra-city transport needs of Abuja residents, the Director of FCT’s ‘Transport For Abuja’ project, Dr. Yakubu Terry has said.

    Speaking during the inauguration of the initial batch of 15 buses that will ply various parts of the capital city under a public/private partnership (PPP) programme, Dr. Terry stated that under the FCT Minister, renewed hope is manifesting for urban mass transit.

    During a brief ceremony at the Eagles Square, both Terry and the FCT’s Mandate Secretary for Transportation, Mr. Uboku Nyah emphasised that with the ‘Transport For All’ (TFA) project, the FCT has commenced a secure, convenient and affordable transportation that is for all Nigerians across various locations in the city.

     “Our vision for transport for Abuja is not just about buses and routes, it’s a commitment to building a connected, sustainable, and efficient transportation system that will elevate the quality of life for every resident. We envision a city where commuting is seamless, where people can rely on a modern and reliable transit system, and where transportation becomes a facilitator of progress.

    “To turn this vision into reality, ‘Transport for Abuja’ has devised a strategic plan that focuses on key city areas and their environs and by connecting the dots efficiently. We aim to create a web of convenience that thread through the fabric of Abuja; our strategy is not just about the number of buses on the road, it’s about creating a comprehensive and accessible network that serves the diverse needs of our community.

    “We will prioritize lucrative routes and leverage technology to optimize routes, reduce wait times, and enhance the overall commuting experience; as we strive for efficiency. A crucial aspect of our strategy is the introduction of cutting-edge digital payment offerings,” he said.

    Read Also: Be patient with us, Speaker Abbas appeals to Nigerians

    According to Terry, passengers’ convenience is paramount and the introduction of various digital payment methods and user-friendly mobile apps, will ensure that passengers can effortlessly purchase tickets and thereby eliminate the need for physical cash, reduce transaction time and speed up the boarding process with seamless and efficient experience for valued riders.

    Aside from the free onboard wi-fi and air-conditioning for passengers, Terry said the buses are equipped with live surveillance features for passenger safety.

    According to an official, Mr. Roy Kweku, who conducted government officials, including Zacharia Nyampa and other members of the House of Representatives on a short intra-city tour, the goal of TFA is to use innovative methods and ICT towards transforming urban transportation experience for Nigerians with a vision for more efficient, highly reliable, accessible and secure transportation system that can help towards improving citizens’ lives.

  • Alia begins  Ortom’s probe

    Alia begins  Ortom’s probe

    • Ex-governor welcomes develpment  

    Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, on Monday, inaugurated two separate Judicial Commissions of Inquiries, to probe the financial activities of the immediate past administration of Samuel Ortom.

    Apart from the income and expenditure, another Commission of Inquiries is to look into government assets and find out how they were sold.

    The two commission of Inquiries inaugurated are the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the Income and Expenditure of Benue State Government (from May 29, 2015, to May 28, 2023), and the Judicial Commission of inquiry into the Sale/lease of government assets, Companies and Markets (both State and Local Government owned markets), as well as Moribund Companies (from or before May 28, 2015 to May 28th, 2023).

    However, Ortom said he welcomed the probe of the activities of his administration.

    Alia explained that the setting up of the two commissions of inquiries to look into the activities of the outgone administration has become necessary, and is in response to the desire of the people.

    “These commissions are not merely bureaucratic endeavors; they are our response to the earnest desires and hopes of the good people of Benue, who are rightfully critical stakeholders and owners of our dear state and its resources,” the governor explained.

    According to Alia, the future of Benue as a state, depends largely on the prudent management of its resources, and as such, his administration will ensure that all monies expended, serve the collective purpose, which is to take the state to greater heights.

    “The future prosperity of Benue hinges on the prudent and judicious management of our resources. As we usher in a new era characterized by prioritizing the welfare of our people, it is imperative and quite incumbent upon us to ensure that every Naira expended serves the collective interest and propels the growth and development of our state.

    “The responsible stewardship of government resources bears a direct correlation to the well-being of our people. Adequate allocation to vital sectors such as the economy, agriculture, education, security, healthcare, and infrastructure uplifts the standard of living, while any mismanagement jeopardizes our collective progress,” Alia stated.

    While expressing his belief in the integrity and track record of the members of the commission to discharge their duties with utmost dedication and in accordance with the noble principles of public service, the governor, however, urged them to recognize the gravity of their mandate, insisting that the commission is not rooted in distrust but in his administration’s commitment to the principles of accountability, transparency, and good governance to safeguard the interests of the people of the state.

    Responding separately, the Chairman of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the Income and Expenditure of the Benue State Government 2015-2023, Justice Taiwo Taiwo (Rtd), as well as that of the Sale/lease of Government Assets, Companies and Markets, Justice Apollos Paul Idi (Rtd), all expressed their readiness to work in line with the terms of reference given them.

    They equally promised to do their best to come up with recommendations that will help the government to move the state forward.

    The Commission of Inquiry on the Income and Expenditure of Government Funds from May 2015- May 2023, has Justice Taiwo Taiwo (Rtd) as the Chairman, with Chief John Ochoga, Henry Tor, Tom Ujah, Ode Igbade Nick, Iorpenda Tarnguhar and Terfa Gbande, as members while Ajinge Sar, Dr. Abraham Gberindyer serve as Government Counsel and Secretary, respectively.

    Relatedly, the Commission of Inquiry on the Sale of Assets, Companies and Markets from (2015-2023), has Hon. Justice Apollos Paul Idi (Rtd) as the Chairman, with Clement Nenge Beetse, John Ogah,  Dr. Terungwa Adzende and Hon. Abraham Atotse as members while Victor Nyamtamen (Esq.) and John Edigbo serve as Government Council and Secretary, respectively.

    Read Also: Be patient with us, Speaker Abbas appeals to Nigerians

    The Commissions have been separately tasked to amongst other things, look into how the Bailout and Paris Club refunds were expended; look into the loans procured by the state during the period question and report on how such loans were used, as well as identify the companies owned by the state government (both active and inactive) and proffer solutions on how the inactive ones can be revived, amongst others.

    They have been given six months to complete their assignment and submit their report to the government.

    Ortom, in a statement by his media aide Terver Akase, expressed willingness to cooperate with the probe panels as long as the investigation is carried out in line with the law.

    He stressed that his administration was built on transparency, accountability, and good governance.

    He emphasized his readiness to provide any information or clarification, as may be required.

    Ortom urged his former appointees to equally make themselves available whenever called upon to provide clarifications.

  • Union hails lifting sanctions on Burkina Faso, Niger, others

    Union hails lifting sanctions on Burkina Faso, Niger, others

    The African Regional Organisation of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC-Africa) has commended the recent decision by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to lift the sanctions imposed on Burkina Faso, Niger Republic; Mali, and Guinea on account of military takeover of power.

    Following the lifting of the sanctions, ITUC-Africa urged the member states to reconsider their threat to withdraw from ECOWAS.

    In a statement in Abuja, the General Secretary, ITUC-Africa, Akhator Joel Odigie, called for the intensification of diplomatic efforts and negotiations to address the underlying governance issues that contributed to the military takeover in the region.

    “Nevertheless, our organisation remains deeply concerned about the prospective withdrawal of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso from ECOWAS, recognising the potential adverse effects on regional unity, socio – economic development, and the overall wellbeing of citizens.

    “Recognising the significance of the unity of ECOWAS and, by extension, Africa’s unity for the continent’s integration and development, prosperity, and global relevance, ITUC-Africa wishes to underscore the critical need for the concerned member states to reconsider their withdrawal. We advocate for a constructive dialogue within the 12-month deadline outlined in the ECOWAS treaty to resolve this impasse.

    “Importantly, we urge ECOWAS to urgently reassess its efficiency, liberate itself from external influences, and prioritise the welfare of West Africa and Africa’s populace. It is critical that the organisation fundamentally fit into the logic of its 2020 vision of moving from the ECOWAS of States to the ECOWAS of the people.

    “As African workers, we reiterate our conviction and preference for a people-driven, people-centred, and people-minded democracy that should be ‘the only game in town.’ Democracy must serve the people by guaranteeing their welfare and well-being. Also, we reaffirm that for real and enabling democracy to be achieved and thrive, strong institutions must be built, and the sanctity of the rule of the rule of law must be vigilantly and eternally upheld.

    “As organised workers, we reiterate our commitment to contributing to attaining these ideals. To this effect, African workers will actively prosecute the Global Campaign for Democracy that the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) will launch on the 4th of March 2024. We believe in plural and participatory democracy and will continue to engage it to ensure that it serves us better. 

     “Therefore, with the lifting of sanctions on these countries, ITUC-Africa urges the intensification of diplomatic efforts and negotiations to address the underlying governance issues that contribute to the military takeover in the region. ECOWAS should actively facilitate, through diplomatic means, the restoration of democratic principles and the rule of law in the affected countries. This process should involve legitimate procedures and inclusive consultations with all critical stakeholders such as workers and their trade union organisations, in alignment with the sub-regional bodies’ standards.

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     “For workers, businesses, economic sectors and people who have suffered from the effects of the sanctions, we urge ECOWAS to seek and deploy bilateral and multilateral cooperation and assistance mechanisms to aid and speed up recovery.

     “Similarly, we also want to urge ECOWAS to find the courage and political will to discourage constitutional manipulation and manoeuvring, especially by civilian actors, which is one of the actions diminishing trust and confidence in national democratic projects and processes. 

     “In conclusion, ITUC-Africa calls upon all stakeholders to prioritise dialogue, diplomacy, unity, cooperation, collaboration and solidarity to overcome the current impasse while steadfastly upholding democracy, human rights, and regional integration in the ECOWAS region.”

  • How to win war against terrorism, by DG VON

    How to win war against terrorism, by DG VON

    The Director-General, Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndace, has said that for the military to win the trust of media in its operations against terrorism and other security challenges, it must evolve ways that would aid prompt media access to unclassified information about military operations.

    He also said that military involvement of the media in the planning and implementation of operations would improve trust and mutual understanding.

    The Director-General said this yesterday, at a seminar organised by Defence Correspondent Association of Nigeria (DECAN) at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Abuja.

    Ndace, a former Defence Correspondent, however noted that the media must understand the place of the military in national security and respect designated boundaries.

    He said: “With the advent of digital media, the public is becoming more interested in knowing how military operations are being conducted and the military has no option but to be a little more cooperative with the media to provide clarity in the face of the deluge of information found in the uncensored new media.

    “It is in the course of the military carrying out its professional responsibility and the media playing its professional roles that emerged friction that has dominated the relationship between the two very important institutions.

    Read Also: Be patient with us, Speaker Abbas appeals to Nigerians

    “In Nigeria, the military and the media have experienced challenging relationships dating back to the military era. For decades, the Nigerian military dominated the political landscape and this can be attributable to a lack of trust between the two institutions even in a democracy.

    “The inclination of both parties to discharge their responsibilities with a shared sense of patriotism will enhance and sustain the country’s democracy, and ensure peace and national security.

    “In the overall, by actively engaging in deliberate trust-building acts, promoting cooperation, and upholding patriotic principles, the Nigerian military and the media can foster positive relations to enhance the overall stability and security of the country.”

    Aside the issue of trust, the Director-General identified confidentiality, lack of understanding of the defence sector and criteria for assigning journalists, training and retraining on military ethics and regulations, among other, as factors affecting good military-media relations.

  • Group lauds Tinubu on implementation of Oronsaye report

    Group lauds Tinubu on implementation of Oronsaye report

    The Transformation Ambassadors (TTA), a group advocating for positive political change and gender parity, has praised President Bola Tinubu for implementing Steve Oronsaye’s recommendations regarding the restructuring and streamlining of federal agencies, parastatals, and commissions.

    The Oronsaye panel of 2014 recommended the scrapping, relocation, merger, subsuming of some agencies and parastatal of the federal government to achieve reduction in the cost of governance.

    The group’s director, Dr Femi Omojuwa, said that Nigeria’s federal civil service is excessively large, leading to increased government expenses and fostering corruption within the civil service.

    He noted that the implementation of the Oronsaye panel’s recommendations will boost efficiency in the federal service, cut down governance costs, and contribute to national progress and development.

    He, however, called for the prosecution of heads of MDAs who have been investigated for looting and misappropriating funds in federal agencies and parastatals by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

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    He emphasized that this action is crucial to restore order to the civil service and to reclaim all funds stolen by the public officials.

    He said: “The implementation of the recommendations of Oronsaye panel reports by President Bola Tinubu is a step in the right direction.

    “The recommendations if implemented will see to the merger, relocation and scrapping of some of the agencies that are redundant. For instance, the report recommended that the National Theatre and the National Troupe be merged together. This will not only reduce the cost of running the parastatal but it will address the issues of looting and misappropriation of funds that has been going on for years at the National Theatre.

    “We have read in the news of how various groups at the parastatal have alerted the ICPC of corruption at the National Theatre but we have not seen or heard of any of the indicted public officers being brought to justice or prosecuted.

    “It is worrisome how the ICPC is foot-dragging in prosecuting indicted officers. So at the President begins the implementation of recommendations of Steve Oronsaye panel report, this will give birth to new agencies and parastatals.

    “I therefore want to suggest to the president to ensure those that any head of MDA standing trial or is being investigated is not appointed or reappointed to occupy any of these offices.

    “We want a new lease of lives for Nigerians and positive transformation both in government and in the lives of Nigerians.”

  • Military capable of crushing all armed groups, says Sule

    Military capable of crushing all armed groups, says Sule

    Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule has said the the Nigerian Army has the capacity to decimate all armed groups disturbing the peace of the nation.

    Sule said this on Sunday during the 2023 West African Social Activities (WASA) of the Nigerian Army’s IV Special Forces command in the Doma Local Government Area of the state.

    The governor lauded the efforts of the army and other security agencies in their battle against kidnapping, banditry and other security threats in the country.

    The governor also commended the personnel of the Special Forces in tackling criminal elements within the state.

    Sule lauded the force for maintaining its annual social event, WASA, which is aimed at bringing together officers and their families, to strengthen the existing bonds among different ethnic groups in the military.

    The governor further said that the event was an opportunity for officers and soldiers to mingle, showcase their cultures and traditions.

    He added that it was a pointer to the resolve and determination of the Nigerian Army to create an avenue to socialize with fellow soldiers and families.

    The governor therefore, assured the army of the state government’s support.

    “The IV Special Forces is a specialised component of the Nigerian  army which is saddled with the responsibility of Air-bound operations, counter insurgency, counter terrorism, foreign-internal defence and unconventional warfare among others.

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    “I am much aware of your operational efforts in the various parts of the states, some of which led to our gallant men paying supreme prices in service to the nation.

    “In recognition of your patriotic service, this administration will continue to support the efforts of our security personnel through the provision of security vehicles for surveillance and other support to ensure the protection of lives and property of our citizens,” Governor Sule added.

    Earlier, the Commander of the Special Forces Command, Maj.-Gen Hillary Nzan explained that WASA was created to take officers and soldiers away from their routine regimental life to an atmosphere, where they can unwind and relax freely with one another and civilians.

    He promised to sustain the fight against all forms of crimes within the jurisdiction of the command.

    Nzan reiterated the army’s commitment to continue to remain responsive to the task of defending the country’s territorial integrity.

    Awards of excellence were presented to five officers who distinguished themselves..

  • Arewa Youths back Wike’s security initiatives

    Arewa Youths back Wike’s security initiatives

    Arewa youths under the Arewa Youth Assembly have thrown their support for the security initiatives of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.

    The group in response to a publication accredited to the Senator representing the FCT, Sen. Ireti Kingibe, who accused the Minister of displaying a “I don’t care attitude” towards the security of the FCT, said the minister since his appointment has remained committed to securing the FCT.

    The group in a statement signed by its speaker Mohammed Danlami listed the efforts of the minister as follows; “to ensure the safety and security of lives and properties of Abuja residents, approved the formation of two joint-security task forces comprising all security agencies domiciled in the FCT to curtail the activities of one-chance syndicates, armed robbers, kidnappers, and all forms of criminality within the territory and its environs.

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    “Implemented a digital security monitoring and control system within the current FCT transport management system and charged security agencies with profiling FCT Uber Drivers to help curb insecurity.  Mandated the holding of monthly security meetings of the six area councils aimed at improving the security situation in their respective area councils.

    “Given the directive for setting up two new divisional police stations in the Gwagwalada community for law enforcement and curbing criminal activities in the area; provided vehicles for security agencies, communication gadgets, as well as motorcycles to support local vigilance groups, to help provide security agencies with necessary information.

    “Collaborated with neighboring states of Nasarawa, Kogi, Niger, and Kaduna to exploit areas of joint security outfits, intelligence sharing, provision of the needed logistics support, and more to mitigate these security challenges.”

  • Zamfara Assembly suspends eight members

    Zamfara Assembly suspends eight members

    The Zamfara House of Assembly yesterday suspended eight lawmakers for alleged misconduct, conspiracy, mischief and illegal sitting.

    The suspension was announced by the Speaker of the House, Bilyaminu Moriki, at the Assembly’s plenary in Gusau.

    The suspension followed a motion moved by the Majority Leader, Bello Mazawaje (PDP-Tsafe East).

    Mazawaje said that the lawmakers’ suspension was permitted based on the violation of the Assembly’s Order 10, Rule 9.

    He said that the suspended members, on Thursday, broke the doors to the office of the Clerk and Sargent at Arm of the Assembly and conducted the unlawful sitting.

    He said that the lawmakers also blocked some members from gaining access to the Assembly’s chamber.

    He, therefore, urged the lawmakers to agree with the motion to suspend the eight members for alleged contempt of the house, conspiracy, conducting illegal sitting, mischiefs and misconduct.

    Contributing to the motion, the Deputy Speaker of the House, Adamu Aliyu (PDP-Gummi 2), described the attitude by the lawmakers as unfortunate.

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    Aliyu said that the lawmakers must be sanctioned in order to maintain law and order in the legislative process in the state.

    The Chief Whip to the House, Rilwanu Marafa (PDP-Anka constituency), described the conduct of the alleged illegal sitting by the lawmakers as a disgrace to the Assembly.

    Marafa called on his colleagues to take disciplinary action against the lawmakers.

    However, the Minority Whip to the House, Nura Dahiru (APC-Birnin Magaji Constituency),  urged the leadership of the Assembly to ensure thorough investigation into the matter and ensure justice and fairness.

    The suspended lawmakers include Bashir Aliyu (PDP-Gummi 1); Amiru Keta (PDP-Tsafe West); Nasiru Abdullahi (PDP-Maru South); Bashir Masama (PDP-Bukkuyum North);  Faruku Dosara (APC-Maradun 1); Ibrahim Tukur (APC-Bakura Constituency); Shamsudeen Hassan (APC Talata-Mafara North) and Bashiru Sarkin-Zango (PDP-Bungudu West).

  • Alia ends 46 years land dispute with Air Force

    Alia ends 46 years land dispute with Air Force

    Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has approved the construction of 16km Road to end a 46-year-old land dispute between the Nigerian Air Force Tactical Air Command, Makurdi, and its host communities.

    The move followed a meeting with the governor, the Nigerian Air Force, and representatives of Ugondo, Mbaivur communities to resolve the lingering dispute.

    During the meeting held at the Old Banquet Hall of Government House, in Makurdi, Alia said the road would link the borders of Makurdi and Gwer-West, up to the Gwer-West boundary with the Gboko Local Government Area, to make the communities more accessible.

    According to a statement by his Principal Special Assistant on Print Media,  Donald Kumun,  the governor said the resolution of the dispute will attract more Federal Government presence, thereby bringing more development to the state.

    Fr. Alia said the road would serve as a permanent boundary between the communities and the Air Force.

    He thanked the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, for his contribution towards crisis resolution and reiterated his administration’s determination implement more developmental projects in the state.

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    The leader of the delegation and the Air Officer Commanding Tactical Air Command, Nigerian Air Force, Makurdi, AVM F. O. Edahosa, said that efforts to resolve the land dispute in the past failed.

    He thanked the governor for wading into the dispute with a workable permanent solution.

    Air Marshal Edohasa said the Chief of Air Staff has also shown interest in the resolution of the case, considering how strategic Benue State is to the country.

    He applauded him for his tireless efforts and desire to ensure peace in the state, pointing to some of the meetings the governor held with heads of different security agencies since he assumed office last year.

    The Mue Ter Ugondo, Chief Clement Kurugh, and Amir Ishor, the representative of the Ter Makurdi, thanked Fr. Alia and the Chief of Air Staff for wading into the land dispute.