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  • Harnessing solid minerals sector: The Nasarawa template

    Harnessing solid minerals sector: The Nasarawa template

    Determined to achieve economic diversification and the expansion of its revenue streams, Nasarawa State has embarked on a repositioning drive in its solid minerals sector. In this special report, LINUS OOTA takes a look at the challenges and prospects so far in the state’s effort to establish a sustainable alternative to traditional oil revenue.

    In a bold move to redefine Nasarawa State’s economic landscape, Governor Abdullahi Sule has embarked on a mission to harness the untapped potential of the state’s solid minerals sector. With a resolute vision for sustainable growth and development, the state has prioritised economic diversification through solid minerals as a cornerstone of its development agenda. Recognising the limitations of relying solely on crude oil, the government has embraced the solid minerals sector as a robust alternative, poised to liberate the state from dependency on volatile commodity markets.

    By harnessing these resources, the state government aims to bolster its revenue base and drive socio-economic transformation. It firmly believes in the transformative power of the mineral sector to attract significant investment, create employment opportunities, and propel Nasarawa State into a new era of prosperity. This strategic focus on solid minerals not only aligns with global trends towards sustainable development but also capitalises on the state’s inherent strengths and natural endowments. Through bold initiatives and forward-thinking policies, many residents believe that Governor Sule’s administration is laying the groundwork for a thriving solid minerals industry that will catalyse inclusive growth and uplift communities across Nasarawa State. With a commitment to unlocking the full potential of its mineral resources, the state is poised to emerge as a beacon of economic resilience and dynamism in the Nigerian landscape.

    Highlighting the immense opportunities awaiting exploration, Governor Sule asserted recently that “the golden era of Nigeria’s solid minerals is upon us.” With Nasarawa State boasting abundant deposits of various minerals across its thirteen local government areas, including barytes, salt, gypsum, marble and even crude oil and lithium, the potential for growth and prosperity is boundless. With a strategic focus on sustainable development and inclusive growth, many believe Nasarawa State is poised to emerge as a shining example of the transformative power of harnessing the riches beneath its soil.

    By prioritising the development of the solid mineral sector, analysts are of the opinion that the state is laying the foundation for a brighter future, where the state’s natural wealth becomes a catalyst for socio-economic advancement and sustainable development. While the state has only been recognised in name as the Home of Solid Minerals, until recently, there are no tangible efforts to harness the abundant potentials laying beneath the soil. What has been the case all through the years was mostly artisanal mining mostly undertaken illegally, with the products of such activities squirreled out of the state – with absolutely nothing coming to the government in terms of revenue except for some few individuals who usually connive with these miners to shortchange both government and host communities.

    On assumption of office, Governor Sule made deliberate steps to sanitise the sector, particularly by curtailing the activities of illegal miners, as well as ensuring that mining communities remain secure and peaceful. He embarked on familiarity visits to critical ministries and agencies relevant to his vision to transform the mining sector, where he agitated for further collaboration and partnership between the Federal Government, states and mining communities. Though the Nigeria Minerals and Mining Act 2007 gives ownership of all mineral resources in Nigeria and in the exclusive economic zone to the Federal Government, Governor Sule has continued to canvass for more participation by sub nationals in the effort to ensure the state maximally benefits from its God-given mineral endowments.

    As a way forward, the state government constituted the Committee on Solid Minerals Development, chaired by the Emir of Azara, HRH Dr. Kabiru Musa Ibrahim, saddled with the responsibility of reviewing activities of both formal and informal miners in the state, as well as proffer suggestions on the way forward, among other terms of reference. At the conclusion of its assignment, the committee discovered that 338 mining titles were issued in Nasarawa State, out of which only 64 are active, and that out of the 64 active licenses, only 35 have organised community development agreements, 10 have environmental impact assessment, while only 17 companies are paying royalties, which explains why the state is the least on the 13 per cent derivation from the Minerals Development Fund.

    The committee’s recommendations encompass several key initiatives aimed at revitalising the mining sector in the state. These include a thorough review of the legislation governing mining within the state, the facilitation of a comprehensive stakeholders’ forum to foster collaboration between formal and informal miners, and the establishment of a dedicated Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to oversee mining operations on behalf of the state. The state government took a decisive action by enacting Executive Order No. 2 in 2022. This directive was crafted to prohibit mining host communities from transferring land rights to entities seeking to conduct mining activities. Its primary objectives are to safeguard these communities from security threats and criminal activities while also providing vital institutional support to artisanal miners.

    Furthermore, Executive Order No. 02, 2022 mandates mining enterprises operating within the state to fulfill their financial obligations promptly. This includes the timely payment of all mining-related taxes, levies, and fees into the central billing system managed by the Nasarawa State Internal Revenue Service. Moreover, holders of mining leases or licenses are constrained to operate strictly within the legal frameworks outlined in the Minerals and Mining Act 2007 and the Land Use Act 1978. They are also compelled to undertake the crucial task of restoring and rehabilitating degraded lands and environments, as stipulated by these Acts. Additionally, all mining entities must obtain official approval from the Nasarawa State Urban Development Authority in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources before embarking on any physical development projects.

    However, the most significant aspect of this executive order lies in its transformative approach to the mining sector. By mandating mining companies to incorporate value addition processes into their operations, the state aims to unlock the full potential of its mineral resources and foster sustainable economic growth through the entire value chain. By requiring mining companies to establish processing factories within the state before exporting minerals, the government aims to not only generate employment opportunities for the youth but also cultivate essential technical skills among the locals, fostering a sustainable mining industry. This move also ensures that the value of the mined products is realised within Nasarawa State itself, contrasting with previous practices where minerals were processed elsewhere, contributing to the state’s low ranking in minerals derivation.

    This multi-faceted strategy has ushered in a new era of solid minerals development in Nasarawa State, with remarkable achievements already evident. The influx of foreign investors, particularly in the lithium sector, exemplifies the success of this approach. Nasarawa State is now recognised as having the largest lithium deposits in the country, attracting significant investment interest. Governor Sule’s collaboration with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has further diversified the state’s mineral portfolio. The discovery and ongoing drilling of oil wells, coupled with the significant oil reserves found, position Nasarawa State as a key player in the Northern region’s oil industry. In the realm of lithium mining, the establishment of processing factories by foreign companies underscores the state’s potential to become a major player in the global lithium market. With three prominent companies already setting up operations, the state is poised for substantial economic growth driven by the lithium boom.

    The administration’s commitment to value addition is evident in initiatives such as the Premium Marble and Granite Factory, which contributes significantly to the local economy and positions Nasarawa State as a major player in the marble industry nationally. In light of the surge in global lithium prices, the state’s strategic focus on solid minerals promises to transform its economic landscape, reducing reliance on federal allocations and establishing the state as a hub of solid mineral exploitation and value addition. Under the leadership of Governor Sule, Nasarawa State is experiencing a remarkable transformation in its solid minerals sector, propelling it towards sustainable development. The administration’s proactive approach focuses on adding value to the state’s abundant mineral resources, instead of merely exporting them for processing elsewhere, which historically led to revenue loss.

    Read Also: 2027: Obi, Obidients are not our concern now, we are busy with governing Nigeria – Onanuga

    Since its inception in 1996, Nasarawa State has been renowned for its rich solid mineral deposits. Despite possessing significant potential in minerals like barite, lead, gold, lithium, marble, and cooking coal, the state has yet to fully exploit these resources and emerge as a frontrunner in the solid minerals industry. The state government recognises the importance of maximising its mineral wealth for economic growth. Despite the Nigeria Mineral and Mining Act of 2007 designating the federal government as the custodian of all mineral resources in Nigeria, Governor Sule’s government advocates for greater involvement of sub-national entities like Nasarawa State. This advocacy aims to ensure that the state can harness the full benefits of its natural resources. By attracting investors to participate in the state’s mineral sector and promoting value addition through local processing, the state government is reshaping the state’s solid minerals landscape. This strategic approach not only enhances revenue generation but also fosters job creation, skills development, and overall economic prosperity for the state’s residents. Through these initiatives, Nasarawa State is poised to unlock its true potential as a leading destination for solid minerals, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s sustainable development journey. The Governor’s vision and commitment to harnessing the state’s natural resources for the benefit of its people mark a significant step towards achieving long-term prosperity and sustainability.

    Leveraging his extensive background in the private sector, Governor Sule embarked on a mission to transform the sector upon assuming office. One of his early actions was to advocate for the liberalisation of the mining sector, emphasising the importance of state participation. Recognising Nasarawa State’s status as the “home of solid minerals,” he underscored the immense potential within the sector. However, he also highlighted the urgent need for reforms to address challenges such as illegal mining and security concerns. His advocacy efforts were not confined to closed-door meetings but extended to various forums and engagements with stakeholders. Through these platforms, he consistently championed the cause of state involvement in mining management, advocating for reforms aimed at maximizing the state’s benefits while ensuring sustainability and security. By drawing on his private sector experience and engaging with stakeholders, stakeholders believe Governor Sule has demonstrated a commitment to driving positive change in Nasarawa State’s solid minerals sector. His leadership has set the stage for meaningful reforms and strategic initiatives that aim to unlock the state’s vast mineral potential while addressing critical issues such as illegal mining and security.

    “This is one area of our economy with great potentials but will require urgent reforms so ass to minimize illegal mining and to improve on insecurity in the country. It’s important to speak about security whenever solid minerals development is mentioned, because in Nigeria, they got together,” he said

  • 800 homeless in Nasarawa community

    800 homeless in Nasarawa community

    The communal crisis between Bassa and Egbura communities in Toto Local Government Area of Nasarawa State has rendered over 800 Tiv farmers homeless. Houses have also been burnt to ashes.

    An appeal letter to Governor Abdullahi Sule, signed by leaders of the Tiv community – Godwin Unande, Chief Solomon Gban and Zaki Targure Fada, urged the governor to come to their aid.

    The letter reads: “We write to bring to government’s attention the unfortunate situation befalling the Tiv people in Toto Local Government Area. Our people have become victims of circumstance; we are being attacked and killed for a crime we did not commit.

    Read Also: We’re sexually harassed at Nasarawa mining sites, female miners cry out

    “Your Excellency will recall the recent unfortunate attack on Katakpa Community where many were killed. The Tiv people living within and around the area, particularly those in Angwan Mada, Ananza, Sele-Katakpa, were sacked and their homes reduced to ashes while property worth millions of naira were destroyed.

    “The ugly incident also led to the displacement of 800 persons of Tiv extraction, and who are currently taking refuge at the Central Primary School, Toto, and other areas.

    “It has thus become necessary to bring the pitiable situation to the attention of Your Excellency, and also appeal passionately to the state government to kindly come to our rescue by deploying adequate security operatives in the area to restore normalcy as there has been threat of more attacks on the Tiv Community.

    “More worrisome is the fact that the raining season is around the corner, and we are afraid farming activities may not happen if urgent and realistic steps are not taken to resolve the lingering conflict between the two ethnic nationalities.

  • We’re sexually harassed at Nasarawa mining sites, female miners cry out

    We’re sexually harassed at Nasarawa mining sites, female miners cry out

    A group, Women in Mining Nigeria (WIMIN), have raise the alarm that its members involved in mining activities are constantly harassed sexually and raped across mining sites in Nasarawa State and are abandon to their fate thereafter.

    National President of the Association, Engr. Janet Adeyemi, stated this yesterday during a two-day policy dialogue with stakeholders in the mining sector in Nasarawa State, with the theme ‘Understanding and strengthening collaborative responses to combat sexual and gender based violence (SGBV) in mining host communities’

    They decried lack of access to mining rights and licences, which they said is created by government’s complex bureaucratic procedures. This, they said, has created a huge stumbling block to their mining businesses and rape of female workers at mining sites.

    She said WIMIN has risen up to eradicate women and children abuse in the mining sector as these vulnerable groups have suffered for too long and nothing is done to help the situation

    Engr. Adeyemi further explained that everything within their capacity would be done to make the industry convenient for women and children irrespective of their backgrounds.

    She said: “Sexual and gender based violence (SGBV) is a persistent and alarming issue in Africa affecting individuals regardless of age, gender, religion or socio-economic status.

    “In Nigeria, the prevalence of SGBV is particularly concerning, with statistics indicating high rates of violence against women and girls.

    According to the Nigerian National Bureau of Statistics and the United Nations Population Fund, UNFPA, 28% of Nigerian women have experienced sexual violence at some point in their lives, and 43.6% of women have experienced some form of violence in their lifetime.

    Read Also: Minister inaugurates mining Marshals to police 1,175 illegal mining sites

    “The solid mineral sector is not exempted from this problem as it faces unique challenges that contribute to the perpetuation of SGBV. The resurgence of mining in Nigeria has provided a source of livelihood for women in remote and rural areas of mining-intensive states.

    “Paradoxically, these women’s survival is jeopardised by the very industry they turn to despite the perceived income of opportunities. A concerning 23.1% of women in mining communities experience sexual violence, compared to 18.7% in non-mining communities,” she said

    She explained that the intricacies of this problem are underscored by the interaction of weak regulatory structures, a male dominated industry, informal and illegal mining operations, and limited access to quality prevention and support services.

    She expressed confidence that the policy dialogue will inspire civil society organizations, government agencies and stakeholders in the sector to device actionable solutions to address sexual violence.

    Also speaking, Nasarawa State Coordinator, National Human Rights Commission, Nduka Ezenwogu, a lawyer, admitted that many women working in the mining sector get raped. “Some are paid peanuts for all the effort put in at the mining sites. Curiously, most of these cases are unreported, hence the need for a forum like this to address the menace.”

    He explained that the commission was ready to work with WIMIN in the promotion, protection of human rights especially that of women engaged in mining activities.

    Other speakers at the event were the representatives of the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Women Affairs, among others.

  • Behold Nasarawa community where girls become mothers at 14

    Behold Nasarawa community where girls become mothers at 14

    • Teenage pregnancy, underage marriage rampant because we’re disconnected from outside world  -Community leader
    • Early marriage ruined my life,  says teen widow

    Talatu Jitso, 16, is an indigene of Agyema community in Ekye development area of Nasarawa State. Sharing border with Benue State along the riverine areas, the community is among the communities in the state with the highest incidence of early pregnancy and underage marriage.

    Located about 61 kilometres from Lafia, the state capital, the road that links the community with others around it are not motorable, leaving the residents whose major occupations are farming and fishing with motorcycle and canoe with which they cross River Benue as the only means of transportation.

    Every new visitor to the community is confronted with the strange sight of mass pregnancy among painfully young girls whose ages range between 12 and 14 years. The community is notorious for giving the hands of girls as young as 13 years out in marriage. Hence at age 14, many supposed girls in Agyema village are already mothers.

    Talatu Jitso, a teenage girl from Agyema community, told our correspondent that she shoulders the responsibilities of a 45-year-old. She does not in any way look her age because at age 16, she already has two kids and pregnant with the third.

    Unfortunately, the presence of marauding herdsmen around the riverine area hinders farm work, which is their major source of livelihood.

    “I had nothing doing, the little farm work I do to take care of my children is no longer an option because you are not sure of going to the farm and coming back successfully.

    “I used to cultivate small portion of land primarily to feed myself and children and also sell little when I harvest a surplus to take care of other needs,”he said ⁶

    Our correspondent gathered that three years ago, Talatu was impregnated by a man in the neighbouring community, who was in his 40s. She moved in with him as his wife, but the man was recently killed by herdsmen while working on his farm. Worse still, the man died while Talatu was expecting a third child.

    Talatu’s situation and others like hers are a major source of concern, considering that they are minors who should still be under the care of their parents but who are already parents themselves.

    In Nigeria, child marriage is defined as a union between two people in which one or both parties are younger than 18. But in Nasarawa State, it is virtually taken for granted that a 17- year-old girl is an adulthood. The United Nations Children’s Find (UNICEF) estimates that 43 per cent of women in Nigeria aged between 20 and 24 got married before their 18th birthday.

    Indeed, about 17 per cent of them were married by their 15th birthday. Unfortunately, 80 per cent of those that got married before they are 18 give up education as does 39 per cent of those that got married before age 15.

    Talatu, who became pregnant and got married to the man with her parents’ consent even though there were no official rites to formalise the union, said the decision to open her legs for the late Audu Bako ended up ruining her life as killer herdsmen did not allow Bako to see his children grow.

    Now she is struggling to make ends meet. “I struggle daily to feed these children. I am traumatised emotionally and I am hoping for help from God,” she said.

    Recalling the circumstances of her late husband’s death, Talatu said he had gone to the farm on the fateful day with nothing to suggest that he had embarked on a journey of no return or that it was the last time they would see each other.

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    The distraught widow, who wept over the huge burden left for her alone, said: “My husband’s absence has ruined my life and there is no hope for me again. The killer herdsmen have finish me.

    “Killing my husband at this early age is too much for me to bear. The killer herdsmen deprived me of peace of mind.

    “Although I admit that I got married too early,  killing my husband is a devastating blow. I have been waking up in the middle of the night to weep bitterly since my husband died.”

    But why would parents give out their underage girls in marriage? A concerned group from the community recently raised the alarm at a workshop on the prevalence of underage marriage among girls and school children in the community.

    The group blamed the ugly trend on poverty and lack of government presence in Agatu communities in Ekye development area of Doma Local Government.

    When our correspondent visited Agyema village to find out why underage marriage and pregnancy are rampant, the residents expressed disappointment in the failure of government over the years to respond to their plight, especially funding education in the community.

    The community head of Agyema, Godiya Aitonu, told our correspondent that the community was completely out of touch with the developing world as there was no motorable road connecting it with the outside world.

    He asked: “When you entered the community, did you see any road a car can come in through? It is only by motorbike.

    “Between this community and Agbashi, which is about 11 kilometres, you know how many hours it took you to reach this community.

    “That is the condition we found ourselves in, and that is what we have been facing for so many years.

    “Our main occupation is farming or fishing. Most times when we farm, we don’t have the means to convey our farm produce to the market.

    “Most times, the farm produce perish here and that has discouraged so many families from engaging in the farming business we are known for.”

    The traditional ruler admitted that underage marriage and the problem of out-of-school children are very rampant and on the increase in the community, saying that it is not their culture to marry out their girl child at early age.

    He said: “Child marriage is prevalent in my community because poverty is endemic. Parents and fathers especially actually benefit from the dowry and extras that their daughters’ suitors contributea to the family of the girl child.

    “The dream of every father or mother is to bring up children that would be great through good education. But where the parents do not have the wherewithal to give the children good education, is it not better to let the child marry?

    “Here, we have primary and secondary schools built by the state, but there is no maintenance or good teachers. Teachers don’t want to stay in this community because there is no infrastructure and it is not safe.

    “We are also confronted with the menace of Fulani attacks; they would not allow us to farm. Time without number our young girls and wives have been raped by these herdsmen, and that is why our women are afraid to step out of the community to the farm.

    “During Umaru Tanko Al-makura administration, he built a police station in this community when he was the governor. But as we are talking right now, that building is empty. We don’t have a single police officer here in Agyema

    “Whenever we have any issue on insecurity, we can’t get the attention of the police or any security operative till we travel to Agbashi. We have pleaded with the DPO at Agbashi to send his officers to our community but his complaint is that he does not have enough police officers in Agbashi.

    “The absence of security personnel has left us at the mercy of killer herdsmen who perpetuate all kinds of atrocities against the villagers almost on a daily basis.

    “How can a community with a population of over 15,000 be without a single security operative? My community is grossly neglected.

    “Each time teachers are posted from other communities to ours, in no time we will not see them again, and when we ask, they would tell us they could not live in our village because of the fear of herdsmen and rapists.

    “Our children cannot go to farm. We can’t afford to pay their school fees because our source of livelihood, which is farming, is almost cut off by tge herders

    “Other communities in the state have left us behind in areas of infrastructure like roads, electricity, schools, health, provision of potable water and other things.

    “Whenever politicians visit our community during electionerring campaigns, we tell them our challenges, but that would be the end of it.”

  • 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.

  • What next for PDP, Umbugadu in Nasarawa?

    What next for PDP, Umbugadu in Nasarawa?

    Last year’s governorship election in Nasarawa State was keenly contested by Governor Abdullahi Sule of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and David Umbugadu of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) contest. After a long legal tussle, Umbugadu eventually lost at the Supreme Court. Correspondent LINUS OOTA looks at the future of the PDP candidate.

    After the legal fireworks that followed last year’s governorship election in Nasarawa State, the Supreme Court has given its verdict on the suit instituted by the People’s Democratic Party’s (PDP) David Umbugadu. The apex court upheld the re-election of Abdullahi Sule of the All Progressives Congress (APC) .

    It was an epic battle of the Titans, featuring one of the best legal giants in the country representing different parties. The Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, sitting in Lafia, Nasarawa State, had on October 2, 2023, sacked Governor Sule and declared Umbugadu as the duly elected governor. In a split judgment delivered by the three-member tribunal, two of the judges agreed that the election was won by the PDP candidate while the other dissented.

    But, a three-member panel of the Court of Appeal reversed the sack of Governor Sule on November 23, 2023. The panel in a unanimous judgment held that the Nasarawa State Election Petition Tribunal erred in law in concluding that Sule did not win the majority of the votes cast in the election, the appellate court subsequently set aside the judgment of the tribunal and affirmed the re-election of Sule as the governor of Nasarawa State.

    The legal battle over the election finally came to an end on Friday, January 19, 2024, when the Supreme Court in a five-man panel unanimously affirmed the re-election of Governor Sule as the duly elected governor of Nasarawa State.

    Speaking after the Supreme Court verdict, Governor Sule called on the people of Nasarawa State to live in peace with one another for the state to be able to utilize its enormous potential for the good of the people. He thanked the opposition for testing the principles of democracy and for going through constitutionally recognized channels to exhaust their grievances.

    The governor emphasized that with the verdict at the Supreme Court, there is no winner, no vanquished as he called on all and sundry to join hands together to build Nasarawa State.

    While pointing out that the people of the state must remain united to be able to collectively work for the progress of the state, Governor Sule said this can only be possible if the people forgive each other. He added that even though Nasarawa State has the greatest prospects ever, these potentials would forever remain a mirage if the people failed to come together and live in peace with one another.

    Sule urged the people to shun acts capable of dividing the people across ethnic or religious lines, stressing that for the state to attain civilization, these factors must be pushed to the background, adding that, only merit, honesty and sincerity should be the guiding principles that can move the state forward.

    He added: “We must continue to remain one. We must continue to tolerate each other. We must continue to abandon those who preach ethnicity and religion.  This is because those two things in particular have no place in a civilization.  And if we must be civilized, we must keep them to the side and look at merit and look at honesty and look at sincerity so that we can take our state to the next level.”

    He pointed out that the victory at the Supreme Court marked the end of the 10-month-long run which characterized the March 18, governorship election.

    Governor Sule used the opportunity to show appreciation to the judiciary for upholding his election after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared him the winner. He also thanked the people for their patience and tolerance while the legal battle lasted. He specifically appreciated members of the ruling party for their patience.

    He said: “Today, both the victors and those who did not win at the Supreme Court have become one. The good people of Nasarawa State have remained one and we will continue to remain so. We must work for the progress of Nasarawa State.

    “I want us to be able to forgive each other. As a leader, you cannot be a good leader until you can tolerate, until you are patient and until you understand what democracy is all about. Your governor has the patience to withstand all kinds of intimidation.”

    He added: “Let me say and pray that whoever will become the Governor of Nasarawa State after me in 2027 should be such that will unite the entire people of the state.”

    Sule revealed shockingly that he was done with political contests in his life as he was only interested in becoming governor of Nasarawa State and not any other political office. He said he will not be seeking any political office again after his second tenure expires in 2027.

    His words: “I came in only to be a governor, I did not come in to be a chairman, a senator or a member of the House of Representatives, I don’t have any dreams for those offices.

    “I have no dream of becoming even president; I have no dreams for that. I can tell you categorically that Abdullahi Sule would not go for Senate after leaving office. By the time I finish my eight years, I can do whatever I want to do. You can take it from me confidently that I have no intention to run for the office of a Senator. You can keep this tape and play it one day.”

    The governor said he knew he was going to win his case at the Supreme Court. His words: “I was expecting to win, the reason being, first at the tribunal, we have three judges, they disagree with themselves, they couldn’t agree, two of them voted against us, and therefore we lost.

    “One of them had a very comprehensive report, he voted for us and said we won, so we picked from there, went to the Appeal Court, where there were more experienced, senior judges and all the 3 of them unanimously said we won.

    “I came into the Supreme Court with a lot of confidence, I had no whatsoever any doubt in my mind, there was no ambiguity about the fact that we were going to win, I didn’t expect anything less than that, but we thank God almighty for making it possible.”

    He slammed the opposition for sparking unnecessary tension in the state, insisting that no amount of protest would make him cede power to the opposition as it is not constitutionally recognised.

    The governor said he was confident that he would relinquish power when it was right, nothing that the God he worships is not naked, he said, he never considered leaving power during the legal tussles in the state, and that he and his family luggage remain intact in the government house till 2027.

    Governor Sule advised his opponent, Umbugadu, to wait for his turn, since age is still on his side to be governor of Nasarawa State. He called on the opposition party to put behind the differences and grievances of the governorship election to develop the state.

    He added that there is time for everything, and now the litigations are over, it is time to unite and keep sentiment aside and embrace peace and unity “if service was the motivation, then it is time to rise above partisanship and come together, let’s build Nasarawa of our dreams”.

    In a statement, Umbugadu said he appreciated the people for their support. He urged them to remain calm and law-abiding.

     He said: “Let me express my heartfelt appreciation to my teeming supporters and the people of Nasarawa State for your unwavering support during the 2023 governorship election and throughout the legal journey that just ended at the Supreme Court.

    “While the outcome may not have been what we had hoped for, the strength and dedication displayed by you and countless others during this period have not gone unnoticed. Your commitment to the principles of democracy, justice, and the ideals we hold dear has been truly inspiring.

    “Though the court’s verdict did not align with our expectations, let us remember that our shared values and dedication to the betterment of Nasarawa State remain steadfast. I am grateful for the trust and belief you placed in me throughout this journey. Your support has been a source of strength, and I am honoured to have had such dedicated supporters by my side.

    “As we navigate the path forward, let us continue to uphold the spirit of unity and resilience that defines our state and country in general. Together, we can contribute to the progress and development of Nasarawa State, irrespective of the challenges we may face.

    “Once again, thank you for your unwavering support. It is the collective efforts of individuals like you that truly make a difference. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve you, and I look forward to the continued collaboration towards a brighter future for Nasarawa State.”

    However, there is no doubt that the judgment will continue to be a talking point for a long time in Nasarawa State, among the issues that will likely dominate political discourse in the days ahead is: What is the next political move for the 2023 PDP governorship candidate in Nasarawa State, David Umbugadu?

    While the judgment of the apex court has given Sule a clear mandate to govern the state till May 29, 2027, it is unclear what the future holds for David Umbugadu, politically, given that four years is a long time in politics, particularly for anyone out of power.

    Read Also: Nasarawa: Warring tribes embrace truce 

    For David Umbugadu, there is no doubt that the former two-term member of the House of Representatives for Akwanga/Wamba/Nasarawa Eggon Federal Constituency, between 2011 and 2019, has never pretended about his ambition to be the governor of Nasarawa State. In 2019, he contested and won the governorship ticket of the PDP but lost the general election to Sule of the APC.

    Umbugadu’s strong zeal to stage a comeback in 2023 clearly shows that the 2019 defeat did not deter him when he again made a breakthrough in politics by defeating heavy political weights like former Information minister, Labaran Maku, Major General James Angbazo (rtd) among others in the primary.

    Born January 10, 1978, David Umbugadu, a 2001 Economics graduate of the University of Jos clocked 45 years old a few weeks ago, a clear indication that age is still on his side, but the political zoning arrangement in the state might not favour him in 2027. Sule, who is from Nasarawa North Senatorial District like Umbugadu, will be completing an eight-year tenure by then and it will be the turn of Nasarawa West under the power rotation arrangement to produce the next governor.

    The question against this backdrop is: Will Umbugadu drop his governorship ambition? While he is the only one to answer this question, analysts believe that the decision of whether to throw in the towel or hang on is not one to be made in a hurry. Age would be on his side by 2027 when the next governorship election will be held, but the zoning factor would put him at a disadvantage.

    Would he still have the financial muscle to prosecute elections, after two unsuccessful attempts with heavy litigation? Will he opt for the Senate to represent Nasarawa North Senatorial District in the upper legislative chamber?

    No doubt, politics, being a game of the possibility in which nothing is foreclosed, most analysts believe that Umbugadu might likely throw his hat at the governorship, but that will depend on his ability to rebuild the party since his main supporter in the party, the state chairman, Francis Orogo will soon complete his second tenure.

  • Nasarawa: Warring tribes embrace truce 

    Nasarawa: Warring tribes embrace truce 

    Peace has returned to Kwara community in Keana Local Government Area, Nasarawa State after about two years of crisis arising from the implementation of the anti-grazing law in Benue State, at the border between Benue and Nasarawa states.

    Announcing the return of peace yesterday at his palace, the traditional ruler of Kwara community, HRH Usman Waya Abubakar, a third-class chief, declared peace in his chiefdom when the Tiv community in his domain led by their leader, Boniface Ifer, came to inform him that the Tiv people have returned to their villages and farmlands after a period of crisis during which insecurity prevailed.

    “There is need for us, the Kolos, Eggons, Alagos, Tivs, Fulani’s and other tribes in this area to reunite irrespective of our diverse ethnic, political and religious inclinations, the Fulani’s here have repeatedly appeal to me to bring back the displaced Tiv people back to their various places, they told me that they are missing the Tiv people, and we are all missing the Tiv people ” The traditional ruler said.

    He explained further that, the crisis that led to the displacement of the Tiv community did not emanate from Nasarawa, but in Benue state, adding that the Tiv community in Kwara were just victim of circumstances, and regretted the crisis which led to some destruction.

      “Crisis is not good, people feel the devastating effect of crisis mostly after it, because a lot are being destroyed and rebuilding it is a big task, there is need for us to embrace peace, without peace no meaningful development can be achieved in any society, peace is priceless and non-negotiable and that is what Governor Abdullahi Sule represent and that is what Governor Alia is doing in Benue.

    “There is need for us, the Eggons, Fulani’s, Alagos, Tiv, Kolos and other tribes in this chiefdom to reunite irrespective of our diverse ethnic, political and religious groups to embrace peace for speedy development”

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    The traditional ruler revealed that the Fulani people have been complaining to him that, they are missing Tiv farmers in Kwara community, and that the bushes are empty and they are afraid of grazing lonely in the bush, and have severally appealed to him stop so everything humanly possible for him to bring back the Tiv farmers.

    He thank Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State for always reaching peace and indeed ensuring that peace reigns in Nasarawa, and appreciate Governor Hycenth Alia of Benue state for allowing freedom of movement as his method of tackling herdsman crisis along the bother line.

     The Kwara community had witnessed insecurity following the death of about 9 people as a result of the anti-grazing law in Benue state which affected the Kwara community and displaced the Tiv community in the area, houses, food items and other valuables were destroyed and some lives were lost.

    The traditional ruler who declared the return of peace in his domain, explained that he is working hard with the leadership of Alagos, Eggons, Mada Kasa and the Ardos on a visitation tour round the communities under his domain to announce that peace has finally returned to Kwara community.

     He explained that, any Tiv farmer who returns to his village or farm and discovered that, such has been occupied by any Fulani man should report to him, as such person will have to leave.

    Speaking earlier, leader of the Tiv community in Kwara, Boniface Ifer said, they were at the palace to formerly inform the traditional ruler that, they are fully back to their ancestral villages to continue their farm activities.

     He said that, the crisis which led to their displacement is over and they are fully back to their villages , he thank Governor Abdullahi Sule and the traditional ruler for ensuring that peace returns to Kwara community, adding that all the Tiv people want is peace and safety of their farmlands.

  • Disquiet in Nasarawa family as wife catches husband sleeping with mum

    Disquiet in Nasarawa family as wife catches husband sleeping with mum

    • Mum: I got hooked becausehe’s a Maradona in bed

    Trouble is rocking a family in Nasarawa State following claims by a housewife that her husband cheated on her by sleeping with her mother.

    Doris (surname withheld) said the lid on the secret affair between her 46-year-old husband and her mother was blown open by her six-year-old son.

    Curiously, Doris’s mother, Madam Cynthia (surname withheld), did not deny the alleged romance between her and her son-in-law when her daughter confronted her with the allegation.

    Rather, she told her daughter that she was in a relationship with her son-in-law (her daughter’s husband), Joseph, before they got married, and it was the best romance opportunity she had 20 years after she lost her husband.

    Madam Cynthia said: “My husband died about 20 years ago, and I never found another man of my dream until I met Joseph.

    “He is a kind and generous gentleman. He is also very strong and very good in bed.

    “He gave me the most satisfaction I ever had with a man in bed. Because of that, I did not want to lose his company, so I recommended him to you (Doris).

    “I insisted that he must get married to you so you could have a taste of what he is made of.”

    Doris, 28, had got married to Joseph, a sales manager with a private company, oblivious of the fact that he and her mother were dating.

    As it later turned out, it was Madam Cynthia that actually persuaded Joseph to marry her daughter (Doris), who at that time was based in Keffi as a student of Nasarawa State University.

    Since Doris was not visiting Lafia regularly, she had no idea how intimate her mother and Joseph were.

    To worsen matters, Doris was not coming to Lafia most times her school was on holiday as she chose to take up some casual jobs in Keffi despite that her mother was running a big restaurant in Lafia where Joseph got to know her.

    Our correspondent gathered that Joseph’s affair with Madam Cynthia was so discreet that it was difficult for any observer to know what was going on between them.

    Joseph was said to be in the habit of closing late in the office, after which he would wait for Madam Cynthia at his Lafia apartment after closing her restaurant.

    The bubble burst on January 18 when Madam Cynthia visited her daughter’s matrimonial home in New Nyanyan, Karu Local Government Area, Nasarawa State. Joseph was said to have moved to Nyanyan for the sake of proximity to his wife for whom he had secured a civil service job in Abuja.

    As it was customary between them, Joseph and his mother-in-law (Cynthia) decided to engage in fresh sessions of romance during the visit. Unfortunately, their six-year-old son ran into them in one of the sessions and later let the cat out of the bag.

    Distraught Doris, who narrated the incident to a close friend of hers in a recorded telephone voice, said:  “I met my husband through my mother in Lafia in 2018.

    “I had just completed my NYSC (national youth service) and she introduced him to me as someone who was very good and generous, and would never maltreat me.

    “Looking at Joseph, although he was not too young, he actually appeared gentle and promising.

    “He would come to my mother’s restaurant every evening after close of work, but I never suspected that he was also going out with my mother.

    “She actually hid her main reason for linking the two of us together. My mother did not want my husband to get married to another woman basically because of his sexual prowess and kindness.

    “To my admiration, Joseph actually showed commitment, making sure that all my needs were met even without me asking.

    “Within a short time, he proved to me that he was actually a good man in addition to what my mother told me.

    “We eventually got married in 2018, and two years later, we relocated to New Nyanyan because he had secured a civil service job for me in Abuja and also opened a salon for me.

    “I have three kids and I am presently four months pregnant.

    “My mother, a very careful woman, had told me after my marriage that she felt fulfilled that I got married to Joseph.

    “She was always coming on visits, and would always ask whether I was enjoying my marriage. And I truly was enjoying it, because my husband did make life easy for me and my kids.

    “She was always calling or visiting, and I thought it was because I am her only child.

    “When I gave birth to my first son, she was very excited and often came to help out with house chores.

    “She was always taking care of my kids who she loves so much. It was as if she was living together with us.

    “We live in a three-bedroom apartment, so there was enough space for her to stay for as long as she wanted.

    “On January 13, my mother came around and it coincided with the time my husband took a week off to rest at home.

    “It never occurred to me that my husband’s one week rest was tactically planned to coincide with my mother’s coming.

    “The setting in my matrimonial home was the best for them because of the kids. They took care of the kids while I went to work, but I did not know that they were also taking care of themselves.

    “My mum loves a particular brand of alcohol while my husband also likes a brand of wine, which he always ensured was in the refrigerator.

    “So while I was away to work and the kids had gone to school, they kept each other company with their drinks. It never occurred to me that their relationship was beyond mother in-law and son in-law.

    “On Thursday, January 18, I returned from work and my eldest son came into my room as I was pulling off my dress.

    “He looked worried and confused, so I asked whether his aunty beat him in school or he was not given food, but he said nothing.

    “When I prodded him further, he told me that he saw his father and grandmother fighting naked in the visitor’s room and grandma was crying while daddy was on top of her.

    “I asked how he got to know, and he said that when he returned from school, grandma bathed him and he slept off after eating because he was tired.

    “He said that when he woke up, he went to check on grandma (Madam Cynthia) in her room and found that she and her father were fighting naked and grandma was crying under him.

    “Obviously, they did not lock the door.

    “He said his father ordered him to go out immediately.

    “Although I was shocked at the revelation, I managed to control my anger and inquire to know more of what went wrong in my absence.

    “My son’s claims were actually not unexpected because of my mother’s constant visit to us and her unusual closeness to my husband.

    “They were so close and were always in the sitting room together.

    “But another thought came into my mind: the two of them had known each other before I came in, and I actually met my husband through my mother.

    “I walked swiftly across the house and into my mother’s room and asked if there was something going on between her and my husband.

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    “She could not deny the allegation and that caused me to start shedding tears. I just did not know where the tears were coming from.

    “My mother calmed me down and narrated the story of her relationship with Joseph and why she insisted that I should marry him.

    “She said she got hooked on my husband because he was very good in bed in addition to his good nature. In fact, he described my husband as a Maradona in bed.

    “She said that every woman would like such a man and she did not want me to miss out on him because those are the traits that sustain marriages.

    “She said she would have felt cheated if Danjuma had married another woman, and that was why she persuaded me to marry him.

    “She actually believed she was doing the best for me.

    “Yes, the bible says honour thy father and mother, but what do you do with a mother who didn’t even honour her daughter’s wedding vows?

    “Before I could say anything, she knelt down and said she was sorry I found out about their relationship the way I did, but she was not sorry she got both of us together.

    “She said I should be grateful for our stable home and healthy children, adding that she did what she did because she was hungry for sex, particularly with Joseph.

    “My mother confessed that on that particular day, they were together in the parlour when she suddenly grabbed Joseph and dragged him into her room.

    “She said there was a flurry of actions without words. Unfortunately, my eldest son came in while they were in the thick of action.”

    Doris further told her friend that she never suspected that there was any relationship between her husband and her mother, wondering how they were able to keep it secret for so many years and now leave her to grapple with the nightmare induced by their sacrilegious act.

    She said: “I couldn’t send my mother away because the children genuinely love her and she is a good grandmother.

    “I used to be happy and grateful to her for giving me a husband that understands how to keep a woman.

    “My husband is indeed very good in bed, and I thank my mother for bringing him into my life. But she should not have insisted on sharing him with me.”

    She told her friend in the recorded telephone conversation that she has enjoyed life the most since she got married to Joseph.

    She said: “I like him because he asks me out, opens the door for me, pours me drink, offers me his jacket, kisses me and says good night. So I need to be his wife all the days of my life.

    “His libido is very active. His weak point is his nipples. Once you suck them, he becomes like a lion ready to devour its prey.

    “He is someone that can take me on for as long as I want. His sexual prowess is not in doubt. But my mother is not allowing me to enjoy my man alone.

    “How can my husband be sleeping with me and my mother? It is wrong, shameful and abominable. I am in distress and I don’t know how to handle the matter.

    “It would have been better for my husband to get a girlfriend than sleep with me and my mum.

    “It is very shameful and an abomination of the highest order. It is wrong of her and it will be very shameful if people get to know about it.

    “When I left my mum in her room and went back to my room wondering on how to approach my husband on his return, I’m sure my mother had informed him about my approach to her.

    “So when he returned to the house, he looked calm and guilt was written all over him.

    “When I finally asked him about his affair with my mum, he tried to adjourn the discussion to a later date, but I insisted.

    “He then sat me down and narrated how he had known my mother while I was away in school, and it was through their relationship that my mother nursed the idea of connecting us for marriage.

    “Having monitored my attitude, she strongly believed that I could give her daughter the desired comfort. So whatever has happened now was not planned. Let me call it a devilish act.

    “He confirmed to me that the only mistake he made was to have succumbed to the pressure from my mum. He really apologised and pleaded with me not to take it to heart no matter the level of anger.

    “Although I am still grappling with this nightmare in my life, I have to control my emotions as I don’t want to leave my marriage because of this terrible thing.

    “I can’t also stop my mum from visiting us. She loves my children and cares so much about them, and I’m her only daughter.”

    Doris explained that both her husband and her mother regretted what happened, saying that it was not meant to hurt her but was done out of emotions from past memories.

    “I don’t actually know what to do, though my husband has been begging me to forgive and forget.

    “My sickness currently is from the mind. I’m so confused. The emotional pains are too much for me to bear.”

    Her friend has, however, advised her to let go of the matter, forgive and forget.

    “Please, don’t react angrily. It is not a matter for public consumption.

    “Don’t let your marriage crash because of this abominable act.

    “Think of your kids and swallow it because of them,” she said.

  • Why I accepted to be Pro-Chancellor of Nasarawa varsity, by Prof Jega

    Why I accepted to be Pro-Chancellor of Nasarawa varsity, by Prof Jega

    The former Chairman of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Prof Muhammadu Attahiru Jega, has given reasons why he accepted to be the Pro-Chancellor/Chairman Governing Council of Nasarawa State University, Keffi.

    Prof Jega, a former president of Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and a one-time Vice Chancellor, Bayaro University Kano (BUK).

    Speaking at his inauguration at the Government House, Lafia by Governor Abdullahi Sule, Prof Jega, who appreciated the governor for finding him worthy of the appointment, said he accepted the offer due to the transformation going on in the education sector of the state.

    Prof Jega said he was motivated to accept the appointment because of the manifest passion Governor Sule has for public education, as well as the commendable work he is doing to bring development to Nasarawa State.

    He assured that the new governing council under his watch would work assiduously to achieve Governor Sule’s objective and aspirations to turn the NSUK into the best university in Nigeria.

    “I will urge you, this your passion, this your commitment, and the aspirations for this university, God willing it will come to pass, it will be achieved and we will be there to support you. We pledge to always keep in mind what is in the best interest of the university and of this state,” Prof Jega said.

    Other members of the governing council inaugurated alongside Prof Jega include Dr. Ahmed Gero, Alhaji Shuaibu Abdullahi Kore, Mr. Thomas Ari Ogiri and Mary Enwongulu as members of the council.

    Also, Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Labaran Magaji and Mohammed Sani Bala are to serve as representative of Ministry of Justice and Education respectively, with Prof. Abdullahi Adamu Suleiman, Prof. Benedict C. Uzoechi, Prof. Adua Mango and Dr. Adamu T. Ogah serving as the representatives of senate of the university.

    Dr. Tanimu Yusuf and Comrade Buhari Abdullahi Suleiman are to serve as the representatives of the congregation while statutory members are Prof. Suleiman Bala Mohammed the VC, Prof. Abdullahi Sallau Modibo, Prof. Theophilus Daniel Lagi and Bala Isyaka Ahmed II.

    Governor Sule said Prof Jega was appointed as the chairman of the governing council of the state-owned university with a view to enhance academic pursuit and further entrench an enduring culture of academic excellence in the institution.

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    According to the Governor, since its establishment over two decades ago, the NSUK has recorded tremendous achievements in terms of scholarship, teaching and research, infrastructural development and worthwhile collaborations across borders.

    He pointed out that his administration appointed revered and astute personalities to serve on the governing council which would oversee the affairs of NSUK in order to consolidate on the gains recorded so far.

    “Professor Jega has been a consummate academic and indeed, an astute university Don who held several positions including the leadership of ASUU, Vice Chancellor of the reputable BUK and later Chairman of INEC.  His stewardship of these great institutions has endeared him to all patriotic Nigerians and indeed others outside of Nigeria.

    “I need to state that the Nasarawa State University Keffi requires the personality of Prof Jega, whose uncommon antecedents would impact on the needed academic prowess towards the realization of the vision and mission of establishing this institution,” he stated.

    The Governor explained that the state government was meticulous in appointing some of the other members of the governing council, taking into cognizance their wealth of experience and records of service, in order to give the Chairman the support required towards the realization of the vision for establishing the university.

    Governor Sule used the opportunity of the event to show appreciation to the outgone Pro-Chancellor/Chairman of the NSUK governing council, Prof Adamu Baikie for his contributions to the viability of the university, as well as the Vice Chancellor, Prof Suleiman Bala for the  ongoing repositioning of the institution.

  • ‘No successor-predecessor crisis in Nasarawa’

    ‘No successor-predecessor crisis in Nasarawa’

    At a recent meeting at the Government House, Lafia, Nasarawa State, Governor Abdullahi Sule and his predecessors, Senators Tanko Al-Makura and Abdullahi Adamu, reviewed the progress made so far since the creation of the state in 1996. They also used dispel, rumours of a disagreement among them. Correspondent LINUS OOTA reports.

    Nasarawa State was created on October 1, 1996 by the military regime of the late Gen. Sani Abacha. Apart from its marginalisation within the old Plateau State, it was the strong agitation to ensure that development gets to the grassroots and to forge a common force for peace, unity and progress among the people that propelled the late Abacha to create the state.

    Until the administration of Abdullahi Sule, an engineer who is building on the solid foundation laid by his predecessor in office,  Tanko Al-Makura, Nasarawa State was one of the most backward states in the country.  The state is crippled by infrastructural deficit, which can be attributed to the long years of neglect, domination and marginalisation it experienced when it was a part of the old Plateau State.

    The state has since been governed by four civilian governors; with Senator Abdullahi Adamu taking the first shot from 1999 to 2007. He was followed by the late Aliyu Akwe Doma from 2007 to 2011, Senator Umaru Tanko Al-Makura (2011 to 2019) and Governor Abdullahi Sule who has been at the helm of affairs since 2019.

    Both Adamu and Al-Makura did their best in developing the state. When Al-Makura was completing his tenure in 2019, the expectation was that he would pick his successor from the Eggon ethnic nationality, a majority tribe that is yet to govern the state. But he defied logic by supporting Sule, a minority Hausa Kanuri from a small Gudi community in Akwanga Local Government.

    Al-Makura was not perturbed by ethnic cleavages; he believed that his decision would put paid to politics of hatred and will rescue the people from the hands of politicians who instigate ethnic hatred for political advantage; which was a complete deviation from the dreams of the founding fathers of the state.

    Since he assumed office in 2019,  Sule has tried to discourage ethnic politics. He has resorted to an inclusive policy that has demystified all the ethnic and religious proponents which had tendencies of retarding development. Speaking about his style of governance, Sule said:  “I’m not interested in ethnic or religious politics; we are all one and every single tribe, no matter how small will get their dues under my watch. I am determined, like always, to run a consultative government, a government of inclusivity that would unify all the ethnic nationalities into one united Nasarawa State, this is the dream of our founding fathers.”

    Though rumour mongers have been speaking increasingly about the alleged standoff between Governor Sule and his predecessors, Adamu and Al-Makura, there appears to be no iota of truth in it.

    The speculation became heightened in August last year when the Nasarawa State House of Assembly was allegedly instructed by Governor Sule to set up a committee to probe certain transactions, especially the sale of the state government assets in Lagos during the Al-Makura administration.  It took the intervention of some forces outside the state to douse the tension.

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    The rumour mill had it then that  Sule had embarked on breaking bridges of political and social friction between his predecessors, and the ethnic groups in the state and that he was determined to chart a new cause devoid of ethnic and religious sentiments.

    But, following the vision of the state’s founding fathers, he chose to build new bridges of political friendships with his predecessors and the entire people of the state, irrespective of tribe. Speaking recently at the Government House, in Lafia, the state capital, the two former governors, Senators Adamu and Al-Makura restated their resolve to stand by incumbent Governor Sule.

    The two former governors made their resolve known shortly after a closed-door meeting with Governor Sule at the Government House early this year.

    First to speak was Senator Adamu, the immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC). He said: “It is our collective interest to remain united to restore hope in the state, adding that it has become necessary for them to unite because the state is in a state of flux, following the outcome of the 2023 Governorship election.”

    Adamu used the opportunity to dismiss insinuations that there was a rift between them. He said: “The moment a society doesn’t have this kind of air, then, it is not a society. The people who don’t mean well to the state are peddling the kind of rumour you are talking about. I don’t know anybody who will come tomorrow but for those of us who have been here, we love this state; it is people who don’t mean well, people who believe there must be a crisis, that there has to be a misunderstanding among the leaders for them to benefit.

    “They are promoting this, we have no reason; we have nothing to benefit from the disunity of this state. I repeat nothing whatsoever; we are in a state of flux because of the outcome of the last election, and it’s in our interest more than anybody’s interest to be united, to be able to restore hope in the state; that is the reason we are here and we will continue to do so for as long as we breathe.”

    Also speaking, Senator Al-Makura said as a former governor, they must support incumbent Governor Sule. His words: “As former governors, we have to support the administration of our colleague and at any point in time, for whatsoever reason. We may not need to be invited if there are crises or worries because we are critical stakeholders and statesmen.”

    He dismissed claims of misunderstanding between them, stressing that such insinuations are mere speculations, given the affinity and good relationship existing between them. He said:  “Those speculating are mischief makers; they are out to cause disunity. If you look at our faces, we are united and there is no rift within our ranks.

    “This is a usual routine meeting that we have been having right from the time His Excellency came on board; people may not know because we do not usually announce our consultations to advise and counsel on issues that affect the state. That is why our meeting with His Excellency is crucial, especially at this point when we are being challenged by certain situations. We need to put our heads together to forge ahead.

    “I can assure you that we are working together and we are focused.  We are now urging all our supporters and stakeholders to emulate our good relationship and also support this administration in whatever way that they can. I believe that given this affinity, relationship and love that exists among us, all the insinuations you are hearing about not seeing eye-to-eye or not being in talking terms are mere speculations or fake news

    “We are here, we have always been here; we have been talking to ourselves virtually daily. I want to assure you that we are good to go and, Insha Allah, this will be good for the people of Nasarawa State.”

     Sule who also spoke described those who want to cause trouble between him and Senator Al-Makura as mischief makers. He challenged them to give peace a chance for the sake of the unity of the party and the development of the state. He said some mischief makers are trying to cause a rift between him and Senator Al-Makura, adding that those doing that are out to destabilize the state for their interest. He added: “These are people who want me and Al-Makura to have a rift; they are mischief makers.  You heard Tanko (Al-Makura) say no matter the high level of mischief, you will not hear me and him fight each other, No room for them any longer.”

     Sule said: “Tanko Al-Makura worked very hard for me to become the Governor of Nasarawa State in 2019. You will never hear any argument between me and Tanko Al-Makura, for the interest of the party and the state.”

    Also speaking, the Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Bage (rtd) thanked Governor Sule for keeping fate with the dreams of the founding fathers of the state, which is to build peace and development, and not acrimony. He said that the founding fathers had courage, made sacrifices and were resolute in their struggle to achieve the desired end and that posterity will forever remember them in the highest esteem for they indeed occupy a special place in the lexicon of Nasarawa State.

    The Emir added: “Today, Nasarawa State, under the dynamic leadership of Governor Sule has kept faith with the dreams and aspirations of its founding fathers which is but to build peace and develop the state. The state continues to occupy its pride of place as home to all, a model of peace and good governance and one of the most peaceful and secure states in the north to live and do business despite the pockets of some security breaches.

    “Nasarawa State under Governor Sule has gone beyond the horizon of parochialism to promote the principles of love, unity and peace among the political, religious and traditional institutions, which he identifies as one of the cardinal dreams and aspirations of the founding fathers of Nasarawa State.

    “It is based on this that Vice President Kashim Shettima last week in the Karu Local Government Area while commissioning a road project executed by Governor Sule, commended him for maintaining the delicate peace in Nasarawa State.  He also stressed that there can never be development without peace.

    “Senator Shettima particularly commended Governor Sule for maintaining the peace, especially at a time when agents of destruction and purveyors of death were trying to inflame passion in most of the volatile parts of the North.

    He pointed out that there is no reason why the people of Northern Nigeria should fight each other instead of coming together to fight poverty, destitution and backwardness that is ravaging the region.

    “We have to learn to embrace each other, to tolerate one another. And for us in northern Nigeria, we are all united in our heritage of poverty and destitution. I see no reason why we should be fighting each other, instead of collectively fighting poverty, destitution and backwardness in our states.”

    Vice President Shettima also commended Governor Sule for completing the road project that was initiated almost 20 years ago by the first civilian governor of the state, Senator Abdullahi Adamu. He equally commended Governor Sule’s deputy, Dr Emmanuel Akabe, for his loyalty, support, maturity and tolerance.

    Nasarawa State is one of the states with a prodigious investment climate and potential for economic development. Several of its untapped resources now offer very good potential for economically viable and technically feasible industrial and agricultural development projects. The state has a wide range of solid minerals and a variety of crops produced within.

    Sule said he came into government fully prepared and that his experience as one of the leading figures in thriving conglomerates in the country and abroad was enough to prepare him for leadership. He said such experiences were the reason why his administration is committed to tapping the resources available in the state, a hitherto rural state, which he has transformed into one of the leading investor destinations in the country.

    He said he assumed office with a development blueprint which he had been diligently implementing. He added that the Nasarawa Economic Development Strategy (NEDS) document had greatly impacted the state economy and other sectors. He said: “The NEDS document is a policy document, and there was no way I would just jump in from all the big companies that I have run without some kind of policy document.”

    Though he added that NEDS was meant to cover the period from 2019 to 2023, there was still room for new initiatives, with his administration now focusing on implementation and monitoring. He added: “We left room for new things that we are going to do. In the new policy that we are putting together, most of the things are going to be implementation of what we have done and monitoring to see if what we have done is right; that is just what is new that we are adding to the policy. But our policy remains the same.”

    Governor Sule explained that despite the challenges confronting the state, some of the benefits of the reforms and policy directions initiated by his administration have begun to bear positive results.