JASAWA TIMES

Beyond The Jos North Debate: If We Belong Enough To Build Plateau, Why Don’t We Belong Enough To Be Recognised? By JASAWA TIMES Opinion Desk The ongoing debate surrounding indigeneship and the status of Hausa communities in Jos North is once again forcing Plateau State to confront difficult questions that have remained unresolved for decades. Across social media, courtrooms, and political spaces, arguments continue over who truly belongs, who qualifies as an indigene, and who should have access to recognition under the system that governs identity in Nigeria. But perhaps there is a question many people are deliberately avoiding. If Hausa communities are not considered part of Plateau enough to be recognised, why are they considered important enough whenever elections approach? This is a question worth serious reflection. For decades, political actors across Plateau State have consistently sought the support of Hausa communities during elections. Political alliances are built. Ca...

By Abdulhafiz Abdullahi Aliyu (Abdulhafiz Faggo) abdulhafizjos25@gmail.com,  09038665814 Across Nigeria’s cities, towns, and forgotten corridors stand silent structures—unfinished hospitals, empty hotels, idle factories, rusting stadiums, and skeletal towers. They are not just abandoned buildings; they are abandoned hopes, stalled futures, and deferred prosperity. Recent estimates reveal a staggering reality: over 56,000 public projects have been abandoned across Nigeria , with a combined value exceeding ₦17 trillion . This figure alone is larger than the annual budgets of several African nations combined. Yet the real cost goes far beyond money—it is paid daily in unemployment, lost skills, weakened trust in governance, and missed opportunities for millions. This is not merely a Nigerian problem. It is a civic crisis with global implications . The Human Cost of Abandonment Every abandoned project tells a human story: Young graduates unable to find work because promised industrie...

 The House of Representatives has approved President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s request to impose a state of emergency in Rivers State following heightened political tensions and security concerns. The decision, made during a plenary session on Wednesday, comes after weeks of instability in the oil-rich state, where political clashes and reports of pipeline vandalism have raised national security concerns. Why the Emergency Rule? The crisis in Rivers State stems from an ongoing power tussle between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and state lawmakers, a situation that has escalated into widespread unrest. Reports also indicate that increased incidents of oil theft and pipeline vandalism are affecting Nigeria’s economic stability. President Tinubu, in his emergency rule proclamation, suspended Governor Fubara and other elected officials, appointing retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as the military administrator to oversee the state’s affairs. House of Representatives  Legislative Endor...

The Nigeria Governors' Forum (NGF) has assured Nigerians and organized labor that negotiations are underway to establish a better minimum wage. This comes after the governors previously rejected the Federal Government's proposal of N62,000, citing that some states would need to borrow to pay salaries. Despite this, organized labor continues to push for a wage of N250,000. Nigeria Governor's Forum  Following the Federal Executive Council's postponement of the minimum wage discussion, the governors held an emergency meeting, which extended into the early hours of Thursday. According to a communiqué signed by NGF acting Director, Media, Ahmed Salihu, the forum discussed various national issues, including the new national minimum wage. The governors agreed to continue engaging with key stakeholders to reach a mutually acceptable solution, assuring that better wages will result from the ongoing negotiations. They also discussed the World Bank-Nigeria for Women Project Scale-...

Tragedy struck at the National Assembly on Tuesday when a senior officer of the Nigeria Customs Service passed away during a meeting with a House Committee. According to a statement released by House Spokesman Akin Rotimi, the officer suddenly fell ill at approximately 1 pm and despite prompt medical attention from first responders and the National Assembly Clinic's medical team, sadly succumbed to his condition. Nass Out of respect for the family's privacy, the officer's identity has not been disclosed at this time. The House of Representatives extends its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased and stands ready to support investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

By Abdullahi Abdulhafiz Aliyu In today’s fast-changing digital landscape, access to technology is no longer a luxury—it is a necessity. Yet, for millions of Nigerians, especially people with special needs, the digital world remains out of reach due to systemic barriers and a lack of inclusive learning opportunities. My work as a journalist and digital advocate has focused on breaking these barriers, ensuring that technology serves as a tool for empowerment rather than exclusion. Through my engagement with individuals with disabilities and as the host of Duniyar Fasaha (Fasaha World) on Unity FM, I have worked to bridge the digital divide by providing foundational digital education to marginalized groups. By introducing people with special needs to basic computer skills such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and internet navigation, I have witnessed firsthand how technology can unlock new opportunities and transform lives. Digital Skills for Special Needs: A Path to Inclusion Inclu...

Plateau State Government Donates Seized Items to Nigerian Correctional Centre. Following the implementation of Executive Order 003 by the Governor of Plateau State, the Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB) led by General Manager Arch Hart Bankat visited the Nigerian Correctional Centre in Jos. The purpose of the visit was to donate items seized from individuals who violated the ban on street trading. The donated items included clothing, shoes, food, and more. Some of the  Seized Items.  During the visit, Bankat stressed the importance of complying with government directives to ensure businesses can operate in an orderly and convenient manner. The JMDB team was accompanied by officials such as Musa Ashoms (Commissioner of Information), Jim Ways (Chairman of Plateau State Revenue Board), Samuel Dapiya (Director General of PEPSA), and Samuel Gwott (General Manager of Plateau Express). The donated items are also expected to be distributed to internally displaced persons in Ba...

By Amb Mu'azu Dalawa Plateau state Youth Council logo The 2nd edition of the Kanam Youth Assembly 2024, a six-day event, successfully brought together Kanam youths, fostering unity and promoting a sense of purpose. The assembly, which took place from Friday to Wednesday, featured a range of activities, including: - Special Friday Prayers - Sanitation and awareness on environmental hygiene - Special Sunday Church Service - Public lecture, Cultural Display, and Award Presentation - Unity Hike and Barbecue - Aerobic Exercise Participants during Aerobic exercise  The event was graced by esteemed individuals from Kanam, including friends from diverse tribes, faiths, and political backgrounds. Notable attendees included: - Rt Hon Yusuf Adamu Gagdi (represented by his wife, Hajiya Maryam Yusuf Gagdi) - Sen Diket Plang (represented by his Legislative Aide) - Justice Yahaya Mohammed Kanam (Khadi, Sharia Court of Appeal, Plateau State) - Alh Ja'afar Baba Saleh (Katukan Kanam) - Represent...

Abba Kabir Yusuf  Quit Notice on Nassarrawa Palace   Following today's court ruling, the Kano State Government has instructed the Kano State Commissioner of Police to promptly remove the 15th Emir Aminu Ado from Nassarawa Palace, which is owned by the state. The Kano government has announced that the properties are set to undergo demolition for the purpose of reconstruction.

Plateau State Governor Hails Traditional Institutions for Fostering Community Cohesion Jos, Plateau State. Governor Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has commended traditional institutions for their vital role in promoting community cohesion and peace in the state. Governor Mutfwang and Chairman traditional rulers.  Speaking during a meeting with the State Council of Chiefs and Emirs at the New Government House in Jos on Wednesday, Governor Mutfwang described traditional rulers as "pillars of community cohesion, peace, and harmonious living." He acknowledged their critical role in fostering peace, unity, and stability in their respective domains and urged them to continue building trust and confidence among their people. The Governor also recognized their efforts in addressing security challenges and pledged to collaborate with relevant bodies to enhance their dignity and respect. In his remarks, the Chairman of the Plateau State Council of Chiefs and Emirs, Da Jacob Gyang Buba, ...

Dutse, Jigawa State. On Wednesday, Governor Mallam Umar Namadi received the management of the Federal University Babura, led by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Sabo Ibrahim Birnin Kudu, at the Government House. The Vice Chancellor congratulated the governor on his electoral victory and briefed him on the university's activities. He expressed gratitude for the state government's support, including a permanent site, accommodation, and vehicle procurement. He also requested assistance with school fees for indigenous students. Governor Umar Namadi Governor Namadi thanked the VC and commended the university's achievements. He pledged continued assistance and promised to consider providing staff housing near the university.

On Wednesday, Governor Barrister Caleb Mutfwang welcomed the Muslim Ummah community to the Eid-El-Kabir Sallah Homage at the New Government House in Little Rayfield, Jos. The event, led by the State Chairman of Jama'atu Nasril Islam (JNI), brought together clerics, community leaders, women, youths, and the elderly to express their gratitude to the administration for its generosity, kindness, and support towards Muslims in the state. Governor Mutfwang and Emir of Wase exchanging kola  The governor acknowledged the community's appreciation for the rehabilitation of road networks around key areas and support for the 2024 Hajj logistics and mobilization. He also reiterated his commitment to fairness, justice, and equality for all citizens, creating a welcoming environment for everyone. The Emir of Wase, who was also in attendance, called for enhanced collaboration on the enforcement of Executive Order 003 to ensure sustainable peace and cleanliness in Jos. A group photograph with t...

A tragic incident occurred in Bukuru, Jos South LGA, on Monday, resulting in the death of a trader, Nasiru Abubakar, and injuring two others. The incident happened during an enforcement operation by the Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB) task force. The Nigerian Police Logo According to reports, the task force was attempting to disperse a group of criminal elements when a warning shot was fired, unfortunately hitting the trader. The incident also resulted in the destruction of several vehicles, with over five cars set ablaze. The Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Adesina, promptly visited the scene to assess the situation, and normalcy has been restored. The police command has issued a stern warning to individuals with criminal intentions, urging them to desist from their activities or flee the state. 

Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, has stated that Federal and National Industrial Courts lack the jurisdiction to preside over chieftaincy matters. In a personal statement, Falana criticized the courts for assuming jurisdiction in such cases, describing their decisions as "erroneous" and "unjustifiable" under the Constitution. Falana cited the Supreme Court's ruling in Tukur v. Government of Gongola State (1987), which established that the right to be an emir is not a fundamental right protected by the Constitution, and therefore, Federal High Courts have no jurisdiction over such matters. Femi Falana  He argued that the Federal High Court's involvement in the dispute surrounding the deposition of Emir Ado Bayero and the restoration of Emir Sanusi Lamido Sanusi was a clear disregard of the Supreme Court's decision. Falana also noted that the National Industrial Court lacks jurisdiction in chieftaincy matters, as stated in S...

The Kano State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is calling for the arrest of Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement and presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), over his recent allegations against the party and the federal government. Kwankwaso had accused the APC-led federal government of attempting to destabilize Kano State and create a new insurgency, drawing comparisons to Boko Haram. He also claimed that the government was plotting to declare a state of emergency in the state. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso The APC chairman in Kano, Abdullahi Abbas, responded by calling for Kwankwaso's arrest, stating that his comments were inciting and indicated a sinister plot to cause chaos in the state. The party's national secretariat also weighed in, criticizing Kwankwaso's "unguarded utterances" and calling for him to demonstrate more discretion. However, the presidency has denied Kwankwaso's allegations, with Special A...

  APC Few days after the Niger State chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Haliru Zakari Jikantoro, resigned from the position, two more persons resigned their positions with the political party. The secretary and the vice chairman of the party, Barrister Khaleel Ibrahim Aliyu and Abdulsalam Madaki respectively, have also resigned saying their action had nothing to do with the perceived crisis rocking the party since the nomination of Mohammed Idris Malagi for ministerial appointment. But insiders said the resignations were directives from above as the governor does not trust the state leadership of the party since the 2022 governorship primaries. Multiple sources said more officials would also resign in the coming days to pave ways for the loyalists of the governor to pilot the affairs of the party in the state. When contacted, the State Publicity Secretary of the party, Musa D. Sarkinkaji, told Daily newsmen the party was not faced with internal crisis as speculated by...

First lady the rescued Chibok girl The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, yesterday received Rebecca Kabu, one of the 277 Chibok schoolgirls who were abducted by Boko Haram in 2014, at the Presidential villa, Abuja. She received Rebecca along with the wife of the vice president, Hajiya Nana Shettima. Mrs Tinubu pledged to ensure that Rebecca was well taken care of medically and fit to return to school willingly. The First Lady, while assuring that the remaining girls in captivity were not forgotten, appreciated the office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), National Intelligence Agency (NIA) and other security agencies and those who were involved in Rebecca’s rescue. “Our dear daughter, Rebecca, I welcome you. I have been praying for you all night; it is well with you. What has happened to her is traumatic. Words are inadequate for me to describe it. “Cases of amnesia should be treated; it is difficult to get by, but since you are still here, God has plans for you. I thank the off...

  Six people died and over 10 others were injured when a section of the Zaria Central Mosque collapsed yesterday. Witnesses said four people died on the spot while two others who were rushed to the hospital died yesterday, bringing the casualty to six. Mallam Ibrahim Mohammed was a victim, and he explained that most of the people that sustained injuries was as a result of stampede and not the building collapse. He said, “I was pushed to the ground and lots of people matched me which resulted in all the injuries I sustained.” Sani Salisu, a routine worshipper in the mosque, said one of the pillars in the mosque has been leaking for almost five days following torrential rainfall. Confirming the incident, the Emir of Zazzau, Mallam Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, said the victims were observing the Asr prayer around 4pm when the incident occurred. “We had earlier observed a crack on the wall of the mosque yesterday and were planning to deploy a team of civil engineers to effect repairs when this ...

President Tinubu President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said that swift recovery of the economy that achieves the greatest good for the greatest number of people is his priority. He said this yesterday at a meeting held at the State House, Abuja, with the Board of Trustees of the All Progressives’ Congress (APC) Professionals Forum led by former Bauchi State Governor, Malam Isa Yuguda. He reassured Nigerians that no stone would be left unturned in his administration’s multifarious efforts to stimulate the economy and make it work for the greatest good of all Nigerians. “This economy must recover for the good and greatest number of Nigerians, and we are seriously committed to seeing through a change for the better,” he said, in a statement by his spokesman, Ajuri Ngelale. President Tinubu said every effort across sectors would be documented and periodically reviewed for performance verification and public presentation to steadily ensure measured growth and enhanced public enlightenment on poli...

  Father Takes Life of Daughter  The Adamawa State Police Command has arrested Ayuba Danbaki, a 35-yearold man from Rigi community in Ga’anda District, Gombi LGA, for allegedly murdering his two-yearold daughter, Tamar Ayuba. The suspect reportedly buried the corpse in a shallow grave after tying a rope around the young girl’s neck. According to reports, the mother of the deceased, Shiyona Ali, left the child with her father at a local joint in the community aft er becoming tired of her upkeep. The suspect, who was reportedly drinking at the time became angry with his former wife and took the child into the bush, where he allegedly carried out the heinous act before burying her. The tragic incident has sparked outrage in the community, with many calling for justice to be served. While being interrogated by the PPRO of the Police Command, SP Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje, on Wednesday, the suspect confessed thus: “I killed my daughter, because I became angry as to the reason why he...