Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang granted absolute pardon to one prisoner, paid fines for 10 others, and had their various jail terms quashed as a part of his goodwill for the new year.
The Governor announced this in a state-wide broadcast on the new year day, as he welcomes citizens to what he termed as “a year of hope renewal, great opportunities and transformative progress,” for Plateau State.
He highlighted the efforts he has made in governance, commended President Bola Tinubu, citizens, and security personnel for their support, trust, prayers, sacrifices, and diligence, and expressed optimism that with the cooperation of all stakeholders, the State would prosper.
His words, “I welcome you to the year 2025 – a year of hope renewal, great opportunities, and transformative progress for our beloved State… Despite the hurdles we encountered, we made bold investments in technology and logistics to strengthen the surveillance and protection of our rural communities. Our efforts have already begun yielding significant results, as unprovoked attacks, once rampant, are steadily declining.
“While we have recorded progress, some communities continue to face security challenges, we will not rest until enduring peace is achieved across Plateau State. I extend my heartfelt condolences to all those who have suffered from attacks across the State. Your pain is our pain. We remain committed to partnering with the Federal Government and other stakeholders to end these avoidable tragedies.
“It is sad that some individuals have taken child trafficking as business to exploit our children. The government under my watch will take decisive action against those who indulge in this criminal activity. I encourage parents to take absolute responsibility for raising their children and safeguarding them against this menace.”
He listed the efforts made in sectors like transportation, agriculture, ICT, education, health, water and sanitation, urban renewal, energy, infrastructure, etc, and added, “In 2025, we are committed to building neighbourhood markets across the Jos – Bukuru metropolis while establishing modern community markets in each of the three Senatorial Districts.
“We will also focus on technological advancement. Plans are in place to revitalize the Nigerian Standard Building into a hub for tech-driven employment for Plateau’s youths. Our collaboration with Galaxy Backbone Limited will enhance internet accessibility and introduce e-governance initiatives for greater transparency and efficiency.
“The Plateau State ICT Development Agency (PICTDA) will also develop skills to position the State as an ICT hub. As we step into 2025, let us embrace the year as one of consolidation, sustainability, and fulfillment. Already, we are engaging in strategic discussions with Plateau youths, the business community, and elders to foster unity and progress.
“We are determined to revitalize and make functional all traditional institutions in the State to take charge of their domain. We appeal to ethnic nationalities and communities where vacuum exists to speedily remove all impediments to allow vacant stools to be lawfully occupied.”
On the offenders, he stated, “I am pleased to announce that fines were paid for various offenders who committed various offenses and their jail terms were quashed. They include: Moses Reuben – Absolute pardon. Payment of fines was done for Saleh Muhammadu, Mohammed Ado, Safa David, Timothy Sunday, David Yusuf, Abba Ahmed, Umar Adamu, Manasseh Dada, Na’Answan, and Sunday Joseph.”
[Vanguard]