News

Gideon & Funmi Para-Mallam Peace Foundation Brings Relief and Advocacy to Crisis-Hit Plateau State

Published

3 years ago

July 22, 2023

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In response to the devastating humanitarian crisis in Plateau State, the Gideon, and Funmi Para-Mallam Peace Foundation, in collaboration with the Christian Women for Excellence and Empowerment in Nigeria Society (CWEENS), embarked on a compassionate visit to the conflict-ridden Mangu local government area as part of their “Touching Life For Peace” initiative to provide much-needed relief materials and advocate for peace in the region.

The Foundation’s CEO, Reverend Dr. Gideon Para-Mallam, led the delegation, which brought essential aid to the IDP Camp in the Mangu local government area consisting of 100 mattresses, bags of beans, rice and corn, gallons of cooking oil among others on Saturday 22nd July 2023.

Upon arrival, Rev. Dr. Gideon Para-Mallam expressed deep concern for the people of Mangu, acknowledging the catastrophic and disturbing nature of the humanitarian disaster that has befallen them.

Speaking passionately, Rev. Dr. Gideon called for an end to the impunity of attackers and emphasized that the senseless killings of innocent Nigerians must stop. He urged the IDPs to shun violence and retaliation, assuring them that their pleas would be heard and addressed by the government.

“The humanitarian disaster that has befallen the people of Mangu has been catastrophic and disturbing. The government needs to stop the impunity of the attackers walking away into thin air. So, it is time to say enough is enough to the plateau killings of innocent Nigerians under whatever guise.”

Drawing parallels with the successful management of the Farmer-Herders conflict in the Bass community of Plateau State, Rev. Dr. Gideon expressed hope that the same approach could bring an end to the violence in Mangu.

The secretary-general of the Maguvul Development Association, Dr. Solomon Manguwat, expressed concerns about the IDPs’ future prospects, as they were predominantly farmers and unable to farm while displaced.

“Sincerely speaking we see great challenges ahead especially in 2024 because the IDPs’ are mostly farmers and if they’re not back to their communities they cannot farm and then won’t be able to take care of themselves in the coming year which is why we are appealing to the government to direct security agencies to secure the villages and provide the assurance of safety, enabling the IDPs to return to their communities promptly,” Solomon added.

CAN chairman of the Mangu local government area, Rev Timothy Samson Dalute in his address advocated for increased security presence, particularly at specific entry points where attacks had been frequent.

He said, “We call on the government to put in more effort in alleviating the consistent attacks in the Mango community, such as placing military checkpoints at areas that are entry routes of the attacks, such as the Mori, Changal, Combili, and Jenare areas.”

He also highlighted the urgent need for infrastructural developments, particularly the repair of collapsed bridges that hindered escape routes during violent incidents.

During their visit, the Foundation also met with the monarch of the Magunguvu community, HRH Da John Putmang who expressed his gratitude for the initiative and support of the Foundation while conveying the plight of his people.

He said “Despite various dialogues between both parties, the attackers have consistently breached agreements. Even until yesterday, the farmlands of some residents have been consistently destroyed. There are speculations that the attacks may have political undertones, as the newly elected governor is from the Mangu community.

“We assure you that we will not retaliate, but we urgently need to create an avenue for meaningful dialogue to find lasting solutions. Additionally, it’s essential to note that some of the IDPs are still scattered all over the State’s capital and other communities.”

The visit reached an emotional climax as Rev. Dr. Gideon came face to face with the orphaned victims, among them a fragile 2-year-old named Precious. The heart-wrenching scene unfolded as their devoted caretaker couldn’t hold back her tears, overwhelmed by the immense weight of their sorrowful plight.

Throughout the visit, the Gideon and Funmi Para-Mallam Peace Foundation emphasized the pressing need for joint efforts from the government and stakeholders to address the crisis in Plateau State.

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News

Bandits invade Plateau village, kill resident

Published

2 hours ago

June 8, 2026

Preport

Bandits have attacked and killed Shedrack Dalyop, a 36-year-old resident of Kuru district, at Sabon Gidan Kanar in the Gyel area of Jos South LGA of Plateau.

According to Rwang Tengwong, spokesman for the Berom Youth Moulders Association, the deceased was killed on Saturday, while his remains were discovered on Sunday morning.

“Yesterday evening. The corpse was discovered this morning after the other person who sustained injuries established communication with his community,” he said.

He stated that Mang Davou of Gyel district was wounded during the attack.

According to him, the BYM condemned the attack, which resulted in the death of Mr Dalyop and the injury of Mr Davou.

“This incident occurred barely days after a similar attack in the same area that claimed one life and left another person hospitalised, underscoring the growing insecurity confronting residents of the community,” he said.

Mr Tengwong urged Operation Enduring Peace and other security agencies to immediately investigate the attack and arrest the perpetrators, adding that the suspects should be brought to justice.

He extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Mr Dalyop and prayed for the speedy recovery of Mr Davou.

Alfred Alabo, the police spokesperson in Plateau, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Business

FCCPC denies a hand in the reported airtime credit overhaul

Published

4 hours ago

June 8, 2026

Preport

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has denied reports that it secured presidential approval to restructure Nigeria’s airtime credit market and allow new operators to join the sector.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Ondaje Ijagwu, the commission’s spokesperson, disclosed that the agency played no part in the development as alleged.

“The commission wishes to state clearly that it is not aware of, and was not involved in the claims attributed to it in the report.”

FCCP’s reaction comes on the heels of claims that President Bola Tinubu has given the go-ahead to plans to open the market to nine Nigerian fintech firms as part of the administration’s Nigeria First policy.

The reports said the push would expand participation in a sector largely dominated by telecommunications operators and their partners, and could play a big role in reducing capital flight.

The reports also estimated that the market is worth about ₦3 trillion annually.
The FCCPC, however, did not comment on the estimated market size or the companies mentioned in the reports.

The commission also reiterated that the implementation of the DEON Consumer Lending Regulations 2025 remains suspended.

ALSO READ: FCCPC seals Ochacho Real Estate, TI’Bilon Construction offices

According to the FCCPC, the suspension followed an interim injunction granted by the Federal High Court in Lagos on 15 April in a suit filed by the Wireless Application Service Providers Association of Nigeria (WASPAN).

Mr Ijagwu said the commission remains bound by the court order pending the determination of the suit.

“As a law-abiding public institution, FCCPC remains bound by the court order to suspend enforcement of the regulation pending the determination of the substantive case by the court, which has been fixed for July 20, 2026, for further hearing,” he said.

He emphasised that the commission would steadfastly follow all lawful procedures related to the matter while fully complying with the court’s directives.