A young philanthropist and businessman, Timdi Nkat, founder of Timlight Group, has declared his intention to contest for the Mikang State Constituency seat in the Plateau State House of Assembly.

Nkat, who is challenging the re-election bid of the incumbent Speaker, Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel, made the declaration with a strong message of unity, declaring that “Mikang unity is not for sale.”

Speaking during the declaration exercise, Nkat described Mikang as a community built on the foundation of unity among its diverse groups.

He stressed the need to protect that bond, which he said is now being threatened by growing divisions and self-interest.

He vowed to “reinforce the cord” that binds communities such as Tehl, Garkawa, Piapung, and Koenoem into one indivisible identity.

The aspirant expressed concern over what he described as a leadership style that has become disconnected from the people, making it difficult for ordinary citizens with good ideas to contribute while the genuine needs of the masses are neglected.

Nkat highlighted the economic challenges facing residents and pledged to pursue people-centred representation that ensures resources are deployed for the benefit of the community rather than personal enrichment.

On youth development, he said greater attention must be paid to empowering young people through skills acquisition, opportunities and support, adding that the future of Mikang depends largely on investing in its youths.

Our correspondent reports that the Timlight Group founder has over the years earned a reputation for community support, particularly in youth empowerment, using his personal resources to make meaningful impact.

Drawing from his background as a businessman and teacher, Nkat said he understands the value of hard work and community service, assuring that his experience has adequately prepared him for quality legislative representation.

He described his ambition as a collective one and urged the people of Mikang to support the vision. “This is not my ambition’s song; this is our chorus,” he declared, calling for a new direction anchored on “something better.”

With this declaration, Nkat is set to square up against the Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel, a third-term lawmaker who is seeking a fourth term in office.

The development is expected to heat up the political space in Mikang Local Government Area as the countdown to the 2027 general elections begins.

Stakeholders, community leaders, and young people in Jos have called for an end to mob lynching, urging adherence to justice, peace, and the rule of law as the only path to a stable society.

The call was the central focus of “Reflection to Action 3.0,” themed “Youth Against Mob Lynching: Choose Justice, Not Violence,” held on April 18, 2026, at A+ Hub, Hillstation Junction. The event was organized by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Executive Governor of Plateau State on Youth Mobilization, led by Hon. Safiyya Isa Muhammad, in collaboration with the Fwinbe Thomas Gofwan Memorial Foundation and A+ Hub.

Participants engaged in extensive discussions on the dangers of jungle justice, stressing the need for sustained youth engagement and community-driven approaches to addressing violence. They emphasized that mob lynching undermines societal order and often leads to the loss of innocent lives.

In her welcome address, Hajiya Safiyya Isa Muhammad warned that any society where the law loses its meaning risks descending into chaos. She condemned mob lynching, stating that no individual has the right to take another person’s life outside legal provisions. According to her, justice must be rooted in due process, fairness, and humanity.

She described Plateau State as a land of peace and diversity, urging citizens to embrace their cultural, religious, and ethnic differences as strengths rather than sources of conflict. Addressing youths, she acknowledged their influence but called on them to act with restraint, promote peace, and uphold justice.

Nenpominyi Gofwan of the Fwinbe Thomas Gofwan Memorial Foundation shared a personal account of loss, revealing that the foundation was established after his younger brother was killed in a mob lynching based on an unverified accusation. He described the incident as a painful example of how quickly lives can be destroyed when due process is ignored, urging greater awareness, empathy, and responsibility among citizens.

Resource person Vivian Abana outlined four principles for peaceful coexistence, truth, fairness, goodwill, and mutual benefit, encouraging participants to reflect on the impact of their actions and words. She highlighted the importance of unity in diversity and cautioned against prejudice and assumptions.

Representing the Plateau State Commissioner of Police, U. C. Erhabo described mob lynching as a violation of human rights and a threat to public safety. He urged citizens to report suspected offenders to law enforcement agencies rather than resorting to violence, noting that such actions only fuel instability.

Grace Goyol, speaking on behalf of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), linked rising cases of mob violence to drug abuse, particularly among youths. She noted that substance abuse often leads to aggression and poor judgment, calling for responsible behavior and collective efforts to curb the trend.

Similarly, George Abi of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) recounted a disturbing encounter with mob violence, describing it as barbaric and ineffective in addressing crime. He stressed that such acts only perpetuate disorder and called for greater compassion and lawful engagement with security agencies.

Delivering an emotional appeal, Guinness World Record holder Victoria Anya Ishaku condemned mob lynching and urged youths to resist retaliation despite feelings of anger and frustration. She emphasized that “speed without direction leads to destruction,” encouraging thoughtful action and commitment to justice.

Usman Yakubu Hassan, a participant described the programme as timely and enlightening, especially amid recurring violence in Jos. He noted that mob-related incidents have persisted for decades, but this initiative uniquely brought together potential victims and perpetrators alongside security agencies. He commended the organizers for fostering dialogue and practical solutions, adding that the series has consistently promoted awareness, understanding, and prevention.

The event concluded with a renewed commitment from participants to serve as ambassadors of peace, reject mob violence, and promote justice through lawful means in their communities.