By Kateng Daniel
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has assured the people of Plateau state that his administration will continue to rebuild peace and security within the state.
Gov. Lalong disclosed on Friday during the 61st Independence day parade held at the Rwang Pam stadium Jos.
“We have made a lot of progress to institutionalize peaceful coexistence through the peace building agency and the Inter-religious Council.
“Our efforts are therefore aimed at consolidating on this stability by strengthening security architecture and ensuring that justice prevails for all those who were attacked.
“Only this Wednesday, I received the Chief of Army Staff who came to assure us that the military will do more to protect the people, same assurances had been given by the Chief of Defence Staff who also visited recently.
“We will also continue with our engagement to foster dialogue, synergy, collaboration and forgiveness in order to sustain the peace of the State.
Gov. Lalong urged all citizens to give them their maximum support and cooperation by giving accurate and timely information to security agencies.
“My administration will continue to provide training and entrepreneurship development to unemployed youths so as to reduce the high rate of crimes within the state.
“Let me again restate my determination to ensure that we sustain the democratic culture in Plateau State and Nigeria at large.
“This is why we have supported PLASIEC within constitutional provisions, to carry out its duty of conducting Local Government Elections. As citizens go to the polls on the 9th of October to choose their leaders, I wish to appeal to all citizens, political parties and their followers, as well as leaders of thought across the State to work for a peaceful exercise.
“PLASIEC, security agencies and other stakeholders have given their commitment to be fair to all contestants and political parties.
“Government will not sit by and watch anybody foment trouble or disrupt the electoral process.
“Security agencies have been directed to be on high alert and deal with individuals or groups who attempt to disturb public peace before, during and after the elections no matter how highly placed.
“Finally, in the spirit of the 61st Independence Anniversary and in exercise of the powers conferred on me as Governor in Section 212 of the Constitution of The Federal Republic.
“I have granted absolute pardon to four (4) Prisoners serving jail, all these pardons are granted for reasons of good conduct, with effect from the different dates of sentences”.
