By Abbas Yushau Yusuf

KANO, Nigeria – The ECOWAS Parliament has announced plans to establish a mediation committee aimed at re-integrating aggrieved member states.

This decision was revealed by the First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Senator Barau Jibril, while opening the second extraordinary session of the Parliament in Kano, Northwestern Nigeria.

Addressing the session, Senator Barau emphasized the critical need for Parliament’s intervention in regional issues, as highlighted by the President of the ECOWAS Commission during the Inaugural Session.

Barau said the President had called for urgent efforts to prevent the disintegration of the regional bloc, particularly with the potential departures of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. He also stressed the importance of confronting non-state groups vying for control of resources and marginalizing states, which has led to severe insecurity, especially in the Sahel region.

“In consultation with my colleagues on the Bureau, I will propose the appointment of an Ad hoc Mediation Committee,” Senator Barau stated. “The committee’s mandate will be to work with all stakeholders to encourage our brothers to rescind their decision and come back, and to promote dialogue to resolve conflicts in the region. Our strength lies in unity, and there is no alternative to our collective aspirations of a united, peaceful, and secure ECOWAS.”

Senator Barau also mentioned a Parliamentary Fact-Finding mission dispatched to Togo. The delegation investigated the reasons behind the notable absence of the Togolese delegation, who, according to the Supplementary Act on the Enhancement of the Powers of the Parliament, should hold the Speakership. Discussions with national stakeholders yielded positive responses, and Senator Barau reported that Togolese authorities assured the imminent inauguration of their parliamentary representatives.

Abbas Yushau Yusuf

Apart from their usual meetings in Abuja, the ECOWAS Parliament has brought its second extraordinary session to Kano.

Addressing the press after a closed-door session of the ECOWAS Parliament, the First Deputy Speaker of the Parliament, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, said the meeting will bring the legislature closer to the people and make them aware of the happenings.

BY Asile Abel,Jos

The Governor of Plateau State Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has encouraged intending pilgrims from the state to embody the values of love, peace, and tolerance as they embark on the sacred journey to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the 2024 Hajj.

while bidding farewell to the departing pilgrims from Plateau, Governor Mutwang enjoined them to not only pray for themselves and their families but also for the restoration of lasting peace in the state.

“As you embark on the fifth pillar of Islam, you carry not only your personal aspirations but also the collective hopes and spiritual yearnings of our beloved state. The Hajj is a journey of profound reflection, steadfast faith, and a commitment to righteousness.”

He emphasized the significance of this act of worship by highlighting his administration’s unwavering support for the Plateau State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board and ensuring the spiritual growth and welfare of Muslims in the state.

As the Chief Security Officer of the State, Governor Mutfwang reaffirmed his dedication to upholding fairness and justice for all citizens, regardless of tribe, religion, or background. He emphasized his administration’s commitment to transparency and inclusivity, prioritizing the unity and prosperity of Plateau State.

“In your prayers and supplications, remember our dear State, not only for immediate peace but for sustained harmony and unity,” he urged.

Hon. Daiyabu Dauda, the Executive Secretary of the Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, commended Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang for his support of the Muslim community in the state.

He noted that the Governor’s sponsorship of 540 out of 1,232 pilgrims, the approval of funds for the resettlement of backlog deposits and the procurement of a bus for the board demonstrated a deep commitment to the well-being of the Muslim Ummah.

He called on all to pray and support the efforts of Governor Mutwang in providing transformative leadership for Plateau State.