From Jude Owuamanam, Jos
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau state has inaugurated a Security and Information Centre (SIC) aimed at facilitating public access to convey security-related information to the relevant authorities for prompt action.
The action was also aimed at stemming the tide of misinformation and rumour mongering, which had been the bane of information management in the state
Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, in a statement, said that Mutfwang, while establishing the centre had highlighted that the Centre, set up by the Plateau State Information and Communication Technology Development Agency (PICTDA), sought to bridge the communication divide between the general public and the government.
He said the Centre will utilize basic technology to establish a toll-free hotline, allowing citizens to share information without incurring charges, using the phone number 080 0000 5555.
The governor said the centre which is already operational and people can call, emphasized that the State Government will cover the cost of all incoming calls on behalf of the citizens.
He explained that the initiative will serve as a channel for the government to swiftly obtain early warning signals and intervene promptly, while also gathering feedback on developmental matters within the state.
Mutfwang encouraged citizens to confidently report security concerns from their local communities, with the assurance that all information will be treated with utmost confidentiality.
He said that the centre would operate 24/7 for effective service delivery,l and to enable citizens to report any issues promptly for quicker intervention.