by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
Former Plateau Governor-cum Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District, Simon Bako Lalong, has congratulated Governor Caleb Mutfwang over his victory at the Supreme Court, saying the final decision of the apex court provides the opportunity for him and all politicians to work for a united, prosperous and inclusive Plateau.
Lalong said the long legal hurdles leading to the decision of the Supreme Court is part of the democratic process that should be cherished, irrespective of the outcome, as it has afforded all players the opportunity to ventilate and seek redress through courts as provided under the law.
According to him, the verdict of the Supreme Court means an end to litigation and time for governance, which the governor should now utilise to concentrate and deliver to the people of Plateau State.
The Judiciary, according to him, has done its duty according to the constitution and democratic practice, which is binding on all parties that submitted themselves to it.
The former Minister of Labour and Employment urged Governor Mutfwang to embrace all sections of the State in delivering good governance and dividends of democracy to the people.
Similarly, Senator Lalong has commended the Candidate of the APC, Dr Nentawe Yilwatda, for his doggedness, maturity and resilience in the political journey that saw him going all the way to the highest court in the land.
He said the performance of the APC Candidate and the exemplary conduct of members of the party, who fought doggedly within the confines of democratic tenets, shows their capacity to continue to put the interest of the people above personal ambitions.
He urged the APC family not to be deterred but remain focused on building the party for continues service to the people.
The former governor seized the opportunity to appeal to all citizens to close ranks and shun all divisive rhetoric, saying, “because the interest of Plateau remains paramount.”
Meanwhile, Senator Lalong has appreciated President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for their support to the APC family in Plateau State and the nation at large as well as commitment to the growth of democracy in the Nigeria.
He said, as leaders with lofty democratic credentials, they continue to give leadership to not only their political party elected officials, but also guarantee a level-playing field for all political actors and their supporters to work towards building a greater Nigeria.
In the same vein, former member representing Jos South/Jos East Federal Constituency at the Federal House of Representatives Abuja, Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos, has sent his warmest congratulations to His Excellency Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, over his victory at the Supreme Court, which validated his victory in the March 18, 2023, gubernatorial election.
Hon. Bogos, who described the victory as “divine,” further asserted that the judgment that earned the governor’s victory has also empowered the democratic tenets in Nigeria.
He also said that the judgment by the Supreme Court has brought to light the depth of injustice done to the PDP National and State Assembly members from Plateau State. Hence, he added, the victory of Governor Caleb Mutfwang is a blessing to them, his supporters, and Plateau citizens.
He assured the governor of his unwavering support and commitment to ensuring that the governor and the PDP delivered on the mandate given to them by the amazing people of Plateau State. He also called on all Plateau citizens to rally around Governor Mutfwang to see that Plateau State is transformed to greater heights.
Also, the Chairman, PDP Elders Forum, Chief Raymond Dabo, has urged the Governor of Plateau State, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, to be magnanimous and extend his hand of friendship across all political divides.
In a Congratulatory Message, the Elder Forum Chairman described the ruling of the apex court as “validation of the people’s mandate and affirmation of trust by the people.”
“Toda’s judgment has put to rest the legal battle, distraction and needless accusation. It is time to settle down and consolidate on the gains of democracy in the state,” he stated.
The chairman believed in the ability of Governor Mutfwang to lead Plateau State with all sense of sincerity, honesty and the fear of God.
He called on the litigants to join hands with Mutfwang in moving the state to enviable heights, and he commended the resilience of the judiciary in deepening the country’s democracy through its sound judgment.
Chief Raymond Dabo assured Gov. Mutfwang of a wavering support of the Elders Forum to ensure he delivers his sacra solemn vow to the people of the State.