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From Jude Owuamanam, Jos
Former Governor of Plateau State and Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District Simon Bako Lalong has expressed his congratulations Governor Caleb Mutfwang over his victory at the Supreme Court.
A 5-man Supreme Court justices led by Justice Okoro Inyang, had upturned the Court of Appeal verdict, which in turn had upturned the judgment of the Election Petition Tribunal, which upheld Mutfwang’s election in the March 18 governorship election.
He said that the final decision of the apex court provided the opportunity for him and all politicians to work for a united, prosperous and inclusive Plateau.
Also the All Progressive Congress Governorship candidate in the March 18 election, Nentawe Yilwatda Goshe, said he accepted the decision of the Supreme Court with humility and gratitude to God.
Lalong, in a statement signed by Dr. Makut Simon Macham, Special Adviser (Media), 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.
He said the verdict of the Supreme Court meant 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 Mutfwang to embrace all sections of the State in delivering good governance and dividends of democracy to the people.
Lalong similarly commended the Nentawe 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.
Lalong urged the APC family not to be deterred but remain focused on building the party for continues service to the people.
He used the opportunity to appeal to all citizens to close ranks and shun all divisive rhetoric because the interest of Plateau remains paramount.
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.
The APC candidate, in his own message he personally signed thanked his supporters for their resilience, courage, and unwavering belief in the Generation Next Movement. Never before have I seen this bond of organic fraternity and personal sacrifices by supporters in a course they believe in. This is a testament to why even in the darkest of times, the light of your hope and faith still shines.
He said, “While I congratulate my elder brother, His Excellency, Governor Caleb Mutfwang, I must Appreciate and commend the peaceful and calm disposition of our supporters.
“I still appeal to the Citizens of Plateau and our numerous well-wishers to ensure we keep the peace of our state. Let us collectively work toward a Secure, United, and prosperous Plateau of our dreams because our resolve to build a cohesive and peaceful community is non-negotiable.”
