By Golok Nanmwa,Jos
The Minister of Labour and Employment Simon Bako Lalong has described his affirmation as the duly elected Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District by the Court of Appeal as the will of God, victory for democracy and a joyous development that calls for unity and cohesion towards improving the lives of the people.
Lalong who received the news of his victory in far away Geneva Switzerland where he is currently attending the 349th Session of the Governing Body meeting of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), said the unanimous decision by the judges who heard the appeal over his earlier declaration by the tribunal shows that the judgement was in tandem with the rule of law and democratic tenets.
This was contained in a statement signed by Dr. Makut Simon Macham His Special Adviser (Media) to the Honourable Minister of Labour and Employment and made available to newsmen in Jos.
While ascribing the victory to God and the people of Plateau South Senatorial District, the former Plateau State Governor said the judgement of the Court affirms the support and cooperation he has enjoyed among the electorate who have supported him since he first contested for elections in 1999 till date.
He said “This is victory is not only for me or the APC, but a victory for all lovers of democracy, peace and unity irrespective of party, religious, political and ethnic affiliations. We have to focus on the work ahead which requires meeting the needs of our people particularly at the grassroots and ensuring that they get the dividends of democracy in good measure”.
Lalong also called on his opponent, AVM Napoleon Bali and all stakeholders to join hands with him in building the lives of the citizens within the zone and the nation at large, promising to ensure that the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is experienced, touched and felt by the people through projects, programmes and in other Federal and state government initiatives.
He also commended the Judiciary for remaining resolute and maintaining its integrity despite attempts to denigrate and intimidate it.
The Labour and Employment Minister also congratulated other candidates who were also declared validly elected and urged them to be magnanimous in victory while rededicating themselves to working for a greater Plateau State and Nigeria.
