It must be stated clearly that the Speaker has never, at any point, made comments aimed at unseating Governor Caleb Mutfwang or undermining any political leader in Plateau State. His recent remarks concerning the appointment of Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe as APC National Chairman were made in good faith and in the spirit of congratulating a son of the state who had attained a national position. There was no political undercurrent or threat implied.
Unfortunately, Mr. Dalung has chosen to twist a goodwill message into a tool for incitement and division. The attempt to portray the Speaker’s congratulatory comment as a declaration of political war or a slight on the Governor is not only mischievous, but clearly aimed at fabricating tension where non exists.
For the avoidance of doubt, the Speaker and the Governor enjoy a cordial working relationship anchored on mutual respect and a shared commitment to deliver purposeful governance to the people of Plateau State. They have continued to work hand-in-hand, across political affiliations, to prioritize the peace, unity, and development of the state. No amount of inflammatory writing or political distortion can undo this cooperation.
It is even more disappointing that Mr Dalung, being a lawyer, would undermine the judiciary by dismissing the Speaker’s mandate as a “judicial fiat.” One would expect that a person of his legal training would be at the forefront of educating the public on the three recognized stages of Nigeria’s electoral process pre-election, the actual election, and the post-election judicial review. If the Speaker’s emergence was validated by the courts after a thorough legal process, it stands as legitimate, lawful, and democratic.
In case Mr. Dalung has forgotten, the Rt. Hon. Speaker is a third term member of the House having won election to the state legislature from 2015, 2019 and 2023.
Instead of fueling division, one would have hoped that Mr. Dalung would lend his voice to encouraging the current climate of cooperation and peaceful governance in Plateau.
While he has every right to express his views, it must be done with honesty, responsibility, and a genuine desire to build not tear down.
The Plateau State House of Assembly under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Daniel Naanlong remains focused on legislative responsibility, unity, and supporting all efforts aimed at repositioning Plateau for lasting peace and progress.
Once again, the Speaker will not be drawn into unnecessary political bickering. His focus remains service to the people.
Signed,
Philip Eplong
Press Secretary to the Speaker, Plateau State House of Assembly.
31st-07-2025
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