By: Hon Muhammad Abdulkadir
The recently circulated article by Gaius Joshua, titled “A Missed Opportunity For Plateau,” is a textbook example of political bias masquerading as public concern. While everyone is entitled to an opinion, the blatant distortion of facts and one-sided vilification of Barr. Simon Bako Lalong in the said piece demands a balanced, fact-based response—especially for the sake of history and future generations of Plateau people.
Lalong’s Record: A Legacy Rooted in Peace and Institutional Strength
Barr. Lalong’s appointment as Chairman of the Senate Committee on INEC and Electoral Process is not just appropriate—it is strategic. Plateau is fortunate to have a son in such a sensitive national position, particularly at a time when Nigeria desperately needs impartial and experienced voices shaping electoral reforms.
To paint Lalong’s tenure as Governor in the broad strokes of failure is dishonest. Plateau witnessed relative peace under his leadership, a stark contrast to the bloodshed and ethnic violence that plagued the state before his administration. Through inclusive governance, deliberate dialogue, and robust support for security architecture, he restored calm and dignity to Plateau. Those who lived in fear before 2015 understand what that means.
In infrastructure, his administration embarked on critical road projects, health and education reforms, and the upgrade of institutions such as the Plateau State University, Bokkos. He was instrumental in the establishment of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) headquarters and secured numerous federal appointments for Plateau indigenes, placing the state at the center of national politics.
The claim that his Senate seat was “obtained through questionable means” is an outright falsehood. His victory was affirmed by the courts, and the author’s refusal to acknowledge this reeks of political denialism.
Mutfwang’s Administration: More Optics than Substance
Ironically, while the writer condemns Lalong, he heaps praise on Governor Caleb Mutfwang without offering any objective critique. If we are to be honest, the current administration has spent more time rebranding narratives than delivering governance. It is easy to criticize a predecessor when you spend your first two years laying blame rather than laying concrete.
The so-called “infrastructural development across 17 LGAs” remains more on paper and in press releases than in reality. Outside a few flagged-off projects and media campaigns, the masses are yet to feel any transformative impact. Workers in some sectors still struggle with wage arrears and pension backlogs, while rural communities suffer from neglect and poor access to basic amenities.
Instead of governing with inclusion, the current administration has been dogged by allegations of favoritism and exclusionary politics. The supposed “gang-up” against Mutfwang is not a coordinated attack—it is a growing public frustration from citizens who expected more than rhetoric.
Plateau’s Progress Is Bigger Than Party Lines
The politics of bitterness, division, and constant vilification must end. We must learn to judge leaders not by the color of their party flags but by their tangible contributions. Barr. Lalong, despite his flaws—as all human beings have—elevated Plateau to national relevance. His calm temperament, legal mind, and diplomatic finesse earned him respect across party lines, including among southern, northern, and Middle Belt political blocs.
The attacks on his appointment are not rooted in national interest but in local political jealousy. Those who fear his rising profile should counter with better performance, not bitter articles.
If Governor Mutfwang believes in genuine leadership, let him govern boldly, unite Plateau, and deliver real results—not just narratives. If Barr. Lalong is given the chance to help reform INEC, let us support him, not sabotage him with petty partisanship.
Conclusion: Time to Rise Above Pettiness
Plateau deserves more than a political mud fight. We need all our sons and daughters—regardless of political leanings—contributing meaningfully at every level. While the past should inform us, it should not chain us. If we keep fighting old battles, we will miss present opportunities.
Barr. Lalong’s appointment is not a missed opportunity; it is a new door opened for Plateau to help shape Nigeria’s electoral future. Let us walk through it with pride, not with prejudice.
