Former Governor of Plateau State, Simon Bako Lalong, took the oath of office as the Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District during a plenary session at the upper chamber of the National Assembly on Wednesday, marking his entry into the 10th Assembly.
Lalong’s swearing-in follows his recent resignation from the position of Minister of Labour and Employment, a move made in anticipation of assuming his new role as Senator.
In a letter addressed to the President and submitted a day before his induction, Lalong reiterated the Court of Appeal’s verdict, affirming him as the duly elected Senator for Plateau South Senatorial District. The court’s ruling mandated the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to issue him the Certificate of Return.
Highlighting the deliberation behind his resignation, Lalong acknowledged the weight of responsibility bestowed upon him by the President, citing the trust and confidence placed in him during his tenure as a Minister. He underlined his contributions as the Director General of the Tinubu/Shettima Campaign Council, which played a pivotal role in securing victory for the APC.
Expressing his decision to vacate the ministerial position, Lalong stressed the necessity of engaging in consultations with the President, key stakeholders, and constituents. He emphasized the significance of his presence in the Senate, aligning his commitment to contribute towards the agenda of national renewal under the administration’s governance framework.
“In light of extensive consultations and considering the imperative for me to contribute to the Renewed Hope agenda of your Government and our democracy’s overall growth, I find it necessary to take my seat at the Red Chambers,” Lalong affirmed.
