Lalong Criticizes Tinubu’s Action on Plateau’s Ministerial Vacancy as APC Faces Internal Challenges
Senator Simon Lalong, former governor of Plateau State, has criticized the prolonged delay in appointing a new federal minister from his state and urged President Bola Tinubu to resolve the matter swiftly. Speaking at an APC stakeholders meeting in Jos, Lalong, who now represents Plateau South in the Senate, pointed out that the state has been without federal representation for seven months since his resignation from the ministerial post to join the Senate.
Lalong expressed frustration over the situation, stating, “It’s unfair for Plateau to be without a minister for this long. I’ve communicated to the president that, by constitutional right, we deserve a minister from our state. I trust that, being a democrat, the president will address this issue upon his return. I encourage party members to remain patient and supportive.”
He also voiced concern over the delay in swearing in APC members of the state assembly, accusing the speaker of disregarding constitutional norms. “It’s unacceptable to demand that APC members resign before taking their oaths. In my political career, I have never encountered such a requirement. The members are duly qualified and have their certificates of return,” Lalong said.
State party chairman Rufus Bature supported Lalong’s call for a ministerial appointment and addressed internal party issues. He noted that the party has resolved its internal disputes and is now concentrating on the upcoming local government elections.
“We are prepared to win the elections decisively and are closely monitoring PLASIEC’s activities,” Bature stated. He also criticized the PDP-led administration for its ineffective use of federal and state funds, claiming that it has failed to deliver tangible results.
Bature accused the PDP government of suppressing opposition voices and being reluctant to hold fair local government elections. He urged APC members to capitalize on the prevailing dissatisfaction and work diligently to regain political influence.
