By Israel Adamu, Jos
Comrade Prince Miaphen, a former Acting President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), has commended former Plateau State Governor and current Senator, Barrister Simon Lalong, for what he described as exceptional political maturity and statesmanship. The commendation follows recent political developments in Plateau State involving party realignments.In a statement made available to journalists in Jos, Miaphen praised Senator Lalong’s response to the defection of Plateau State Governor, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, to the All Progressives Congress (APC). According to him, Lalong’s conduct demonstrated uncommon wisdom, humility, and respect for democratic principles at a time of heightened political tension.“I sincerely commend and salute Senator Lalong’s exceptional maturity, wisdom, and uncommon understanding in the manner he handled the recent decamping of His Excellency, Governor Caleb Mutfwang, into the All Progressives Congress,” Miaphen stated.
He specifically referenced Lalong’s public declaration in which the former governor yielded the leadership of the APC in Plateau State to Governor Mutfwang upon his entry into the party. Miaphen described the gesture as symbolic and deeply impactful across political divides.“Your public declaration, gracefully yielding the leadership of the APC in Plateau State to the sitting governor upon his entry into the party, resonated deeply across political divides and earned you widespread admiration and respect,” the statement read.
Miaphen added that the move was a clear demonstration of selflessness, party loyalty, and a genuine democratic spirit. He noted that such actions are rare in Nigeria’s political landscape, where leadership tussles often create internal divisions within parties.The former student leader, who is also the National Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Advocates of Nigeria, said Senator Lalong’s conduct reflects the qualities of a leader who understands political realities and prioritizes unity over personal ambition.“ Indeed, it takes a leader of rare humility, courage, and foresight to acknowledge political realities and embrace them with grace. Your conduct has set a high benchmark for political leadership and internal party harmony,” Miaphen said. He further emphasized that Lalong’s approach could serve as a model for other political leaders navigating party transitions and power-sharing arrangements. According to him, peaceful accommodation and respect for constituted authority remain critical to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
Miaphen concluded by expressing goodwill to the former Plateau State governor, wishing him continued relevance and success in his political career. He noted that such acts of statesmanship contribute positively to political stability, not only in Plateau State but also at the national level. “Thank you, Your Excellency, for this outstanding display of statesmanship. I wish you continued strength, relevance, and greater accomplishments in your political journey,” the statement concluded.
