By Senator Simon Bako Lalong, CON, KSGG
The passing of Justice Chrysanthus Senlong has left me deeply saddened and profoundly affected. Today, I join many others in mourning a man who was not only a distinguished jurist but also an exemplary mentor, friend, and confidant.
My connection with Justice Senlong dates back many decades, starting after my secondary school years. As a young man, I often watched him argue cases at the Shendam Magistrate Court in Plateau State with remarkable brilliance. His eloquence, composure, and profound understanding of the law left an indelible mark on me. This early inspiration ignited my passion for the legal profession, and I aspired to one day wear the wig and gown and argue cases like him.
That childhood admiration grew into a lifelong relationship, which had a significant influence on my journey. After secondary school, I pursued my dream of studying law at the University of Jos but faced an initial setback. Undeterred, I sought admission to the Faculty of Law at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where I succeeded. After completing my law studies and attending the Nigerian Law School in Lagos, I had the privilege of beginning my legal career under the mentorship of Justice Senlong. He offered invaluable guidance and created a nurturing environment for young lawyers and students during their chamber attachments or national service.
Justice Senlong was a principled, brilliant advocate and one of the few indigenous Plateau lawyers at the time. His mastery of the law set high standards of professionalism and ethics, which continue to guide me today. We all looked up to him, believing he would be one of the first Senior Advocates from Plateau State.
Though his decision to leave the Bar for the Bench was a testament to his commitment to justice, many of us had mixed feelings. As a Federal High Court judge, Justice Senlong upheld the highest standards of judicial integrity. Even when faced with accusations of corruption and an unjust dismissal, he demonstrated unwavering faith in the justice system. After a decade-long battle, he was vindicated and his name was cleared. However, the emotional toll led him to retire, but his dedication to the public good remained unchanged.
Justice Senlong’s tenure as Plateau State’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice was remarkable. He used his wealth of experience to serve the people, including securing office and residential accommodations for Ministry of Justice staff. When I became Governor of Plateau State, I sought his expertise and appointed him Chairman of the Jos International Breweries, a company he knew well. He worked tirelessly with the Board to revitalize the company, and though the Endsars protests caused significant setbacks, his knowledge contributed to reacquiring the sister company, BARC Farms.
When we established the Plateau State Multi-Door Courthouse, Justice Senlong’s qualifications in alternative dispute resolution made him the ideal leader for the institution. His contributions were monumental, and he also led the effort to review and update Plateau State’s outdated laws, leaving a legacy that will benefit future generations.
Beyond his legal career, Justice Senlong was a man of action. He ventured into farming, producing large quantities of rice, yams, and other crops. His commitment to hard work extended beyond the courtroom, and he was ready to supervise his farm when death intervened.
As a teacher, Justice Senlong mentored countless young lawyers at the University of Jos Faculty of Law, imparting wisdom, humility, and passion for nurturing talent. His guidance influenced many who have since excelled in the judiciary and other sectors.
On a personal level, Justice Senlong was my trusted confidant and unofficial legal adviser. His insights and counsel were invaluable, and I could always count on his wise judgment. Our final meeting, though brief, reflected his character—humble, friendly, and committed. Even when I missed him during my visit to his village in September for the Local Government Elections, he traveled to mine the next day, showing his unwavering support and friendship.
Justice Chrysanthus Senlong was a pillar of strength, resilience, and excellence. His impact on my life and many others is immeasurable. He was not only a mentor but a guide and a friend whose legacy will endure in the hearts of all who knew him.
May his soul find eternal rest, and may his family take solace in the knowledge that he lived a life full of purpose, integrity, and profound influence.
Adieu, my mentor and friend. You will be greatly missed.
Senator Simon Bako Lalong, KSGG, CON
Plateau South Senatorial District
