Plateau state governor Simon Lalong has led a top delegation from the state to visit former Governor Joshua Chibi Dariye and former Taraba state governor, Rev. Jolly Nyame, after their release from prison following a State Pardon granted to them by President Muhammadu Buhari.
Lalong, along with his wife, Regina, National Assembly members as well as members of the state executive council first visited Chief Dariye’s residence to thank God for his release.
He told Dariye that the entire state received the news of his release with joy because they had been praying for him since his travails.
Lalong appreciated President Muhammadu Buhari for giving Dariye another opportunity, saying “this is the time” for Chief Dariye to reflect and forgive people that might have offended him as had been his practice during previous challenges.
He prayed to the Almighty God to continue to give him sound health even as he offered advice to the state while making available his vast knowledge for the good of the people.
Responding, Dariye said he was full of appreciation to God for making his release possible and also using people like Governor Lalong and President Buhari to make his release possible.
Dariye also debunked the rumour that he was running for Senate, describing it as “unfounded and untrue” as he had not bought form or done anything to that effect.
He advised politicians in Plateau to unite and rally round the governor in promoting the interest of the people, saying “governance is an opportunity for those in charge to do their best and leave posterity to judge their efforts as no one can finish the business of the government in a day.”
The delegation thereafter visited the residence of Nyame who also expressed appreciation for the role Lalong played towards his pardon and release.
Nyame said he was highly encouraged by the love and care shown towards him and Dariye, saying the experience of the past would be put behind so that they forge forward.
Lalong, in a statement by his spokesman, Dr. Makut Simon Macham, while congratulating him over his freedom, said the people of Taraba and Plateau states were excited with their release as they shared historical ties that had bonded them together over many years.
