CSOs endorse Lalong for SGF role

Civil Society Organizations have backed Plateau State Governor, Simon Lalong, to emerge as Secretary to the Government of the Federation in the incoming administration.

The groups numbering up to 200, under the auspices of Civil Rights Action for Democracy, said the Plateau governor was “best suited” for the job.

The CSOs, in a statement signed by it’s National Coordinator, Dr. Andrew Idoko, said Lalong ticks all the boxes, including zoning.

According to Idoko, as it stands, all regions in the country have been identified and earmarked for leadership positions, but the North Central,” he said.

The statement read in part, “As a body devoted to the ideals of democracy, it is our view that the North Central region was instrumental to the success of the APC in the presidential elections. The leadership acumen of the Governor of Plateau State and Chairman of the Presidential Campaign Council was also instrumental to the party’s overall success despite the numerous hurdles that were before it.

“Governor Simon Lalong displayed a rare leadership style that emphasized competence and dedication to the sustenance of democracy in Nigeria. His plans and programs, even as the governor of Plateau State in the last eight years, speak volumes of a man on a mission to contribute to the country’s socioeconomic development.

“It is also common knowledge that the country is desirous of such individuals who are passionate and committed to democracy and sustainable growth and development.

“It is our opinion that the APC as a party must, as a matter of urgency and necessity, encourage such credible leaders to continue to contribute their quota to the development of Nigeria through ways and means possible.

“The APC as a party must also ensure that the North Central region is adequately compensated for loyalty and dedication to the party as exemplified during and after the general elections in the country.

“One of the ways this could be achieved is the appointment of Governor Simon Lalong as the Secretary of the Government of the Federation to reward the North Central region for their loyalty all the while and also to tap into his wealth of experience in our quest for sustainable growth and development.

“It must be stated that having Governor Simon Lalong as the SGF would go a long way in addressing the concerns of the North Central region about inclusion in governance on the heels that the proposed leadership of the National Assembly didn’t accommodate the North Central region for inexplicable reasons.

“The implication of a non-action in this regard is that the APC as a party does not regard the numerous contribution of the North Central to its electoral success. Despite the stiff opposition to the Muslim-Muslim ticket of the APC, the North Central rallied support and voted massively for the APC.

“This indicates absolute loyalty and the dexterity of Governor Simon Lalong to ensure that all hands were on deck to bring about the needed electoral victory for the party.”