Simon Lalong: I am confused about my political choices
The Minister of Labour and Employment, Simon Lalong, is grappling with a significant decision – whether to assume a seat in the Senate or retain his current ministerial position. Lalong revealed his state of indecision, acknowledging the conflicting advice he receives.
Following the Court of Appeal’s decision in November to remove Napoleon Bali of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the senator representing Plateau South, Lalong was declared the rightful winner of the election. The court directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to issue a certificate of return to Lalong, who was concurrently serving as a minister.
While INEC officially presented the certificate to Lalong in Abuja, indicating a potential shift from his ministerial role to a federal lawmaker position, a circulating video portrays the minister expressing uncertainty. In the video, addressing individuals associated with the labour movement and the Ministry of Labour, Lalong sought prayers to guide him in making the best decision.
He recounted conversations with a comrade who advised him against joining the Senate, emphasizing the need for his continued presence at the Ministry of Labour. Lalong admitted to being a confused man, torn between the choices ahead.
Lalong shared his perspective on the challenges senators face, citing an instance where he advised Comrade Adams Oshiomhole not to speak on behalf of Labour as a senator. He suggested that taking such a position could be perceived as a partial commitment to class suicide until the individual’s actions over four years confirmed their alignment with the working class.
Simon Lalong, the immediate-past governor of Plateau State and former speaker of the state House of Assembly, played a crucial role as the Director General of the APC Presidential Campaign in the February election that led to the election of President Bola Tinubu. As he contemplates his political future, Lalong is seeking guidance and support to make the right decision for himself and his constituency.