Plateau State has witnessed a smooth transition in the leadership of its House of Assembly, with the election of Nanlong Daniel from Mikan Constituency as the new Speaker.
The development, hailed as a model of peaceful democratic practice, followed the resignation of Moses Sule DeWan in adherence to the state’s political zoning arrangement.
At a brief but symbolic ceremony, lawmakers and political stakeholders officially presented the new Speaker to Governor Caleb Mutfwang.
The occasion was marked by unity and celebration, with members expressing optimism about the Assembly’s future direction.
In his remarks, Governor Mutfwang congratulated both the outgoing and incoming Speakers, commending DeWan for his humility and respect for the zoning agreement, which required leadership restructuring as both the Governor and the former Speaker hail from the same constituency.
He stated that “I want to thank Hon. DeWan for his selfless service and for demonstrating that power belongs to God. By stepping aside to honour the zoning agreement, he has shown true statesmanship and commitment to Plateau State.”
The Governor also charged the new Speaker to embrace his new responsibilities with a sense of duty and humility. He said, “This is a responsibility your colleagues have entrusted to you. You are not above them; you are one of them, just chosen to lead. Show humility, lead selflessly, and use your experience—this being your third term—to strengthen the House.”
Governor Mutfwang expressed satisfaction with the prevailing unity within the House, pointing to the presence of four former Speakers and other experienced legislators. He called for continued collaboration between the legislative and executive arms, noting that “Together, we can take Plateau to greater heights.”
In his acceptance remarks, Hon. Nanlong Daniel thanked the Governor and fellow lawmakers for their confidence in him. He described the transition as divinely ordained and pledged to support the state government’s development agenda.
He said, “You have played a fatherly role in guiding us through this process. We, in turn, promise to work closely with you to drive your policies and programmes. The House of Assembly will respond whenever duty calls.”
Calling on his colleagues for support, he added that “No leader has all the answers. I will rely on your wisdom, your corrections, and your strength. We will run a transparent and accountable administration focused on quality representation for the people of Plateau.”
The State Commissioner for Information, Hon. Joyce Ramnap, also praised the peaceful transition, describing it as a demonstration of political maturity and unity.
She noted that “This peaceful leadership change respects the state’s zoning arrangement and shows that the interest of the people takes precedence over politics.”
Observers have lauded the development as one of the most seamless transitions in the Assembly’s recent history, free of crisis or division. Political analysts say it sets a positive tone for governance in Plateau, anchored on mutual respect, institutional dialogue, and shared purpose.