Simon Lalong, the Minister of Labour and Employment, has tendered his resignation from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's cabinet. This decision paves the way for his imminent swearing-in as the representative of Plateau South in the Senate, following his triumph in the senatorial election.
Lalong's political journey, marked by twists and turns, saw him initially declared the loser in the February Presidential poll where he contested as the Director-General of the Tinubu Campaign Organisation. However, a pivotal turn of events occurred as the Court of Appeal ruled in his favor, overturning the previous electoral verdict.
The resignation unfolded after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting on Wednesday, a symbolic departure from the cabinet, as reported by The Nation. President Tinubu accepted Lalong's resignation, confirmed by presidential aide Imran Muhammad, who also announced a valedictory session in Lalong's honor at the next FEC meeting.
Lalong's journey to the Senate comes with a political backdrop, accentuated by recent consultations between the President, party leaders, and the newly certified Senator. The focus of these discussions revolved around his replacement in the FEC. This strategic move is perceived as a substantial boost for the APC, augmenting its representation in the Senate and averting a supplementary senatorial election that would have ensued with Lalong's resignation.
The wealth of experience Lalong brings, having served as the Plateau State House of Assembly Speaker for two terms, positions him as a de facto ranking senator. His imminent swearing-in, expected to occur this week, adds another chapter to the evolving political landscape, signaling both a personal triumph for Lalong and a strategic maneuver for the APC. As the Senate doors await Lalong, the intricate dance of political chess continues in the corridors of power.
