A former Governor of Plateau State and Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District, Simon Bako Lalong, has described the late former Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Peter Azi, as a courageous and trustworthy leader who stood firmly for truth, justice and the interest of his people
Senator Lalong stated this during the funeral service of the deceased held at St. Augustine Catholic Church, Dong, in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State.
He said his relationship with the late Rt. Hon. Azi dated back to 1998, when both of them became actively involved in the political process following the return to democratic rule in Nigeria.
According to Senator Lalong, their journey in public service brought them together as members of the Plateau State House of Assembly, where they confronted several challenges and remained committed to defending the interest of the people.
He particularly recalled the political crisis surrounding the purported impeachment of former Governor Joshua Dariye, noting that the late Peter Azi demonstrated exceptional courage by refusing to be coerced into signing an impeachment document under duress.
Senator Lalong said Azi’s decision at the time demonstrated his courage, fortitude and unwavering commitment to truth, adding that he remained a man who could be trusted to stand by his convictions even in difficult circumstances.
He also recalled the period when the deceased served as Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly during his tenure as Governor, describing the relationship between the Executive and the Legislature at the time as one characterised by cooperation, mutual respect and a shared commitment to the growth and development of Plateau State.
Lalong commended the late Speaker for his contributions to the struggle for and attainment of autonomy for the Plateau State House of Assembly, stressing that his efforts formed part of the institutional development of the Legislature.
He also acknowledged Azi’s passion for the development of his Dong community and other parts of his constituency, particularly his commitment to the provision of infrastructure and improvement of the welfare of his people.
The Senator urged the current members of the Plateau State House of Assembly to ensure that the sacrifices made by leaders such as Rt. Hon. Peter Azi are not allowed to go in vain.
He charged the lawmakers to protect the autonomy of the Legislature and ensure that it is neither abused nor compromised, but deployed responsibly for effective representation and good governance.
Senator Lalong expressed his condolences to the family of the deceased, praying that God Almighty would grant them the strength and fortitude to bear the loss.
He prayed for the peaceful repose of the soul of Rt. Hon. Peter Azi and urged the family to take solace in his contributions to the development of Plateau State and the enduring legacy he left behind.
The remains of the former Speaker were later laid to rest at his family compound in Dong.
Senator Lalong also visited the family of late Engr. Thomas Malong to condole them over his death.
