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By Anthony Maliki, Abuja
A former Governor of Plateau State and Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District Simon Lalong has paid glowing tribute to late Deputy Governor Prof. Sonni Tyoden for his contributions to the development of Plateau State, Nigeria and the global community.
Speaking at the service of songs for the deceased in Jos, Lalong said as his Deputy, Prof. Tyoden embodied the finest qualities of a servant-leader.
“While many describe him as a “Loyal Deputy,” I prefer to remember him as a Humble Partner and Companion. For me, loyalty was never an issue between us because I never saw him as subservient or someone who ought to bow to me simply because I held the office of Governor. Ours was a relationship built on mutual respect and shared purpose”.
According to him, Prof. Tyoden was a teacher—one who naturally commanded respect.
He said “In fact, when I chose him as my running mate, some skeptics warned that his academic stature would make him condescending or difficult to work with. But he proved them completely wrong. He was not only humble but deeply grounded. He once told me that, despite being a Professor of Political Science, he had learned practical politics from me—acknowledging my experience in the field. The truth is, we learned from each other.
When I selected him as my Deputy, I was confident we would work harmoniously, given his integrity and character. Today, I can proudly say he never disappointed me. Though we occasionally held different views on certain matters, we never once had a fight. Someone once told me I was fortunate to have had the best Deputy Governor in Plateau State—and I completely agree”.
The former Deputy Governor said Tyoden played a pivotal role in formulating and implementing many policies of the APC Rescue Administration especially in education. His deep knowledge and background in academia greatly benefited our administration. That is why he was entrusted with the supervision of the Ministry of Education during our first term.
“Under his oversight, we made significant strides in revitalizing primary and secondary education, as well as restoring the Plateau State University in Bokkos and other tertiary institutions that were previously in critical condition. Time does not permit me to list all his contributions to the success of our Rescue Administration” he said.
Also speaking, Deputy Governor of Plateau State Mrs Josephine Piyo who represented Governor Mutfwang said she was very saddened by the demise of Prof. Tyoden who did so much in the academia, governance and mentorship where he groomed many.
Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos Prof. Ishaya Tanko and other academic colleagues and mentors praised Prof. Tyoden for leaving indelible marks in the University of Jos and other universities where he served with excellence and passion.
President of COCIN Rev. Dr. Amos Mohzo said the deceased was a committed Christian who loved the Lord and contributed to the propagation of the gospel.
Gbong Gwom Jos Da Jacob Gyang Buba said the death of Prof Tyoden provides a platform for those still alive to reflect and work towards getting the right relationship with God for eternity.
The guest preacher Rev. Kefas Tang’an reminded the people that while Prof. Tyoden has gone to be with his maker and answer for his deeds, it was incumbent on the people to reflect on their lives and make amends as death is inevitable and can come at anytime.
Other speakers including GOSA Set 67, Mwaghavul Development Association members of his immediate family among others said Plateau has indeed lost a man of uncommon integrity, intellect, character, compassion, and humility.
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