Gov. Lalong mourns Sen. Pwajok, says death very devastating

Gov. Simon Lalong of Plateau has described the death of Sen. Gyang Pwajok, his PDP rival in the April 11 governorship race, as "very devastating''.

Pwajok, 49, died at an Indian Hospital on Thursday, after a brief illness.

Lalong, in a statement in Jos, said he received the news of Sen. Pwajok’s death "with great shock''.

"The death has robbed of the contribution of the Distinguished Senator, whose wealth of political and legislative experience will have added value in the bridge-building project on the Plateau.

"His death has also robbed Plateau of a key factor in its peace and conflict resolution process, especially in the Northern Senatorial District,'' he said.

The Governor recalled Pwajok's "selfless efforts'' in seeing to the resolution of the several violent conflicts in the Northern Senatorial District which he represented in the 7th Assembly of the Senate, and declared that his wisdom would be "sorely missed''.

Lalong said that the whole country was saddened by the demise of "this illustrious son'' and would miss his robust contribution to nation building.

"As the State mourns the demise of this astute and vibrant politician, the Governor, on behalf of his family and the good people of Plateau, commiserate with his family, the Berom nation and the National Assembly over this loss,'' he said.

The governor prayed God to comfort Pwajok's aged parents and grant the deceased eternal rest.