Plateau State Governor, Simon Lalong, yesterday, led a top delegation to residences of former Governor, Joshua Dariye and former Governor of Taraba State, Rev. Jolly Nyame to rejoice with them over their pardon and release from prison by President Muhammadu Buhari.

Lalong alongside his wife, Mrs. Regina Lalong; National Assembly members and members of the State Executive Council visited Chief Dariye to encourage him and his family, while thanking God for their release.

Lalong told Dariye that the entire state received the news of his release with joy as they were praying for him since his travail, while also appreciating President Buhari for granting them pardon.

Governor’s Director of Press and Public Affairs, Dr. Makut Macham, said, “This is the time for Chief Dariye to reflect and forgive people that may have offended him as has been his practice during previous challenges.”

Lalong prayed to God to continue to give him sound health even as he offered advice to the state while making available his vast knowledge for the good of the people.

Responding, Chief Dariye said he was full of appreciation to God for making his release possible and also using people like Lalong and President Buhari to make his release possible.

Dariye also debunked the rumour that he was running for Senate, describing it as unfounded and untrue as he has not bought form or done anything to that effect.

He advised politicians in Plateau to unite and rally round the Governor in promoting the interest of the citizens, saying that governance was an opportunity for those in charge to do their best and leave posterity to judge their efforts as no one could finish the business of government in a day.

In the same vein, the delegation visited the residence of former Taraba State Governor, Rev. Jolly Nyame, who also expressed deep appreciation for the role that Lalong played towards his pardon and release.

Nyame said he was highly encouraged by the love and care shown towards him and Dariye, saying that the experience of the past would be put behind so that they could forge forward.

Lalong, while congratulating him on his freedom, said the entire people of Taraba and Plateau states are excited with their release as they share historical ties that have bonded them together over the years.

He also urged Nyame to forgive anyone that might have offended him in the course of his ordeal, saying that the act of forgiveness brings about total healing and freedom.