Former Minister of Labour and Employment, Simon Lalong, has revealed why he decided to leave President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet for the Senate.

The Plateau State politician, who took his oath as Senator for Plateau South, said, “This was my first choice, to be candid.”

He explained that serving as governor of Plateau State until May 2023 had been his primary goal, and the Senate seat was the next natural step in his political aspirations.

He said he chose to hold the position of minister in the interim and on the invitation of Tinubu because he had a case he was pursuing at the courts.

He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve in the cabinet during the legal battle.

The Court of Appeal ultimately ruled in Lalong’s favour, overturning the initial declaration of PDP candidate, Napoleon Bali, as the winner. This paved the way for Lalong’s return to his preferred path.

Congratulating the newly sworn-in Senator, Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended Lalong’s dedication and service, including his previous role as director-general of the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign. APC National Chairman, Alhaji Abdullahi Ganduje, echoed the sentiment, describing the day as a “moment of happiness” not just for Lalong but for the entire party.

“What Nigerians will expect is good legislation,” Ganduje said, emphasising the responsibility now placed upon Lalong’s shoulders. With the APC holding the majority in the Senate, Ganduje expressed confidence in their ability to “work for the prosperity of all Nigerians.”