Senator Diket Satso Plang, representing Plateau Central Senatorial Zone, has expressed deep sorrow over the recent tragic incidents in Plateau State, including the deadly gas leak in Wase Local Government Area and renewed attacks in parts of the state, while also weighing in on the newly amended Electoral Act and internal party reforms.
Speaking during a press briefing at his Rayfield residence in Jos, the senator thanked members of the press for their continued engagement and stressed the need for public office holders to remain accountable to citizens.
“I feel very bad; it pains me in no small measure that insecurity is still claiming the lives of innocent and hardworking Nigerians, particularly my constituents,” he said.
Plang referenced the recent attack in Kanam Local Government Area, where several residents were killed, describing the development as “very sorrowful, very shocking and painful.” He noted that the Senate had deliberated on the growing insecurity nationwide and resolved that defence funding, currently about 10 percent of the national budget, must not only be increased but also promptly released to enable security agencies carry out their responsibilities effectively.
On the mining disaster in Wase, reportedly caused by suspected poisonous gas emissions at a site in Zoro Kwasi, the senator extended his condolences to affected families. As a member of the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals, he emphasized the need for stricter safety measures in mining operations.
“For all mining industries, if you want to invite anybody to work on your field, the person must be insured,” he stated, adding that greater awareness and education were necessary to ensure miners understand the risks before entering pits.
He called for legal and regulated mining practices, stressing that lives must not be lost due to negligence or lack of safety compliance.
On the recently amended Electoral Act signed into law by President , Plang commended the president for assenting to the bill in good time ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“The election is a process with timelines. If you don’t act on time, it can affect what the law contains. The President is conversant with the content of the bill,” he said, dismissing suggestions that the law was signed without due consideration.
The senator particularly praised the inclusion of electronic transmission of results to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s Result Viewing Portal (IREV), describing it as a major step forward. However, he cautioned against rigid interpretation of “real-time” transmission, citing network challenges in rural communities.
“In some of our villages, there is no connectivity. When people are attacked, they climb mountains to get network. If at the point of transmission there is congestion or no internet, should that invalidate authentic results?” he asked.
Plang argued that while electronic transmission enhances transparency, results duly filled and signed by party agents at polling units should not be cancelled solely due to delayed uploads caused by network issues. He maintained that the law was crafted to avoid technical loopholes that could nullify genuine votes.
The lawmaker also defended provisions empowering political parties to adopt direct primaries, allowing all registered party members to vote for candidates rather than limiting the process to selected delegates.
“For me, it is pushing electoral power to the ordinary man,” he said, noting that such reforms, though challenging for candidates, strengthen internal democracy and reduce manipulation.
While acknowledging that Nigeria is making technological progress in election management, including the use of bimodal accreditation systems, he maintained that the country must be realistic about its readiness for fully seamless electronic processes nationwide.
“We must convince Nigerians that technologically we are ready. As of now, in many rural and riverine areas, connectivity remains a challenge,” he said.
Responding to concerns about the relationship between the legislature and the executive, Plang dismissed claims that the National Assembly serves as a rubber stamp. He insisted that the Senate comprises experienced and educated individuals capable of independent judgment.
“There are areas we disagree. We have refused some nominations and made corrections where necessary. Our functions are not conflicting; they are complementary in the interest of Nigerians,” he stated.
The senator urged Nigerians to rebuild trust in public institutions and leaders, emphasizing that no elected official remains in office permanently and that laws made today ultimately affect everyone.
He expressed optimism that Plateau State would witness peaceful political processes ahead of the 2027 elections, citing recent party congresses conducted amicably under agreed power-sharing arrangements.
“I assure you that in 2027, the people of Plateau will witness one of the most peaceful and brotherly elections than ever,” Plang said.
