...APC National Chairman Applauded For Upholding Democratic Tenets
By Trill Times News Reporter
Inexplicable jubilation is sweeping through the nooks and crannies of Tarok land following the emergence of Hon. Beni Butmak Lar as winner of the APC primaries for the Langtang North/Langtang South Federal Constituency.
In many towns and villages, residents who spoke with Trill Times News Reporter while still in wild celebration, described Hon Lar’s victory as the return of a strong and active Tarok voice to the national political scene.
For many people in the constituency, the outcome of the primary carries emotional and political significance.
Since the Court of Appeal removed Hon. Lar from office over issues surrounding the structure of her former party, the PDP, many constituents have complained that the federal constituency lost visibility at the National Assembly. Her successor, Hon. Vincent Venman Bulus, has faced criticism from residents who believe the constituency has lacked strong representation in Abuja.
Constituents insist that Hon Beni Lar’s previous four tenures brought attention to the challenges facing the Tarok people and the constituency at large. They recalled her active participation on the floor of the House of Representatives and the number of bills and motions she sponsored during her time in office.
When Trill Times visited parts of the constituency, residents openly expressed their excitement over the outcome of the APC primary election.
Dr. Lucky Fadam, a lecturer at the University of Jos and indigene of Magama in Langtang South, said the constituency had remained politically silent for too long.
“I watched with pain as our constituency gradually disappeared from major national conversations,” he said. “For a long time, people hardly heard anything coming from our representative seat in Abuja. That is why many of us are happy today. Hon. Beni Lar has always been outspoken and fearless when it comes to defending the interests of her people.”
Also speaking, Hon. Martin Nanvang, a youth leader from Mabudi in Langtang South, said many residents felt left behind in recent years.
“Other constituencies were attracting projects and attention while ours seemed forgotten,” he said. “This victory has restored hope to the people. We believe Hon. Beni Lar will once again give the constituency the representation it deserves.”
Youth groups across the constituency also welcomed the development.
Miri Karbin Nyantau, a youth leader from Gazum in Langtang North, said young people strongly supported Hon. Lar because of her connection with the grassroots.
“Our youths remember her accessibility and the opportunities she created during her previous time in office,” he said. “Immediately the result was announced, people came out celebrating across the community. The excitement was genuine.”
For many women in the constituency, the outcome of the primary was equally emotional.
Mrs. Jummai Ndam, a teacher and women leader from Langtang North, said mothers across the area were hopeful once again.
“Women and families want leaders who understand their daily struggles,” she said. “Hon. Beni Lar has always related closely with ordinary people, especially women and young people. That is why many are celebrating her victory.”
An elder from Pil Gani in Langtang North, Mr. Nandom Ladep, a retired Director of Lands, described the victory as a major moment for the Tarok people.
“I have seen many politicians over the years, but Hon. Beni Lar built a special connection with the people,” he said. “After she left office, many people felt the constituency lost its presence in national politics. This victory has changed the mood completely.”
Beyond the celebration over Hon. Lar’s emergence, many residents also commended the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, for what they described as a transparent and credible process.
Dr. Lucky Fadam said the conduct of the primary restored confidence in the party.
“Many people expected interference and manipulation, but the process turned out differently,” he stated. “The National Chairman deserves credit for allowing the will of party members to prevail.”
Hon. Martin Nanvang also praised the APC leadership for conducting what he called a fair contest.
“This primary has shown that internal democracy can still work,” he said. “A lot of people had doubts before now, but the process has renewed confidence among party supporters.”
Mrs. Jummai Ndam admitted she had initially feared the exercise would be chaotic.
“I was surprised by how peaceful and orderly everything went,” she said. “The leadership of the party handled the situation maturely, and that is commendable.”
Miri Karbin Nyantau added that the APC National Chairman demonstrated courage under pressure.
“Leading a large political party is never easy,” he said. “But he showed fairness, and many people appreciate that.”
Mr. Nandom Ladep concluded by urging residents to remain united ahead of the general election.
“Hon Beni Lar’s victory as the candidate of the ruling All Progressive Congress, APC is indeed the best thing that has happened to Tarok nation in the past three years,” he said. “But beyond the celebrations, we must continue to support leaders who respect fairness and democracy. That is how trust is built among the people.”
