In his response, Dariye thanked God for his release and for using people such as Lalong and President Buhari to make it a reality.
By Jeffrey Agbo
Former governor of Plateau State, Joshua Dariye has denied plans to run for Senate after he was granted a state pardon following his conviction for money laundering.
Dariye, who was serving 10 years’ imprisonment for N1.126 billion fraud, was released this week after about four years in prison.
Daily Trust reported on Thursday that its sources said the Plateau State chapter of Labour Party had concluded arrangements to receive the former Plateau governor from Abuja to pick the party’s senatorial form.
Dariye, who served as Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governor, defected from the party. He contested and won a senatorial seat in 2011 on the platform of Labour Party.
Dariye discredited the report when he received a delegation comprising of incumbent governor Simon Lalong and his wife, Regina Lalong, at his residence in Abuja.
Lalong expressed joy on the release of the former governor, saying Plateau people also rejoice in the development.
The visit was disclosed by Lalong’s Spokesperson, Dr Makut Macham in a press release on Friday.
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Lalong thanked President Muhammadu Buhari for his magnanimity in granting pardon to Dariye and former governor of Taraba, Rev. Jolly Nyame on April 14, saying massive prayers and appeal was made to facilitate it.
He said the visit was to encourage him as his release was another opportunity for him to reflect on his experience.
Lalong urged him to continue to contribute to the advancement of Plateau through his knowledge while praying to God to grant him good health in all his duties.
In his response, Dariye thanked God for his release and for using people such as Lalong and President Buhari to make it a reality.
He advised politicians in Plateau to unite and support the governor in promoting the interest of the state and its people.
The delegation, which included National Assembly members as well as members of the State Executive Council, also visited Nyame at his residence in Abuja.
