Senator Joshua Dariye.
By Marie-Therese Nanlong
Jos – There was jubilation among citizens of Plateau State over the release of Senator Joshua Dariye and others by the Nigerian Correctional Service.
Dariye, a former Governor of Plateau State and his Taraba State counterpart, Jolly Nyame were convicted of corruption in 2016 and were serving their jail terms before they were given a Presidential pardon in April, 2022.
When they were not released over three months after the pronouncement, some individuals and groups started agitating for his immediate release and citizens were ecstatic when Dariye and others were released on Monday.
According to Katdapba Gobum, “Always in any court, there is the season where heroes are either made and villains could be left to be remembered. He must have taken his fate with equanimity; and today, the Lord has turned his captivity into dancing. He knows that when there is a casting down, certainly, a lifting will take place, on account of the one who is seated in heaven and guides the affairs of men. The Khawung Mushere, Senator Joshua Chibi Dariye is back to where he belongs.”
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Rhoda Pewan, who was in the forefront, calling for his release said, “I am super excited at the release of the former Governor of Plateau State, Distinguished Senator Joshua Chibi Dariye. This came a few weeks after I advocated for his release through the Press conference. This is a dream come through and my joy is endless. We welcome him home and pray he reunites with his family and take proper care of his health as we expect to share from his wealth of experience all that is needed to make democracy thrive on the Plateau.”
Dr. Elkanah Garang stated, “It is a thing of Joy to have him reunite with friends, family and well wishers.”
Nancy Na’anshin added, “This is a joyous news, we are very pleased that at last those made efforts so that he does not come home have been put to shame. He has a lot to contribute ahead of the general elections and he could not do that in jail. It is a win for Plateau.”
Meanwhile, citizens are taking to the diverse social media platforms to express their excitements.
