The Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Gabriel Dewan, has officially resigned from his position. In a heartfelt resignation letter addressed to his colleagues and the people of Plateau State, Dewan reflected on his tenure, expressing deep appreciation for the opportunity to serve.
“Today, I stand before you with a heart full of gratitude, deep reflection, and sincere appreciation as I formally tender my resignation as Speaker of this Honourable House. First and foremost, I want to thank each and every one of you – my colleagues in this Assembly- for the confidence you reposed in me by electing me to serve in this high office.”
Dewan highlighted the achievements of the Assembly under his leadership, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and consensus-building in lawmaking. He also acknowledged the support of Governor Caleb Mutfwang, describing their working relationship as productive and mutually respectful.
“I would also like to extend my profound gratitude to His Excellency, the Governor of Plateau State. I enjoyed a cordial and productive working relationship with him throughout my time as Speaker. Together, the executive and legislative arms were able to work in synergy to deliver on the mandate given to us by the people.”
The outgoing Speaker also thanked the Assembly staff and the people of Plateau State for their trust and support. He admitted that, as a human, he may have fallen short in some areas and offered apologies where necessary.
“As human it is possible I might have fallen short of some people expectation, I might have equally cross some people’s part, I want to am deeply sorry where I have as it is only human to err.”
Dewan expressed confidence that the Assembly would continue to uphold democratic values and pledged his continued support for Plateau’s progress. His resignation comes amid political realignments in the state following the Court of Appeal’s removal of 16 PDP lawmakers last year.
No successor has been announced yet, but reports suggest at least three lawmakers are interested in the Speakership. Dewan, the only YPP member in the 24-member House, represented Pankshin North Constituency.
