Jang Calls for Unity and Service Above Politics

Former Plateau State governor, Jonah Jang, on Saturday asked politicians to prioritize character, faith, and service over the chase for political power.

This message came as the Labour Party urged politicians to focus on issue-based campaigns. They warned against divisive politics that could harm national unity.

These statements were made in Jos during Jang's 80th birthday celebration and the launch of his autobiography, From Airman to Politics. The event had notable guests like Vice President Kashim Shettima, former President Goodluck Jonathan, governors, lawmakers, diplomats, traditional rulers, and other political leaders from across Nigeria.

At the event, Jang said political power is temporary and that character, faith, and service to humanity are what truly last. He reflected on his 80 years of life, military service, and politics. He mentioned that the quest for power, fame, and wealth should never take priority over integrity and one’s relationship with God.

"As I look back over these eighty years, I have come to appreciate one enduring truth: positions come and go; power is temporary; fame fades; wealth cannot satisfy the deepest longings of the human heart.

"What remains is character, faith, service to humanity, and our relationship with God," Jang said.

He urged politicians to work on leaving a legacy of integrity and selfless service instead of being consumed by political ambition and material wealth.

Jang shared the reason behind his autobiography. He said he never planned to write the book until his son, Yakubu, convinced him to document his experiences for future generations.

He explained that the autobiography aims to give an accurate account of his public life and clear up misunderstandings about his decisions while in office.

"Many assumptions have been made about me, my decisions, and my actions.

"Some were based on incomplete information, while others created misconceptions and controversies that continue even while I am still alive.

"This book is not written to settle scores or attack anyone. Rather, it is an honest effort to place events in their proper context, explain the circumstances under which certain decisions were taken, and present the facts as I experienced them," he stated.

Jang dedicated the autobiography to God. He called it a sign of divine faithfulness and encouraged Nigerians to pursue lives grounded in faith, humility, and service.

Also speaking at the event, the Labour Party National Chairman, Nenadi Usman, urged politicians to adopt issue-based campaigns, patriotism, and tolerance ahead of the 2027 general elections. She warned against politics that could deepen divisions and hurt national unity.

According to a statement from the LP National Publicity Secretary, Ken Asogwa, Usman said while political competition is key in a democracy, it should not lead to bitterness or hatred.

"The next election should not be a battle against fellow Nigerians. It should be a contest of ideas, competence, and character. When elections are over, we must all return to the same Nigeria. That is why patriotism must always be greater than politics," she said.

Usman stated that Nigerians deserve leaders who unite instead of divide, inspire hope rather than fear, and build bridges across political, ethnic, and religious lines.

"Our political parties may be different, but our country is one. We owe future generations the responsibility of conducting politics without destroying the bonds that hold our nation together," she added.

Usman also called for more civility in Nigerian politics. She urged politicians and their supporters to reject inflammatory language and practice mutual respect.

"History does not remember those who shouted the loudest. It remembers those who built the strongest institutions, protected democracy, and put their country first," she said.

The LP chairman noted that democracy can only thrive where dialogue is preferred over intolerance. She stressed that political disagreements should strengthen democratic institutions, not threaten national unity.

"We must disagree without becoming enemies. Democracy flourishes where there is tolerance, respect for differing opinions, and an unwavering commitment to peace," she stated.

Reflecting on the occasion, Usman described Jang as a patriot. She noted that his years of service in the military and governance earned him respect in Nigeria’s history.

She said his career shows discipline, courage, sacrifice, and dedication to national service, first as a military officer and later as Governor of Plateau State and a senator.

"At 80, Senator Jonah Jang represents a generation of leaders whose lives remind us that public office is ultimately about service, honour, and legacy. We celebrate not only his longevity but also his enduring contributions to nation-building."

Usman also prayed for God's blessings on the elder statesman, wishing him good health, strength, and many more years of service to the nation.