JOS – A wave of heartfelt tributes has commenced for the late former Deputy Governor of Plateau State, Professor Sonni Gwanle Tyoden, as a service of songs was held in Jos on Friday, May 23, 2025, ahead of his burial on Saturday, May 24, 2025, in Pushit, Mangu Local Government Area.
Professor Tyoden, who passed away on May 4, 2025, at the age of 74, served as Deputy Governor from 2015 to 2023 under the administration of then-Governor Simon Bako Lalong. He also had a distinguished career as the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jos from 2006 to 2011.
Senator Simon Bako Lalong, representing Plateau South Senatorial District, led the tributes, remembering his late Deputy as a “Humble Partner and Companion” rather than merely a loyal subordinate. Speaking at the service of songs, Senator Lalong emphasized that their relationship was built on mutual respect and a shared vision for Plateau State.
“For me, loyalty was never an issue between us because I never saw him as subservient or someone who ought to bow to me simply because I held the office of Governor,” Lalong stated, adding that despite warnings from skeptics about Prof. Tyoden’s academic stature making him difficult to work with, the late Professor proved them wrong through his humility and grounded approach. Lalong recalled how they learned from each other, with Tyoden even acknowledging gaining practical politics from him.
Senator Lalong lauded Prof. Tyoden’s crucial role in the formulation and implementation of policies under the APC Rescue Administration, particularly in the education sector. “His deep knowledge and background in academia greatly benefited our administration,” Lalong noted, highlighting Tyoden’s oversight of the Ministry of Education during their first term. Under his supervision, significant progress was made in revitalizing primary and secondary education, as well as restoring the Plateau State University in Bokkos and other tertiary institutions.
The current Deputy Governor of Plateau State, Mrs. Josephine Piyo, who represented Governor Caleb Mutfwang, expressed profound sadness at Prof. Tyoden’s demise. She lauded his extensive contributions to academia, governance, and mentorship, acknowledging that he had groomed many individuals.
Leaders in academia also paid their respects. Professor Ishaya Tanko, Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, along with other academic colleagues and mentors, commended Prof. Tyoden for leaving an indelible mark on the University of Jos and other institutions where he served with excellence and passion.
From the religious sphere, the President of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN), Rev. Dr. Amos Mohzo, described the deceased as a committed Christian who loved the Lord and actively contributed to the propagation of the gospel.
Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Jacob Gyang Buba, used the occasion to encourage attendees to reflect on their own lives and strive for a right relationship with God, emphasizing the inevitability of death. The guest preacher, Rev. Kefas Tang’an, reinforced this message, urging introspection and amends as death can come at any time.
Representatives from various groups, including GOSA Set 67 and the Mwaghavul Development Association, joined members of his immediate family in affirming that Plateau State has indeed lost a man of uncommon integrity, intellect, character, compassion, and humility.
Professor Sonni Gwanle Tyoden’s funeral service is scheduled to take place on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at the COCIN Headquarters Church, Jos, followed by interment in his hometown.
