The Langtang North Local Government Council has dismissed claims linking the remand of Mr. Nansel Selnan Lar to the Executive Chairman of the council, Hon. Pirfa Jingfa Tyem.
In a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the chairman, Kum Precious, the council said public discussions surrounding Lar’s remand should be guided by facts, accuracy and respect for the rule of law.
The council said the chairman only exercised his constitutional right by submitting a petition to relevant law enforcement authorities over issues he considered deserving of investigation.
It explained that the petition was received by the Nigeria Police Force and remains subject to due legal process, adding that the petition had not been filed before any court of competent jurisdiction.
According to the statement, the legal proceedings that resulted in Lar’s remand are being handled by the Nigeria Police Force through its statutory investigative and prosecutorial processes.
The council stressed that decisions relating to investigation, arraignment, applications for remand and prosecution are within the powers of law enforcement agencies and the courts.
“It is inaccurate and misleading to suggest that the Executive Chairman of Langtang North Local Government or the Council itself ordered, directed or secured the remand of Mr. Nansel Selnan Lar,” the statement said.
The council also rejected claims that Lar was being persecuted for demanding accountability, insisting that it had never refused lawful requests for information.
It said the council had consistently responded to requests submitted by Lar through appropriate administrative channels, including seeking clarifications where necessary to ensure compliance with relevant laws and procedures.
“The records of the Council clearly demonstrate that his requests were acknowledged and addressed through lawful administrative processes,” the statement added.
The council reaffirmed the commitment of the Tyem administration to transparency, accountability and responsible governance, noting that the administration would continue to operate within the confines of the law.
It also pledged respect for the constitutional independence of the Nigeria Police Force and the judiciary, maintaining that the local government does not interfere with investigations or judicial proceedings.
The council urged members of the public, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to allow relevant institutions to discharge their constitutional responsibilities without misinformation or undue interference.
It added that the chairman remained focused on delivering quality governance, improving infrastructure, expanding opportunities for residents and promoting peace and development across communities in Langtang North Local Government Area.
The statement was signed by Kum Precious, Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman of Langtang North Local Government Council.