Governor Caleb Mutfwang and eminent scholars on Tuesday described late former Deputy Governor of Plateau State and ex-Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, Prof. Sonni Tyoden, as a symbol of integrity, intellectual depth, and responsible leadership whose life remains a moral compass for public office holders in Nigeria.
They stated this during the maiden memorial lecture organised in his honour by the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Jos, with the theme, “The Man Tyoden: Ideas, Power, and Governance.”
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Ngo Josephine Piyo, Governor Mutfwang said Tyoden belonged to a generation of leaders who saw leadership as a sacred responsibility rooted in wisdom, justice, and service to humanity.
According to him, the late professor combined academic excellence with political maturity, leaving behind a legacy defined by humility, integrity, and commitment to nation-building.
“In a time when public confidence in institutions continues to face serious challenges, the life and legacy of Professor Sonni Tyoden remain a moral compass.
“He proved that one could actively participate in politics without compromising integrity, occupy public office without losing intellectual depth, and wield influence without abandoning humility,” the governor stated.
Mutfwang noted that Tyoden remained committed to the ideals of knowledge-driven leadership throughout his career in academia and public service, adding that his scholarly contributions helped shape debates on democracy, governance, federalism, and public administration in Nigeria.
He further described the former deputy governor as a man of simplicity and wisdom whose calm disposition and principled leadership brought stability to governance during his time in office.
Earlier, keynote speaker, Prof. Emeritus Olugbemiro Jegede, reflected on the relationship between power and governance, warning against the misuse of authority.
“Power without humility becomes dominion,” he said, stressing that governance remains the bridge between ideas and implementation.
Jegede described Tyoden as a loyal public servant who combined scholarship with exemplary leadership qualities throughout his lifetime.
Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, Prof. Ishaya Tanko, in his welcome remarks, described the late professor as a distinguished scholar and administrator whose contributions greatly impacted the university community and society at large.
Former governor of Plateau State and chairman of the occasion, Sen. Simon Lalong, represented by Prof. Danladi Atu, said Tyoden played a major role in shaping governance and policy formulation during the rescue administration in the state.
He described him as a humble, disciplined, and principled leader who mentored younger academics and professionals across generations.
The event attracted academics, former and serving vice chancellors, political leaders, students, and members of the university community who paid glowing tributes to the late scholar and statesman.
