As the battle for the leadership of the 10th Senate gathers momentum, the All Progressives Congress’ zoning formula for the National Assembly Presiding offices by the National Working Committee still seems to be brewing problems as members of the National Assembly continue to reject it.
One of the major contenders for the lead seat in the hallowed chambers is the former Governor of Zamfara State, representing Zamfara West, Abdulaziz Yari who has declared interest in the Presidency of the Senate in line with the provisions of the constitution and not any zoning formula as directed by the Senator Adamu Abdullahi led National Working Committee.
Responding to questions from newsmen yesterday at the International Conference Centre, ICC, Abuja at the ongoing Induction Programme for Members-elect of the National Assembly organised by the National Assembly and National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies, NILDS Yari said, “My aspiration for Presidency of the 10th Senate is covered by relevant provisions of the 1999 Constitution which to me, is superior to any other law or arrangement.”
“I am a loyal party man, nobody has told me that any position has been zoned to anywhere as far as the 10th National Assembly is concerned.
He added; “Position of President of the Senate is first among equals among the 109 Senators. Any Senator-elect who wants to occupy the position must seek the support of others which I am doing.
“It is a hire and fire arrangement. I want them to hire me as President of the 10th Senate on the day of inauguration. Many of those approached by me have given their support and I won’t disappoint them.
“My becoming Senate President on the day of inauguration lies with a decision that will be made by 108 other Senators that day and nothing else.”
Recall that the leadership of the party recently revealed where the leadership of the 10th National Assembly will come from, zoning the Senate Presidency to the South-South and Deputy Senate President to the North-West.
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