Adeleye Kunle
The race to the Speakership of the 10th National Assembly is taking a new dimension with 35 out of 42 House of Representatives members-elect from the South-East region reportedly endorsing Hon. Tajudeen Abbas and Hon. Benjamin Kalu, for positions of Speaker and Deputy Speaker.
Deputy chairman, House Committee on Appropriations, Hon. Igariwey Iduma Enwo, who made the announcement during a meeting of the South-East members-elect with Abbas and Kalu late Thursday night, said the endorsement list was an ongoing one and was sure that the remaining ones would be part of it.
Reacting to the development, Communication Adviser to the Tajudeen Abbas and Benjamin Kalu Campaign Group, Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere said the lawmakers-elect made the decision by choosing to support the duo as the All Progressives Congress, APC, anointed candidates.
Ugochinyere, who’s also a member-elect for Ideato North and South Federal Constituency of Imo State, described the ruling party’s zoning arrangement as one that ensures equity and fairness.
While noting that Abbas and Kalu’s detribalised nature, competence and admirable qualities were the reasons behind endless endorsements, he expressed optimism that the remaining eight lawmakers-elect from South-East would sign the endorsement document by the end of the Thursday night’s meeting in Abuja.
“President Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress national leadership, having taken a look at the true reflection of our society, and knowing the importance of inclusivity, chose South-East for the Deputy Speakership position.
“So, for inclusiveness, for the unity of the country, for everybody to be carried along, I see no reason any member-elect or Nigerian with conscience will say, South-East should not be given this position.
“So I commend my brothers from the South-East for making the right decision. Apart from zoning, Abbas and Kalu are the most competent amongst all contestants to preside over the affairs of the Green Chamber.
“I believe the remaining eight lawmakers-elect from South-East will sign the endorsement document before the end of the caucuses meeting currently going on at Treasure Suites Abuja,” Ugochinyere stated late Thursday night.
