A group of over 240 House of Repsentatives members-elect across party lines, Nationalists Forum has rejected the All Progressives Congress (APC) zoning arrangement for the 10th National Assembly’s Speaker and Deputy.
In a statement signed by Chief Philip Agbese, the Forum denounced the APC’s zoning formula as “insensitive, flawed, and unattainable”.
It added that, it is undemocratic, authoritarian, and unscrupulous for the APC to zone offices without proper consultation.
The Forum said the House must be allowed to elect the most competent member as Speaker as obtained in other democracies.
“We want to align ourselves with all the Speakership aspirants who have rejected the zoning arrangements as a mere charade targeted at rubbishing the institution of our democracy in particular and our democracy in general,” the statement said.
“It is shameful that after over two decades of return to civil rule, our democracy is still a joke. We are a laughing stock. The APC imposing candidates on legislators is the last straw.
“We won’t be coerced into accepting the selfish agenda of a few. Nigeria is bigger than these individuals.
“Governor Rotimi Akeredolu has spoken in condemnation of this debacle. Other men of goodwill including APC stalwarts must rise above party affiliation to condemn this shameful act. ”
The Forum however, assured that it is in consultation with relevant stakeholders to arrive at the best possible decision for the nation.
It assured that in a matter of time, Nigerians will see dividends, adding that a Speaker with a reputable character, track record and integrity will emerge.
It could be recalled that, the APC National Working Committee had zoned principal offices to certain sub-regions and individuals.
The announcement was met with wild criticism, especially from members of the National Assembly who have the exclusive right to elect their leaders.
The APC decision is considered by many as an imposition, anti-democratic, and not in the best interest of Nigerians.
