In a recent development, the Citizens Advocacy Group has vehemently opposed what it perceives as the imposition of a candidate for the position of Senate President in the upcoming 10th National Assembly.
The group claims that this move by the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership undermines the principle of separation of power and amounts to autocratic decision-making.
The group, represented by Chris George and Haruna Kabir as its Convener and Secretary respectively, expressed its concerns in a statement.
They questioned the rationale behind the APC’s decision to exclude experienced Senators-elect from the race for Senate leadership.
The group further criticized the party’s zoning formula, which designates specific regions for key positions.
According to a document released after a National Working Committee (NWC) meeting in Abuja, the APC has assigned the Senate President position to the South-South region, specifically Senator Godswill Akpabio from Akwa Ibom.
The Deputy Senate President position was assigned to the North-West region, Senator Barau Jubrin from Kano, while the Speaker of the House of Representatives position was assigned to the North-West region’s Abass Tajudeen from Kaduna.
Lastly, the Deputy Speaker position was designated for the South East region’s Ben Kalu from Abia.
The statement by the Citizens Advocacy Group highlights the discontent among various stakeholders regarding the APC’s decision.
It argues that such imposition undermines democratic values and poses a threat to the independence of the legislative branch.
The group calls for a fair and open contest among all qualified candidates from the designated region, rather than enforcing a single candidate on the Senate.
The Citizens Advocacy Group emphasizes that the South-South region comprises six states, including Akwa Ibom, where the APC’s preferred candidate hails from, as well as Rivers, Cross River, Bayelsa, Delta, and Edo States.
Excluding other qualified Senators-elect from these states, who possess the necessary experience to lead the Senate, would breed resentment and discord, especially in a country already grappling with divisions.
In light of the multitude of challenges facing Nigeria, the Citizens Advocacy Group urges the incoming administration to avoid inaugurating the 10th Assembly under controversial circumstances.
They stress the need for equity, fairness, and the elimination of imposition in order to promote a smooth and stable transition of power.
In conclusion, the group asserts that the APC’s decision lacks democratic principles, thoughtful consideration, and offends the principles of equity and fair play.
It advocates for a reconsideration of the party’s stance in the interest of upholding democratic values and fostering a united and inclusive government.
