The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Idris Wase, says he is still in the race for the Speakership of the 10th Assembly, despite the zoning of the position by the governing party, All Progressives Congress (APC).
He made his position known on Friday, in an interview with State House correspondents after he met with President Muhammadu Buhari.
Wase insisted that he would not step down from vying for the House of Representatives Speakership for the 10th National Assembly because the zoning done by the party was against the provisions of the Nigerian constitution.
Recall that the governing All Progressives Congress had zoned the position of Speaker to the North-west geopolitical zone.
The Deputy Speaker argued that the National Working Committee (NWC) letter, which outlined the zoning was advisory, and also allows for continued discussions on the matter.
“I am in the race, and by the grace of God, I am going to conclude the race. I have not withdrawn or stepped down for anybody.
“The advisory nature of the letter contradicts the Nigerian 1999 Constitution, Section 14(4) as amended,” Wase said.
He cited Section 14(4) of the Nigerian Constitution, which states that the composition of the Government of the Federation, including its agencies, should reflect the federal character of Nigeria.
Wase emphasized that this provision aims to promote national unity, avoid the dominance of individuals from specific States or ethnic groups, and ensure the loyalty and harmony of the nation.
Highlighting the importance of diversity in leadership, he stressed that Nigeria has six geopolitical zones, and the government currently comprises six presiding officers.
The lawmaker argued that neglecting his zone for the Speakership position would not only be contrary to the constitutional principle of Federal Character but would also disregard the significant support and votes his region has contributed to the government.
“I am not just speaking for myself.
“You can’t bring a Deputy Senate President, but you can give us the Deputy Speaker role. You cannot neglect us, even though we have given one of the best outcomes in terms of voting and support to the government,” Wase asserted, underlining the shared sentiments among his fellow candidates.
The Deputy Speaker also used the opportunity to thank President Buhari for approving the establishment of the Federal Medical Centre in Wase, Plateau State, and other numerous projects executed in the State and other parts of the country.
