A cross-party panel of over 240 House of Representatives members-elect has committed to evaluate the All Progressives Congress’ (APC) zoning plan for the 10th National Assembly.
Under the aegis of the Nationalists Forum, the lawmakers-elect stated that the APC’s decision to zone offices without sufficient consultation is undemocratic, authoritarian, and unethical.
Remember how the APC National Working Committee (NWC) assigned primary offices to specific sub-regions and individuals?
This revelation, however, has sparked outrage, particularly among MPs, who have the sole authority to choose their leaders.
Many see the APC’s move as an imposition, anti-democratic, and not in the best interests of Nigerians.
The template was condemned as a “skewed arrangement that reinforces injustice” by Ondo State Governor Rotimi Akeredolu.
The Nationalists Forum condemned the APC’s zoning formula as “insensitive, flawed, and unattainable” in a statement signed by Chief Philip Agbese.
According to Agbese, the House should be permitted to elect the most capable member as Speaker, as is done in other democracies.
“We want to align ourselves with all the Speakership aspirants who have rejected the zoning arrangements as a mere charade aimed at demeaning the institution of our democracy in particular and our democracy in general,” stated the statement.
“It is disgraceful that, after more than two decades of civil rule, our democracy remains a farce.” We’ve become a laughingstock. The APC’s attempt to impose candidates on legislators is the final straw.
“We will not be coerced into accepting a few people’s selfish agenda.” Nigeria is bigger than these people.
“Governor Rotimi Akeredolu has spoken out against this shambles. Other men of goodwill, including APC stalwarts, must rise beyond party loyalty to condemn this heinous conduct.
Agbese, on the other hand, promised that the Nationalists Forum is in serious conversation with important stakeholders in order to make the right decision for the nation.
He promised that Nigerians would witness rewards in a short period of time, and that a Speaker with a reputable reputation, track record, and integrity will emerge.
