10th NASS: Yari rejects APC zoning formula

The National Working Committee’s zoning formula for the National Assembly Presiding offices by the All Progressives Congress still appears to be causing issues as members of the National Assembly continue to reject it as the competition for control of the 10th Senate picks up steam.

Abdulaziz Yari, the former governor of Zamfara State and representative for Zamfara West, is one of the leading candidates for the top spot in the revered chambers. He has declared his interest in the position in accordance with the constitution, not any zoning formula as recommended by the National Working Committee, which is led by Senator Adamu Abdullahi.

NILDS Yari said in response to inquiries from reporters yesterday at the International Conference Centre, ICC, Abuja, during the ongoing Induction Programme for Members-elect of the National Assembly organized by the National Assembly and National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies, “My aspiration for Presidency of the 10th Senate is covered by relevant provisions of the 1999 Constitution, which to me, is superior to any other law or arrangement.”

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“I am a devoted member of my party, and nobody has informed me that any positions have been zoned in the 10th National Assembly, to my knowledge.

He continued, “Among the 109 Senators, the position of President of the Senate is first among equals. Any senator-elect who wishes to serve in that capacity must secure the backing of others, which is what I am doing.

“The arrangement is one of hire and fire. On the day of the inauguration, I want to be hired as the 10th Senate’s president. I’ve approached a lot of people, and many of them have offered their support; I won’t let them down.

In order for me to become Senate President on the day of my inauguration, only 108 other Senators must vote in favor of me.

Remember that the party leadership recently disclosed the zoning of the Senate Presidency to the South-South and Deputy Senate President to the North-West, determining who will lead the 10th National Assembly.