…By Dorcas Funmi for TDPel Media.
A member-elect of Ikwuano/Umuahia North and South federal constituency in Abia State, Obi Aguocha, has expressed his support for the zoning arrangement of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) regarding the leadership positions in the upcoming 10th National Assembly (NASS).
Aguocha believes that the APC’s zoning arrangement is the best way to proceed, despite having met numerous aspirants for key positions in the assembly.
Support for APC’s Zoning Arrangement:
Aguocha acknowledges that he has encountered several aspirants contending for principal positions in the 10th NASS.
Nevertheless, he firmly believes that the APC’s zoning arrangement holds the key to progress.
The APC had previously endorsed Godswill Akpabio for Senate President and Tajudeen Abbas for Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Additionally, Ben Kalu was nominated for Deputy Speaker, and Barau Jubrin for Deputy Senate President.
Despite appeals from other aspirants, they have continued to oppose the party’s consensus candidates.
Opportunity for the South-East:
Aguocha asserts that the APC’s zoning arrangement provides the South-East region with a valuable opportunity to have representation at the presiding table.
He expresses his confidence in the competence of the APC’s candidates for the assembly, stating that they have distinguished themselves.
Aguocha believes that Abbas, the APC’s consensus candidate for the Speakership, has the potential to bring intellectual depth and promote collaboration between the House and the executive arm.
Importance of Stability in the 10th NASS:
Recognizing the significance of stability in the 10th NASS, Aguocha emphasizes that the zoning arrangement proposed by the APC is crucial.
He expresses concerns about potential marginalization if the South-East does not have sufficient representation in presiding offices.
Aguocha notes that the region has had limited opportunities in the House of Representatives, particularly in terms of speakership, over the past four decades.
However, he believes progress is being made and expresses his preference for Abbas Tajudeen as the candidate who can bring intellectual substance to the federal house.
Desire for Good Governance:
Aguocha highlights the yearning among Nigerians for good governance and the desire for a refreshing change.
He sees Abbas Tajudeen as standing out above other candidates within the APC, particularly in the current climate represented by figures like Peter Obi.
Aguocha believes that Abbas has the potential to deliver the intellectual content needed in the federal house.
Conclusion:
While Aguocha discloses that members-elect under the Labour Party will convene to determine their position on the matter, he acknowledges that individuals have the right to make their own choices.
Aguocha’s endorsement of the APC’s zoning arrangement for the leadership positions of the 10th NASS stems from his belief in the opportunities it presents for the South-East and his confidence in the competence of the APC’s candidates.
He sees Abbas Tajudeen as the candidate who can bring about the intellectual depth and effective governance that Nigerians desire.