…By Lola Smith for TDPel Media.
The Senate Chief Whip, Orji Uzor Kalu, and Senator Osita Izunaso from Imo State are contemplating stepping back from the race for the Senate Presidency in anticipation of the inauguration of the 10th National Assembly.
Party Nominees and Contesting Senators:
The All Progressives Congress (APC) had previously selected Godswill Akpabio, a former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, as their candidate for Senate President.
Additionally, Barau Jibrin, the Senator representing Kano North, was nominated as the Deputy Senate President.
However, despite the party’s decision, Abdulaziz Yari, the former Governor of Zamfara State, Senator Sani Musa from Niger, Senator Osita Izunaso, and Senator Orji Uzor Kalu were determined to compete for the Senate presidency, going against their party’s stance.
Senators’ Persistent Opposition:
Despite appeals from influential figures such as President Bola Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima, the Senators remained resolute in their decision to run against Godswill Akpabio.
Reconsideration and South-East Support:
In a last-minute turn of events, Kalu and Izunaso have reconsidered their positions after engaging in discussions with South-East leaders and Senators-elect.
This change of heart implies that Yari might be left to pursue his ambitions alone, as Kalu and Izunaso align themselves with the ruling party.
South-East Senators’ Pledge:
According to a source familiar with the situation, all 15 Senators-elect from the South East region have agreed to support Godswill Akpabio.
During a meeting with Akpabio, they expressed their commitment to backing him in the Senate Presidency race.
Northern Senators’ Alignment:
Furthermore, some Northern Senators-elect, particularly those from the APC who initially opposed Akpabio’s bid, have also fallen in line with the party’s decision.
Senator Sani Musa from Niger, who aspired to be the Deputy Senate President, has stepped down in favor of Barau Jibrin.
Consequently, Abdulaziz Yari now finds himself without support in his pursuit of the Senate Presidency.