The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) caucus in the House of Representatives has resolved to allow its members work with their colleagues from the All Progressive Congress (APC) for the emergence of a new speaker for the incoming 9th lower chamber.
This was announced by Leo Ogor, minority leader of the green chamber who said the decision was taken in the interest of the nation and to ensure that the people’s will prevail.
Mr Ogor in a statement said the PDP is resolute in its determination to proactively participate in deciding the final outcome of the ongoing contest for leadership of the house.
“While the nation looks forward to the inauguration of the 9th national assembly, the PDP house caucus is leaving no stone unturned in furtherance of its resolute determination to proactively decide the final outcome of the ongoing contest for leadership of the house in ways that would ultimately ensure that the people’s will ultimately prevails,” the statement read.
“While we further our unflinching commitment to the principles and ethos of democracy, the PDP House Caucus has endorsed its members’ decision to work with speakership aspirants from the ruling party, thereby allowing all who feel thus inclined, the freedom to attend all meetings, participate in campaigns, strategy sessions and other activities of any speakership aspirant of their choice.
“While the PDP House Caucus has taken the decision with clear focus on the national interest as well as the future strategic goals of our party, we are not unaware that a few may unfortunately feel inclined to go overboard, nibbling dangerously at carrots dangled before them without adequately heeding appropriate guidelines.
“Nonetheless, such risks have to be taken occasionally as part of sacrifice for the national interest – an overriding consideration for us in our great party,” the statement added.
The decision of the opposition members may further boast the chances of Femi Gbajabiamila to succeed Yakubu Dogara, the outgoing speaker who is no longer interested in the position.
Mr Gbajabiamila is the preferred candidate of the ruling party for the position.
