Uncertainty Surrounds Akpabio’s Fate in the 10th NASS Leadership, Dark Horse Candidate Expected Thursday
Ahead of the inauguration of the 10th National Assembly, there are indications that President Bola Tinubu may have reconsidered his choices for the Senate President and Speaker of the House of Representatives. Apples Bite Magazine sources suggest that the president might select the next Speaker from the North-West and make the announcement on Thursday.
Tinubu, in an effort to ensure a stable administration, has sent emissaries to appease notable aspirants among the G-6. This move comes after the G-6 expressed dissatisfaction with how they were treated by those who presented the proposal to the president before his inauguration. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the president seeks to mend fences with the G-6 and ensure a smooth start with his cabinet.
Regarding Senator Godswill Akpabio’s bid for the Senate Presidency, there remain uncertainties and challenges. The president has discreetly assessed the strengths and weaknesses of each aspirant, including the G-6 and the Yari group. Surprisingly, the outcome has been unfavorable, indicating that unless the G-6 is pacified, progress may be hindered, including the alliance between the Yari and Orji Kalu factions.
The possibility of a dark horse candidate being unveiled has also been mentioned by a member of the House of Representatives-elect. It is speculated that the current Deputy Speaker, Mr. Idris Wase, and Tajudeen Abass might be appointed as ministers to represent their respective states. Notably, the president has conceded to dropping the outgoing speaker’s choice, Abass, but still insists on the North-West producing the speaker. Therefore, the president’s original choice, Sani Jaji, who belongs to the G-6, is likely to be announced on Thursday. In an inclusive arrangement, Abass and Wase could potentially serve as ministers.
Meanwhile, concerns have emerged over Akpabio’s aspiration for the Senate Presidency. Some senators-elect are reportedly withdrawing their support due to his previous contentious relationship with the National Assembly during his tenure as the Minister of the Niger Delta. Akpabio’s accusations against lawmakers regarding their alleged involvement in corrupt practices at the Niger Delta Development Commission have resurfaced, causing senators-elect to reassess their backing for him.
Sumaila Kawu, a senator-elect from Kano State, has cautioned President Tinubu against interfering in the election of presiding officers of the 10th National Assembly. Kawu emphasizes that the selection of these officers should be determined internally by the members of the National Assembly, in accordance with the constitution. He recalls the incidents of the 7th and 8th National Assembly and urges against repeating past mistakes.
As the 10th National Assembly’s leadership formation progresses, all eyes are on the impending revelation that will shed light on Akpabio’s fate and unveil the dark horse candidate, with Thursday anticipated as the day of these significant announcements.
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