However, the national leadership of the PDP and the lawmakers-elect will meet in Abuja on Monday (today) to take a final decision on who to support among those angling to lead the 9th National Assembly.
The Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the party, Diran Odeyemi, said the former ruling party was planning to make it a “last-minute affair.”
Also, the National Chairman of the PDP, Prince Uche Secondus, said the main opposition party refused to speak on who the party would favour for the leadership of both the Senate and the House of Representatives.
Rather, he said that the party “will not disappoint Nigerians and we will have their interest at heart when we decide on what to do” on the matter.
He said the PDP “is aware that Nigerians are looking towards us for direction and leadership because it will be wrong to have a docile National Assembly. We will not disappoint them in that regards.”
Meanwhile, an Igbo group, the Umuigbo Progressive Network, has urged lawmakers-elect from the South-East and South-South geopolitical zones to vote Lawan and the ex-governor of Abia State, Orji Uzor Kalu as Senate President and Deputy Senate President, respectively.
It also solicited support for Femi Gbajabiamila as the Speaker of the House of Representatives.
The National Coordinator of the group, Oscar Obi, said the trio had exceptional disposition to lead a rancour-free National Assembly.
He said the call to elect the three had become necessary to prevent initial and avoidable mistakes that could generate rancour in the 9th National Assembly.
Speaking at a press conference in Awka, Anambra State, Obi said the right persons should lead the 9th Senate for optimal performance.
He added, “We believe Lawan and Kalu are the right persons to lead the Red Chamber. They both have shown capacity and political expertise to a more vibrant democracy and unified Nigeria.
“Nigerians should not also forget that President Muhammadu Buhari has a great relationship with the two. With this, we are rest assured of a smooth relationship between both arms of government to promote good governance and implement policies that would have direct impact on the lives of the electorate and alleviate the sufferings of Nigerians.
“We cannot think of no one better suited to be the speaker at this critical moment in history than Femi Gbajabiamila. Through his motions and bills, he has been an unquestionable champion of Nigerians’ interest.
“Already, 178 members-elect have declared their support for Gbajabiamila. Just recently, the opposition PDP instructed lawmakers-elect under its platform to support Gbajabiamila.
“This again tells how much we are collectively getting it right as a country.
“Gbajabiamila is presently the most experienced of all the lawmakers, and he has remained one of the most productive members of the House of Representatives.”
Let Zebra News help your business/brand reach a wider audience. Advertise with us today! Contact Our Marketing Team; Tel: 08062622328, 07083662767. Email: zebranewsng@gmail.com
