Jostling among lawmakers-elect has heightened for the leadership position of the 10th National Assembly ahead of its proposed June inauguration.
With the All Progressives Congress (APC), who have the majority, plotting to produce the legislature’s leaders, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and other opposition parties are working tirelessly to truncate the plans of the ruling party.
Those reportedly eyeing the Senate Presidency position include Senator Godswill Akpabio, Orji Uzor Kalu, Jibrin Barau, Sani Musa, Osita Izunaso, Adams Oshiomhole, and Abdulaziz Yari.
While those plotting to emerge Speaker are Idris Wase, Alhassan Ado-Doguwa, Tajudeen Abbas, Benjamin Kalu, Aliyu Betara, and Yusuf Gagdi, amongst others.
Reports recently emerged claiming President-elect Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has thrown his weight behind Akpabio and Barau for Senate President and Deputy Senate President while backing Abbas and Kalu for Speaker and deputy speaker, respectively.
However, the APC is yet to officially endorse an aspirant or take a position on zoning ahead of the NASS inauguration.
Below are leaders of the National Assembly since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999.
Senate President:
Evans Enwerem – South-East
Chuba Okadigbo – South-East
Anyim Pius Anyim – South-East
Adolphus Wabara – South-East
Ken Nnamani – South-East
David Mark – North-central
Bukola Saraki – North-central
Ahmed Lawan – North-East
House of Reps Speakers:
Salisu Buhari – North-West
Ghali Na’Abba – North-West
Aminu Masari – North-West
Patricia Etteh – South-west
Dimeji Bankole – South-west
Aminu Tambuwal – North-West
Yakubu Dogara – North-East
emi Gbajabiamila – South-west