Consider federal character in choosing speaker, coalition advises

The Coalition of Public Interests Lawyers has urged the incoming 9th National Assembly to consider individual capacity and the principle of federal character in electing the leadership of the House of Representatives.

National Coordinator of the Collation, Pelumi Olajengbesi, gave the advice at a press conference after the group’s meeting held on Tuesday in Abuja.

He said that in a country which has six geo-political zones, a top-down appraisal of regions which had gained significant positions in the present government must be the guiding light in deciding on the leaders in the House of Representatives.

“While agitating for a level playing field, let it be noted that anything short of a constituted leadership that reflects federal character is an indictment of early failure on the House of Representatives.

“Please note that minority geo-political regions are as important as those tagged as the majority. They must be accommodated in all government schemes and given a level playing field at all times,” the coalition said.

Olajengbesi, who described the speakership as a key position, urged members of the 9th House to ensure that the position was strictly occupied by a man of integrity, content, character and fresh ideas needed for the growth of the country.

“As the House of Representatives proceeds to elect its leadership, it must be mindful of the need to choose from among themselves only those leaders with a capacity to cultivate and sustain a cordial, smooth and working relation with the other arms of government, particularly the executive without compromise.

“Such a leader must be seen to be committed to progress and development at all times. Members of the House are further advised to take the path of honour and select only those leaders with sound antecedents and credentials.

“A thorough appraisal of the personality, character and history of all vying for the speaker’s position must be carried out to eliminate any candidate with questionable records or tainted histories,” he said.