Tajudeen Abbas, representing Zaria Federal Constituency in Kaduna State, has been elected Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Abbas, an anointed candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), defeated Idris Wase and Aminu Jaji, scoring 352 votes of the total 359 votes cast while Jaji and Wase polled three votes each.
In a voice vote that took place at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja on Tuesday, Abas, who has been a member of the House since 2011, was sworn in as the new Speaker of the House of Representatives. He succeeds Femi Gbajabiamila who is now the Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu.
Also, Benjamin Kalu, a member representing Bende Federal Constituency in Abia State emerged the Deputy Speaker of the House after emerging unopposed. Kalu succeeds Deputy Speaker of the House for the 9th National Assembly, Wase.
According to Abbas, his election is an indication of the unity within the APC caucus in the House. He said, “I am highly elated and thrilled. I am thanking God for his intervention, I am thanking the APC family, especially President Muhammadu Buhari for the privilege of serving as Speaker.”
Senator Godswill Akpabio also emerged Senate President after defeating Senator Abdul’aziz Yari on Today with Senator Jibrin Barau, representing Kano North Senatorial District, unopposed as Senate Deputy President, succeeding Ovie Omo-Agege.
Akpabio says he plans to prioritize critical issues such as the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) in the Senate. He said, “The contribution of the oil and gas sector to our national development cannot be over-emphasized. We will work towards ensuring the passage of the PIB as soon as possible.”
The Members of the House of Representatives and Senate congratulated Abbas and Akpabio respectively. Representative Peter Akpatason, appealed to the new Speaker and the leadership of the House to be just and fair in their dealings with all members of the House, in order to ensure a peaceful assembly.
In addition, Senator Barau thanked the Senate for his new position and promised to work closely with Senator Akpabio to ensure a peaceful and productive tenure. He stated, “I am committed to working hand in hand with the Senate president to achieve our legislative objectives and build a better Nigeria for all.”
