As the race for the 10th Senate leadership begins, opposition to the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s prescribed zoning formula for National Assembly Presiding offices grows.
Abdulaziz Yari, the former Governor of Zamfara State and representative of Zamfara West, has emerged as a leading contender for the Senate presidency.
He, however, rejects the party’s zoning formula and instead asserts his constitutional rights.
WITHIN NIGERIA previously reported that the ruling party’s National Working Committee (NWC) zoned the Senate President’s office to the South-South.
Yari stated his position during the ongoing Induction Programme for National Assembly Members-Elect in Abuja.
He firmly stated;
“My aspiration for the Presidency of the 10th Senate is covered by the relevant provisions of the 1999 Constitution, which, to me, is superior to any other law or arrangement.”
Yari’s decision is influenced by his loyalty to the party and the lack of official communication regarding zoning arrangements.
He emphasized the Senate Presidency’s nature as a position of equal standing among senators, where support from colleagues is critical.
Yari himself described the process as a “hire and fire arrangement.”
During the inauguration, he expressed his desire for fellow senators to “hire” him as President of the 10th Senate.
Yari stated that he has received encouragement from many colleagues and is committed to meeting their expectations. On the day of the inauguration, the decision is ultimately made by the 108 other senators.
Abdulaziz Yari is steadfast in his pursuit of the Senate Presidency, relying on the support of his colleagues and the constitutional provisions that govern the process.