The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has called on the national leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to ensure the re-election of current members of the National Assembly and state legislators in 2027. Abbas emphasized the importance of experience in lawmaking and the need for continuity to maintain legislative effectiveness.
Speaking at the flag-off of the Elele-Omoku Road in Kaduna, Abbas urged APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, to address the high turnover rate in the National Assembly and state Houses of Assembly. According to a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Krishi, Abbas said, “It is crucial to do everything possible to ensure that current APC members of the National Assembly and state Houses of Assembly return in 2027. Experience in the National Assembly enhances legislative effectiveness.”
Abbas highlighted the North-West’s diminished prominence following the 2023 elections, attributing it to the loss of experienced lawmakers. He stressed the importance of re-electing competent legislators to improve the region’s standing and ensure better representation.
Additionally, Abbas called on Ganduje to form reconciliation committees to unite party members nationwide. He emphasized that post-election unity is essential for effective governance and urged party leaders to focus on reconciliation and cooperation.
Abbas praised President Bola Tinubu for appointing key positions to individuals from the North-West and called for redoubled efforts in 2027 to support the APC. He stated, “The North-West has been entrusted with significant positions, and it is our responsibility to deliver the dividends of democracy to our people and address insecurity in our zone.”
The Speaker also urged party leaders to provide consistent support to party structures, noting that attention should not be limited to election periods. He revealed plans to collaborate with North-West party leaders to support the APC continuously, ensuring its success.
Regarding the ongoing constitution amendment, Abbas called for input from the North-West to address critical issues such as state police, local government autonomy, women’s inclusion in politics, and the role of traditional institutions.
APC National Vice Chairman North-West zone, Alhaji Garba Muhammad, expressed concern over the spate of suspensions within the party, particularly at the ward level. He clarified that suspensions must follow due process and receive approval from the National Working Committee.
Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, emphasized the importance of internal democracy within the party, suggesting that it would reduce friction and litigation. He called for a consensus approach to resolving pressing issues to maintain peace and unity.
Katsina State Governor and Chairman of the North-West Governor’s Forum, Dikko Umaru Radda, praised National Assembly lawmakers for their efforts in establishing the North-West Development Commission and commended President Tinubu’s focus on infrastructure development in the zone.
The meeting was attended by prominent APC leaders, including National Chairman Ganduje, former Katsina State governor Aminu Bello Masari, Jigawa State Governor Malam Umar Namadi, Sokoto State Governor Ahmad Sokoto, Kebbi State Governor Dr. Nasir Idris, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, and several federal ministers and advisers.
