From Esther Akaa, Lafia
The Nasarawa State House of Assembly’s factional speaker, Rt. Hon. Daniel Ogazi (APC – Kokona East ) has stepped down his speakership ambition to pave the way for peace and progress in the state.
The Voice earlier reported that the 24 members-elect of the State House of Assembly were split between two candidates for the the election of the House leadership during the inauguration of the 7th Assembly on June 6.
Rt Hon. Ibrahim Balarabe Abdullahi (APC- Umaisha/ Ugya) and 10 others were inaugurated at the Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, while Ogazi and 12 others were sworn-in in the assembly complex.
Addressing a press conference on Friday at the Nigeria Union of Journalists ( NUJ) Press Centre in Lafia, Hon. Ogazi said his decision to step down was for the interest of unity, progress and development of state.
According to the lawmaker, he was concerned that his desire to become the speaker of the 7th Assembly had sparked opposition, which would have a detrimental effect on governance.
“This unfortunate development is a serious course for concern for any well meaning Nasarawa citizen, a patriotic call to reconsider my stance and come to a compromise, not because it’s the right thing to do but because it is a decision that best serve our collective interest as a state in order to make any reasonable progress.
“It is a known fact that I contested the Speakership position in the State Assembly, with the support of members and won by a simple majority votes.
However, I wish to appeal to the good conscience of all patriotic citizens of Nasarawa State, especially our most esteemed supporters to see reasons with us on why Nasarawa State must make progress regardless of my ambition or any personal interest.
“Having entertained several calls, appeals from various quarters comprising critical stakeholders, both past and serving governors, senators, former ministers, Emir and chiefs, political party leaders, within and outside the State, cutting across political parties and most importantly, the loud call by our amiable President through His Excellency, Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule, Executive Governor of Nasarawa State on the need to put Nasarawa first, bury our hatchets, unite for the progress and development of Nasarawa State.
“I hereby set aside my speakership ambition with an assurance to henceforth unite and work for the collective good and in the overall interest of the State,” he said.
He, however noted that the speakership position would be decided by members of the assembly and have agreed that the house will be re-inaugurated and fresh elections conducted.
” This is the agreement that has culminated into today’s verdict by the State High Court Lafia,” he added.
He, therefore apologised to the people of the state for the pains and disappointment the crisis and its outcome might have caused them.
The lawmaker also appreciated his members and his supporters for believing and keeping faith with his ambition, urging them to remain advocates of democracy and good governance.
