Rep. Yusuf Gagdi (APC-Plateau) has stepped forward to advocate for the North Central geopolitical zone, arguing that it merits the Speakership of the 10th National Assembly.

In a meeting with news correspondents in Abuja, Gagdi emphasized the significant contribution of the North Central to the APC’s success in the 2023 general elections. As a testament to their support, the region gave the second highest number of votes to the APC.

According to Gagdi, the performance of the APC in the North Central was exemplary, with the party securing 11 Senators, surpassing the North West, which produced 10 Senators.

Given the considerable support the North Central extended to the APC during the elections, Gagdi believes that it would be equitable to zone the Speakership to this sub-region. He also voiced his disagreement with the APC’s decision to zone two elective positions to the North West.

Gagdi said, “Nigeria has six statutory positions: the President, the Vice President, Senate President, Deputy Senate President, Speaker, and the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives. Instead of sharing one to each zone, the party domiciled two in one zone.”

He argued that the North Central’s possession of the party chairman position and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation did not equate to fairness, especially given the limited powers of the party chairman.

Gagdi also expressed doubt that the President-elect was aware of the consensus arrangement, and continues to challenge the party’s decision. He noted that the President-elect had previously pledged to reward loyalty and commitment, which the North Central has clearly demonstrated.