Senator-elect Abdulaziz Abubakar Yari on Monday declared that his aspiration to become the senate president of the 10th senate is not an affront against his party, the All Progressives Congress ( APC ).
Yari, a former chairman of Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF) and Senator – elect for Zamfara West, revealed that he is in the race for the Presidency of the 10th Senate in line with constitutional provisions and but not zoning arrangement made by any political party.
The former governor spoke while fielding questions from newsmen on the sideline of induction programme held for Senators and Members – elect for the 10th National Assembly at International Conference Centre ( ICC), Abuja.
It would be recalled that the National Working Committee of APC had in giving direction to where the leadership of the 10th National Assembly, zoned the Presidency of the Senate to South – South in person of Godswill Akpabio and Deputy President of the Senate to North West in person of Jibrin Barau .
But notwithstanding the party’s position, Yari has insisted that he is still in the race as provided for by section 50 ( 2) of the 1999 Constitution.
“My aspiration for Presidency of the 10th Senate is covered by relevant provisions of the 1999 Constitution which to me, is superior to any other law or arrangement.
“I am a loyal party man, nobody has told me that any position has been zoned to anywhere as far as the 10th National Assembly is concerned.
“Position of President of the Senate, is first among equals among the 109 Senators. Any Senator – elect who wants to occupy the position, must seek for support of others which I am doing.
“It is hire and fire arrangement. I want them to hire me as President of the 10th Senate on the day of inauguration. Many of those who approached by me, have given their supports and I won’t disappoint them.
“My becoming Senate President on the day of inauguration rest on decision that will be made by 108 other Senators that day and nothing else” Yari said.
