The launch of Abbas Tajudeen’s campaign for the position of Speaker of the 10th House of Representatives was marked by low turnout on Wednesday. Members-elect, who possess the voting powers and were expected to be the target audience, largely boycotted the event, which was hosted by the current Speaker of the House, Femi Gbajabiamila.

It is believed that Gbajabiamila, who allegedly prefers to maintain his grip on the 10th House of Representatives, suggested the zoning of the number four citizen’s position to the North West, following which Tajudeen was adopted as the APC’s candidate for Speaker in the incoming Assembly. President-elect Bola Tinubu has also endorsed Tajudeen for the position.

Gbajabiamila denied influencing the choice of the Kaduna-born politician during the Joint Task Force for the 10th Assembly meeting held Wednesday night, which was an umbrella body for the actualization of Tajudeen’s ambition as Speaker. He argued that the North West geopolitical zone contributed 30% of the total votes for APC in the last elections, adding that the North West zone had not been considered for the number four position in the history of Nigeria’s Parliament.

However, the visibly angered Speaker was disappointed as he saw only 73 members and members-elect in attendance, leaving him bewildered as he requested for an executive session, to determine if he had enough numbers to secure Tajudeen’s Speakership. This was after he observed that most of the attendees were merely support groups, journalists and spectators.

One lawmaker who was present at the event spoke anonymously with Media Talk Africa, stating that Gbajabiamila was not happy with the turnout, as he had sensed danger, knowing that his preferred candidate may not succeed. The lawmaker pointed out that some of his colleagues were unaware of the purpose of the meeting.

The minority caucus has held meetings lately and intends to make their stance known soon. According to the anonymous lawmaker, they will support any candidate who has the capacity and independent mind to make the 10th House work for Nigerians. However, with only 73 members and members-elect in attendance, out of a total of 358 expected to cast their votes, this may not be enough to sway the deciding votes.

In conclusion, as the campaign continues, it is essential to understand that an independent Arm of Government cannot be an appendage of another arm of Government, and the National Assembly must remain committed to serving Nigeria’s people.