Democratic Forum to APC: Attempt to impose NASS leaders unhealthy for our democracy

Following the zoning of principal positions in the yet-to-be inaugurated 9th National Assembly by the All Progressives Congress (APC), some Nigerians have described the move as undemocratic, unpatriotic and selfish.
Addressing youths in Enugu on Friday, Coordinator of Democratic Forum (DF), Ebere Anyim, faulted the zoning of principal officers for the National Assembly by the APC, stressing that the federal legislators were elected across political divides.
Quoting Section 50 (1) of the 1999 Constitution, Anyim noted that it is the responsibility of members of the National Assembly to elect their officials from among themselves, adding that the interference by external parties in the selection of officers for the National Assembly is unhealthy for Nigeria’s nascent democracy.
He called on the legislators to be courageous, cautious and patriotic in selecting their officials, adding that for the country to progress, the three arms of government must work harmoniously.
He said: “Although the APC has the highest number of legislators but the selection of principal officers should not be the prerogative of APC.
“With reference to the Nigerian constitution, members of the National Assembly will choose their preferred officials from among themselves without interference.
“For the sake of Nigeria’s growing democracy, the National Assembly must be independent in its affairs.
“The APC should be sensitive to the plight of Nigerians on national issues.
“It is the National Assembly of Nigeria and not the National Assembly of APC”
While advising the leadership of APC to engage in pursuits that will strengthen Nigeria’s democracy, the group called on the political class to place national interest above selfish ambitions.
The group also urged the newly-elected and returning National Assembly members to ensure geographical balance and spread in the appointment of their principal officers for the sake of nation building.