APC rejects Ndume as senate majority leader

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has condemned the developments that unfolded at both chambers of the national assembly on Thursday, saying it stands by the list of its preferred candidates for the remaining principal offices in the 8th assembly.

The party had endorsed Ahmad Lawan – who Bukola Saraki beat to the post of senate president two weeks ago, for majority leader – and George Akume, initially tipped for deputy senate president, as deputy majority leader.

The leadership of the party also listed Femi Gbajabiamila, who lost the speakership of the federal house of representatives to Yakubu Dogara, for the majority leader of the house and Alhassan Doguwa, deputy house leader.

But Ndume ended up emerging as senate majority leader and Bala Na’ Allah as deputy majority leader. Both men are strong supporters of Saraki.

An attempt to go against the wish of the party in the green chamber led to a breakdown of law and order.

Responding, the ruling party said its board of trustees (BoT) and national working committees (NWC) will meet in few days time to determine the next line of action.

Mala Buni, national secretary of the party, made this known in a brief statement issued late Thursday.

“The All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly condemned what transpired at both chambers of the National Assembly on Thursday, June 25th 2015,” the statement read.

“The party stands by the list sent by the party to the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives. The National Caucus, BOT and NEC of the party, will meet within the next few days to discuss the evolving developments in the National Assembly.”