Wase: Gbaja should have properly guided APC on zoning of n’assembly positions

Idris Wase, deputy speaker of the house of representatives, says Femi Gbajabiamila should have properly advised the All Progressives Congress (APC) on the zoning of the 10th national assembly leadership positions.

Wase said he consulted with Gbajabiamila, the speaker, on his ambition before the party announced its zoning preferences.

On May 8, the APC nominated Tajudeen Abbas and Benjamin Kalu as the preferred choice for speaker and deputy.

The deputy speaker and other aspirants had rejected the party’s nominations.

Wase, on Friday, formally declared his bid for the speakership of the 10th assembly.

During an interview with Channels Television later in the day, Wase said the party should have given him the right of first refusal.

“I consulted with him (Gbajabiamila). We had a meeting in his house and I showed my interest,” he said.

“I cannot feel betrayed, it is politics. Everybody is trying to protect his own interest. He told that me if the party zones it (speakership position) to my own area, he will definitely support me.

“That has been his own words. Then, being in a position within the hierarchy of the party where discussions are held, I think it is his responsibility to guide the party properly and advise them that the procedure and process they want to take is not the right course.

“I don’t hold any malice. I don’t think I should do so.”

Wase said his geopolitical zone – north-central – deserves to be nominated for one of the four top principal positions in the 10th national assembly.

“I want to believe that the party has a good intention to unite Nigeria.  In terms of contribution, why will the north-central not be considered, if south-east was considered? I think north-central deserves more,” he said.