‘He’s best for the job’ — Ex-APC LG chairpersons back Borno rep for speakership

The forum of former All Progressives Congress (APC) local government chairpersons says Muktar Betara, a member of the house of representatives, is the “best man” for the position of the speaker in the 10th assembly.

Addressing a press conference on Wednesday in Abuja, Alegwu Adadu, chairperson of the forum, said Betara has the “experience, capacity, and strength of character” to lead the lower legislative chamber.

“There is no gainsaying that the federal house of representatives needs a unifier as a speaker and someone passionate and committed to the Nigerian project,” Adadu said.

“There is also the need for the speaker to be a bridge builder regardless of party affiliations to complement the efforts of the executive arm of government in the mundane task of formulating and enacting laws that would be beneficial to sustainable growth and development in the country.

“As a body of committed and dedicated APC members that have served at the grassroots level, we have interacted extensively with Muktar Betara on numerous occasions in implementing constituency projects. He is a man of few words but massive actions.”

The forum said the lawmaker is a “dedicated” party man that has contributed to the growth of the APC.

“This much is evident in the overwhelming support he got from the electorate during the elections. His grasp of issues in the legislative chambers is legendary. He comes on board with experience as chairman of sensitive and vital house committees. It is on record that he has indeed distinguished himself as a parliamentarian of repute,’ the forum said.

“He is a high-ranking legislator with over 16 years of cognate experience in the national assembly. He has demonstrated capacity and competence over these years. If elected speaker, he would hit the ground running and bring to bear his legislative experience to lead.”

The forum asked the APC and lawmakers-elect to focus on competence, experience, and integrity over zoning.

“We are convinced that Betara is the man for the job,” the forum added.

Betara, who represents Biu/Kwaya Kusar/Shani/Bayo federal constituency of Borno state, is the chairperson of the house committee on appropriation.

Betara is among the hopefuls vying for the speakership position — although he is yet to make a formal declaration.

The lawmaker was re-elected during the February 25 election and will be serving his fifth term when the 10th assembly is inaugurated in June.