The embattled Majority Leader of House of Representatives, Alhassan Doguwa, who is standing trials of murders, arson and other criminal offences has indicated an interest in the speakership position in the 10th National Assembly.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) lawmaker who represents Doguwa/Tudun Wada federal constituency claimed, in a letter, addressed to members-lect, that his interest in the race spurs out of his passion for nation-building.
But the same lawmaker was arrested in connection with electoral violence during the February 25th Presidential election. This forced Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to declare the election inconclusive. However, Doguwa won a rerun poll held on April 15.
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Some thugs wreaked havoc in his constituency where two persons were killed and the office of the opposition New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) was set alight.
Doguwa was later arraigned before a magistrate court alongside others, for criminal conspiracy, culpable homicide, arson and illegal possession of firearms among others.
Subsequently, the court granted him bail, saying it lacks jurisdiction to remand him.
THE RACE FOR SPEAKERSHIP
When Doguwa was released, there were speculations that he would join the speakership race. He officially made it known, saying he possess all the qualities required of a speaker.
Doguwa’s letter reads: “The call to leadership is one laced with responsibilities and unalloyed commitment to the commonwealth of Nigerians expressed through a unanimous ballot casting which led to your victories in your various states.
“The journey to nation-building has commenced and we are here once again to steer the ship where the collective voices of the Nigerian people whose trust has been vested in us, have been total to an admirable end.
“I want to use this opportunity to communicate my desire to contest for the office of the Speaker of the House. My passion for nation-building has fueled my desire to seek this office at this critical time when various divergent views of governance exist in different zones in the nation.
“Now is the time to align all our interests, aspirations, and trust to work together for the common good of Nigerians. At the same time, discard ethnic, geographical, religious, or political bias that could hinder our collective efforts in this representation.
“As we look forward to formulating impactful policies for the growth of our nation, I implore us all to bear in mind that all back home will see the results of our stay at the Assembly, thus the need to come together to build a nation where peace and justice shall reign.
“Nigeria needs brave leaders whose doggedness can help reduce the myriad of challenges. I am sure we can achieve this with you on board.”
