APC chairman speaks on 11th NASS leadership, says lawmakers will determine Akpabio’s fate
AI Executive Briefing
Gemini Flash AI~45s readAPC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda has clarified that the party will not impose a candidate for the Senate Presidency in the upcoming 11th National Assembly. He emphasized that the choice rests with the senators-elect, while the party will focus its influence on the selection of the Senate Majority Leader.
Context & Background
- ✦The Senate Presidency is the third-highest political office in Nigeria, following the President and Vice-President.
- ✦The APC currently maintains a majority in the 109-member Senate and is expected to retain this status following the 2027 federal legislative elections.
Key Figures & Named Entities
Nentawe Yilwatda:APC National Chairman who stated the party will not decide the Senate President.Godswill Akpabio:Current Senate President seeking to retain his position in the 11th National Assembly.109:The total number of seats in the Nigerian Senate.
Outlook & Next Steps
The 11th National Assembly will be inaugurated in June 2027 following the general elections, at which point the new senators will elect their leadership.
Key Takeaways
AI Summary- APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda stated that the party will not dictate the next Senate President, leaving the decision to senators elected in 2027.
- The APC leadership intends to influence the selection of the Senate Majority Leader rather than the Senate Presidency.
- Incumbent Senate President Godswill Akpabio faces potential competition for his seat from figures like Governor Hope Uzodimma and Senator Adams Oshiomhole.
Key Facts:June 2023: Godswill Akpabio was elected as the current Senate President by his colleagues.June 2027: The 11th National Assembly is scheduled to be inaugurated following the general elections.
Editorial Excerpt
"The Senate actually determines it (Senate President). Let's wait for the election first. Do you know what? I don't have anybody in mind. The Senate will determine whoever they want to make as senate president. Well, the party will only just bring the majority leader,” Mr Yilwatda said.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Story
What role does the APC leadership play in the selection of the Senate President?
According to Nentawe Yilwatda, the party leadership does not decide the Senate President, as that is the prerogative of the elected senators; the party only intends to determine the Senate Majority Leader.
Who are the potential contenders for the Senate Presidency in the 11th National Assembly?
Incumbent Godswill Akpabio is seeking re-election, while Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma and Senator Adams Oshiomhole are speculated to have interest in the position.
