Why I am in the race to be speaker- Gbajabiamila

Ebun Francis|

Femi Gbajabiamila, the member representing Surulere 1, Lagos state in the house of representative Lagos state, on Sunday said he is in the race to become speaker of the 9th assembly.

Gbajabiamila, who is currently the majority leader in the 8th assembly, made his intention known in a televised declaration in Abuja on Sunday.

The fifth-term member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is no stranger when it comes to contesting for the exalted office as contested for the position in the 8th house but was defeated by Yakubu Dogara, the current speaker of the house.

Gbajabiamila in his declaration speech said he is in the race to serve, as “a symbol of encouragement and point of contact for the many young men and women out there who believe that with hardwork and commitment whatever the mind can conceive is possible.”

“We are not where we ought to be considering the abundance of talents and the blessings from God. However, I am rest assured that slowly but surely we will get there.”

“It is because of this unshakeable belief in the potential and genius of Nigeria and the majesty of our democracy that I today, after wide consultations with my colleagues, friends, family, party and stakeholders and in total submission to the will of God, today formally declare my intention to seek the position of the office of the speaker of the 9th Assembly and offer my service to the nation in this capacity.

“With all sense of humility, I seek this office with a rich legislative background and pedigree and having just won a historic 5th term mandate to the house, I have in the last 16 years dedicated my life to the service of my constituents and Nigeria.

“I have studied and understood the intricate workings of the legislature, a critical arm of government and I have come to understand the imperative of striking a delicate balance in the relationship between the executive and legislative arms of government without compromising the latter‘s independence.”

The leadership of the ruling APC is believed to be in support of Gbajabiamila’s quest to be speaker of the 9th assembly as the position has been zoned to the South- West.