Reps-elect set standard for next Speaker

Addressing a press conference yesterday in Abuja, convener of ‘The Patriots’ Musa Sarkin Adar (APC, Sokoto) said they would conduct integrity test among the various contenders for the speaker’s seat in order to have the best out of them.
He said they would look at competence, confidence, integrity, knowledge, experience, track-record, versatility, reliability and networking among others.
He said their group would focus on “quality of candidates as opposed to business-as-usual,” adding that they do not have any candidate in mind “because we do not want to place the cart before the horse.
“We are more interested in setting the parameters, principles, vision, mission, quality and commitment of those who aspire to lead us, as opposed to supporting individuals in return for sharing spoils of office,” he said.
Asked if they would stick to the All Progressives Congress (APC) zoning arrangement for key positions of the National Assembly if the party finally decides, Sarkin Adar said it was imperative for the APC to go with the mood of the House, considering how speakers had emerged in the past.
He said the group, which consists of members-elect from across different political parties, would only be concerned about credibility and urged the APC to respect their wishes in the end.