Reps members across party lines will defend Speaker Tajudeen’s mandate – Agbese

The Deputy Chairman, House of Representatives’ Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Hon. Philip Agbese on Monday vowed that members of the 10th Assembly across party lines will continue to firmly defend the mandate of the Speaker, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen because of his all-inclusive and respectful style of leadership.

Hon. Agbese, who spoke in an interview with Parliamentary Correspondents in Abuja, described Tajudeen as “a Speaker for all,” noting that since emerging leader of the Green Chamber, he has carried every one of the 359 other lawmakers along in decision-making and legislative engagements.

“The Speaker is not a sectional leader. He is not someone who wants to run the House as a clique. From the very first day, he made it clear that he is here to serve all members and Nigerians. This is why you see overwhelming support across party lines for him,” Hon. Agbese said.

According to him, the Speaker’s leadership over the last two years has promoted harmony and reduced friction among lawmakers, as members feel a sense of belonging and dignity.

“One thing Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen PhD has done differently is to treat everyone with respect whether you are a first-time member or a ranking lawmaker; from the Majority or Minority Caucus. He engages with us, he listens, and he acts. That is the kind of leadership that builds trust,” he added.

Hon. Agbese maintained that this inclusive and non-discriminatory style explains why members are prepared to stand by Speaker Tajudeen against any attempts to undermine his leadership.

“We have seen in the past how divisions and exclusion weakened the legislature in some of the past Assemblies.

“But today, the House is united behind the Speaker because we know he is sincere, transparent, and committed to the collective good of the 10th Assembly and Nigerians,” the Deputy Spokesperson said.

He further noted that the Speaker’s leadership is already yielding results in the quality of debates, motions and bills being processed, stressing that the stability of the House under his watch is key to deepening Nigeria’s democracy.

“What the Speaker is doing is giving every member a voice. That is why you see robust debates, diverse perspectives, and a stronger legislature.

“We will continue to defend his mandate because it is not just about him, it is about the institution and the Nigerian people,” he assured.

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