Akpatason declares for House speaker

Akpatason, a former president of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), told journalists in Abuja, yesterday, that he has the experience to lead the House as a returning member, adding that he would abide by the All Progressives Congress (APC) zoning arrangement.The lawmaker who represents Akoko Edo Federal Constituency of Edo […]

Akpatason, a former president of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), told journalists in Abuja, yesterday, that he has the experience to lead the House as a returning member, adding that he would abide by the All Progressives Congress (APC) zoning arrangement.
The lawmaker who represents Akoko Edo Federal Constituency of Edo State, came to the House in 2011 and won re-election on March 28. He said his desire to run for the position of speaker was informed by his desire to serve.
His coming into the race brought the number of contenders for the speaker’s seat to eight. Other contenders are Femi Gbajabiamila, Mohammed Tahir Monguno, Yakubu Dogara, Abdulmumin Jibrin, Pally Iriase, Jagaba Adams Jagaba and Israel Ajibola Famurewa.
He said: “So far, I have consulted widely with my colleagues across the six geo-political zones as well as party leaders in my state and the national level. I am convinced that with the kind of responses I am getting from the stakeholders, both at the state and national levels, the chances are very bright.
 “As a party man, I will abide by the party’s zoning.” Meanwhile, a group, Niger Delta Stakeholders Forum for Peace, has commenced campaign for Akpatason to emerge next speaker of the House of Representatives.
In a statement issued by its national coordinator, Ifidon Dominic, in Abuja yesterday, the group said Akpatason was suitable for the position of speaker, going by his antecedents.
The statement said: “Peter Akpatason has distinguished himself as a grade ‘A’ lawmaker. His exploits are not in doubt, particularly his enviable contributions to the development of Akoko Edo, his constituency and the state at large.”