NORTHERN Caucus of People’s Democratic Party (PDP) House of Representatives-elect have said competence should determine selection of leadership for the 10th National Assembly.
This, the group said, will not make the lower chamber become a lame dog in the hands of the executive.
Rising from a meeting in Abuja, they observed the legislature is the engine room of democracy, hence its input will drive the process of policy initiation and execution.
In a communiqué by seven members, under the leadership of Dr Ali JC Isa, they said it will be unfair to compromise efficiency and competence on the altar of zoning.
They said they will ensure competent persons are elected or appointed to occupy leadership.
“Quality leadership legislature will provide effective oversight for good legislation and effective implementation of policies.
“We are poised to make additional difference to what is on ground to ensure progress from where the Ninth National Assembly will stop and return Nigeria to proper socio-economic footing.
“Sound and effective legislative leadership is what is needed in a democracy to sustain or midwife positive change and therefore we cannot be talking about the traditional issues of zoning which has oftentimes retarded growth and development.”
Former deputy Speaker of House of Representatives, Senator Usman Nafada, who chaired the event, congratulated the members- elect and informed them that the secret to legislative success and performance is unity.