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Tag: James Faleke

  • Falake faults SAN’s defamation claim against Senator

    Falake faults SAN’s defamation claim against Senator

    A House of Representatives member, James Faleke, has faulted a pre-action notice sent to the Senate Majority Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, by a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Victor Opara.

    Opara wrote on behalf of the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Magodo Property Development Company Limited, Mr. Lai Omotola.

    He demanded a public apology and the payment of N5 billion in damages over alleged defamatory statements made against the Lagos-based property developer.

    Opara accused Bamidele of slander, alleging that the Senator falsely portrayed Omotola as a “land grabber” and a “fraudulent person” during a telephone conversation with Faleke.

    But, Falake has distanced himself from the allegation, saying “nothing of such occurred”.

    According to Opara, the alleged defamatory remarks were made on January 12, 2026, and were said to have been heard by several persons because the call was placed on speakerphone at Faleke’s residence in Lagos.

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    The statements, the lawyer argued, imputed criminal conduct to Omotola and exposed him to public hatred, ridicule, and contempt.

    The letter described the alleged comments as “false, malicious and injurious,” noting that they had gravely damaged Omotola’s reputation and strained his relationship with Faleke and other associates.

    The pre-action notice also laid out the background to an ongoing dispute over a prime property located at No. 24 Adeola Odeku Street, Victoria Island, Lagos.

    Opara maintained that the land is vested in the Federal Government of Nigeria and was lawfully leased to Magodo Property Development Company for 99 years after the company paid N1.152 billion as consideration.

    He stated that the company took possession of the property without interference until a rival claimant, Kaplan Properties Limited, allegedly laid claim to the land based on a title purportedly derived from the Lagos State Government.

    According to the letter, the rival title is invalid because Lagos State lacked the legal authority to allocate the property.

    Opara further alleged that Kaplan Properties, with the “active support” of Senator Bamidele, enlisted the Police to forcefully dispossess Magodo Property Development Company of the property, despite the dispute being civil in nature.

    The letter said the intervention of the police led Omotola to institute an action at the Federal High Court in Lagos, which subsequently ordered the police to vacate the property.

    The order, the lawyer noted, remains valid and has neither been set aside nor overturned on appeal.

    Despite the subsisting court order and the pendency of a separate suit at the Lagos State High Court, Opara alleged that attempts were still being made to take over the property through police involvement, an action he described as unlawful and an abuse of power.

    While stating that his client found it difficult to believe that Bamidele would be involved in such conduct, given his “sterling record in public service,” Opara said the available facts appeared to support Omotola’s claims.

    On the defamation allegation, the lawyer argued that the statements attributed to the Senate Majority Leader amounted to slander actionable per se.

    He claimed they imputed the commission of a crime under the Lagos State Properties Protection Law.

    The SAN noted that, under Nigerian law, such statements attract damages without the need for proof of actual loss.

    Opara, therefore, demanded a written, unreserved apology to Omotola, with a copy sent to Faleke, to be made within 14 days, and the payment of N5 billion as compensatory damages within 21 days.

    The letter warned that failure to comply with the demands would leave Omotola with no option but to institute legal proceedings, adding that the damages sought in court could exceed the N5 billion being demanded.

    Falake responds

    Falake’s counsel, Gboyega Oyewole (SAN), in response to Opara’s demand, distanced the lawmaker from the claims.

    He stated: “We are Solicitors to Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, whom you mentioned in your letter addressed to Distinguished Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, dated 19th January 2016

    “Our client has informed us that nothing of such as contained in the said letter as far as making any slanderous statements occurred.

    “This response is for record purposes.”

  • James Faleke’s unflagging flame of service

    James Faleke’s unflagging flame of service

    To have been at the forefront of progressive politics in a dynamic, diverse, cosmopolitan and sophisticated constituency like Ikeja, the capital of Nigeria’s commercial, financial and industrial nerve-centre, and with unbroken electoral success for over two decades since 2004, Honourable James Abiodun Faleke, is no doubt made of no mean stuff.

    On Christmas Day, Honourable Faleke clocked 66 eventful years this side of eternity. Ikeja Federal Constituency and far beyond were agog. What can be described as the constituent elements of Faleke’s political philosophy and praxis? First, is an uncompromising commitment to the communal good.

    The efficiency, diligent organisation, methodical exactitude and consistent regularity with which he organises his constituency outreach poverty alleviation programmes for maximum impact reflect his educational training in logistics planning, procurement processes and business management.

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    A second element of his politics is ideological fidelity and loyalty to leadership and party ethos. He is one of the enduring and unflinching pillars of support, ever constant as the northern star in President Bola Tinubu’s political firmament. The third essential feature of his politics is a humble disposition, a close affinity with the grassroots and personal accessibility to both the high and the low.

    He was the first Executive Secretary of the Ojodu Local Council Development Authority (LCDA) and was elected as substantive Chairman of the Council in 2004. Apart from his indelible achievements in infrastructure provision and social service delivery, it is noteworthy that he was the Chairman of Conference 57, the association of Local Government Chairmen in Lagos State, during his tenure.

    In 2011, he was elected to represent the Ikeja Federal Constituency in the Federal House of Representatives and has brought his characteristic commitment and seriousness to the enormous responsibility of law-making and pursuing the interests of his constituency.

    Faleke was elected to Nigeria’s Federal House of Representatives in 2011, to represent the Ikeja Federal constituency of Lagos State. He is currently the Chairman of the House Committee on Finance.

    An indigene of Ekirin-Adde in Ijummu Local Government Area of Kogi State, Faleke’s teeming supporters in the state are awaiting his next political move, especially given his continued close links with the formidable structure of the late political colossus, former governor Abubakar Audu, in the state.

  • James Faleke impactful life at 66

    James Faleke impactful life at 66

    Hon. James Abiodun Faleke is a prominent figure within the Tinubu School of Politics and has established himself as a key player through unwavering dedication and commitment to his community. Known for his quiet demeanor, Faleke’s political journey has thrust him into the public eye, yet his focus remains on fostering development and delivering the benefits of democracy to his constituents. As the Member representing the Ikeja Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, he has made remarkable strides in various sectors including infrastructure development, poverty alleviation, human resource management, educational investments, women empowerment, and skills and entrepreneurship training.

    Born in Kogi State, Faleke has emerged as a central figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC), especially following his instrumental role in the recent general elections, where he served as the campaign secretary. His exceptional ability to unite people across diverse backgrounds reflects his vision as a detribalized Nigerian, and underscores his commitment to inclusivity in governance. His tireless efforts during the election campaign showcased not just his political acumen but also his dedication, which ultimately resulted in a significant victory for the APC.

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    Recently, Faleke captivated the entire Ikeja Constituency with a heartfelt outreach event, embodying his generous spirit by distributing numerous empowerment packages to his community members. As he approaches his 66th birthday on December 25th, the occasion has become a moment for his supporters to express their admiration and gratitude. Friends and associates have taken to the media, filling newspapers with tributes and celebratory messages, highlighting his qualities as a compassionate leader who genuinely cares for the well-being of his constituents.

    His birthday celebrations were marked by a cozy gathering hosted at their Lagos residence, planned by his wife, Chief Mrs. Adenukunola Faleke, a fashion connoisseur known for her elegant style. The event attracted a close-knit circle of friends and associates, where they celebrated not only the milestone of his birthday but also the devotion he shows to his constituents and those in need, reflecting his belief in giving back to the community.

    Throughout his career, Faleke has set a powerful example of leadership marked by integrity and service, earning him the respect and trust of his peers, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. At 66, he continues to inspire others with his impactful life, remaining dedicated to the ongoing growth and development of his community and the nation as a whole.

  • Street captains to drive voter registration

    Street captains to drive voter registration

    State Coordinator of Presidential Coalition Committee, James Faleke has inaugurated street captains to promote voter registration in Lagos.

    The event was held  at Police College Grounds, Ikeja, Lagos, with participants  from all 20 local governments and 37 local council development areas, as part of a nationwide effort to ensure citizens register and participate in elections.

     A member of House of Representatives, Faleke urged the street captains to take mobilise the grassroots, noting the exercise was not a rally, but a civic duty to deepen democratic participation.

    The street captains will promote voter registration and Permanent Voter Card (PVC) collection in the state.

    Faleke noted that with over 40,000 captains, the committee would reach more communities to ensure broader voter engagement among first-time voters and youths who just turned 18.

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     Kolade Alabi, chairman of the Planning Committee, described the initiative as a demonstration of the government’s commitment to grassroots mobilisation and democratic inclusion.

    He praised President Bola Tinubu’s administration for the reforms reshaping Nigeria’s governance and economy.

    “We are united by a shared vision of progress, development and a stronger democratic Nigeria.

    “Under President Tinubu’s leadership, our party redefines governance, strengthen institutions and return faith. His fiscal and monetary reforms, though demanding, are necessary towards building self-reliance and a resilient economy,” he said.

  • Corporate Nigeria backbone of national development , says Faleke

    Corporate Nigeria backbone of national development , says Faleke

    Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Finance, Honourable James Faleke, has emphasised the critical role of a strong corporate sector in driving Nigeria’s economic future.

    Speaking at the PEARL Awards 30th anniversary corporate summit in Lagos, Faleke highlighted the importance of corporate Nigeria in the country’s economic development.

    “Corporate Nigeria employs our youth, pays our taxes, funds innovation, drives exports, and supports communities through CSR and social impact investments,” Faleke said. “In every sense, our companies are the backbone of national development,” Faleke said.

    He assured the audience of the National Assembly’s commitment to deepening legislative reforms that promote fiscal sustainability, transparency, and a growth-friendly tax structure.

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    “We are committed to deepening legislative reforms that promote fiscal sustainability and transparency, a simplified, fair, and growth-friendly tax structure, incentives for long-term investment, greater ease of doing business, and stronger corporate governance practices through updated regulatory frameworks,”  Faleke said.

    The PEARL Awards 30th anniversary corporate summit, themed “Built to Last: A Roadmap for Corporate Nigeria,” provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss and shape the future of corporate Nigeria.

    Faleke’s underscored the need for institutions to be built to last, with deep roots in governance, culture, innovation, and long-term strategy.

  • Faleke: National Assembly will enable fiscal policies for business growth

    Faleke: National Assembly will enable fiscal policies for business growth

    The National Assembly will support businesses through targeted fiscal policies aimed at fostering long-term growth, stability, and economic sustainability in Nigeria.

    Speaking at the Pearl 30th Awards Anniversary on the theme “Built to Last: A Roadmap for Corporate Nigeria” in Lagos, Chairman of the House Committee on Finance, James Faleke, said the time had come for Corporate Nigeria to transcend founder-centric leadership and short-term gains to embrace governance, innovation, and strategy that stand the test of time.

    Reaffirming the National Assembly’s role in creating the enabling environment, Faleke outlined a series of legislative priorities geared toward supporting businesses.

    These are fiscal sustainability and transparency, simplified, fair, and growth-friendly tax policies, incentives for long-term investment, enhanced ease of doing business, and stronger corporate governance through modern regulatory frameworks.

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    “We are listening,” he assured corporate leaders. “Your feedback on recent finance and tax reforms is being taken seriously. Policies must stimulate productivity, not stifle it.

    “This summit could not have come at a better time,” he said, describing the theme as a bold reflection of Nigeria’s urgent need for corporate renewal.

    “In today’s turbulent but promising economy, the true measure of success is no longer quick profits, but institutional legacy.”

    While acknowledging the vital role of government in providing infrastructure and policy direction, the lawmaker stressed that the strength of Nigeria’s private sector is the true barometer of national development.

    “Corporate Nigeria employs our youth, pays our taxes, fuels innovation, and supports communities through CSR.

    “Our companies are, in every sense, the backbone of national progress. Yet, too many collapse under the weight of policy shifts or leadership gaps,” he noted.

    Faleke who was represented by the Managing Director, Takol Limited, Ben Faleke, lamented the widespread absence of succession planning and weak corporate governance frameworks, pointing out that many businesses fail to evolve beyond their charismatic founders.

    The lawmaker said: “Corporate governance is not a luxury; it is a strategic necessity. We cannot build enduring institutions without strong systems, clear values, and future-focused leadership.”

    The lawmaker also praised the PEARL Awards Nigeria for setting a gold standard in corporate performance measurement. “You’ve shown that excellence can be empirical. Transparency is not just possible — it’s powerful.”

    He further lauded the unveiling of the PEARL Awards’ latest publication, Winning Strategies of Nigeria’s Corporate Giants, calling it a timely resource for entrepreneurs, policymakers, and scholars eager to learn from Nigeria’s business successes.

    “As a nation, we must begin to document what works — not only what failed. We must build institutions that outlast us,” he said.

    Closing his remarks, he challenged corporate leaders to think beyond balance sheets:

    “What legacy will your organization leave in 50 years? What values will carry it through the next decade?”

    Faleke urged Nigeria’s private sector to lead with vision, govern with integrity, innovate with courage, and build with legacy in mind.

    “The PEARL Awards has endured. Let Corporate Nigeria do the same — for today and for generations yet unborn.”

    Founder and President of the Pearl Awards, Mr. Tayo Orekoya, explained that the initiative represents his organisation’s modest contribution to Nigeria’s socioeconomic development by promoting industry and enterprise.

    Among the notable attendees were the Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Emomotimi John Agama, alongside several other distinguished guests.

    Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, emphasised Nigeria’s responsibility to achieve economic and social progress while contributing meaningfully to the advancement of humanity.

    The Governor who was represented by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, noted that for the country to meet its development goals, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), corporate Nigeria must play a pivotal role.

    According to the governor, when corporate entities in Nigeria thrive, the organisers and promoters of the PEARL Awards will have every reason to be proud of their achievements. He highlighted that in Lagos State, under his administration, certain values are held in high esteem—resilience, courage, energy, and tenacity of purpose.

    These, he said, are qualities that have sustained the PEARL Awards for three decades and continue to inspire progress.

    Sanwo-Olu urged all Nigerians to see the country as a growing nation with vast potential. He expressed the confidence that with purposeful, resilient, and courageous corporate organisations, Nigeria is on the path to success. “If Nigeria succeeds,” he declared, “I am certain we will all succeed.”

    He reiterated the Lagos state government’s commitment to continue to play a significant role in advancing corporate Nigeria.

  • Tax Reforms: Pro-Tinubu group lauds Faleke’s support for President in NASS

    Tax Reforms: Pro-Tinubu group lauds Faleke’s support for President in NASS

    The Tinubu Reforms Advocates (TRA) has commended James Faleke, the member representing Ikeja Federal Constituency and Chairman House Committee on Finance, for his support to President Bola Tinubu’s Tax Reform Bills.

    In a statement by its President, Gideon Unazi, the group said Faleke’s efforts have been instrumental in shaping the conversation around the tax reform bills, which aim to overhaul Nigeria’s tax collection and administration systems.

    Unazi acknowledged that Faleke has taken the time to educate his colleagues about the bills, addressing concerns and fostering a deeper understanding of the proposed legislation.

    He added that Faleke’s commitment to the President tax bills went beyond mere advocacy, as he took concrete steps to ensure its success.

    According to Unazi, Faleke spearheaded efforts to thoroughly brief members of the Finance Committee, which he chairs, on the bill’s provisions, ensuring they were well-equipped to make informed decisions. 

    He said Faleke engaged in extensive lobbying, reaching out to a majority of members across the country, and addressing their concerns, ultimately garnering significant support for the executive bills. 

    Unazi noted that his tireless efforts have been instrumental in building a broad coalition of lawmakers who now back the bill.

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    As one of President Tinubu’s most trusted and longest-serving loyalists, Unazi noted that Faleke has consistently used his legislative powers to propagate the President’s reforms and ideals.

    According to the group, his dedication to President Tinubu’s vision is rooted in his lifelong study and propagation of the Tinubu gospel.

    Unazi said that Faleke’s support for the bills attests to his commitment to Nigeria’s development, and dedication to President Tinubu’s vision.

    “The Tinubu Reforms Advocates applaud Rt. Hon. James Faleke, the lawmaker representing Ikeja Federal Constituency and Chairman House Committee on Finance, for his unwavering support to President Bola Tinubu’s Tax Reform Bill,” Unazi said. 

    “Faleke has proven to be a dependable ally of President Tinubu, leveraging his position to champion the cause of the tax reform bill. His recent engagement with lawmakers across the six geo-political zones is laudable, demonstrating his commitment to the President’s vision.

    “As one of the most trusted and longest-serving loyalists of President Tinubu, Faleke has consistently used his legislative powers to propagate the reforms and ideals of the President.

    “He took the time to educate his colleagues about the bills, addressing concerns and fostering a deeper understanding of the proposed legislation. Faleke’s efforts have been instrumental in shaping the conversation around the tax reform bill.

    “His dedication to President Tinubu’s vision is rooted in his lifelong study and propagation of the Tinubu gospel. Indeed, the introduction of President Tinubu’s Tax Reform Bill had sparked widespread debates across Nigeria, with many hailing it as a transformative step towards revitalising the country’s economy.

    “Thanks to patriotic Nigerians like Faleke, citizens now under the benefits of the proposed legislation, which aims to overhaul the country’s tax collection and administration systems, presenting an opportunity to create a more equitable and efficient taxation model.

    “Faleke’s relationship with President Tinubu is built on a foundation of trust, loyalty, and shared values. He has been a consistent advocate for the President’s policies and initiatives and has worked tirelessly to promote Nigeria’s financial stability and growth.

    “As a pillar of development, Faleke continues to demonstrate his dedication to the President’s vision, working tirelessly to ensure the successful implementation of the tax reform bill.

    “We commend Faleke for his selfless dedication to President Tinubu’s vision and for being a shining example of leadership and commitment to the development of Nigeria.”

    The group, therefore, urged Rt. Hon. James Faleke to continue his outstanding work in supporting President Tinubu’s policies and reforms.

    Unazi further called on other lawmakers to emulate Faleke’s dedication, rallying behind President Tinubu’s vision to build a modern Nigeria that is connected, efficient, and competitive on the global stage.

  • 10,000 get Faleke’s food palliatives in Ikeja

    10,000 get Faleke’s food palliatives in Ikeja

    The lawmaker representing Ikeja Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, James Faleke, has supported his constituents with food palliatives.

    About 10,000 beneficiaries each got 5kg rice and 2kg Semovita.

    The palliatives were shared at the Blue Roof Pavilion, in the Lagos Television (LTV) Premises, Ikeja.

    Beneficiaries were full of praises to Faleke, who they described as ‘God-sent’.

    On why he decided on the food palliative, Faleke said: “This is a way of continuously saying thank you for voting for me. Ikeja being the centre of excellence is known to always set good examples. The people who sent me to Abuja are those who have voters’ card and I am answerable to them, they are my constituents. Others who have no voters’ card are encouraged to register so they can benefit next time.

    “Of course there are people here who are not from Ikeja constituency but still benefitted from the initiative because we are for everybody. But the point is if we don’t encourage those who voted for us, they won’t come out to vote for us again.

    “The essence is to support families to stabilise and cushion the hard times. People have been eating in their homes before now, but it is our own way of intervening and supporting them more, especially the less-privileged.

    “This is not the only thing we do. About last week, we gave cash grants to 2,166 persons; another 2,100 persons will get theirs in one week and we will continue on this trajectory.”

    The lawmaker also admonished Nigerians to look at the brighter side as the hard times would soon end.

    “I think we are lucky and I keep saying it because as a four-term member of the House of Representatives, and chairman of the finance committee, I have been opportune to understand the country’s financial standing before President Bola Tinubu got to office. We were borrowing to pay salaries and that led to the Ways and Means thing with CBN. “We were using about 97 per cent of our little income to service debt and there was nothing left. And now this regime is tightening lose ends and blocking loopholes, we are getting more revenue. I can bet you with the plans on ground, Nigeria will be better financially by next year. And when the country has money, we’ll be able to do so many other things.

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    “Today we are rich in crude but the crude is already pre-sold. So we should give kudos to the president for taking the hard decisions without which the country could have collapsed by now.

    “I will admonish us to keep hope alive, especially with our medium enterprises. Government alone cannot do everything, especially seeing that countries develop through the efforts of medium enterprises doing their thing and contributing to the economy. It is also good that government has said no more taxes for small and medium enterprises from January 2025; it’s a welcome development.”

    A party leader, Hon. Oluwatoyin Obaseki, described Faleke as ‘God-sent’ to Ikeja constituency. She praised him for keeping in touch with the people and always delivering democracy dividends to them.

    She said: “This is not the first time Hon. Abiodun Faleke will be doing this, so we are not surprised. He does this regularly, from January to December. Not only food palliative, but skills development and training in all fields, cash grants to artisans, infrastructural development and all manner of empowerment.

    “We are delighted with his efforts. And it is worthy of note that his initiatives are not for party members alone, as far as you are a bonafide resident of Ikeja Federal Constituency, with your voters’ card as proof, you automatically qualify to benefit from the largesse. How magnanimous can someone be?”

    Former Vice Chairman of Ojodu LCDA, Abiodun Ayileka, also hailed the lawmaker for always giving back to the people.

    “Our representative, Abiodun Faleke, is as usual giving back to his constituents and this is for 10,000 people. You can see the masses and this is not the first time he is doing this, he has been doing this, food palliative for the poorest of the poor, cash grants, work tool empowerment for people, we are blessed in Ikeja and we thank God for giving us Faleke.

  • James Faleke reaches out

    James Faleke reaches out

    Hon. James Abiodun Faleke remains a household name in the Tinubu school of politics. An ardent and loyal follower, who has committed his life to developing his immediate environment through quality representation, Faleke has proved his worth.

     Despite being a very private person, politics has continued to throw him into the cynosure of all eyes. His quest for development has continued to spur his innate passion to deliver the dividend of democracy.

     The House of Reps member representing Ikeja Federal Constituency at the Green Chambers has been transformative all his life. From road construction, poverty alleviation, human and resources management, educational investment, women empowerment and skill and entrepreneurship development, he has continued to deliver on promises. 

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     The Kogi-born lawmaker has continued to dazzle as a pivotal member of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, after the vital role he played at the last general election supervising the management of campaign processes as the campaign secretary. He disclosed his ability to manage people from all walks of life by cutting across like a detribalised Nigerian. He worked tirelessly during the election like his life depended on it and providence granted him his heart desires with a victory for the party at the election.

     The jolly good fellow who continued to prioritize the development of his constituency last weekend held the whole Ikeja Constituency spellbound with his magnanimous nature reaching out to them with lots of empowerment goodies. In a bid to cushion the effect of the economy, despite giving people money to invest in their businesses; he gave out cars to traditional monarchs within the constituency, Ambulance to hospitals, Pickup Vans to Police stations, Cars to deserving individuals for business purposes, Sewing machines, Hair dryers, generators, Tyre Pumping machines, Deep Freezer, Mini Bus, Delivery Bikes, TV Set, and a host of others. While giving the items out to deserving members of the constituency, Faleke noted that his greatest motivation and happiness is to put smiles on their faces and also reward them for their patience by investing in wealth creation.  

  • Why Southwest should present House Speaker, by Lagos representative

    A MEMBER of the House of Representatives, James Faleke, is of the view that All Progressives Congress (APC) members from the Northcentral should not contest the party’s decision to zone the House Speaker’s position to the Southwest.

    Faleke, who is representing Lagos (Ikeja Federal Constituency), argued that the party’s leadership was in order by micro-zoning the slot to the Southwest.

    He added that the region has offered one of its best – Femi Gbajabiamila – for the position.

    According to him, it is incontrovertible that Gbajabiamila, who is the House Leader, has what it takes to pilot the affairs of the Green Chamber, having served for a record four terms.

    Faleke was reacting to the agitations of some groups from the Northcentral that the region should be allowed to fill the nation’s number three position, going by the zone’s contribution to the APC electoral fortune in this year’s general election.

    The Lagos lawmaker argued that the Northcentral has never been short-changed in the sharing of National Assembly’s leadership.

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    For instance, he said the zone has tasted the Senate President’s slot for 12 years in the ongoing republic and that Senator’s Iyorcha Ayu and Ame Ebute, who served in the defunct Third Republic, are from the Northcentral.

    “Since the beginning of this present dispensation, Senator David Mark, from Benue, was Senate President between 2007 and 2011. The incumbent Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, is from Kwara State, also from the Northcentral. So, 12 out of 20 years has gone to the Northcentral alone in this political dispensation.”

    According to him, the first time the Southwest ever tasted leadership positions in the National Assembly was when Mrs Patricia Olubunmi-Etteh and Dimeji Bankole served as House of Representatives Speakers.

    “The duo shared four years between 2007 and 2011. The fact that the Office of the Vice President is presently occupied by the Southwest in the person of Prof Yemi Osinbajo, should not be advanced to block the region. The argument is different. The executive is not the same thing as the legislature.

    “What is important is the competence of who is being put forward for the exalted office. We are confident that Gbajabiamila will not let the nation down. He will lead a quality House of Representatives that will be a pride to all.”

    Faleke said that the lower chamber of the National Assembly cannot afford to disappoint the electorate, assuring that the House, in maintaining its independence, will not present itself as a cog in the wheel of progress

    ”The country has come to accept that the political and leadership structure of the country is divided into two: North and South. We now have the President in the North, Senate President in the North, Dogara from the North, Head of Judiciary from the North, Chief of Army and Police from the North and now we agitate that the South should produce Speaker for the 9th Assembly.

    ”I will thus appeal to my colleagues from the North Central to be Nation builders and be very fair and thus support the Southwest.

    “Gbajabiamila will ensure that the smooth relationship between executive and legislative to ensure that our constituents benefits from government and in fulfillment of our electioneering promises.”