The Niger Delta Youth Congress (NDYC) says principal offices of the National Assembly should not be subjected to regional zoning but merit and competence.
The National Coordinator of NDYC, Mr Israel Uwejeyan stated this in a press statement on Friday in Lagos.
“We advocate that the members of the National Assembly are mature and not children, hence they should be left to exercise their autonomy in selecting their own leaders.
“We contend that the esteemed members of the National Assembly possess the necessary wisdom and maturity to make informed choices regarding leadership.
“They are well-equipped to identify capable leaders who can effectively address the challenges facing our nation.
“By granting them the independence to choose their leaders, we foster an environment that encourages independent thinking and political growth,” Uwejeyan said.
According to him, the practice of regional zoning imposes unnecessary limitations and perpetuates division within the National Assembly.
He added that such zoning would stifled the diversity of thought and restricts the assembly’s ability to elect leaders based on merit, competence, and vision.
Uwejeyan added, “Removing regional barriers allows for a broader pool of qualified candidates and harnesses the wealth of talent that exists nationwide.”
He said that the group’s objective was to cultivate a merit-based leadership selection process that promotes national unity and fosters inclusivity.
He said that leadership positions should be earned based on qualifications, experience, and proven track records, rather than being predetermined by regional considerations.
The youth leader said that such a meritocratic approach would strengthen the nation’s democratic institutions and nurture a sense of unity.
Uwejeyan asserted that the zoning of the Senate presidency might end up creating more problems than solve.
“It can result in a situation where the most qualified candidate is excluded simply because they do not come from the region or ethnic group that the position has been zoned to.
“This could lead to a leadership vacuum and contribute to the underdevelopment of the Senate and the country at large.
“Zoning is a divisive concept that has the potential to stoke ethnic and regional tensions.
“It creates a sense of entitlement among certain groups who feel that they are entitled to certain positions, regardless of their qualifications or suitability for the job.
“This could lead to resentment and friction among different groups, and ultimately undermine national unity and cohesion,” Uwejeyan added.
He said that the NDYC called for the National Assembly to transcend parochial interests by abandoning the practice of regional zoning.
According to him, by doing so, members can prioritise the greater good and work collectively towards the advancement of our nation.
“This shift will foster an environment of cooperation, enabling robust debate and the emergence of consensus-driven, well-rounded leadership.
“The NDYC strongly advocates for the elimination of regional zoning for the principal office within the National Assembly.
“We firmly believe that the mature members of the assembly are capable of selecting their leaders based on merit, competence, and a commitment to national unity.
“Embracing an autonomous leadership selection process will pave the way for a more inclusive, progressive, and prosperous future for our great nation,” he said.
The the ruling APC has zone various principal offices in the about-to be-inaugurated 10th National Assembly to different regions, the development which has been generating controversies.
