The National Interest Progressive Forum (NIPF) has called on the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to support the candidacy of Sen. Ahmed Lawan as President of the 9th Senate.
The forum made the appeal in Abuja on Sunday in a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Alhaji Ibrahim Taura, and Secretary, Mr Clement Ojima.
It said the call became imperative as the APC needs to ensure a stable 9th National Assembly (NASS) to achieve the objectives contained in the partys ‘Next Level’ agenda.
The forum also advised ‘the leadership of APC not to allow another four years of disagreement in NASS now that it has comfortable majority.
It said the emergence of Sen. Lawal (APC-Yobe North) as President of Senate would ensure that the legislature works harmoniously with other arms of government.
The forum noted that it was necessary for APC to put its house together by allowing only its loyal members emerge as leaders of the two chambers of NASS.
The forum said the loyalty of Lawal was not in doubt because he always respects the position of the party on all issues.
“Sen. Lawal is a thorough bred politician and an excellent lawmaker.
“We call on the leadership of APC to encourage senators-elect to support Lawan as the next Senate President,” it urged.
The leadership of the forum also appealed to President Muhammadu Buhari as leader of the party to ensure that competence, experience and absolute party loyalty are considered in the process of choosing the Senate President and Speaker of the House of Representatives.
“The President cannot afford to remain neutral as the case with 2015, when some members of the APC went against the party’s decision.
“We advise the Adams Oshiomhole-led leadership of the APC not to relent in its effort at ensuring party discipline at all levels,” the forum said.