By Christiana Ekpa
Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has assured that lawmakers of the 10th National Assembly will remain resolute in safeguarding the mandate of the Speaker, Abbas Tajudeen.
He said this loyalty is rooted in Abbas’ open, inclusive, and respectful approach to leadership.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja yesterday, Agbese praised Abbas as “a Speaker for all,” emphasizing that since his emergence, he has ensured that all 359 other legislators are carried along in parliamentary decisions and legislative activities.
“The Speaker is not a sectional leader. He is not someone who wants to run the House as a clique. From the very first day, he made it clear that he is here to serve all members and Nigerians. This is why you see overwhelming support across party lines for him,” Agbese said.
Agbese explained that the Speaker’s style over the past two years has fostered peace and mutual respect in the Green Chamber, a development that has minimized unnecessary conflicts and strengthened cooperation.
“One thing Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen PhD has done differently is to treat everyone with respect whether you are a first-time member or a ranking lawmaker; from the majority or minority caucus. He engages with us, he listens, and he acts. That is the kind of leadership that builds trust,” he added.
The lawmaker stressed that this all-inclusive leadership pattern is the reason members are prepared to rally behind Abbas whenever attempts are made to weaken his authority.
“We have seen in the past how divisions and exclusion weakened the legislature in some of the past assemblies. But today, the House is united behind the Speaker because we know he is sincere, transparent, and committed to the collective good of the 10th Assembly and Nigerians,” he stated.
Agbese further pointed out that Abbas’ leadership is already yielding visible progress, especially in the quality of debates, motions, and bills coming from the chamber. He emphasized that the stability provided under the current leadership is crucial for entrenching Nigeria’s democratic values.
“What the Speaker is doing is giving every member a voice. That is why you see robust debates, diverse perspectives, and a stronger legislature. We will continue to defend his mandate because it is not just about him, it is about the institution and the Nigerian people,” Agbese said
