Despite the APC’s zoning, Betara declares for the speakership in the 10th NASS.

The member representing Biu/Bayo/Shani and Kwaya Kusar Federal Constituency in Borno, Muktar Betara Aliyu, has formally launched his candidacy to be the Speaker of the 10th House of Representatives as additional controversy surrounds the zoning policies of the All Progressive Congress (APC).

According to Naija News, Betara, the current chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations, declared his intentions despite the APC’s ruling party’s zoning plan.

According to reports, Betara formally announced his intention to run for the position on Monday at the Transcorp Hilton hotel.

The Deputy Speaker, Rep. Alhassan Ado-Doguwa, the Leader of the House, Rep. Sani Jaji, and Rep. Tunji Olawuyi, among others, were alleged to be flanking the lawmaker.

Rep. Umaru Bago, the incoming governor of Niger and a close buddy of Betara, was also present at the event to show his support.

His announcement comes just 24 hours after the APC revealed its zoning plan.

Recall that on Monday, the APC National Working Committee formally assigned the North-West as the zone for the speakership and the South-East as the zone for the deputy speakership.

Rep. Benjamin Kalu (APC-Abia) was chosen as the Deputy Speaker, and Rep. Abbas Tajudeen (APC-Kaduna) was chosen to succeed Femi Gbajabiamila in the 10th Assembly.

At his announcement in response to this development, Betara vowed to proceed with the election regardless of the zoning.

He claimed that despite many other members having expressed interest in the role, he was taken aback when Gbajabiamila chose Abass.