Senator Abdulaziz Yari Expresses Disappointment, Vows to Collaborate with Senate President Following Leadership Election Result

In the aftermath of the 10th Assembly leadership election, Senator Abdulaziz Yari, a prominent contender for the Senate President seat, has conveyed his deep sense of betrayal over the outcome. The inauguration of the 10th Assembly saw Senator Godswill Akpabio emerge as the Senate President with 63 votes, while Yari trailed behind with 46 votes.

Despite the All Progressive Party’s endorsement of both Akpabio and Jibrin Barau for the positions of Senate President and Deputy Senate President respectively, Yari vehemently opposed the party’s decision and pursued his own candidacy at all costs.

Refusing to yield to the party’s appeals and boasting of the support of 70 percent of the senators, Yari challenged Akpabio in a bid to secure the Senate President seat but was ultimately unsuccessful.

During a media briefing held to address his defeat, Senator Yari expressed his feelings of betrayal regarding the election’s outcome. The former governor of Zamfara state revealed, “I can say there was a betrayal because as we were taking stock at 3 am on Tuesday before the election, we took stock of over 76 people in our team.” He continued, “We took into cognizance that there could be a fallout of about 15, and we had agreed that if that happens, we would comfortably still have about 61 people. But what we got was the reverse, and yes, I felt betrayed over that outcome.”

However, despite his disappointment, Senator Yari asserted his willingness to collaborate with the Senate President and serve the Nigerian people while building the institution of the National Assembly. He stated, “Life is a circle, and as a Muslim, God had decided who would be the president of the Senate for the 10th Assembly, and I have no reason not to accept what God has decided.” Yari conveyed his assurance to the Senate President, emphasizing their shared responsibility to protect and strengthen the institution.

Meanwhile, Senator Sani Musa from Niger East refuted claims that he voted for Yari in the National Assembly election. A list detailing how senators voted, which has gained viral attention, appeared to indicate that Senator Musa supported the former Zamfara governor. However, Senator Musa denied the credibility of the list, describing it as “fake news” aimed at creating discord among the party, the Senate President, and certain senators. He urged the public to disregard such misinformation and emphasized the unity of the Senate in working for the nation’s peace, unity, and progress.

As the dust settles on the highly contested leadership election, it remains to be seen how Senator Yari’s willingness to collaborate with the Senate President and his dedication to the institution of the National Assembly will shape the course of the 10th Assembly’s future endeavors.