The Chairman, House Committee on Appropriations, Muktar Aliyu Betara, is the preferred aspirant for the position of Speaker in the 10th National Assembly, according to multiple sources.
Betara, a fifth-timer in the House of Representatives, is said to be the overwhelming choice of the majority of the returning and new members.
According to sources, the preference for the Borno lawmaker is hinged on his experience, competence and accomplishments in the Green Chamber.
The lawmaker representing Biu/Bayo/Shani and Kwaya Kusar Federal Constituency is considered the most transparent, vast and suited candidate for the job.
“Betara is hailed for his excellence, diligence and capacity. He has excelled in all assignments, including as the Chairman of the House Committee on Defence,” a source who spoke on condition of anonymity said.
“He is known for his critical decision-making and crisis management skills in the House. His legislative interests include youth and women empowerment, developmental governance, health, education, social, and national security, as well as providing equal opportunities.
“A man with an impeccable character with a track record of excellence, integrity and commitment to the interest of Nigerians. He represents a new era with an incredible agenda to improve the living conditions of the common man. He is a unifier and detribalised Nigerian.
“No surprise he has the support of the majority of the lawmakers elected. We have it on good authority that he will emerge as the Speaker.”
A four-term legislator who doesn’t want his name in print said his colleagues are against the plot by a governor and leadership of the House to impose their candidates.
“We are aware of the plots. In fact, they are trying to foist their cronies on us.
“However, we are united on this. Betara is the consensus choice. The man doesn’t need to be packaged, he doesn’t need the so-called godfathers. He has done enough in the last 16 years. He merits our trust,” he said.
