Newly Elected Bauchi State Assembly Speaker Pledges to Step Down in Event of Predecessor’s Return

Hon. Babayo Mohammed Akuyam, the recently elected Speaker of the Bauchi State House of Assembly, has made a commitment to voluntarily step down if his predecessor, Abubakar Suleiman, reclaims his position following a court-ordered rerun in his constituency.

Following the nullification of Suleiman’s victory by the Court of Appeal, a rerun has been mandated in 10 polling units.

Suleiman’s Deputy, Jamilu Barade, also faces fresh elections in nine polling units of Bauchi Central as directed by the appellate court.

The political turbulence resulting from these legal decisions led to a leadership vacuum within the Assembly, paving the way for the ascension of the newly elected Speaker, Babayo.

In an interview with journalists on Tuesday at the Assembly complex, Speaker Babayo expressed his commitment to uphold the agreement made among lawmakers.

He stated, “As a gentleman, I will honourably resign. That is the promise of the entire lawmakers. We all agreed that if he is back, honourably, myself I know I will step down for him.”

Babayo reiterated his willingness to abide by the agreement, emphasizing, “I will honorably resign and give him a chance because I’m a gentleman and honorable, so no problem. Anytime, God willing and allows him to return after the rerun, no problem.”

The Speaker underscored the importance of not breaching the agreement with his colleagues, considering factors such as his age and position in the state.