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Backers shell out N24m for ex-Deputy Speaker
As part of efforts to return a former Deputy Speaker to the National Assembly, constituents have raised N24 million through crowdfunding.
Supporters from Wase Federal Constituency in Plateau State on Thursday presented the Nomination and Expression of Interest Forms to the State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Rufus Bature.
The forms were purchased on behalf of the former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ahmed Idris Wase, who currently represents the constituency in the National Assembly.
One of the constituents and a lawmaker, Ibrahim Galadima, said the group chose to present the forms to the party chairman after purchasing them as a mark of respect for the party leadership.
Galadima, who represents Wase State Constituency in the Plateau State House of Assembly, noted that Wase had delivered strong representation during his two decades in the National Assembly, which informed their decision to support his continued service in 2027.
“Seeing is believing, there is nothing we can say but to say Thank God for Maje. We stand with him. He has countless projects. And we shall continue to be with him and support him during the 2027 election. And that is why we have come to present the nomination form and expression of interest form, which the Wase community have purchased for him for your blessing,” Galadima said.
Other leaders from Wase present at the event, including political office holders, retired public and civil servants, youth groups, women leaders, and religious leaders, also spoke in favour of Wase, saying he has done very well and deserves to continue his representation.
Responding, the APC State Chairman, Rufus Bature, said the gesture was remarkable and unique.
“Members of the state Working Committee of the APC and all those present here today, I am truly honoured. Let me begin by saying that this is the first form I’m receiving for my blessing, and it gives me great pleasure,” Bature said.
“The respect that has been accorded to the party by the honourable member, courtesy of this group, is remarkable. I must say it is almost unique. I am always proud to speak about Wase Constituency because I often tell people that I am even a bit jealous of Wase. The presence of the Federal Government in Wase Constituency is more visible than in many other places. Therefore, the people of Wase have no reason to feel neglected,” he added.
Bature noted that while the Constitution limits tenure for the executive, it leaves legislative representation to the people.
“The framers of the Constitution of Nigeria were deliberate in assigning tenures, particularly for the executive. However, for the legislature, they left it to the people to decide. That is why I welcome you and sincerely thank you for showing appreciation to someone who has positively impacted your lives,” he said.
“I believe that, directly or indirectly, everyone here has benefited from the goodwill and representation of your constituency. Personally, I have also benefited from his representation because I know a number of individuals whom he has facilitated their employment,” Bature stated.
He, however, stressed that the party would provide a level playing field.
“This does not mean we are stopping anyone from exercising their franchise. The Constitution is very clear—people are free to exercise their franchise. As a party, we are governed by the law, and we operate within its provisions. Everything we do is to ensure a level playing field, so that the people can freely make their choice regarding who represents them,” he said.
“Ultimately, you, the people here, will determine whether the honourable member returns or not. But as we say, God already has His plan; we are only trying to align ourselves with it,” Bature added.
He thanked the constituents and asked them to convey the party’s appreciation to Wase.
“Without much ado, let me once again thank you. When you return, kindly convey to the honourable member that the party deeply appreciates the respect he has shown. As we conclude this gathering, I wish you safe travels and God’s blessings upon this constituency,” the chairman said.
Idris Wase, who is addressed as “Maje” by supporters, has represented Wase Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives for the past twenty years.