The election of Rep. Yakubu Dogara as Speaker of the House of Representatives on June 9 was a manifestation of the fact that Nigeria`s democracy is fast maturing, Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State has said.
Speaking when he hosted Dogara at the Benue state governor`s lodge Abuja on Tuesday, Ortom said the Speaker did not breach any provisions of the Nigerian constitution in contesting.
“Your election was democracy in action and a clear indication of the sustainability of democracy in Nigeria,” Ortom said.
According to him, “It is no longer in doubt that we are maturing. I define democracy as a government of what the people want. It may not be hundred percent but once the majority agrees, that is democracy,” the Governor said.
Dr. Ortom also commended the House members for the display of sportsmanship, including Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila who lost the election to Dogara.
He urged the Speaker to embrace all members because according to him, “it is God that crowns leaders. You could have fantastic plans but if God decides otherwise there is nothing you can do.”
Speaking earlier, the Speaker said Nigerians were promised change during the election and as such governments must work to deliver the change promised the people.
Dogara said the present crop of leaders came in at a very critical time and that “Nigerians are waiting for us to provide quality leadership.”
