‘I’ve been vindicated’, Rep Agbese says after barring of first-timers from principal offices
House of Representatives Bars First-Term Members from Principal Offices
The House of Representatives has formally prohibited first-term members from holding principal offices, a decision that has been supported by Deputy Spokesperson Hon. Philip Agbese. This resolution was adopted on Wednesday following a motion presented by Hon. Babajimi Benson, who represents Ikorodu Federal Constituency in Lagos State.
Titled “Need for a Precise Definition of Order Seven, Rule 15 of the House of Representatives,” the motion passed unanimously without debate. It emphasizes that only members with prior legislative experience are eligible for appointment as Principal Officers of the House, referencing Order Seven, Rule 15 of the House’s Standing Orders.
The ruling aligns with global parliamentary best practices that typically exclude first-term legislators from principal positions in order to maintain institutional memory and improve legislative processes. The motion noted a recent decision by the 10th Senate, which defined “cognate legislative experience” as at least one full four-year term in office.
In its resolution, the House articulated the importance of experience in fostering parliamentary stability and ensuring effective representation. It unequivocally defined “Cognate Legislative Experience” as members who have completed at least one full four-year term, dismissing any alternate interpretations.
Following the resolution, Rep. Agbese expressed satisfaction, referring to the decision as a vindication. “No one goes to heaven through back doors,” he stated. “Order 7 Rules 15 is clear on how to become a Principal Officer in the House. You must be a ranking member with cognate experience.”
Agbese questioned the legitimacy of a recent claim by Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, representing the Ideato Federal Constituency of Imo State, who announced last Thursday that he had secured nominations from 61 members for the Minority Leadership position. Agbese dissociated himself from this endorsement, claiming his signature was used without consent.
The resolution underscores the House’s intention to maintain a high standard for leadership roles, ensuring that those in principal positions possess the necessary experience to guide the legislative process effectively.
