Legislative Aides’ Election Produces Two Executive Chairmen

By Damilola Oyedele in Abuja

Elections for the executive officers of the National Assembly Legislative Aides Forum (NASSLAF) have produced two sets of executive officers led by two chairmen, a clear indication that the factional crises rocking the association is far from over.

The elections, which were held by the different factions produced Mr. Samuel Melaye, who was the former Chairman and Mr. John Udeh.

Interestingly, elections of both men which held on Wednesday and Thursday last week, were observed by bureaucrats  of the National Assembly.

The Deputy Director, Personnel and Head of Unit on Legislative Matters, Mr. Tahir Muhammed Sani, observed elections for the Melaye led faction, while Deputy Director, N’Assembly Service Commission, Mr. Effiong  Omoni, observed the Udeh-led faction.

In March this year, Melaye who is younger brother to Senator Dino Melaye, had been appointed by the Clerk of the National Assembly,  Salisu Maikasuwa, as Chairman of a seven-man caretaker committee to oversee the affairs of the forum for three months before organising elections.

A faction, however in a communique signed by its Chairman, Communique Drafting Committee, Mr. Lawson Oviasogie, on March 28, claimed to have removed Melaye.

The faction said its action was based on Article 14 (iii) and (iv) which stipulates that the CNA shall direct the conduct of election of the Central Working Committee and Executive Committee within six months of the inauguration of a new legislature.

Both factions however went ahead to conduct elections  last week.

Melaye, following his emergence as factional Chairman, said the forum would be registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to enhance its engagement with the management of the National Assembly management regarding its members welfare and conditions of service.

Insisting he is the legitimate chairman of the forum, Melaye, who is legislative aide to his brother, pledged to unite members.

Udeh, also following his election Thursday insisted his  emergence is legitimate as he was elected in a credible process.

As both elections were observed by National Assembly officials, it remains unclear which faction  would be duly recognised by the management.

The Director of Information, Mr. Ishaku Dibal, did not respond to a text message on the development.