Alhassan Doguwa, a Nigerian lawmaker from Kano State who is currently undergoing a murder trial, has expressed his intention to run for the position of Speaker of the House of Representatives, News About Nigeria has learnt.
Doguwa, who is the Majority Leader of the House and represents the Doguwa/Tundun Wada federal constituency of Kano State, made his intention known in a letter of intent addressed to members-elect, citing his passion for nation-building and the need for leadership at this critical time when divergent views of governance exist in different regions of the country.
News About Nigeria recalls that Doguwa was arrested by the police in Kano for alleged complicity in the murder of three members of his constituency a few months ago.
Alongside others, he was charged with criminal conspiracy, culpable homicide, causing grievous hurt, mischief by fire, and inciting disturbance.
The Tudun Wada Local Government Area of Kano witnessed a clash between supporters of the New Nigeria People Party (NNPP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) resulting in the loss of three lives and the destruction of an opposition party campaign office.
In granting Doguwa bail, the judge required him to provide two sureties, one of whom must be a first-class traditional ruler, while the other must be a permanent secretary in the federal or state civil service.
The trial is still ongoing, and Doguwa has not yet been found guilty or acquitted of the charges against him.
Despite his ongoing trial, Doguwa, who is the Majority Leader of the House, has joined the growing list of aspirants for the Speaker’s position, including Deputy Speaker Idris Wase, Yusuf Gagdi (APC, Plateau), Sada Soli, Ben Kalu amongst others.
Nonetheless, his decision to join the race for Speaker has raised questions about the ethical implications of running for such a high office while facing a murder trial.
