|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has expressed concern over the diminishing role of the national assembly, describing it as “gradually becoming a shadow of what a virile and effective parliament should be”.
Saraki made these comments in a Democracy Day statement where he criticised how Nigeria’s parliament has lost much of its power and independence. He believes other parts of the government are deliberately weakening the legislature.
The former Senate president argues that Nigeria’s National Assembly no longer works as a truly independent institution. Instead, he claims both the presidency and the courts have played “significant roles in undermining” parliament’s authority.
Saraki pointed to several ways this interference happens. The most obvious example, he says, is when the presidency gets involved in choosing who leads the National Assembly. This should be parliament’s own decision.
“From interference in its choice of leadership, misunderstanding its oversight role, and taking its occasional ‘No’ as being antagonistic, the national assembly has often come under unwarranted and systemic attack,” Saraki explained.
The former Senate president wants current lawmakers to work harder to restore parliament’s strength and independence. He believes they need to stand up for their institution’s proper role in government.
Read Also: Presidency apologises for declaring two living men dead in national honours list
Saraki stressed that when parliament agrees or disagrees with government proposals, it should always put the country’s interests first. Politicians shouldn’t make decisions based on personal gain or party politics.
He also warned about what might happen if parliament becomes too weak. If citizens feel their representatives cannot effectively challenge government decisions, they might take to the streets in protest instead. This could threaten Nigeria’s democracy.
“We all need to realise that by its nature, its role and character, the parliament is created to say the truth to power and scrutinise what the executive is doing,” he said.
“Sometimes, it will agree with the executive actions and proposals. Other times, it may disagree. One good thing is that its agreement or disagreement should always be in the protection of national interest not that of personal or partisan interest.”
Saraki believes parliament should remain accessible to ordinary citizens who want to express their views on government policies. This includes listening to all kinds of opinions, whether people support or oppose particular policies.
“The national assembly should continue to be open to the people who have grievances or opinions on issues to ventilate their views, whether rational, irrational, positive, or sometimes, negative.”
