Shehu Sani, a former senator and vocal advocate for democratic principles, has issued a stern warning to federal lawmakers, urging them to uphold the dignity of the parliament and preserve its independence. Sani emphasized that a compromised parliament can have severe consequences for the nation, including undermining democracy and hindering good governance.
Speaking at the National Assembly Legislative Aides Forum week in Abuja, Sani noted that the powers of the National Assembly have been eroded over time. He recalled that during his time in the Senate, it was unthinkable for heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to ignore summons from the lawmakers.
“In our time, it was unthinkable for heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies to ignore our summons. They understood the gravity of our oversight functions,” Sani said. “But today, we see a different scenario where the powers of the National Assembly are being gradually eroded.”
Sani warned that if the current Assembly sacrifices its independence and fails to exercise its checks on the executive arm, it risks becoming a “rubber stamp” for the executive. He cautioned lawmakers against prioritizing personal gain over their constitutional responsibilities.
“This institution needs respect. If you turn yourselves into stooges or compliant representatives, you will lose that respect. Our era defended legislative independence, but it came at a cost – frosty relationships with the executive and delays in passing bills. However, excessive cooperation is equally dangerous, as it emboldens tyranny,” he stated.
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Sani also reminded lawmakers that their primary duty is to serve Nigerians, not the presidency. “You are here to represent the people, not to become ‘rankadede’ sycophants for the executive. Your legacy will be defined by your stance on critical issues, not by how long you served,” he said.
As a pro-democracy campaigner, Sani acknowledged the vital role of legislative aides in the governance of the country. He described them as the backbone of the legislature, instrumental in drafting bills and policies.
“The legislative aides are the engine room of the National Assembly. They are the ones who do the background work, who draft the bills, who do the research, and who provide the necessary support to the lawmakers,” Sani said.
Sani’s warning comes at a time when the National Assembly is facing criticism for its perceived lack of independence and its failure to effectively check the executive arm. The former senator’s comments are seen as a call to action for lawmakers to reassert their independence and defend the principles of democracy.