The Arewa Revival Project has emphasized that unhealthy rivalry and persistent disagreements with the executive arm of government should not be mistaken for legislative independence. In a statement, the group noted that true legislative independence is demonstrated through principled decision-making, responsible representation, and a commitment to democratic values. This comes as former lawmakers criticized the President of the Senate and the National Assembly, alleging that the Senate is an extension of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Presidential Villa.
The group, through its Project Coordinator, Hon. Muttaka Ahmed Ibrahim, stressed that legislative autonomy is essential to a functioning democracy but must be exercised responsibly. This involves being guided by constitutional principles, mutual respect, and the collective interest of the people. According to the group, legislative independence should promote constructive engagement, effective oversight, and accountability, rather than foster division, institutional hostility, or personal antagonism.
The Arewa Revival Project noted that the constitution does not require the National Assembly to oppose every presidential proposal to demonstrate its independence. Effective democratic governance, it said, requires institutional cooperation without undermining constitutional responsibilities. The group's statement comes amid concerns about the relationship between the legislative and executive arms of government.
The organization defended Senator Godswill Akpabio's leadership of the Senate, stating that his performance should be assessed fairly through the Senate's legislative activities, institutional responsibilities, and leadership record. While acknowledging that the Senate President and the National Assembly must remain open to public scrutiny, the group cautioned against reducing the office of the Senate President to political ridicule due to partisan disagreements.
The Arewa Revival Project called on former lawmakers to present specific evidence if they have concerns about legislative misconduct, compromised oversight, financial impropriety, or constitutional violations. The group acknowledged that a credible opposition is essential to democracy but maintained that opposition activities should focus on accountability, exposing wrongdoing, offering policy alternatives, and defending citizens' interests.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to responsible governance, national unity, democratic stability, and the Renewed Hope Agenda. It also called for accountability across all public institutions, emphasizing the importance of institutional cooperation and constructive engagement in promoting democratic values.
The Arewa Revival Project's statement highlights the need for a clear understanding of legislative independence and its role in promoting democratic governance. The group's emphasis on responsible governance and accountability reflects its commitment to promoting national unity and democratic stability.
Key points
- The Arewa Revival Project cautions against misconstruing rivalry with the executive as legislative independence.
- The group emphasizes the importance of responsible governance and accountability across all public institutions.
- The organization defends Senator Godswill Akpabio's leadership of the Senate, calling for a fair assessment of his performance.
