The Arewa Revival Project has called for an objective assessment of the 10th National Assembly following former Kogi East Senator Dino Melaye’s criticism of its performance.
It would be recalled that Melaye had described the 10th Senate as the worst in Nigeria’s democratic history and likened it to an extension of President Bola Tinubu’s Presidential Villa.
Reacting in a statement signed on Wednesday by its Project Coordinator, Muttaka Ibrahim, the group said that the 10th National Assembly’s performance should be based on its legislative performance and constitutional responsibilities.
The group added that the performance of public institutions should be assessed based on verifiable facts, legislative records and objective indicators rather than subjective opinions.
“Criticism of public institutions is a constitutional right, but such criticism must be based on verifiable facts, responsible analysis and objective performance assessments,” the group said.
The organisation also stressed the importance of cooperation between the Executive and Legislature, noting that such a relationship should not undermine the independence of either arm of government.
According to the group, the Constitution does not require the National Assembly to oppose every proposal by the President to demonstrate its independence.
It said effective democratic governance required cooperation between both arms of government without compromising their constitutional responsibilities.
The group identified lawmaking, appropriation, oversight and the protection of the constitutional order as the major responsibilities of the National Assembly.
It also said the performance of the Senate under the leadership of Senate President Godswill Akpabio should be assessed through its legislative activities, institutional responsibilities and leadership record.
The organisation added that the Senate President and other members of the National Assembly must remain open to public scrutiny.
It further called for constructive political engagement, urging political actors to focus on accountability, policy alternatives and the protection of citizens’ interests.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to democratic stability, national unity, responsible governance and the Renewed Hope agenda.
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