Electoral Act Amendment: CSO’s have become mouth legislators — Akpabio blasts critics
Senate President Defends Electoral Act Amendment Amid Criticism
ABUJA — Senate President Godswill Akpabio responded to criticism regarding the ongoing amendment of the Electoral Act, asserting that some civil society organizations (CSOs) and commentators lack a fundamental understanding of the legislative process.
During the launch of The Burdens of Legislators in Nigeria, a book by former Senator Effiong Bob, Akpabio addressed the issue at the Nigerian Air Force Conference Centre in Kado on Saturday. He cautioned that hasty judgments from outside observers could weaken democracy.
“One individual leading an NGO recently criticized the Senate on television, calling it the worst since its inception,” Akpabio stated. “Yet, the Electoral Act amendment is still in progress. They do not comprehend the lawmaking process.”
Akpabio elaborated on the stages involved in legislative work, which include motions, readings, public hearings, and formal votes. He emphasized that it is premature to declare a failure by the Senate before these procedures are completed.
“Until we present the votes and proceedings, senators can only discuss what has been agreed upon,” he added. He advised critics, whom he referred to as “mouth legislators,” to seek election if they wish to play a role in lawmaking rather than voicing dissent from the sidelines.
The Senate President dismissed the idea that agreements made during legislative retreats are binding, describing such gatherings as “part of consultations, not lawmaking.” Furthermore, he criticized the ongoing efforts by some NGOs to sway senators through externally funded materials, asserting that such actions do not constitute legitimate lawmaking.
“We will not be intimidated. Our legislative efforts will reflect the will of the Nigerian people, not that of a single NGO or someone funded by the European Union,” Akpabio stated.
Concluding his remarks, he praised Effiong Bob’s book as a significant contribution to understanding the challenges faced by legislators, reaffirming the Senate’s commitment to its duties amid external pressures.
