Speaker Abbas kicks against adopting part-time legislators
By Jeffrey Agbo
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has rejected calls to adopt part-time legislators as part of ongoing constitution reforms.
He made his opinion known on Monday in Abuja while declaring open a one-day ‘National Dialogue on a Home-Grown Parliamentary System of Government’.
The event themed ‘Fostering Accountability Through a Home-Grown Parliamentary System’ was organised by the Parliamentary System Support Group (PSSG).
Abbas described the advocacy by 83 lawmakers as timely as it speaks directly to the aspirations of the people for a governance system that reflects the country’s values, priorities and cultural identity.
He, however, said a home-grown parliamentary system must not only reflect the procedural aspects of governance but also the intrinsic values, goals and cultural nuances of the people it serves as it should be a leadership model grounded in substance, not merely in style.
He said, “This, I believe, is the essence of indigenous governance; it is about crafting a legislative system that resonates with the everyday realities, aspirations, and diversity of the Nigerian people.
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“As we examine potential reforms, I am aware that a unicameral system of government is often discussed. However, we must recognise that Nigeria’s vast geographical and cultural diversity poses unique demands.
“Unlike smaller or more homogeneous nations, our bicameral system has enabled us to balance representation across regions and ethnic groups, enhancing inclusivity and participation in the democratic process. Any significant structural change must, therefore, be carefully considered within the context of Nigeria’s complexities to avoid unintended consequences.”
Speaker Abbas, represented by the Chairman, House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Upstream), Hon. Alhassan Ado-Doguwa, also said, “Some have also suggested adopting part-time legislators. However, I must respectfully challenge this notion, as it may underestimate the profound responsibility that legislators bear.
“A legislator’s duties, comprising of law-making, representation, and oversight, are demanding and require substantial time and commitment. Government is not a casual endeavour; it is a serious business that demands full attention, accountability and dedication.
“Our focus should instead be on embedding our legislative values into a homegrown model. To enhance resilience and professionalism, the National Assembly has prioritised continuous training and capacity building. Committees, leadership structures, members, administrative personnel, legislative aides, and support staff undergo consistent development programmes on diverse topics, all aimed at delivering on our legislative agenda for the benefit of Nigerians.”