Collaboration between Senate and Tinubu doesn't imply constitutional compromise; Akpabio rules out artificially creating tension

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has reaffirmed the National Assembly's commitment to working in tandem with President Bola Tinubu to further Nigeria's national interest, emphasizing that the legislature is not obligated to engage in unnecessary confrontations with the executive.

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Akpabio made this statement on Tuesday while inaugurating the 2026 National Assembly Open Week in Abuja, where he underscored the importance of the parliament's role in serving the Nigerian people.

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The Senate president noted that the legislature belongs to the Nigerian citizens, rather than the elected lawmakers, and that democracy flourishes when citizens are actively involved in the governance process.

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Akpabio stated that the walls of the National Assembly were erected to welcome Nigerians, not to keep them out, and that citizens should be viewed as the rightful owners of democracy, rather than mere spectators.

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According to Akpabio, public trust in democratic institutions can only be maintained through transparency, accountability, and constructive engagement with citizens, adding that informed criticism serves to strengthen democracy.

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The Senate president encouraged Nigerians to participate in public hearings, scrutinize legislative activities, and hold lawmakers accountable, emphasizing that a parliament that listens to its citizens becomes wiser and a democracy that listens becomes stronger.

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Akpabio highlighted the achievements of the 10th National Assembly, which has passed over 100 bills within its first three years in office, a milestone he described as unprecedented in Nigeria's democratic development.

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The key legislative accomplishments cited by Akpabio include laws aimed at enhancing national security, increasing access to education, reforming the tax system, approving a new national minimum wage, promoting investment, and establishing regional development commissions.

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Akpabio also noted that the National Assembly has carried out the screening and confirmation of public office holders in accordance with its constitutional responsibilities, and that Nigeria has regained a seat on the Executive Committee of the Inter-Parliamentary Union after nearly 60 years.

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In defense of the relationship between the legislature and the executive, Akpabio stated that working closely with President Tinubu should not be misconstrued as a compromise of the National Assembly's independence, emphasizing that constructive partnership and independence are not mutually exclusive.

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Akpabio commended the cordial relationship between the Senate and the House of Representatives, describing their collaboration over the past three years as one marked by mutual respect and harmony.

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The Senate president urged Nigerians to take ownership of the parliament by engaging with its activities, stressing that democracy is strengthened when citizens are actively involved in the legislative process.

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Akpabio expressed optimism that the National Assembly Open Week would promote transparency, deepen public confidence, and strengthen the relationship between the parliament and the Nigerian people.