The National Assembly's latest attempt to undermine Nigeria's interests has raised significant concerns among stakeholders. House Bill 2056, a proposed legislation that seeks to repeal and reenact the National Assembly Service Act, has been widely criticized for its potential to concentrate power in the hands of politicians and undermine the integrity of the National Assembly.
The Bill, sponsored by Hon. Dr. Samuel Adedayo, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, Hon. Isiaka Ayokunle, Hon. Regina Akume, and Hon. Raheem Olawuyi, aims to provide a clear administrative structure for the National Assembly Service and enhance professionalism. However, a closer examination of the Bill reveals a more sinister intent.
If passed, the Bill would allow politicians to impose their loyalists as the Manager of the National Assembly, rendering the administration of the parliament vulnerable to political manipulations. This would not only undermine the independence of the National Assembly but also create an environment conducive to corruption and abuse of power.
Furthermore, the Bill seeks to create an exclusive clique of Nigerians who can rise to become the Clerk of the National Assembly, excluding others based on competence, capabilities, or suitability. This approach would stifle innovation, creativity, and meritocracy, and instead promote a culture of cronyism and nepotism.
Analysts have warned that the Bill's passage would have far-reaching implications for the National Assembly and the country as a whole. It would cause disharmony among staff, promote cut-throat career progression, and jeopardize integrity for political patronage. The various unions in the National Assembly are already poised to revolt against the Bill.
We urge the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, to prevail upon the Speaker to invoke the necessary legislative procedure to reject House Bill 2056. Nigeria has enough problems; we don't need to expand the troubled horizon. We demand peace and harmony in the legislative arm.
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