Allow NASS members-elect to choose their leaders, group tells Tinubu, APC

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Civil Society Network for Good Governance (CSNGG) has frowned at what it described as an attempt by some individuals using the apparatus of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to impose presiding officers on the 10th National Assembly.

The group in a statement by its National President, Adefila Kamal cautioned that such imposition is not meant to serve the common good of Nigeria and its developing democracy.

He said such action would only undermine the confidence of Nigerians and the international community in the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Kamal noted that “It is essential to note that the emergence of anointed leaders of the parliament as against the wish of the majority lawmakers would not only create a pathway of crisis for the new government but also cage democratic voices and render the purpose of separation of powers impotent.”

The CCSNGG therefore appealed to the president and the APC to allow the members-elects of 10th National Assembly to freely choose their leaders and ensure that the legislative arm of government operates freely to deliver the mandate of the people.

He said, “The CSNGG rebuffed in its entirety the attempt by a few individuals, using the apparatus of the party to arm-twist the President Tinubu to endorse the imposition of anointed candidates as president of the 10th Senate and speaker of the 10th House of Representatives upon its inauguration come 13th June. We unequivocally condemn the move, as we advise President Tinubu to distance himself from this scheming to avoid being a ready tool in the hands of a few persons who pretend to be serving his interest as against the overall interest of Nigeria and her nascent democracy.

He said further that, “The need for an independent legislature cannot be over-emphasised. It bears mentioning that legislative oversight over the executive encourages checks and balances; it enthrones fiscal discipline, good governance, accountability and transparency in public offices. It promotes accountability in government through enforcing efficiency and cost-effectiveness in the course of generating people-centred policies and programmes necessary to address the numerous challenges confronting governments at all levels.”