…urge NASS to embrace citizens’ engagement
…as Speaker Abbas Emphasises Transparency, Acountability
By Gloria Ikibah
As the 10th House of Representatives celebrates its legislative Open Week,
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reiterated the commitment of the Executive to work with other Arms of Government to achieve the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Present administration.
He assured that his administration would continue to respect the principle of Check and Balance as enshrined in the Constitution.
Naijablitznews.com reports that the Open Week anniversary 2024 is aimed at opening up the parliament to strengthen democracy and boosting relationship between the National Assembly and the people.
The President who was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, also charged the National Assembly to create platforms where citizens can air their concerns and actively participate in public hearings to enhance law-making.
According to him, citizen’s participation in the governance process was key to achieving true democracy where the well-being of the citizens would be given the desired priority.
President Tinubu further noted that the event will serve as a constant reminder to the National Assembly of its responsibilities to the people.
He said: “The chosen theme improving inclusion through citizens engagement is apt timely and vital because it undersvores the importance of no doubt the need of executive and legislative collaboration but also the significance of effective oversight for greater accountability to all Nigerians that elected us into office in different capacities.
“Our gathering here today, I must say, is happening at a critical point of our nation’s journey, journey to greatness.
“The challenges before us demand collective efforts that obliterate political differences in all forms”.
The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, in his address said it was imperative that every Nigerian has a feeling of inclusion.
Represented by the Deputy Leader of the Senate, Senator Lola Ashiru, reiterated that when citizens are engaged, they become active participants in democracy; and that the open week and other related events bring about you proper feedback.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, said that the event was especially significant as Nigeria celebrates 25 years of uninterupted democracy and legislature in the country.
He said: “An open parliament is the cornerstone of a thriving democracy. By ensuring transparency, openness, and accessibility, we can build trust between the legislature and the citizens we serve.
“This House Open Week provides a unique opportunity to engage directly with the public, fostering a culture of accountability and mutual respect. By opening our doors, we invite scrutiny and dialogue, which are essential for improving governance and strengthening democratic institutions.
“The 10th House of Representatives has been committed to running an open House that actively incorporates citizens’ input in lawmaking and oversight processes. We have made concerted efforts to listen to the voices of our constituents and reflect their aspirations in our legislative activities.
“Through town hall meetings, public hearings, and stakeholder engagements, we have ensured that the legislative process remains inclusive and participatory. This approach not only enhances the quality of our laws but also ensures that our decisions are rooted in the genuine needs and desires of the Nigerian people”.
According to Speaker Abbas, one of the most critical aspects of citizen engagement is accountability.
“Today, we take a historic step by presenting the Scorecard of the House in its first year. This is the first time any chamber of the National Assembly has undertaken such an initiative. By doing so, we demonstrate our commitment to transparency and readiness to be held accountable by the people we serve. Presenting our Scorecard publicly allows us to showcase our achievements, acknowledge our challenges, and highlight our plans for the future. It reinforces the idea that the parliament is not just a body that makes laws but an institution that is responsible to its constituents for its actions and performance”, he added.