Reiterates support of House for anti-corruption fight
Damilola Oyedele in Abuja
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara, has said the National Assembly is not interested in any clash with the executive despite the doctrine of the separation of powers, as it considers itself a partner towards the achievement of the change agenda.
This is as he reiterated the commitment of the green chamber to the anti-corruption fight of President Muhammadu Buhari.
Dogara, who spoke during a courtesy visit to the Olowo of Owo Kingdom, Ondo State, Oba David Victor Folagbade Olateru-Olagbegi, said the lawmakers are being questioned on why they are not opposing the executive.
Details of the visit were contained in a statement by the Speaker’s Special Adviser (Media and Public Affairs), Mr. Turaki Hassan.
“I want to underpin the fact that we do not see our role or relationship as one of collision, but one that is supportive of whatever is needed for achievement by the executive, to lessen the burden of the people and improve their living conditions. We do not adopt a posture just for the sake of proving that we have separate powers, we cooperate more to ensure that good is delivered to the people,” Dogara said.
The Speaker however noted that cooperation between both arms of government does not mean the legislature would keep quiet at actions that threaten democracy, or would not guard its independence jealously.
“We have been doing that in this government, in how we handled the crisis in Kogi State House of Assembly. It was actually an APC leader who led investigation into the matter and we condemned the impunity even as members of the ruling party. This is the change we are talking about,” he added.
Speaking earlier at the fourth convocation of the Achievers’ University in Owo, the Speaker reiterated the commitment of the eighth House to fighting corruption and providing support for President Buhari in his effort to eradicate the scourge in Nigeria.
“Like any human institution, there may be a few bad eggs that may not live up to their oath of office and legislative duties, but the leadership is dedicated to ensuring that any proven case of misdemeanour by any member is appropriately dealt with,” Dogara said.
He noted that the National Assembly had been a dependable organ of government, which continues to deploy its constitutional powers of oversight for the common good.
“Each successive assembly has made efforts in improving on the effectiveness of its legislative oversight function to promote good governance and accountability in Nigeria,” he added.
