From Omololu Ogunmade in Abuja
The Presidency Wedneday ignored the threat by the National Assembly to invoke its constitutional powers if President Muhammadu Buhari fails to take action on the resolutions passed by a joint session of the federal legislature on Tuesday.
Answering questions from journalists after the weekly Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting in the State House, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Malam Garba Shehu, said the presidency would not respond to the resolutions.
The National Assembly had after a two-hour joint executive session on Tuesday came up with a 12-point resolution, asking the president to address a myriad of problems facing the country or it would invoke its constitutional powers.
The 12-point resolution, read by Senate President Bukola Saraki, included cessation of systemic harassment and humiliation by the executive of perceived political opponents, people with contrary opinions including legislators and the judiciary by the police and other security agencies; and halting the sustained killings of Nigerians and ensuring protection of lives and properties.
Other resolutions were: “There must be strict adherence to the rule of law and protection for all citizens by the president and his appointees.
“The president must be held accountable for the actions of his appointees and must be ready to sanction those that carry out any act which will ridicule or endanger our country and democracy.
“Government should show sincerity in the fight against corruption by not being selective and also prosecute current appointees that have cases pending against them.
“The sanctity of the National Assembly should be protected and preserved by the federal government by not interfering in its business while those who invaded the Senate to seize the mace should be prosecuted.
“National Assembly is to liaise with the international community through the IPU, APU, ECOWAS, CPA Parliament, Pan African Parliament, EU, UN, U.S. Congress and UK Parliament to secure the nation’s democracy.
“Democratic elections must be competitive and inclusive by removing the present reign of fear and intimidation particularly as we approach the forthcoming 2019
“National Assembly is to work closely with civil society organisations, trade unions and NGOs to further deepen and protect democracy.
“The president must take immediate steps to contain the growing level of unemployment and poverty in Nigeria, especially now that we have the advantage of the oil price having risen to $80 per barrel.â€
The National Assembly also reaffirmed its earlier resolution of a vote of no confidence on the Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, saying he “does nothing other than preside over the killing of innocent Nigerians and consistent framing of perceived political opponents of the president and outright disregard for constitutional authority.”
