June 12: Legislature That Cannot Challenge Executive Has Failed — Saraki

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Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has said that a legislature that lacks the independence to reject executive proposals has failed in its constitutional responsibility and cannot effectively serve the people.

Saraki made the assertion on Friday while speaking during the June 12, 2026 edition of The Platform, a public affairs programme aired on Channels Television.

The former Senate President argued that the National Assembly must exercise its oversight functions independently and subject executive proposals to proper scrutiny rather than approving them without critical examination.

According to him, the legislature serves as an important institution where differing interests in a diverse nation can be debated peacefully without threatening national unity.

“So, what I learned in those four years in the National Assembly as Senate President is that a legislature that cannot say no is not a legislature at all,” Saraki said.

He added that a parliament which merely receives proposals from the executive, approves them without scrutiny and adjourns has not fulfilled the constitutional mandate entrusted to it.

Saraki stressed that the independence of the National Assembly should not be interpreted as opposition or rebellion against the government in power but as an essential feature of democratic governance.

He noted that an independent legislature enhances the legitimacy of government by ensuring that executive decisions are subjected to due process and accountability.

“The independence of the National Assembly is not rebellion against the government of the day. I say that so loud, having been a victim,” he stated.

Saraki further argued that a mandate that is never tested or questioned cannot command public confidence, insisting that institutional checks and balances are necessary for a healthy democracy.

He maintained that strengthening the independence of democratic institutions would improve governance and reinforce public trust in Nigeria's constitutional system.

 

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