By Abdullahi Inuwa
As Nigerians reflect on the performance of the 10th Senate, a growing number of citizens, political analysts, and civil society groups have labeled it as a weakened assembly in the country’s history.
From allegations of rubber-stamping to executive decisions to alleged failures in its duties to protect the interest of the populace.
The he current Senate has drawn widespread criticism for its perceived lack of independence, transparency, and commitment to the people’s interests.
A Senate of Controversy
Since its inauguration, the 10th Senate has been marred by controversies that have raised questions about its integrity and effectiveness.
One of the most criticized actions was the swift approval of loans and budgetary allocations without thorough scrutiny.
Many Nigerians believe that instead of acting as a check on the executive, the Senate has functioned as a mere extension of the presidency, approving requests without rigorous debates.
The passage of the controversial cybersecurity levy bill, which imposes additional financial burdens on Nigerians, further fueled public outrage.
Many saw the law as a move to tax citizens unnecessarily rather than provide relief amid harsh economic realities.
The Senate’s inability to stand firm against policies that negatively impact the people has only deepened the distrust between the legislature and the electorate.
Failure in Oversight Functions
Beyond lawmaking, the Senate’s oversight responsibility has come under scrutiny. Numerous corruption scandals and mismanagement cases have been exposed within government agencies, yet the legislative body has failed to take decisive action.
Reports of missing funds in ministries, irregular contract awards, and unresolved subsidy fraud cases have not seen the level of scrutiny expected from a functioning Senate.
A glaring example was the handling of the fuel subsidy removal. Despite the nationwide hardship caused by the abrupt decision, the Senate failed to summon key government officials for a thorough investigation or demand accountability for how palliative measures were implemented.
This lack of proactive oversight has led many citizens to question whether the Senate genuinely represents the people’s interests or serves a different agenda.
Political Loyalty Over National Interest
Many Nigerians believe that the Senate is more concerned with political loyalty than with delivering on its mandate.
The leadership structure of the Senate, dominated by ruling party loyalists, has made it difficult for opposition voices to hold the government accountable.
Instead of engaging in constructive debates, many senators have been accused of prioritizing their personal political ambitions over addressing the needs of their constituents.
Several lawmakers who previously spoke against unpopular government policies have suddenly become silent after securing positions of influence.
This shift in behavior has reinforced the perception that personal interests take precedence over national service.
A Call for Change
As the 10th Senate continues its term, Nigerians are demanding change, Citizens are calling for greater accountability, transparency, and legislative independence.
With the 2027 elections approaching, political observers predict that voters may seek to punish non-performing Senators at the polls.
Unless the Senate repositions itself as a true representative of the people, history may remember it as the worst legislative assembly Nigeria has ever had.
Abdullahi Inuwa
Social Commentator
ainuwa303@gmail.com
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