Nigerian Judiciary and 10th National Assembly Face Criticism Amid Calls for Electoral Reform

As the Nigerian Judiciary grapples with a tarnished image due to perceived conflicting and controversial judgments, the 10th National Assembly is not spared from criticism, being dubbed the “rubber stamp Assembly.”

Daniel Bwala, former spokesperson for the dissolved Atiku Abubakar presidential campaign, expressed on an Arise TV programme the belief that this assembly is worse than its nickname suggests.

Highlighting the pressing need for electoral reform ahead of the 2027 general election, Bwala, who served in the office of the Deputy Senate President during the 9th Assembly, urged a return to the reform agenda initiated by its predecessor.

He emphasized the importance of addressing issues such as the time limit for congress matters, pre-election procedures, and the credibility of elections.

Despite his call for reform, Bwala expressed skepticism about the 10th Assembly’s willingness to take action, criticizing its lack of debate and thorough examination of bills.

He suggested that revisiting the proposals made during the 9th Assembly and removing the current INEC chairman and commissioners, whom he claimed have political affiliations, is crucial for successful reform.

Shifting focus to the recent loan request by the Tinubu administration, Dr. Reuben Abati, during an Arise TV show, expressed inevitability in seeking the National Assembly’s approval for more borrowing.

However, he questioned the purpose of accumulating such a substantial debt, especially considering the lack of visible development outcomes from previous loans.

In the face of a proposed 7 trillion-naira loan, Abati urged the Senate to conduct due diligence and scrutinize the administration’s plans, emphasizing the need for accountability in managing resources.

He also highlighted the burden on Nigerians, already overburdened by previous debts and a lack of visible improvements in infrastructure and social services.

Source: Vanguard