BY SOLOMON OKPO
A former spokesman of the House of Representatives and current spokesperson to the President of the Senate, Eseme Eyiboh, has dismissed claims that Nigeria’s Senate operates as a rubber stamp of the executive, insisting that the upper chamber has consistently demonstrated independence in its legislative responsibilities.
Eyiboh made the assertion on Monday during a media parley in Uyo, where he cited key instances in which the National Assembly rejected executive proposals in the national interest. According to him, such decisions underscore the Senate’s commitment to checks and balances within Nigeria’s democratic framework.
He specifically referenced the rejection of certain ministerial nominees and the Senate’s opposition to proposed military intervention in the Niger Republic, noting that lawmakers instead advocated diplomatic engagement to avoid worsening insecurity along Nigeria’s northern borders.
“The Senate has shown maturity and independence. At different times, it has declined executive proposals in the national interest. That is not the conduct of a rubber stamp legislature,” Eyiboh stated.
The Senate spokesman also commended the leadership of Godswill Akpabio, saying it has received repeated votes of confidence from lawmakers, an indication of stability and cohesion within the 10th National Assembly.
On national politics, Eyiboh threw his weight behind Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term, arguing that ongoing economic and structural reforms require continuity to achieve meaningful results. He also endorsed Akpabio’s return as Senate President in the next Assembly to sustain what he described as effective legislative-executive synergy.
At the state level, Eyiboh praised efforts toward political harmony in Akwa Ibom, attributing the relative peace to collaboration among key stakeholders, including Governor Umo Eno. He stressed that peace remains essential for development, warning that past conflicts had slowed progress in the state.
Addressing grassroots governance, he called for improved leadership recruitment at the local government level, emphasizing that development outcomes are largely influenced by the quality of elected officials. He urged citizens to remain engaged and hold leaders accountable.
On security, Eyiboh acknowledged that insecurity is a global concern but expressed optimism that Nigeria is making gradual progress through legislative support, enhanced funding, and the adoption of technology.
He further urged journalists to uphold professionalism by investing in capacity building and aligning with global best practices, rather than relying solely on routine reporting.
Defending ongoing economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidy, Eyiboh maintained that while such measures are painful, they are necessary for long-term national stability, noting that their full impact will take time to materialize.
The media session featured extensive discussions on governance, politics, the economy, and national security.
© The Evangelist News
