The Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, has strongly criticized the current National Assembly, accusing it of shifting from its constitutional role of rigorous oversight to mere obedience of executive directives. In pointed remarks that have sparked widespread discussion across the country, the respected traditional ruler lamented what he described as a troubling departure from democratic principles, where lawmakers are expected to scrutinize policies, probe irregularities, and hold the executive accountable rather than passively approving proposals.
According to the Emir, a legislature that simply receives executive proposals, approves them without thorough examination, and disperses fails to fulfill its sacred mandate under the constitution. He drew from his experience as former Central Bank Governor, recalling instances where the assembly had summoned him repeatedly on minor issues, yet remained conspicuously silent on major economic breaches and policy violations in recent years.
This selective activism, he implied, undermines the separation of powers and weakens democratic institutions at a time when robust checks and balances are most needed. Sanusi Lamido Sanusi emphasized that democracy suffers profoundly when parliament stops probing and starts obeying. He argued that a courageous legislature serves as the true guardian of public interest, preventing executive overreach and ensuring fiscal discipline, transparency, and good governance.
Without such vigilance, he warned, the country risks descending into a form of civilian rule devoid of genuine democratic substance, where institutions exist in name but lack the courage to function effectively. His comments come amid ongoing national debates on economic management, borrowing, and legislative independence, resonating with many observers concerned about the health of Nigeria’s democratic experiment.
The Emir’s intervention has ignited fresh conversations on the role of the legislature in the current dispensation, particularly under the leadership of Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Many Nigerians view his statement as a bold call for institutional revival and a reminder that true democracy thrives on accountability, not acquiescence.
REF: https://x.com/OurFavOnlineDoc/status/2070450647535898779/video/1?s=46
