Nigeria News
‘History will judge you’ – Ndume, Senators blast Akpabio over hasty passage of bills
Senator Ali Ndume and fellow legislators have voiced their discontent with Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s tendency to pass bills swiftly, without providing adequate prior notification to members or allowing for their contributions.
During the session on Thursday, Senator Ali Ndume of Borno South District (APC) raised apprehensions regarding the rapid approval of bills without proper reading and meaningful engagement from fellow members. He emphasized the importance of involving members in the legislative process, particularly when it comes to significant bills, including those pertaining to financial matters.
“You are just passing bills without prior notification, including money bills, you just pass bills within 2 hours without anyone’s contribution. This is not good for Nigeria,” Senator Ndume expressed.
Additionally, Senator Ogoshi Onawo from Nasarawa State (PDP) voiced his concerns about the hurried passage of important bills. He urged the Senate President to consider the potential long-term ramifications of such practices on the nation.
“Sir, you are on the seat today, history is going to judge you that things like this are not good for this country,” remarked Senator Onawo.
In response to the criticisms, Senate President Akpabio defended the expeditious passage of bills, asserting that the bills were intended for the benefit of the country. He stressed the importance of passing bills that serve the interests of Nigerians and encouraged fellow senators to consider the greater good.
“If the bills we are passing are good for the country, history will judge me right. I don’t think we would come here to pass a bill that’s not good for the interest of Nigerians. So, your point of order is noted,” responded Akpabio.