Certainly, it is not a matter of conjecture to say that the undue interference and unpalatably flagrant disregard to separation of power by the executive tier of government has raised more questions than answers on the integrity of this government and the commitment of the leadership to truly push for the genuine change in line with democratic norms all over the world.
Fatunde Bamidele Samuel (VEGA) writes from lagos.
Recently, the society was encapsulated with shocking news of pension bill for the National Assembly members. However, the bill was dead on arrival. This is nothing but another heinous attempt to permanently ground the country that is already suffering from the bloodsucking bedbugs (NASS) and former governors pensions. These are almost sucking the finances of this country dry; if and only if we could act fast to salvage it then we can only hope the existence of Nigeria will not be history. The recent exploit of the National Assembly is evident to argue that this is the most selfish set of lawmakers we ever had.
Back to the point, section 308 of the highest document of Nigeria gives immunity to the executive but there are reason(s) for such.
Yes! No democratic configuration in the world ever has it legislature cloaked with immunity but in a scenario where such arm independence is threatened it behoves of any selfish being to think in such direction.
It will be recalled that immediately after Code Conduct Tribunal case was laid to rest, another forgery case to senate standing rules was instituted against the principal officers.
Of course, it is thinkable for them to propose immunity bill; especially in a country where the constitutional provisions favour the elite with little or no attention to the common man except for the Fundamental Human Rights that is flagrantly and unprofessionally abused by some crude and uncivilised law enforcement agents.
With myriad of problems like economic depression, unemployment, poor electricity, bad roads, terrorism .e.t.c. bedevilling this country, one would expect the legislature to hit the ground running in formulating laws that will add value to common man and perhaps cut down humongous pay to reflect Nigeria economic reality rather some lawmakers could only think of attempting to unscrupulously adjudicate laws to further shield themselves and aid enlargement of their coast of criminality.
Furthermore, a critical look at the proposed bill explicitly shows a negation of the nefarious acts of the three lawmakers (Mohammed Garba Gololo_Bauchi APC, Samuel Ikon_Akwa Ibom PDP and Mark Gbillah_Benue APC) who have succeeded in bringing the National Assembly to disrepute in the international community.
It will be recall that on June 9,2016 US Ambassador in Nigeria, Mr. Entwistle accused the lawmakers of soliciting sex from hotel staff in two separate incidents.
However, It is pertinent to ask, IS THE BILL PUT FORWARD TO FURTHER JUSTIFY OR ENCOURAGE CRIMINAL ACTS FROM SOME PRINCIPAL OFFICERS?
IS IT AIMED AT CREATING SACRED COW TO PUSH FORWARD THE FRONTIER OF CORRUPTION?
Basically, this is a misplaced priority from Hon. Leo Ogor who am sure was alive and knew what befell the likes of Okadigbo, Patricia Etteh who were found wanting then. Now, he is quite aware of three NASS members under crime investigation for sexual assault.
Though some will be unperturbed by this bill but it will further shatter the hope of the common man who have lost hope in the current leadership of this country.
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