By Ezrel Tabiowo Abuja
President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, yesterday reassured Nigerians that the 8th National Assembly remained committed to accountability and transparency in the discharge of its legislative and oversight functions. Saraki, who stated this during the opening session of the 16th Commonwealth Speakers and Presiding Offi cers Conference (CSPOC), in Abuja, added that the National Assembly recognises that there is wide spread public distrust of public institutions. “We also recognise that there is a lot of public misconception and misperception about the functions and contributions of the legislature to development,” he said.
“Indeed, very few in our society are aware of the numerous legislative interventions aimed at responding to national economic challenges, addressing poverty and rebuilding infrastructure.” He said: “As you are no doubt aware, the legislature is the only arm of government that conducts its business in the open. Th is perhaps accounts for the special interest that its activities have generated. “I, however, do not consider this as a disadvantage but a call to higher service and accountability. I am convinced that we shall not disappoint our citizens who have placed high expectations on us. “As we have articulated in both the Senate and House Legislative Agenda for the 8th National Assembly, we are committed to accountability and transparency at all times.”
