In a bold move aimed at addressing Nigeria’s escalating governance costs, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Privatisation, has thrown his weight behind the call for part-time legislature at both federal and state levels. Representing the Abia North senatorial district under the All Progressives Congress (APC), Kalu’s proposal seeks to reshape Nigeria’s legislative framework, promising significant cost savings and enhanced public trust in the political system.
The Case for Part-Time Legislature
Cost Reduction and Enhanced Trust
Senator Kalu emphasized that transitioning to a part-time legislative system would result in substantial cost savings for the nation. By reducing the frequency of legislative sessions to four times a year, Nigeria could allocate its financial resources more efficiently. The senator highlighted that this approach could be complemented by emergency sessions as needed, ensuring that urgent matters are still addressed promptly.
Constitutional Amendment Proposal
To actualize this vision, Kalu advocates for a constitutional amendment. He suggests a focused effort within the Senate and House of Representatives, as well as the 36 state houses of assembly, to revise the legislative framework. This amendment, he argues, is essential to cement the transition to a part-time legislature, thereby fostering greater trust and transparency within the political landscape.
Regional Government as an Alternative
Efficiency and Cost Savings
In addition to advocating for a part-time legislature, Kalu has proposed the adoption of a regional government system. He believes that such a system would streamline governance by reducing the number of ministers and legislators, further cutting costs. The senator is optimistic that these changes would provide the much-needed financial relief to Nigeria, enabling more effective allocation of resources.
Legislative and Executive Synergy
Kalu’s vision for a regional government includes a cohesive relationship between the legislative and executive branches. By aligning the operations of ministers and legislators within a regional framework, he believes that Nigeria can achieve a more synchronized and efficient governance structure. This approach would not only save money but also improve the overall functionality of the government.
Addressing Misconceptions on Senators’ Earnings
Clarification on Remuneration
Contrary to popular belief, Senator Kalu asserts that Nigerian senators are not excessively compensated. He argues that the current remuneration is insufficient, considering the responsibilities and demands of the role. By shifting to a part-time legislative system, Kalu believes that the perception of senators’ earnings can be realigned with reality, mitigating public misconceptions.
Public Trust and Relief
The senator is confident that a part-time legislature would restore public trust in the political system. He emphasizes that this move would demonstrate a commitment to austerity and responsible governance, providing relief to the Nigerian populace. By prioritizing cost reduction and transparency, Kalu aims to rebuild the citizens’ confidence in their leaders.
In his words:
On calls for a part-time legislature, Senator Kalu said, “I think it will be a very good idea if my colleagues and other members of the Houses of Assembly will agree that we can sit for three months and do constitutional amendment first.
“So we can sit four times a year and if there’s any emergency, there will be emergency sitting. We can come to do a presidential bid on that basis and go back instead of sitting on a full-time basis.
“Not only the Senate and the House of Representatives but all the legislative houses in Nigeria will be part-time.”
Senator Kalu maintained that this would be part of austerity measures to reduce the cost of governance, arguing that regional government is another viable alternative.
“If we’re going for a regional government, it also means that the ministers, the legislators, will be the same. I’ve been tinkering with the idea of how we can save money to run Nigeria because the country needs money.
“I will encourage the President, the National Assembly to make these kinds of laws. This will help him, and this will help the system, and this will help everybody,” he said.
The ex-governor explained that contrary to misconceptions among Nigerians, senators are not paid enough.
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“But I want Nigerians and my colleagues to do a quick constitutional amendment so we can go and be a part-time sitting Senate and part-time sitting House of Representatives and other 36 state houses of assembly in Nigeria.
“That will bring trust and bring relief to the Nigerian people,” the ex-governor said.
Conclusion
Senator Orji Uzor Kalu’s proposal for a part-time legislature represents a significant shift in Nigeria’s approach to governance. His advocacy for constitutional amendments, regional government structures, and the clarification of senators’ earnings highlights a comprehensive strategy to reduce costs and enhance public trust. As Nigeria navigates its financial challenges, Kalu’s vision offers a pragmatic solution aimed at ensuring sustainable governance and fiscal responsibility.
