Senator representing Borno South, Ali Ndume has raised concern over the independence of the Ninth National Assembly, following alleged interference from the executive.
Speaking at the valedictory session of the eighth Assembly on Thursday, Ndume called on lawmakers to work to protect the independence of the parliament stressing that the difference between democracy and military government is the independence of parliament.
“We had loads of disagreements. I respect your resilience and your ability to stand for what you believe in. We started together and we were doing fine. What happened was part of the learning process.
“My concern is the independence of this arm of government. That is not to say we must not work with the other side (Presidency).
“I see a dangerous thing coming. The only thing that makes democracy different from military rule is the Parliament. We need to ensure the independence of the Parliament.
“If we take away the Parliament, what we have is not democracy. I am one of those that were controversial in the last four years. Within the process, we may have offended one another. I take nothing personal.
“This institution is very important. Let us protect the sanctity of the parliament. This is the Nigerian Senate. There is no APC or PDP Senate. This is the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“We will continue to support the other side but we must work at all times to protect the sanctity of the institution of the parliament. We must continue to enhance the sanctity of the Senate at all times.”
Ndume's statement is coming after one of the contenders for the Senate presidency, Danjuma Goje withdrew from the race, following a secret meeting with the President and Governor of Kaduna state at the Presidential Villa on Thursday morning.
Ndume who had since declared his intention to contest the Senate presidency against the position of his party hinged his position on equity and fairness. Ndume will not contest the presidency of the Senate with Ahmed Kawan who had since been endorsed by the APC.
