The Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Hon. Philip Agbese, has said the country’s legislative arm is now the toast of the international community and development partners around the world.
Agbese said the House of Representatives’ focus on transparency, citizen participation, and accountability has made other nations stand up and take notice.
Agbese, who reprents the Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo federal constituency of Benue State in the House of Representatives, spoke to reporters on arrival in Nigeria from South Africa after the recently concluded Extraordinary Session of the Pan-African Parliament.
Assessing the impact of the Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas-led leadership of the 10th House, the lawmaker said the House has made access to legislative information easy.
According to him, mechanisms for public participation and accountability have been put on the ground, thus enhancing an open and trusting relationship with citizens.
While holding the executive accountable, he added that the House of Representatives has proactively made information related to parliamentary operations, details of lawmakers, meeting agendas, Bills, debates, and voting records available.
Agbese said the perception of the country’s legislature was changing in the international community and can only get better.
He said this has further been highlighted at the 148th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly where the National Assembly was commended for its diplomatic efforts.
“At the just-concluded Pan-African Parliament’s extraordinary congress, I was surprised to know about what my fellow African lawmakers think about Nigeria.
“From my interactions with many, the Nigerian House of Representatives is now highly rated for its transparency, citizen participation, and accountability.
“There seems to be greater awareness about the leadership of the House led by the Rt Hon Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, Ph.D. African nations are paying attention to us.
“This is not rocket science. The House has taken some drastic steps such as consultations and public hearings that give citizens opportunities to provide feedback and demonstrate their interests.
“The House has also strengthened communication between legislators and their constituents and given opportunities for citizens, especially vulnerable groups, to give input.
“We are also aware of how well civil society groups have been carried along throughout the legislative processes. In all, Nigerians should be proud and I believe they are,” Agbese stated.
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