NASS Committed To Oversight As Foundation Of Democracy – Barau

The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, has reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to legislative oversight, describing it as the cornerstone of democratic governance.

Speaking at the 7th Annual Senator Abiola Ajimobi roundtable and the 75th posthumous birthday celebration of the late former governor of Oyo State, held yesterday at the University of Ibadan, Jibrin emphasised the critical role of oversight in ensuring accountability, transparency, and the checks and balances necessary for the effective use of public resources.

In a statement issued to journalists by his special adviser on media and publicity, Alhaji Ismail Mudashir, Jibrin highlighted the importance of legislative oversight during the event.

The roundtable, organised by the Senator Abiola Ajimobi Foundation (SAAF) in collaboration with the Institute for Peace and Strategic Studies, University of Ibadan, was themed “Legislative Oversight in Nigeria: Challenges and Prospects.”

“The role of legislative oversight in a democratic society cannot be overemphasised. It ensures accountability, transparency, and the critical checks and balances that enhance the effective utilisation of public funds,” he stated.

As the First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Senator Jibrin further underscored the legislature’s role as a watchdog, holding the executive branch accountable and safeguarding citizens’ interests.

“Through oversight functions, the legislature can investigate government activities, evaluate policies, and monitor the implementation of programs and projects for which funds have been appropriated.

“As we reflect on critical issues of national importance and the challenges and prospects of legislative oversight in Nigeria, I assure Nigerians that the 10th Assembly is committed to fulfilling its mandate while welcoming constructive feedback,” he added.

Commending the SAAF for preserving the legacy and philosophy of the late governor Ajimobi through the annual roundtable, Senator Jibrin emphasised that the topic, “Legislative Oversight: Challenges and Prospects,” was timely, as it fosters reflection on the legislature’s role in shaping the nation.

In response to questions, Senator Jibrin explained the decision to name the National Assembly Library after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“We named the National Assembly Library after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu because this marks the first time a former senator has been elected President of Nigeria.

“Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his wife, both former senators, have made historic contributions. This is why we chose to honour him this way,” he explained.

Addressing Nigeria’s refineries, Senator Jibrin revealed that the National Assembly has established committees to oversee their operations and ensure funds are utilised effectively.

“The Port Harcourt Refinery has resumed operations, and the Warri Refinery will soon follow. Those doubting this can visit the Port Harcourt Refinery and see for themselves.

“The Dangote Refinery is another remarkable project. Before it became operational, we conducted a thorough inspection and were impressed by the magnitude of the initiative. We are proud that a Nigerian could accomplish such a groundbreaking project,” he added.

The Deputy Senate President acknowledged ongoing challenges in the power sector but assured Nigerians of the government’s commitment to improving the electricity supply.

“Power supply has been a longstanding issue in this country. While previous administrations made significant efforts, the current government has designed new strategies to address the problem. It’s a work in progress, but we are determined to see it through,” he added.

The associates of Mr Dele Farotimi, an author and legal practitioner, said they are troubled by the blatant violations of his rights following his recent arrest and detention.

The group alleged irregularities surrounding his case in a statement issued by Takinlaami Taiwo Akinlam on behalf of Mr Dele Farotimi’s associates.

“Mr. Dele Farotimi, author of Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System, has become the target of criminal and civil litigations tied to his book. Despite his willingness to address these issues legally, his recent arrest and detention reflect a troubling disregard for procedural fairness and the rule of law.

“On November 11, 2024, the Nigeria Police Force, Zone 2 Command, invited Mr Farotimi about a defamation petition. He honoured the invitation on November 13, 2024, accompanied by his lawyer, and again on November 21, 2024. On both occasions, he cooperated fully and was allowed to leave.

“However, the situation escalated as police officers began targeting Mr Farotimi’s associates and staff to coerce his surrender. Irregularities in Arrest Procedures

On December 3, 2024, police officers, accompanied by a private individual alleged to be a chief security officer for a private citizen in Ekiti State, invaded Mr Farotimi’s law office in Lagos. This unlawful operation involved the arrest of Mr. Farotimi. Assaults on staff members of the office. The confiscation of staff members’ phones,” the statement alleged.

The group said Mr Farotimi was then transported through Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, and possibly Ondo States without coordination with police commands in these states before arriving in Ekiti State.

“This lack of coordination further underscores the irregularity of the operation. The Ekiti State Commissioner of Police later admitted that Mr Farotimi was arrested for “criminal defamation,” an offence expunged from the laws of Lagos State in 2011 and Ekiti State in 2021.

“On December 4, 2024, Mr Farotimi was remanded by an Ekiti State magistrate for an offence not recognised by the law. Bail was denied because a written bail application was required, contrary to standard practice for summary trials.

“On December 9, 2024, Mr Farotimi was taken to the Federal High Court in Ekiti State without prior notice to his legal team. Despite this procedural lapse, we can report that vigilant lawyers secured bail for him. He was granted bail after being arraigned on charges of cyberstalking and bullying.

However, on December 10, 2024, at the Ekiti Magistrate Court, Mr Farotimi was denied the right to representation by his Senior Advocate of Nigeria, contravening his constitutional rights and Section 9 of the Ekiti State Magistrate Court Laws of 2014. The court adjourned his bail application to December 20, 2024, leaving him in custody for 18 days over charges unrecognised by law or bailable by default.

“These events have significantly disrupted Mr Farotimi’s ability to prepare for multiple civil suits filed during his detention. As associates, we are also concerned about the toll this situation is taking on his family, particularly his 76-year-old mother, who has already suffered the loss of one child.

“We condemn the misuse of state resources and apparatus to persecute Mr Farotimi and call on the Nigerian authorities to facilitate the immediate release of Mr Farotimi on bail. Investigate the irregularities in his arrest and detention. Uphold the principles of due process and ensure a fair trial. This case is a test of the integrity of Nigeria’s justice system. We urge all individuals and organisations committed to justice, fairness, and the rule of law to join us in advocating for Mr Farotimi’s rights and freedom,” the group added.