Oversights Functions of the National Assembly in Nigeria: Issues and Challenges

International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) | Volume IV, Issue III, March 2020 | ISSN 2454–6186

Oversights Functions of the National Assembly in Nigeria: Issues and Challenges

Frederick Yeitiemone Agbedi¹, Fidelis Allen, Ph.D², Ucheoma O. Ukachikara, Ph.D^3
1,2,3Department of Political and Administrative Studies, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Abstract: The oversight functions of national legislatures of modern representative democracies have been accorded premium in the smooth functioning of democracy. The existing literature in the case of Nigeria, however, remains inadequate and segmented, despite the many media vibes about the activities of lawmakers in the country’s fledgling democracy. Thus, this paper looks at the case of the National Assembly in Nigeria, focusing on the challenges militating against the conduct of its oversight functions between 2007 and 2017. Relying on content analysis of transcribed interviews and participant observations, the paper argues that the effective performance of oversight functions of the National Assembly is affected by several limiting factors, which includes lack of adequate statutory funding. In the same vein, the dearth of expertise on the part of legislators and clerks are major barriers to effective performance. Therefore, among the recommendations regarding the issue of unhealthy interference of the executive in the affairs of the legislature, funds required for oversight activities should be provided early enough to enhance effective performance. The legislature should avoid government agencies providing the money and other resources they need to be able to carry out their oversight duties.

Keywords: Oversight functions. Nigeria. National Assembly. Issues. Challenges.

I. INTRODUCTION

The National Assembly is a key institutional component of modern representative democracies. Since the waves of democracy started blowing across the world, with African countries now recipients of the fourth wave, the importance of national parliaments in the proper governing of these countries has gained currency. Good governance is linked to good laws and legislation made by the parliament of a country. Laws are enacted to enhance the living conditions of citizens in society. In principle, governments consider the interests of citizens when making decisions and or making policies. Many government policies and programmes intended to improve the living conditions of citizens never get fully implemented with outcomes that suggest the achievement of objectives.

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