Senate President Godswill Akpabio has called on members of the National Assembly to ignore critics who have branded the legislature a “rubber stamp” of the executive, insisting that such labels are both misleading and unfair.
Speaking during a joint session held in honour of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the National Assembly Complex on Thursday, Akpabio defended the integrity of the 10th Assembly and reaffirmed its commitment to national development, democratic principles, and the welfare of the Nigerian people.
“We will not be distracted by noise from the sidelines,” Akpabio declared. “Ours is a duty to the people, and we remain focused on making laws and taking decisions that will improve the lives of Nigerians.”
He praised the unity and sense of purpose demonstrated by the lawmakers, stating that the cooperation between the legislative and executive arms is not a sign of weakness, but a reflection of shared responsibility and patriotism.
Akpabio also emphasized the legislature’s independence, stating that partnership with the executive does not equate to subservience. “Constructive collaboration is necessary in a democracy. It does not mean surrendering our oversight functions or abandoning our constitutional duties.”
The Senate President urged his colleagues to remain steadfast in their legislative mission, ignore distractions from detractors, and continue working for a better Nigeria under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu.