Senate President Godswill Akpabio has called on President Bola Tinubu to issue a stern warning to ministers in his cabinet who repeatedly disregard invitations from the National Assembly. Akpabio’s comments came during a joint session of the National Assembly on Wednesday, December 19, 2024, when President Tinubu presented the 2025 budget estimates, which are projected to reach N49.7 trillion.
Akpabio emphasized the importance of accountability and respect for the legislative arm of government, stating that ministers who ignore invitations from the National Assembly undermine the democratic process. In his remark before the full house, consisting of both members of the Senate and the House of Representatives, the Senate President made it clear that such behavior should not be tolerated in Tinubu’s government.
“Those who disregard invitation by the National Assembly are not democratic and therefore have no place in your government,” Akpabio said, pointing out that such ministers do not embody the principles of democracy that are essential for the proper functioning of government. His statement has raised concerns about the tension between the executive and legislative branches, particularly when it comes to accountability and transparency.
The call for a warning comes in the wake of growing frustration among lawmakers, who have voiced concerns over the refusal of some ministers to honor invitations for hearings and briefings. Akpabio’s remark is seen as a direct response to these ongoing issues, aiming to reinforce the authority of the National Assembly and ensure that the executive branch remains responsive to legislative oversight.
In his address, President Tinubu presented the 2025 budget, outlining the government’s financial plans for the coming year, which include significant allocations for infrastructure, security, and social welfare. However, the presentation was overshadowed by Akpabio’s call for greater cooperation between the executive and legislative arms of government, as the National Assembly seeks to assert its role in the budget approval process.
