Senate President Godswill Akpabio has reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to transparency and public engagement, declaring that Parliament exists to serve Nigerians and should never be seen as an institution designed to exclude the people. He made the remarks while declaring open the 2026 National Assembly Open Week in Abuja on Tuesday.
Akpabio stressed that constructive criticism is essential to strengthening democracy, encouraging citizens to actively engage with the legislative process by attending public hearings, scrutinising bills and holding lawmakers accountable. He noted that informed public participation helps improve legislation and deepen confidence in democratic institutions.
Addressing concerns about the relationship between the National Assembly and the Executive, the Senate President dismissed suggestions that cooperation with President Bola Tinubu’s administration amounts to legislative surrender. He argued that Parliament does not prove its independence by creating unnecessary conflict but by supporting policies that serve the national interest while questioning and improving those that require greater scrutiny.
Akpabio also praised the cordial relationship between the Senate and the House of Representatives over the past three years, describing it as one built on mutual respect and collaboration. According to him, the harmony between both chambers has enabled lawmakers to discharge their constitutional responsibilities more effectively.
He concluded by urging Nigerians to regard the National Assembly as their institution, insisting that democracy thrives when citizens remain informed, engaged and willing to challenge their representatives where necessary. “Parliament was never built to keep the people out. It was built to bring them in,” he said.
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