As the 10th Senate marks its two-year mid-term, public expectations remain largely unmet, with legislative productivity falling short. Despite promises from Senate President Godswill Akpabio to prioritize Nigerians’ welfare, the absence of a formal legislative agenda has hindered measurable progress.
Conflicting reports on legislative output have further clouded the Senate’s performance. Akpabio claims 96 out of 844 bills were passed, while Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele reports 108 out of 983. This discrepancy raises questions about the chamber’s efficiency and transparency.
The Senate’s legislative focus has included bills such as the Appropriation Acts, National Anthem Act, Cybercrime Act, and the Student Loan Act. However, the passage of multiple overlapping budgets, including the 2023 and 2024 appropriations, has raised concerns about fiscal management and the potential for budgetary confusion.
Additionally, the Senate’s oversight role has been criticized for lacking effectiveness. Incomplete investigations and unfulfilled promises have left Nigerians questioning the chamber’s commitment to accountability and transparency.
In summary, while the Senate has enacted some legislation, its overall performance in meeting public expectations remains under scrutiny. The absence of a clear legislative agenda and inconsistent reporting contribute to a perception of inefficiency and unfulfilled promises.
