Economic Pragmatism: Breaking the Cycle of Waste, a Push for Part-time Legislature in Nigeria

Lagos, Nigeria.

The debate over the adoption of a part-time legislature in Nigeria has sparked considerable discussion, particularly in light of the country’s economic struggles and the government’s ongoing efforts to revive the economy. Amid the diverse opinions from clergy,

civil society organizations, and concerned 52citizens, a notable voice is that of Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, who represents the Abia North senatorial district. Kalu’s proposal for a part-time legislature has gained significant traction, especially as reports suggest that the country’s bicameral legislature consumes a substantial portion of Nigeria’s financial resources.

Advocates argue that transitioning to a part-time legislature would not only reduce the costs of governance but also enhance the efficiency of legislative processes, potentially resulting in more impactful and citizen-focused legislation. The Legislature, as the arm of government responsible for lawmaking, has evolved from the days when monarchs unilaterally dictated laws. Nigeria currently operates a bicameral legislature, which comprises two independent chambers: the Senate and the House of Representatives.

The Senate, often referred to as the Red Chamber, consists of 109 Senators representing the three senatorial districts in each of the 36 states. The chamber is led by the Senate President and the Deputy Senate President, along with eight principal officers, including the Senate Leader, Minority Leader, Chief Whip, and their respective deputies. In contrast, the House of Representatives, also known as the Green Chamber, has 360 members, each representing a federal constituency. The number of constituencies per state is determined by population, reflecting the principle of proportional representation.

The House is headed by the Speaker, assisted by the Deputy Speaker and eight principal officers, similar to the structure of the Senate. The National Assembly is constitutionally tasked with various responsibilities, including lawmaking, representation, and oversight. Much of its work is carried out through specialized committees, which are staffed by Senators and House members selected based on their professional backgrounds and expertise. These committees play a critical role in scrutinizing bills, motions, and other legislative proposals, and they also intervene in the management of public institutions and the conduct of officials.

However, for a part-time legislature to be feasible, constitutional amendments would be necessary, and legislators would need to be prepared to relinquish their current lavish lifestyles and reduce their dependence on taxpayer funds. Currently, a Nigerian senator’s monthly salary and allowances total approximately N1,063,860. This includes a basic salary of N168,866.70, and allowances for various expenses such as vehicle maintenance, domestic staff, entertainment, utilities, and constituency activities. Some allowances are paid regularly along with the basic salary, while others, like furniture and severance gratuities, are paid once during a tenure. Vehicle allowances are provided as loans that must be repaid before the legislator leaves office. In comparison, members of the House of Representatives receive a monthly salary and allowance of about N600,000.

Reducing these expenses, along with adopting a part-time legislature, could significantly improve Nigeria’s economic outlook. A shift to a part-time legislature would allow legislators to engage in their own businesses and other professional interests while focusing on crafting effective laws that directly impact citizens’ lives. This approach could help curb the desperation that characterizes Nigeria’s political landscape, as only individuals genuinely committed to public service would be inclined to seek legislative office. Additionally, a part-time legislature would likely drive legislators to prioritize critical issues and reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies, enabling them to maintain stronger connections with their communities and professional backgrounds.

Ultimately, Nigeria’s economic rejuvenation depends on embracing sustainable and equitable solutions, such as a part-time legislature, and addressing the root causes of its financial challenges. By adopting this model, Nigeria could move toward a brighter future where the political class prioritizes the national interest, fostering a more inclusive and representative form of governance. Achieving this vision would also require curbing corruption, ensuring the efficient use of public funds, and promoting transparency within the government. However, without consensus, transparent, and dedicated legislators, a shift to a part-time legislature alone may not significantly impact the country’s economic situation.