Senate Struggles for Independence, Uncertain Whether It Represents Tinubu or People – Datti Baba-Ahmed

Former Labour Party vice-presidential candidate, Datti Baba-Ahmed, has criticised the Nigerian Senate, saying the upper chamber has struggled to maintain its independence and remains uncertain about whether it represents the executive or the Nigerian people.

Baba-Ahmed, who was the keynote speaker at the Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed Colloquium, said the Senate had been denied the “variety and vibrancy” necessary for effective representation.

Speaking on the Senate yesterday, today and the future, he identified four defining attributes of the institution, with the first being its struggle for independence due to what he described as repeated incursions by the executive arm of government.

“The Senate has struggled for independence,” Baba-Ahmed said, adding that there had been “too many” examples of executive interference to list.

He also argued that the Senate had been denied variety and vibrancy, while raising concerns over the chamber’s uncertainty about who it truly represents.

“The Senate struggles to know whom they represent. Is it the almighty executive led by the president? Or is it the people that the Senate is representing?” he asked.

Baba-Ahmed said the question was fundamental, arguing that lawmakers who choose to defend the independence of the legislature and represent the interests of the people could put their political careers at risk.

According to him, lawmakers often face a choice between representing their political “boss,” “benefactor”, or “leader” and standing firmly with the people.

“If you represent the people, you are at risk. Your seat is at risk,” he said.

He expressed hope for a Senate populated by lawmakers willing to defend the rights of citizens and assert the independence of the legislature.

Baba-Ahmed particularly praised Senator Ireti Kingibe, describing her as a leader whose importance becomes evident when the rights of the people are threatened.

“I long for a Senate that is full of people like her,” he said, stressing that such leaders may not always be noticed until they take a stand when citizens’ rights are breached.