Stakeholders have called for credible elections in Nigeria, saying the legitimacy of lawmakers depends on a transparent and trustworthy electoral process.
Speaking at the National Assembly Open Week in Abuja, former Archbishop of Abuja, John Onaiyekan, said lawmakers are representatives of the people and must emerge through credible elections.
“The process that brings lawmakers into power must be credible,” he said, urging legislators to always put the interests of Nigerians first.
The Executive Director of the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC), Clement Nwankwo commended the 10th National Assembly for its constitutional review efforts, legislative reforms, digital innovation and engagement with citizens.
However, he noted that Nigerians expect stronger oversight of the Executive, greater transparency and broader public participation in lawmaking.
“The Legislature is at its strongest not when it agrees with the Executive, but when it ensures government remains accountable to the people,” Nwankwo said.
He urged the Assembly to prioritise constitutional amendments, strengthen laws for credible elections, improve inclusion—especially for women—and make oversight more effective and evidence-based.
Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Masari, praised the Open National Assembly initiative, describing the House as truly living up to its reputation as “the People’s House.”
Former Senator Shehu Sani also urged lawmakers to enact laws that directly benefit Nigerians.
Executive Secretary of the National Assembly Library, Henry Nwawuba, said the Open Week demonstrates the legislature’s commitment to transparency, public engagement and democratic governance.
The event, themed “Three Years of the 10th National Assembly: Advancing Transparency, Inclusion and Reform,” featured goodwill messages from several stakeholders who called for reforms that strengthen democracy and public trust.
