Former Governor of Abia State, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, has expressed his support for the implementation of a part-time legislative system at both the state and federal levels.
In his argument for a part-time legislature, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, the former Chief Whip of the Nigerian Senate and a member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), who represents Abia North senatorial district, highlighted the potential for such a reform to not only lower the overall cost of governance but also improve the public’s trust in the government.
During a recent interview, Senator Kalu emphasized the potential benefits of a part-time legislature.
He stated, “I believe it would be a very constructive idea if my colleagues and other members of the Houses of Assembly agree to a three-month sitting period to initiate a constitutional amendment. This would enable us to convene only four times a year, and if any emergencies arise, there will be an additional emergency sitting. We could then conduct a presidential bid on this basis and return to our respective duties, rather than maintaining a full-time legislative schedule.”
In his proposal, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu emphasized the adoption of a part-time legislative system should not be limited to the Senate and the House of Representatives, but should also include all state house of Assembly.
Sen. Kalu continued “If we are to pursue a regional government model, it would also necessitate that the ministers and legislators be the same individuals across the different regions. I have been contemplating ways in which we can reduce government expenditure in Nigeria, as the country is in dire need of fiscal resources.
“I will encourage the President and the National Assembly to enact the appropriate legislation to facilitate these changes. This will benefit him, the system, and ultimately, the populace as a whole,” he stated.
Kalu went on to clarify that, contrary to the common misconceptions among Nigerians, the compensation received by senators is not excessive. “However, I would urge my fellow Nigerians and legislative colleagues to swiftly amend the Constitution, enabling the Senate and House of Representatives, as well as the 36 state Houses of Assembly, to transition to a part-time sitting arrangement.
“This measure would serve to enhance public trust and provide much-needed relief to the Nigerian people,” the former governor explained.
