The Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki has emphasized the need to review the security architecture in Nigeria especially those affecting the police, which is the arm majorly responsible for the maintenance of law and order in the country.
Expressing concern over the daily loss of lives in various states of the federation, he said the National Assembly is at the moment reviewing security-related law to ensure necessary reforms in areas such as increase in the power of the Police Service Commission, community and state policing, funding, personnel competence, human capacity, institutional leadership and motivation.
Senate President Bukola Saraki stated this when he appeared on RoyalFM special Edition of the Programme, Focal Point where he discussed issues of national interests, ranging from security, executive-legislative relationship, economy, his trial on false asset declaration, the Offa robbery incident and developmental matters in Kwara state.
Dr Saraki expressed concern that those responsible for the protection of lives and properties have failed in certain regards, but added that the National Assembly is open to suggestions from those in charge on what can be done to enhance their work.
On his link to the robbery incident that occurred in Offa in April, the former Kwara state Governor maintained his innocence. He alleged the Nigeria police of playing politics with the unfortunate incident which they have failed to back up with evidence.
While describing his CCT trial which lasted three years, one hundred and nineteen days as tough and a huge distraction, he however said it is great relief that at the end he was vindicated.
He also maintained that the trial was politically motivated following his dramatic emergence as Senate President. While thanking Nigerians and especially the people of Kwara for standing by him all through the trial, Dr Saraki said this has strengthened and motivated him the more to serve the people.
Dr Saraki also ruled out personal interest as a factor responsible for the seeming differences between the National Assembly and the Legislature, but explained this as one of the signs of a growing democracy.
The Senate President admitted that conflicts arise between the two arms of government at times, but said such disagreements are healthy and not to truncate the machinery of governance. He also added that the legislative arm, which is the youngest of the three arms is actually meant to check the others when necessary and not to serve as rubber stamp.
He described the eighth leadership as democratic and always willing to act in the interest of the common Nigerian.
While reacting to accusations of kicking out dissenting views, the number three citizen said the lawmaking body is always open to constructive criticism, but frowns at divisive tendencies or making allegations that are capable of dragging individuals or the institution in the mud.
While commenting on the recently passed “Not too young to run bill,” the former Governor said this will give more youths the needed opportunity to participate in governance. He urged the youths to join politics but urged them not to abuse the privilege.
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