Akpabio Defends National Assembly’s Ties With Tinubu, Says Legislature Has No Duty to Fight Executive

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has defended the close working relationship between the National Assembly and President Bola Tinubu, insisting that lawmakers are not constitutionally required to be in constant conflict with the executive arm of government.

Speaking at the opening of the 2026 National Assembly Open Week in Abuja on Tuesday, Akpabio said the legislature remains committed to partnering with the Tinubu administration whenever it serves Nigeria’s national interest. He stressed that cooperation between both arms of government should not be mistaken for a loss of legislative independence.

“The National Assembly exists to serve Nigerians, not itself,” Akpabio said, adding that parliament must remain transparent, accessible and accountable to the people. He described democracy as a system that flourishes when citizens actively participate in governance and engage with their elected representatives.

Emphasising the purpose of the Open Week initiative, the Senate President said the National Assembly belongs to Nigerians and should not be viewed as an institution reserved for lawmakers alone.

“These walls were never meant to keep Nigerians out. They were built to welcome them in—not merely as spectators of democracy, but as its rightful owners,” he said.

Akpabio urged Nigerians to scrutinise legislative activities, attend public hearings and openly challenge lawmakers when necessary. According to him, constructive criticism strengthens democratic institutions and builds public confidence in governance.

“We invite Nigerians not merely to observe us but to engage with us, not merely to applaud where they agree but to challenge us where they believe we can do better. A parliament that listens becomes wiser. A democracy that listens becomes stronger,” he added.