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Peterside Rejoice Eneky
Senator Neda Imasuen, representing Edo South Senatorial District and Chair of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, has reaffirmed the independence of the National Assembly amid growing public concern over its perceived alignment with the executive arm of government.
In an exclusive interview, the senator tackled issues ranging from political defections and fears of a one-party state, to Nigeria’s security and economic direction.
On Alleged ‘Rubber Stamp’ Legislature
Senator Imasuen pushed back against criticism that the legislature merely endorses executive decisions without scrutiny. He emphasized that good governance depends on cooperation, not confrontation.
“If a bill is good, it deserves support whether it’s from the executive or a fellow senator. If it’s bad, I won’t support it. That’s not rubber stamping. That’s responsible legislation,” he said.
On Political Defections and Party Dominance
Responding to rising anxiety over mass defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Imasuen said defection is not unconstitutional and should not be viewed as a threat to democracy.
“There was a time the PDP controlled nearly every state in the country. That didn’t mean we were a one-party state. Politicians gravitate toward stability. Right now, the opposition is weak. It’s not a crime to move,” he stated, highlighting the internal turmoil in opposition parties like the PDP and Labour Party.
Institutional Expansion vs Economic Reality
The senator also addressed the proliferation of bills to create new universities and institutions, stressing that while senators have the right to propose such legislation, not all proposals will be financially feasible.
“A senator has the privilege to introduce a bill that’s the essence of representation. But whether or not it gets funded is another issue. If the budget doesn’t support it, it remains a bill,” he explained.
Security Summit Offers Hope
Senator Imasuen voiced confidence in the upcoming National Security Summit, noting that the difference lies in the leadership. He expressed belief that President Tinubu’s administration is committed to implementing real outcomes.
“In the past, summit recommendations were shelved. But with President Tinubu’s seriousness on security, I believe this summit will be different,” he affirmed.
10th Senate: A Challenging Start
Reflecting on the Senate’s two-year journey, Imasuen admitted it has not been easy but commended the administration’s courage in making hard choices.
“We took over during an economic crisis. The previous government left things in disarray. But President Tinubu has taken bold steps, such as pushing through key tax reforms. He puts national interest above political convenience,” he said.
He also pointed out the need for proper population data to drive policy and planning, expressing hope that the administration would confront the challenge head-on.
Senator Imasuen concluded by urging unity and collaborative governance, emphasizing that Nigeria’s challenges require a shared sense of responsibility.
“Insecurity, economic recovery, democratic growth none of these can be tackled in isolation. We must all work together,” he said.
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