The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has affirmed that the 10th House under his leadership has embraced a strategy of dialogue, consensus-building, and institutional collaboration with the Executive arm of government, rather than engaging in open confrontation.
Speaking as the Guest Lecturer at the 5th Lecture Series of Nasarawa State University, Keffi, the Speaker presented a lecture titled “Legislating Under Pressure: The Realities of Lawmaking in Nigeria.” He explained that the House’s approach is designed to foster effective governance and enhance democratic processes in Nigeria.
“Rather than reverting to subservience or open defiance, we emphasise dialogue, consensus, and inclusive leadership,” Speaker Abbas said, stressed that informal consultations between the legislature and executive help resolve potential conflicts early without compromising legislative autonomy.
He highlighted key reforms initiated under the 10th House, such as strengthening legislative caucuses, encouraging open debate before plenary sessions, repositioning the Office of the Whip as a mediator, and promoting peer mentoring among lawmakers.
“These efforts instill values of informed participation, shared responsibility, and collective accountability,” he said.
Speaker Abbas also disclosed that the House is working toward enacting a legal framework for constituency projects through a Constituency Development Fund, inspired by models from India and Kenya. This, he said, would ensure transparency, equitable distribution of resources, and focus on core legislative duties.
He further revealed that the House has institutionalised regular Legislative Town Halls across geopolitical zones, with the next scheduled for June 27–28 in Zaria, Kaduna State. The initiative aimed to deepen public participation and accountability.
The Speaker proposed additional reforms including televised plenaries beyond the current Thursday broadcasts, electronic voting with roll-call publications, stronger collaboration with anti-corruption agencies, and the creation of a Legislative Communications Bureau to counter misinformation and promote public understanding of parliamentary activities.
On improving representation, he stressed the importance of civic education and devolution of development responsibilities to local governments, which would reduce the undue pressure on federal lawmakers to deliver local projects.
“Legislating under pressure is not an abstract idea but a daily reality,” Abbas stated, citing global examples from South Africa, Kenya, Ghana, and India. He noted that while pressures exist in all democracies, strong institutions and innovative approaches can transform them into opportunities for performance and accountability.
He concluded by affirming the 10th House’s resolve to function as both a partner in governance and a credible watchdog over public funds.
