Saraki Calls for Legislative Independence to Safeguard Nigeria's Democracy
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki emphasized the need for legislative independence at the June 12, 2026 edition of The Platform, organized by the Covenant Nation. Speaking in Abuja, Saraki warned that a legislature unable to say no to executive proposals fails its constitutional duty and merely performs a ceremonial function. He stressed that the framers of Nigeria's Constitution intentionally built friction between the executive and legislative arms to ensure checks and balances, calling this friction essential for freedom. Saraki described the legislature as a shield for democracy, noting that weak institutions allowed the annulment of the 1993 election despite public verdict. He argued that suppressing political tension does not eliminate it but causes grievances to erupt on the streets, underscoring the legislature's role in hearing and resolving dissent before it escalates. The former Kwara State governor urged citizens to recognize that stronger institutions, especially an independent legislature, are vital to preserving democracy and preventing unchecked government authority. He concluded that the remedy for democratic backsliding is not less politics but stronger institutions, with the legislature at the centre.