Senator Ndume Calls for Part-Time Senate, Pay Only for Sittings

Senator Ali Ndume (Borno South) told Trust TV on Friday, June 26, 2026, that the Nigerian Senate should become a part-time legislature, with senators paid only for the days they actually sit in plenary or committee sessions. He argued that lawmakers frequently go on recess and are not at their offices daily, so pay should be tied to attendance. Ndume also noted the recent emergency meeting on Wednesday to discuss the state police bill, questioning whether the legislation had already taken effect despite its swift passage.

Why does this matter to Nigerians? The proposal touches on the cost of governance and legislative efficiency. If senators were paid only for sitting days, the federal government could save billions of naira annually, redirecting funds to services like health, education, or infrastructure. At the same time, tying pay to attendance might incentivize more regular participation and deeper deliberation on bills, but it could also pressure lawmakers to rush legislation to meet sitting quotas, potentially undermining thorough oversight.

What should you consider? Would a part-time, attendance-based salary improve the Senate's work ethic and reduce wasteful spending, or would it encourage hasty lawmaking and weaken oversight? Think about how such a change could affect the quality of laws that shape your daily life, from security policies to economic policies, and whether the trade-off between cost savings and careful deliberation aligns with your expectations of good governance.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/06/26/nigerian-govt-should-make-senate-part-time-work-ndume/