Part-Time Parliament Will Cripple Nigerian Democracy – Senate Insists on Full Compensation

Senate spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu has firmly dismissed any suggestion that lawmakers’ salaries should be affected by economic cost-cutting measures, particularly proposals for a part-time legislative system in Nigeria.

In a recent appearance on Channels Television, Adaramodu stated unequivocally that adopting a part-time National Assembly would be detrimental to Nigeria’s democracy. He argued that legislative operations play a vital role in sustaining democratic governance and warned that part-time service would translate to “part-time democracy.”

“If the parliament is on part-time, then it means democracy is on part-time. There is no democracy that derides its parliament and thrives,” he said.

Representing Ekiti South Senatorial District under the ruling party, Adaramodu emphasized that the 109 senators and 360 House of Representatives members carry the burden of both lawmaking and public representation. Beyond legislative duties, they are also expected to provide oversight and serve as accessible representatives of their constituencies.

He highlighted the frequent interaction between lawmakers and the citizens, stating that parliamentarians are often called upon for assistance in community and personal matters.

“We go home almost every time, and we are the ones they call when a baby is born for naming ceremony support. When someone is building a house, they look to us for help,” Adaramodu explained.

He questioned the logic behind paying part-time lawmakers the same as full-time ones if the structure of the parliament were to be changed, implying such a move would not truly lead to financial savings.

“If we are on part-time, can’t the same amount of money be paid to part-time legislators?” he asked, further underlining that the legislature remains the most accessible arm of government to Nigerians.

Adaramodu concluded that any attempt to weaken the legislature through part-time engagement is a direct threat to democratic stability in Nigeria.