Akpabio Speaks on Legislative-Executive Relations: “We’re Not Elected to Fight” — Highlights from Two Years of Tinubu’s Government

 

In a compelling statement that sheds light on the relationship between the Nigerian legislature and the executive arm of government, Senate President Godswill Akpabio has emphasized the importance of cooperation over confrontation. Speaking in an upcoming documentary commemorating the second anniversary of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, Akpabio made it clear that lawmakers were elected not to fight but to foster unity and drive national development.

This statement is especially significant in Nigeria’s democratic journey, where the dynamics between the legislature and the executive have often been marked by tension, power struggles, and political gridlocks. But Akpabio’s words signal a shift — one that underscores the need for synergy between the arms of government if Nigeria is to achieve meaningful progress.

“When elected into the National Assembly, whether in the Senate or the House of Representatives, your constituents will not give you boxing gloves. It’s not a boxing tournament. You are there to work in a bipartisan manner for the interest of Nigeria.”

 

Understanding the Role of the Legislature in Nigeria’s Democracy

To appreciate the weight of Akpabio’s remarks, it’s important to first understand the constitutional role of the National Assembly in Nigeria. The legislature, which includes the Senate and the House of Representatives, is tasked with making laws, approving budgets, and providing oversight over the executive arm of government. This separation of powers is meant to ensure accountability and checks and balances.

However, this system only works when there is mutual respect and cooperation. Excessive confrontation or political rivalry between the legislative and executive arms can stall governance, delay critical bills, and ultimately hurt the citizens. Akpabio is calling for a change in mindset — one that puts Nigeria first.

Akpabio's Call for Bipartisanship: A Message to Lawmakers

Akpabio’s analogy of "not receiving boxing gloves" when elected to the National Assembly is a powerful metaphor that deserves unpacking. It suggests that lawmakers should abandon the combative posture that often characterizes Nigerian politics. Instead, they should embrace dialogue, unity, and shared purpose.

“You are there to work in a bipartisan manner for the interest of Nigeria,” Akpabio stated.

This is a clear call for bipartisanship — a principle where politicians from different political parties set aside their differences to pursue common goals. In a country as politically diverse and ethnically pluralistic as Nigeria, bipartisanship can be a powerful tool for nation-building.

Akpabio is reminding lawmakers that the National Assembly is not an arena for personal or party battles, but a space for crafting legislation that will transform the lives of ordinary Nigerians.

Two Years of Tinubu’s Administration: A Cordial Relationship

Akpabio went on to describe the relationship between the legislature and the executive under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership as “cordial”. This is notable because such harmony has not always been the case in Nigeria’s political history. Under some past administrations, the National Assembly and the Presidency were locked in fierce battles over budget approvals, ministerial appointments, and other constitutional matters.

But according to Akpabio, this has not been the case in the past two years.

“If you spend all your energy fighting the Executive, who will work for Nigeria?” he asked.

This rhetorical question highlights the futility of unnecessary political conflict. Akpabio is essentially saying that while oversight and independence are important, constant antagonism can paralyze governance. In contrast, collaboration allows both arms of government to focus on solving Nigeria’s pressing issues — from insecurity and unemployment to inflation and infrastructure deficits.

Why Akpabio’s Statement Matters for National Development

Godswill Akpabio’s comments come at a crucial time in Nigeria’s journey toward economic and political stability. The country is facing numerous challenges — including currency devaluation, rising fuel prices, youth unemployment, and security threats in various regions. At such a time, political unity is not just desirable — it is essential.

The statement aligns with President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, which is built on promises of economic recovery, infrastructure development, and social welfare. If the legislative arm supports and enables these initiatives rather than obstructing them, there is a greater chance that the policies will reach the grassroots and make tangible impacts.

Political Stability and Investor Confidence

From an economic perspective, political harmony — especially between the legislature and executive — also sends the right signal to investors and development partners. No serious investor wants to pour money into a country where the government is in perpetual crisis. By promoting unity, the Tinubu administration, with support from leaders like Akpabio, can help foster an environment of political stability and economic growth.

Critics and Concerns: The Danger of Being Too Close

While Akpabio’s call for cooperation is commendable, it has also sparked some concerns among political analysts. There’s a fine line between cooperation and complicity. Some worry that an overly friendly relationship between the two arms could erode the independence of the legislature, reducing its ability to hold the executive accountable.

True democracy requires a legislature that is collaborative yet critical, cooperative yet courageous enough to ask the tough questions. It remains to be seen whether this “cordial” relationship will also deliver on transparency, accountability, and effective oversight.

Nonetheless, Akpabio’s statements reflect a vision for national unity and shared governance, which could serve as a blueprint for future administrations.

What Nigerians Expect from Their Lawmakers

The Nigerian people want results. They want laws that improve healthcare, provide quality education, create jobs, and make security a reality. They are tired of political bickering and would prefer to see leaders working together rather than tearing each other apart.

Akpabio’s reminder that lawmakers are “not elected to fight” speaks directly to this desire. The average Nigerian does not care which political party a lawmaker belongs to — they care about the quality of representation and the effectiveness of government policies.

By focusing on collaboration and legislative productivity, the National Assembly can restore public trust and play a pivotal role in transforming Nigeria’s future.

Conclusion: A Call for Purposeful Leadership

Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s message is a timely reminder of what leadership in a democracy should look like. His emphasis on bipartisanship, mutual respect, and shared vision resonates with the needs of a country at a crossroads. With the Tinubu administration marking two years in office, it’s time for all arms of government to recommit to the Nigerian project.

“When elected into the National Assembly, whether in the Senate or the House of Representatives, your constituents will not give you boxing gloves. It’s not a boxing tournament. You are there to work in a bipartisan manner for the interest of Nigeria.”

“If you spend all your energy fighting the Executive, who will work for Nigeria?”

These are not just quotes — they are calls to action. Nigeria’s lawmakers have a unique opportunity to make history, not by fighting the executive, but by working hand-in-hand to deliver good governance.