In the wake of escalating tensions surrounding allegations of budget padding within the National Assembly, the Save Nigeria Forum (SNF) on Monday warned opposition groups to desist from undermining the critical oversight role of the legislative arm of government.
Save Nigeria Forum (SNF), a prominent Civil Society Organisation (CSO) dedicated to promoting good governance and accountability.
The Group in a statement co-signed by Convener, Abdul Ahmed and Executive Director, Mansur Adegbite, described the calls for their resignation of the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas as baseless and politically motivated.
While expressing grave concern over the surge of unfounded accusations and efforts to tarnish the integrity of the National Assembly, particularly concerning alleged instances of budget padding, the Group averred that such actions will not only jeopardize the credibility of the legislative institution but also pose a threat to the foundational principles of democracy upon which Nigeria is built.
Reaffirming the constitutional mandate of the National Assembly to scrutinize executive proposals and ensure transparency in the allocation of public funds, the SNF underscored the indispensability of robust oversight mechanisms in fostering governmental accountability and nurturing public trust.
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The organization lamented the exploitation of genuine concerns surrounding budgetary processes by certain opposition factions for political gain, cautioning against the dissemination of baseless accusations and the propagation of divisive narratives that risk eroding public confidence in democratic institutions.
In a resolute stance against attempts to undermine the credibility of the National Assembly, the SNF urged all stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organizations, and the media, to uphold the sanctity of democratic principles and refrain from engaging in actions detrimental to national unity and cohesion.
Moreover, the SNF called upon the leadership of the National Assembly to remain steadfast in their dedication to serving the interests of the Nigerian populace and safeguarding democratic norms.
Emphasizing the imperative of unity and collaboration in confronting the nation’s challenges, the organization reiterated its support for efforts aimed at promoting accountability, transparency, and good governance within the country.
Meanwhile, the Forum passed a vote of confidence in the leadership of Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio, the Senate President, and Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, just as they dismissed calls for their resignation as baseless and politically motivated.
The organization affirmed its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy and advancing the collective interests of its citizens.
TheWitness
