POLITICS TODAY

[8/14, 12:02 PM] nasirdambatta: The United Global Resolve for Peace (UGRFP) has called on the National Assembly to enact a law that will strip defecting lawmakers of their seats.

Shalom Olaseni, Executive Director, UGRFP, in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja, said the spate of defections among lawmakers had become worrying.

He called on the Supreme Court to make clarifications on the oversight and other roles of the National Assembly to avoid usurpation.

“In the attempt to save our democracy and country from anarchy, firstly, the National Assembly must reintroduce and pass the bill that strips defectors within the National and State Assemblies of their seats of power as a necessary legal caution to stem thoughtless, un-principled carpet crossing with its attendant negative intrigues.

“Secondly, the Supreme Court must as a matter of urgency interpret Sections 88 and 89 of the Constitution which gives the power of oversight functions to the National Assembly to investigate on law and order, good governance, corruption and management of public funds in order to strengthen checks and balances in government,’’ he said.

The executive director, condemned the recent siege in the National Assembly by operatives of the Directorate if State Services (DSS).

Olaseni lauded the Acting President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, for prompt reaction on the blockage and dismissal of the former DSS boss, Lawal Daura.

He said that the commitment of Matthew Seiyefa, Acting Director-General, DSS, to reviewing unlawful detentions and human rights violations was commendable and timely.

Olaseni called on the Nigeria Police to emulate the DSS in its latest move and be guided strictly by legal parameters in the exercise of its powers.

NAN