By Chibuike Nwabuko
In the heart of Nigeria’s political landscape, the roles of the legislature and judiciary are meant to embody the essence of democracy—checks and balances, accountability, and representation. However, as the country grapples with mounting challenges, these institutions have increasingly devolved into mere facilitators of executive power, often perceived as “errand boys” rubber-stamping decisions that profoundly affect the lives of ordinary citizens.
Historically, Nigeria’s legislature and judiciary have played crucial roles in the country’s governance. The National Assembly was designed to represent the diverse voices of the populace, while the judiciary was meant to uphold the rule of law and ensure justice. Yet, in recent years, this dynamic has shifted dramatically. The once-vibrant debates in the chambers of the legislature have been replaced by a culture of acquiescence, where legislative members prioritize loyalty to the executive over their constitutional responsibilities.
Inside the National Assembly, the atmosphere has changed. Many legislators, under the influence of party politics and executive pressures, have found themselves sidelining critical issues that matter to their constituents. Laws and policies are often passed with minimal scrutiny, reflecting an unsettling trend of complacency rather than robust debate. For instance, budget approvals and crucial bills are frequently expedited without thorough examination, leading to concerns over misallocation of resources and lack of accountability.
A former member of the National Assembly, speaking anonymously, lamented, “It’s disheartening to see how discussions are stifled. Many of us know what our people need, but the pressure to conform to the executive’s agenda often overrides our duty to our constituents.”
Parallel to this, the judiciary’s independence has come under siege. Once regarded as the guardian of justice, the courts now often appear beholden to the executive branch. Allegations of political interference and corruption have become rampant, leading to a pervasive climate of fear among judges and legal practitioners. High-profile cases that challenge executive authority frequently languish, as judges hesitate to make decisions that could provoke political backlash.
Legal experts express concern about the judiciary’s waning influence. “When the courts fail to act independently, it sends a troubling message about the rule of law,” states a prominent lawyer. “Citizens lose faith in a system that is meant to protect them, and this is incredibly damaging to our democracy.”
The consequences of this erosion are felt acutely by the Nigerian populace. Citizens are increasingly disillusioned with a political system that appears to disregard their needs. Protests and civil disobedience have become more common, reflecting a growing frustration with the disconnect between government actions and the realities faced by everyday Nigerians. Issues such as unemployment, insecurity, and inadequate healthcare are often left unaddressed, further fueling public anger.
At community forums across the country, voices of frustration echo. “We no longer feel represented,” says a local activist. “The legislature and judiciary are meant to serve us, but they seem more interested in serving the interests of those in power.”
In light of this troubling landscape, many advocates are calling for comprehensive reforms aimed at restoring the integrity of the legislature and judiciary. Suggestions range from enhancing the independence of the judiciary to promoting transparency and accountability within the legislative process. Civil society organizations are mobilizing to educate citizens about their rights and to encourage greater civic engagement in governance.
As Nigeria stands at a crossroads, the imperative for these institutions to reclaim their roles as champions of democracy has never been clearer. Only by prioritizing the needs of the populace over political expediency can the legislature and judiciary begin to restore public trust and reinforce the democratic foundations upon which the nation was built.
The current state of Nigeria’s legislature and judiciary as mere “errand boys” serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of democracy. For the nation to progress, a collective effort is needed—one that demands accountability, encourages active participation, and ultimately reaffirms the vital roles these institutions play in the lives of every Nigerian. The future of Nigeria’s democracy hinges on their ability to rise above the status quo and truly serve the people.
