Benedict Etanabene, the lawmaker representing Sapele/Uvwie Federal Constituency of Delta State in the House of Representatives, has criticized Nigerian politicians for prioritizing approval from President Bola Tinubu over serving the people, especially in the context of the rushed passage of the State Police Bill. Speaking during an interview on Arise Television on Saturday, Etanabene, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), expressed deep concern over what he described as a lack of proper legislative scrutiny and democratic process.
He argued that many lawmakers are more interested in gaining praise from the president than in ensuring policies benefit ordinary Nigerians. “Many politicians are more focused on impressing President Tinubu than serving citizens,” Etanabene stated. He added that some legislators care less about whether their actions are right or wrong, as long as they receive recognition from their leaders. This mindset, he said, undermines the integrity of governance and weakens public trust in institutions.
The criticism stems directly from the swift handling of the State Police Bill. Etanabene pointed out that although the bill had been previously debated and eventually receded by the legislature, a new version was introduced by the executive branch on a Wednesday. By Thursday, lawmakers were pressured to pass it without sufficient time for thorough examination. “Some of us didn’t sleep that night because we went clause by clause looking at it and trying to rush it,” he revealed, emphasizing that such haste is not how legislation should be handled.
As an opposition party member, Etanabene noted that his party had access to the document and wanted to ensure a clause-by-clause debate. He stressed that even if opposition members had supported the executive’s version, the process still needed to follow due diligence. The rapid timeline, he argued, left little room for meaningful discussion or public consultation, raising concerns about transparency and accountability.
Etanabene’s remarks highlight growing tensions within Nigeria’s legislative framework, particularly around the balance of power between the executive and the legislature. His comments also reflect broader frustrations among critics who believe that critical national policies are being pushed through with insufficient scrutiny. As debates continue on the State Police Bill and its implications for security and civil liberties, Etanabene’s warning underscores the need for a more deliberate and inclusive legislative process.
The issue remains a focal point in national discourse, with stakeholders calling for reforms that prioritize public interest over political favor. Moving forward, the way this bill is implemented and monitored will likely shape perceptions of democratic governance in Nigeria.
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