A member of the House of Representatives, Hon Mansur Manu Soro (Darazo/Ganjuwa Federal Constituency) has questioned the 1999 Constitution.
Manu is pushing for a constitutional amendment to reduce what he describes as the excessive powers of the Senate President and Speaker of the House in suspending lawmakers.
He was reacting to the recent suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central).
Manu Soro argued that the 1999 Constitution clearly outlines impeachment processes for the President and Governors but remains silent on suspending elected legislators.
He questioned whether Senate or House rules should have the authority to sideline an office created by the Constitution.
“When my senator, Abdul Ahmed Ningi (Bauchi Central), was suspended, my constituency lost its voice in the Senate. That’s why I drafted a bill to regulate the suspension of National Assembly members and ensure due process,” he stated.
His proposed amendment seeks to protect the representation of all 109 senatorial districts and 360 federal constituencies from arbitrary suspensions.
It also includes provisions for the compulsory retirement of political party executives seeking elective office to promote fairness in party politics.
Manu Soro further called for a review of how the Senate Committee on Ethics and Code of Conduct is chaired, warning against a system where committee heads serve at the pleasure of presiding officers.
“Democracy thrives when legislative institutions are strong and constituents’ voices are safeguarded,” he stated.
