The first year of the National Assembly has been a focal point for political assessment especially concerning the performance of ex-governors who now serve as senators having a shift from the executive to the legislature.
The analysis of the legislative contributions of ex-governors reveals the dynamics of their bill sponsorship and progression in their first year in the senate.
Leading the pack is Sen. Daniel Olugbenga (APC, Ogun East) who has emerged as a significant legislative force, sponsoring an impressive 13 bills. His bills span various sectors, such as health, education, media, constitution amendment, technology, regional development, and rural planning. Even though he had most of the bills among his colleagues, over 80 percent of them are stalled awaiting a second reading while the other bills are awaiting committee report.
Following closely is Sen. Orji Kalu of (APC, Abia North), with 12 sponsored bills. Although a second term member in the Senate, all his bills have lacked progression. Sen. Abubakar Bello (APCNiger North) sponsored 4 bills, Sen. Ibrahim Dankwambo (PDP, Gombe North), and Sen. Danjuma Goje (APC, Gombe Central), sponsored 3 and 2 bills, respectively. Just like their counterpart, their bills are yet to progress as they await second reading.
The Senate President, Sen. Godswill Akpabio (APC, Akwa Ibom, North West) was not left out of this as he sponsored two bills that have been stalled after the first reading.
Aliyu Wamakko (APC, Sokoto North) has 2 bills with no progress. In comparison, Sen Seriake Dickson (PDP, Bayelsa West), Sen Aminu Tambuwal (PDP, Sokoto South), and Sen. Adamu Mainasara Aliero (PDP, Kebbi Central) brought forth only a bill each, pointing to a lesser degree of engagement in the legislative process. This raises questions about the strategic priorities of these senators and their contributions to national discussions.
Conversely, the absence of any sponsored bills from Sen Adams Oshimhole (APC, Edo North) and Sen. Abubakar Yari (APC, Zamfara West) underscores a potential disengagement or strategic choice to prioritize other forms of political influence outside the legislative venues.
This lack of legislative activity may signal a need for both senators to reassess their roles and strategies within the assembly, especially in a political environment that increasingly values legislative footprints.
As ex-governors continue in the remaining year , it will be imperative for these leaders to leverage their positions effectively to address the challenges facing their constituents and the nation at large.
10th NASS Report Card: Read up on the performance of other senators and members of House and other specialized categories here
