Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has defended President Bola Tinubu over his recent actions, arguing that the president acted within the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution and followed the appropriate legislative procedures.
The Abia North senator also dismissed suggestions that members of the National Assembly simply approve whatever the president wants, insisting that he makes decisions based on his personal convictions and understanding of the issues before the legislature.
Kalu made the remarks during an appearance on Arise Television on Monday, November 9, where he spoke about the relationship between the executive and the legislature.
He maintained that the National Assembly remains an independent institution, stressing that lawmakers have the freedom to support or oppose decisions depending on their individual positions.
To strengthen his argument, Kalu compared Tinubu’s administration with that of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, accusing the former leader of using the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to go after some state governors.
He specifically mentioned former Bayelsa State Governor Diepreye Alamieyeseigha as an example of what he described as the misuse of government institutions during Obasanjo’s tenure.
The senator further discussed the different voting procedures available to lawmakers, explaining how decisions are reached within the National Assembly.
Kalu’s comments come amid public debate over the legislature’s relationship with the presidency and growing questions about how independently lawmakers exercise their constitutional responsibilities.
