Rufai Oseni, anchor of Arise Television’s Morning Show, has raised questions about the ability of Nigeria’s National Assembly to independently check executive power following Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s rejection of the acting-president title.
Oseni spoke on Monday while discussing President Bola Tinubu’s extended stay outside Nigeria. Vice President Kashim Shettima was also away from the country during the period under discussion.
Some political associates had reportedly referred to Akpabio as acting president, prompting the Senate president to clarify that he did not occupy that position.
According to Oseni, Akpabio’s decision to distance himself from the title was understandable in the circumstances but also raised wider questions about the relationship between the legislature and executive.
He argued that the National Assembly should be capable of exercising its constitutional responsibilities independently and serving as a check on presidential authority.
Oseni referred to the National Assembly’s endorsement of the state of emergency imposed in Rivers State as evidence that could shape public expectations of the legislature.
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He recalled that the emergency rule followed a political dispute in the state and said lawmakers approved the President’s action through voice votes.
The presenter questioned whether Nigerians should expect the same National Assembly to mount a strong challenge against the executive on other constitutional matters.
He specifically questioned whether Akpabio could effectively lead the legislature in confronting the executive while also operating within the political environment that produced the current leadership.
Oseni stressed that the principle of separation of powers requires the legislature to function as a co-equal arm of government rather than merely supporting executive decisions.
His remarks have contributed to an ongoing national conversation about constitutional checks and balances, presidential succession and the role of the National Assembly.
The debate has become particularly relevant whenever both the President and Vice President are outside the country, as questions about constitutional authority and institutional responsibilities come to the forefront.
