In a recent appearance on Channels TV’s “Politics Today,” Former Kano State Governor Ibrahim Shekarau expressed strong reservations about the relevance of a bicameral legislature in Nigeria, arguing that it significantly contributes to the burgeoning costs of governance. He advocated for a shift towards a more streamlined legislative structure, emphasizing the need for efficiency and reduced financial burdens on the nation.
“I have held the opinion, particularly after serving, and I have said it a number of times that we really don’t need the bicameral chamber. I don’t think we need such an arrangement. I don’t think we require that. One particular legislative arm of government will be quite sufficient. We either reduce the numbers or bring one into one chamber of the legislature. I think that would go a long way in reducing the cost of governance,” Shekarau stated during the interview.
The former governor cautioned against replicating the American system and proposed a more efficient approach to legislative representation in Nigeria. He argued that the consolidation of legislative functions into a single chamber could lead to cost savings without compromising the effectiveness of governance.
While acknowledging President Tinubu’s recent decision to cut foreign trip costs by 60%, Shekarau underscored the importance of stringent monitoring mechanisms to ensure compliance. Drawing from past experiences, he emphasized the need for accountability, urging the government to hold officials responsible for any violations of these cost-cutting measures.
Shekarau extended his recommendations beyond the legislative sphere, calling on the Tinubu administration to undertake a significant downsizing of government parastatals. He argued that an excess of appointees may not be necessary for effective governance, stressing the potential impact of reducing the number of appointees on curbing escalating governance costs.
“Another angle that I expect Mr. President to address is the number of appointees. I know in a Democratic process, once you are in government, you want too many people to appoint, to assist you. Some of them may not necessarily be required in terms of protective performance or services. Governors should come up with some minimum or maximum number of special assistants, right from the president, the vice president, and the ministers,” Shekarau advised.
Addressing the financial implications, Shekarau urged the government to consider either slashing the number of federal ministries or adhering to the existing law that mandates ministerial representation from all 36 states of the federation, including the Federal Capital. He highlighted that such a move would not only foster equitable representation but also contribute to fiscal responsibility.
Shekarau’s perspective adds a nuanced dimension to the ongoing discourse surrounding governance efficiency, financial prudence, and legislative structure in Nigeria, prompting further deliberation on potential reforms to enhance the nation’s governance landscape.