The legislature and the Challenges of Institutional Efficiency in Nigeria's Fourth Republic

Abstract

Abstract Modern democracy is built on the informed and active participation of the citizens. The legislative institution represents the platform for such participation. In Nigeria, the National Assembly which symbolizes the arena of participation by the citizens derives its life from the constitution. Given its constitutional and extra constitutional roles therefore, the National Assembly is a pillar of current democratic practice in the country. However, evidence suggests that the legislature is challenged by some factors in the discharge of its responsibilities. This paper examines some of these challenges. Through an examination of secondary materials, the study finds that some of the challenges confronting the National Assembly in Nigeria derive from problems confronting the larger society. Equally, the existence of such challenges has negative consequences for governance in Nigeria. While the challenges are not insurmountable, there is a need for concerted efforts from state and non-state actors in order for the legislature to fully occupy its prime of place in Nigeria.