The Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has issued a formal response to recent criticisms made by Pastor Tunde Bakare, addressing his remarks concerning the institution’s role and conduct.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Yemi Adaramodu, the Senate Spokesperson, expressed the Senate’s disapproval of Pastor Bakare’s comments, which were deemed as “sweeping generalisations and disparaging commentary” aimed at the National Assembly.
Adaramodu stated, “While the Senate respects the right of every citizen to express views on the state of the nation, we are constrained to respond when such commentary crosses the line into unwarranted invective and misleading assertions that risk eroding public trust in democratic institutions.
“However, his most recent statements veer away from constructive criticism into rhetoric, unfortunately laced with contempt and unsubstantiated claims.”
Pastor Bakare, during his Easter Sunday message, had criticized the National Assembly, describing it as a “haven for legislative rascality” and accusing it of being subservient to the executive arm of government.
The Senate’s response highlighted Pastor Bakare’s political background, noting his previous roles as a vice-presidential candidate and a presidential aspirant.
“While he remains a respected cleric, his role as a prominent political figure cannot be discounted when assessing the lens through which his comments are made,” the statement read.
Addressing specific allegations, the Senate clarified that it cannot comment on matters currently before the courts, emphasizing its respect for the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary.
Adaramodu said, “We also wish to note that Pastor Bakare is not only a cleric and political figure but also one with a legal background. He is, therefore, well aware of the constitutional boundaries that guide public commentary – particularly on matters that are sub judice.
“The National Assembly can not and will not be drawn into responding to issues that are already before a court of competent jurisdiction, out of respect for the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary.”
He added, “While some may attempt to portray an unnecessary adversarial dynamic between the National Assembly and the Executive arm of government as a marker of virility in checks and balances, we must clarify that such tension, though it may entertain some, does not necessarily equate to effective legislative oversight.
“The true test of institutional maturity lies not in performative hostility but in principled engagements and results-driven processes.
The statement also refuted claims of the National Assembly’s subservience to the executive, citing instances where the Senate constructively disagreed with the executive, including on provisions of the presidential declaration on the Rivers State state of emergency.
“Indeed, there are well-documented instances where the National Assembly has constructively disagreed with the Executive – including on specific provisions of the presidential declaration on the Rivers State state of emergency, which Pastor Bakare referenced.
“These examples reflect our commitment to constitutionalism and fidelity to the Nigerian people – not posturing for effect.”
“It’s noteworthy that the executive has never brought any unconstitutional agenda before the 10th National Assembly, like the unspeakable but infamous Third Term agenda, the rejection of which the Pastor used as a benchmark for performance.
“To cast aspersions on the entire institution based on personal frustrations, ideological differences, or as positioning ahead of possible future political alignments is not only unfair but also counterproductive to our collective democratic journey,” Adaramodu concluded.
The Senate reaffirmed its commitment to engaging with all Nigerians in constructive dialogue, urging public figures to temper their criticisms with facts and a sense of national responsibility.
