Prominent democracy advocate Samson Itodo of YIAGA Africa has sharply criticized the Nigerian Senate over the recent changes to its Standing Orders, describing the move as a troubling example of lawmakers prioritizing personal and factional interests over public service.
In a strongly worded statement posted on his verified Facebook page on Friday, Itodo argued that parliamentary rules should reinforce democratic principles and accountability rather than serve as tools for settling scores among political elites or influencing future leadership battles.
The amendments, introduced earlier this week, sparked immediate backlash, including heated exchanges on the Senate floor and concerns over their alignment with the 1999 Constitution.
The changes primarily sought to restrict eligibility for key positions such as Senate President and other principal offices in the upcoming 11th National Assembly to returning senators from the current 10th Assembly members who secure re-election.
Critics viewed this as an attempt to lock out fresh lawmakers and predetermine leadership outcomes ahead of the 2027 general elections. While parts of the amendments were later rescinded following public and internal pressure, the episode has fueled broader debates about self-serving practices in Nigeria’s legislature.
Itodo emphasized that lawmaking must remain focused on the common good. “Rules of parliament should strengthen democracy, and institutional accountability,” he stated, warning against their manipulation for elite survival.
The development comes amid ongoing discussions about legislative independence, ranking systems, and the need for transparent processes in Nigeria’s parliament.
Analysts say such internal rule changes often reflect deeper power struggles as politicians position themselves for the post-2027 era.
The full post reads:
“What happened in the Senate this week over the amendment of its Standing Orders is a sad reminder of what happens when political leaders treat lawmaking as an instrument for settling inter-elite battles rather than serving the common good.
Rules of parliament should strengthen democracy, and institutional accountability. They should not be manipulated to predetermine future leadership contests or exclude perceived rivals. Lawmaking must never become a weapon for elite survival. It must remain a tool for public service, democratic accountability, and the protection of the common good.
It’s a shame.”
