TheCable

Senate President Godswill Akpabio says members of the upper legislative chamber should work with President Bola Tinubu to address the challenges facing the country without compromising their independence.

Akpabio spoke on Tuesday at the resumption of the plenary after a four-week Christmas and New Year holiday.

The senate president said history and future generations will not forgive the lawmakers if they failed to use their position to spur change in the country.

“History and future generations will not forgive us if we squander this opportunity or fail to leave our mark on the annals of time,” Akpabio said.

“Let us use our time in this revered chamber to delve into pressing issues, engage in passionate and respectful debates, and craft legislation that reflects the needs and aspirations of the people we represent.

“In the coming months, we will face a multitude of challenges, from economic recovery and healthcare reform to national security and social justice. It is imperative that we approach these issues with a spirit of collaboration and a commitment to finding common ground.

“Let us rise above partisan divides and work together, transcending party lines, for the greater good of our nation. Our patriotism demands that we heed no other call except Nigeria’s call—the call echoed in our National Anthem.

“Let us continue to work and collaborate with the Executive Arm under His Excellency President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, GCFR, without compromising our independence as enshrined in our constitution.”

Akpabio said the senators should work together with “open hearts and minds, guided by reason and evidence” in their decision-making.

“Let us be champions for the marginalized and the voiceless, advocates of justice and equality,” he said.

“Our purpose should be twofold: to do as much good as we can to all the people we can, and to prevent any injustices from befalling anyone in our great nation, for injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.

“As we embark on this new legislative session, let us be inspired by the limitless potential of what we can achieve together.”

The senate president added that members of the red chamber must be steadfast in their dedication to the principles of democracy and good governance.