…Part-time legislature, political restructuring will be vigorously debated

Professor of Geophysics and senatorial candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 poll, Dr Benard Odoh, has said that the job awaiting the 11th National Assembly are enormous, stressing that the issues of part-time legislatures, political restructuring and cutting-down on the cost of governance constitute some of the debates that will define the next plenary.

 

He expressed optimism that if the Electoral Act 2026 delivers a credible, free and fair general election next year, the National Assembly would be peopled by qualitative lawmakers endued with competence, integrity and patriotism to review the trajectory of legislations and restructure the political structures.

 

Odoh told TheGuardian in an interview that the call for a part-time legislature has continued to feature in Nigeria’s political discourse, because Nigerians expect sincerity and objectivity from their representatives, adding; “As a nation, we must constantly evaluate how to improve governance, while reducing the cost of government.”

 

“Whether that ultimately leads to a part-time legislature should emerge through broad constitutional dialogue and national consensus. The 11th National Assembly must be prepared for robust debates and discussions as well as reviews of the political structure.

 

“It should be a parliament wired to rekindle the confidence of Nigerians in responsive and responsible democratic representation. Whatever system that would be ultimately adopted must strengthen legislative oversight, preserve the independence of the National Assembly and ensure effective representation. Our objective should always be better governance and greater value for the Nigerian people,” he asserted.

 

On recent reports of perceived harassment, intimidation and threats against opposition politicians and their supporters by the ruling party in Ebonyi State, the academic-turned politician noted that democracy can only flourish where citizens are free to participate without fear, intimidation or violence.

 

His words: “There have been reports that some members and supporters of the Nigerian Democratic Congress have been attacked by individuals believed to be supporters and officials of the APC. Such actions have no place in a democratic society and must be condemned by all well-meaning citizens regardless of political affiliation.

 

“I wish to state clearly that while we remain committed to conducting our campaign peacefully, we will not accept or tolerate attacks, intimidation or harassment of our members and supporters. I disagree with the notion that politics is warfare by other means. Political parties are competitors, not enemies.”

 

Odoh discovered that all political actors, security agencies and relevant authorities should ensure that every political party, enjoys equal protection under the law, stressing that the 2027 election must be contested on the strength of ideas, programmes and character, not through fear mongering or violence.

 

He said that the NDC, as a political party, “has enjoined our supporters to remain peaceful, law-abiding and focused,” assuring that the party will continue to conduct ourselves with dignity because Ebonyi deserves politics anchored on civility, mutual respect and democratic values.

 

The Senatorial contender, regretted the violent attacks and intimidation that trailed his participation in the 2023 governorship poll after he resigned his appointment as the Secretary to the Ebonyi State Government (SSG), saying that lessons have been learned by all sides.

 

He remarked: “The 2023 governorship election remains one of the defining moments of my political journey. Recall that I contested that election on the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), a party that, prior to that election, had virtually no political structure or electoral presence in Ebonyi State.

 

“Together with thousands of committed supporters, we built a formidable political movement that inspired hope across the state. Our performance, particularly in Ebonyi Central, was historic. That movement produced a serving member of the House of Representatives and a serving member of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly on the platform of APGA.

 

“Those achievements remain undeniable evidence of the confidence our people reposed in our vision. The campaign period was also one of the most difficult chapters of my life. It was obvious that the ruling party that comprised former elements of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were determined to create impression of popularity by investing the power of incumbency.”

 

Odoh recalled the several reported attempts on his life, noting that some of his aides and supporters tragically paid the ultimate price, even as he stated that their sacrifice remains deeply painful, while he continues to honour their memory.

 

“Despite those enormous challenges, we remained peaceful, courageous and committed to democracy. We left behind a political record that cannot be erased. Today, I remain one of the strongest political leaders in Ebonyi Central, because the people know me, they know my journey and, above all, they know what I represent. Their support has never been built on intimidation or inducement.

 

“It has been earned through consistency, integrity, accessibility and an unwavering commitment to the public good. Every experience, whether joyful or painful, has strengthened my resolve to serve our people with greater wisdom, humility and determination.”

 

As the 2027 general election draws close, Odoh stated that his message to Ebonyi voters is that they should choose hope over fear, competence over propaganda, integrity over inducement, and above all, let us choose unity over division.

 

“Together, we can build a more prosperous, more united and more secure Ebonyi Central, where every citizen has a fair opportunity to succeed. History will remember this generation not for the promises we made, but for the future we built together,” he surmised.