Northern Patriots demand accountability, urge recall of non-performing lawmakers

National Assembly

A northern socio-political organisation, the Northern Patriots, has called on citizens to initiate the process of recalling members of the National Assembly, accusing the legislature of failing to uphold its constitutional duty of oversight and accountability.

In a statement signed by its president, Babagida Muazu, the group alleged that the current National Assembly had become ineffective in holding the executive to account, particularly on issues relating to public expenditure and regional equity in project distribution.

According to Muazu, the legislature’s “silence and inaction” over what he described as “emerging fiscal irregularities” had eroded public confidence in the institution.

He said, “We are witnessing one of the most inactive assemblies in recent history. Lawmakers are expected to defend the sanctity of the Appropriation Act and ensure that every government expenditure aligns with approved budgetary provisions.”

Muazu alleged that several government projects currently under execution had raised questions about adherence to the 2025 Appropriation Act. He said the group would soon publish a report identifying specific projects and calling for a parliamentary review of the implementation process.

“The legislature is the heartbeat of democracy, and once it loses independence or transparency, the system begins to collapse. Our call for accountability is not about regional rivalry but about fairness, due process, and responsible governance,” he said.

Muazu criticised what he described as the reluctance of some northern lawmakers to question perceived disparities in development priorities. He said the group had commenced consultations with community leaders, youth groups, and civil society organisations across the 19 northern states to discuss possible constitutional mechanisms for recalling legislators who fail to represent their constituents effectively.

He urged the leadership of both chambers of the National Assembly to “reassert the institution’s independence” and restore public trust through transparency in oversight and legislative scrutiny.

“The National Assembly must rise to its duty. Nigerians deserve a legislature that protects their interests, not one that yields to political pressure. This is a call for reform, not rebellion,” Muazu said.

He added that the Northern Patriots’ forthcoming report would also propose governance reforms aimed at strengthening fiscal discipline and ensuring equitable project distribution nationwide.

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