The Chairman of the National Assembly and President of the Senate, Dr. Bukola Saraki, has replied to a letter written by former President Olusegun Obasanjo in which he accused the National Assembly of corruption and fiscal irresponsibility.
Recall that the news of a letter by the former President had gone viral on Wednesday, causing Dr. Saraki to issue a statement through his media aide, Yusuph Olaniyonu, acknowledging receipt of the letter and promising to respond as soon as possible.
Well, in his prompt reply, Dr. Saraki assured the former President of the present National Assembly’s commitment to follow due process in the discharge of its responsibilities.
Also, he affirmed that the National Assembly was committed to good governance, transparency and accountability in conducting its business.
In a statement he personally signed, the Senate President said: “Yesterday, I acknowledged receipt of a letter from former President Olusegun Obasanjo in which he called the attention of the National Assembly to some issues.
“I will want to assure President Obasanjo that the leadership and membership of the 8th Senate are committed to good governance, transparency, accountability, due process and responsiveness to the economic reality of our nation.
“It is for this reason that the legislative chamber has introduced bold and progressive reforms in the management of the finances of the National Assembly.
“This is of even greater importance during a tough fiscal period for our country.
“Like I said, the Senate must lead by example in terms of our own funding, budgets and accountability; showing, beyond doubt, value for money.
“I have canvassed that we must lay bare the budget of the Senate, the National Assembly and its affiliated institutions.
“I equally canvassed the need to strengthen the capacity of the legislative institution to carry our effective oversight of the executive arm.
“That way, we can ensure the budget leads to the realisation of the policy objectives of the Buhari Administration.
“I appreciate President Obasanjo for his consistent role in always reminding those of us in government about our responsibilities to the general public and offering timely advice where necessary”.