The Senate Chief Whip, Ali Ndume, has faulted the newly renovated chamber, which took over two years to complete.
Citing Senate Standing Order 52 during Plenary on Tuesday, Senator Ndume pointed out the absence of a provision for electronic voting, a crucial feature for efficient legislative processes that was available during the 9th Senate, but lacking in the current setup.
He criticised the chamber’s design, likening it to a conference room rather than a parliamentary space, resulting in the echoing of voices and making senators’ voices not recognised in recorded speeches.
Senator Ndume, who is also the Senate Chief Whip, emphasised the tight and uncomfortable seating arrangement, making it difficult for senators to move in and out of their seats comfortably.
He called the attention of the lawmakers to some ranking senators who have been displaced in the new arrangement, against the rules of the Senate.
The Borno lawmaker pointed out the absence of a clock to monitor speaking time during sessions, further hampering the chamber’s functionality.
In response, President Godswill Akpabio acknowledged Senator Ndume’s observations, and assured that progress is being made to address them.
He clarified, however, that the renovation was not undertaken by the National Assembly but by the Federal Capital Development Authority, (FCDA).
He urged all complaints and inadequacies to be channelled to the FCDA for necessary corrections.
He also announced plans for a second phase of renovation, to further enhance the premises.
Akpabio proposed future discussions on granting proper autonomy to the National Assembly to own and maintain its chamber properties, emphasising the importance of autonomy after 25 years of democracy.
Senate plenary held last week on Tuesday, was marred by complaints by some senators about sitting arrangements in the renovated chamber.
The complaints led to a rowdy session, which lasted for about 15 minutes, and eventually forced the Senate into an executive session.
(Editor: Ifeanyi Mark)
