CISLAC Warns Lawmakers: Focus On Reforms, Not 2027 Politics As National Assembly Resumes
With economic pressures mounting and public confidence in institutions under strain, civil society groups are urging Nigeria’s lawmakers to treat 2026 as a year for delivery, not distraction.
The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has called on the 10th National Assembly to prioritise key legislative reforms as it resumes for the 2026 session, warning that early politicking ahead of the 2027 general elections could derail governance.
In a statement on Monday, CISLAC Executive Director, Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), described 2026 as a “defining year” for both the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration and the National Assembly, noting that Nigerians now expect measurable results from policies introduced since 2023.
He cautioned that the period leading to general elections is often marked by declining legislative productivity, adding that proposals to hold elections as early as November 2026 could further distract lawmakers from their core duties.
CISLAC urged legislators to remain committed to plenary sessions, strengthen oversight of public funds, and fast-track critical reforms, particularly electoral, economic, security and governance-related bills.
The organisation also warned that weak oversight would deepen public perception of the Assembly as a rubber stamp, at a time when the country faces economic hardship, insecurity and declining trust in public institutions.
CISLAC said it remains ready to engage with lawmakers and other stakeholders to advance reforms that strengthen democracy, accountability and good governance in Nigeria.
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