Nigerian Legislature and Public Accountability in Presidential Democracy: An Overview

Abstract

This study is an overview of the legislature and public accountability in presidential democracy (presidentialism) in Nigeria. The doctrine of separation of powers has long recognized the legislature as one of the tripod or arm of government primarily responsible for law making as an antidote to abuse of powers and egregious violations of human rights. Consequently, as a fundamental key indicator and backbone of the health of presidentialism, the legislature is seriously viewed to the extent to which the principles of separation of powers are adhered to, its foothold established and alive as a mechanism through which the masses expresses their views and guarantee public accountability and transparency in governance. Unlike the Westminster (parliamentary model where it is (was) an appendage and extension of the executive arm of government). The study relied essentially on secondary data while personal observation was equally employed as methods of data generation. Based on the data collected and analyzed, the study argued that for accountability to be enhanced in governance there is the need for the legislature as the first estate of the realm to use the state apparatus to pursue public good as to enhance responsible and responsive government. This study recommends among others that public accountability enhancement measures should be emphasized and strengthened in the practice of presidentialism in Nigeria.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2014.v5n27p1411