“We Weren’t Elected to Box the President” – Oshiomhole Defends National Assembly Against ‘Rubber Stamp’ Claims

Former Edo State governor and current senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, has strongly dismissed claims that the 10th National Assembly is acting as a rubber stamp for President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

In an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Sunday, Oshiomhole pushed back against the narrative that lawmakers have failed to assert their independence. He argued that engaging in constant public battles with the executive is neither responsible nor productive.

“There’s a perception that the National Assembly is a rubber stamp? So if we start boxing the presidency just to prove independence, then we become a bunch of rascals. Is that what we were elected for, to go and box?” he asked pointedly.

The senator emphasized that the role of the legislature is to ensure good governance, not to create chaos or unnecessary friction with the executive arm. He challenged critics to mention any law passed by the 10th Assembly that was rushed through or harmful to Nigerians.

“Tell me, which law have we rubber-stamped that is harmful to Nigerians? Just name one that passed without robust debate,” he stated.

Oshiomhole’s comments have sparked renewed discussion online, especially in light of recent concerns from civil society groups about the speed and manner in which some bills have moved through the legislative process.

He concluded by reminding Nigerians that true legislative independence lies in effective oversight and intelligent engagement, not in dramatic confrontations.

💬 What Do You Think?

Do you agree with Oshiomhole’s stance that the Assembly doesn’t need to clash with the President to prove independence? Or do you feel lawmakers should take a more confrontational approach to hold the executive accountable?

Let’s hear your thoughts.