The Nigerian Senate has spoken out against the idea of turning the National Assembly into a part-time system. Senate spokesman Yemi Adaramodu made it clear that lawmakers’ salaries should not be reduced as part of any cost-cutting plans.

He shared his views during a recent interview, strongly rejecting the suggestion for a part-time parliamentary system. According to him, such a change would weaken the country’s democratic structure.

Adaramodu explained that running a part-time National Assembly could damage Nigeria’s democracy. He believes lawmakers play a crucial role in protecting democratic values and must be fully involved in national duties.

“If you reduce the parliament to part-time, you’re also weakening democracy,” he said. “No democracy can succeed if it doesn’t value its parliament.”

As a senator representing Ekiti South, he stressed that both senators and House of Representatives members do much more than just make laws. They also check on government activities and speak up for the needs of their communities.

He also mentioned that among the three arms of government—executive, legislative, and judiciary—it is the lawmakers that people can easily reach out to.

“We are always in our communities,” he said. “People come to us for help with naming ceremonies, weddings, or even when building a new house. If lawmakers aren’t there, who will the people go to?”

Adaramodu also raised a question: If lawmakers are made part-time, would it make sense to still pay them the same? He hinted that switching to part-time might not even save money in the end.

In summary, the Senate believes lawmakers should stay full-time and their pay should not be affected. They see themselves as key players in helping the people and keeping Nigeria’s democracy alive.