Legislative Oversight And Socio-Economic Development In Benue State

Abstract

Under a democratic dispensation, governance and development are best optimized by collective participation. The legislature, which is a veritable arm of government in a democracy, is a catalyst of socio-economic development. Its worth is measured not only by the quality of intellectual debate in the parliament but also by the attraction of constituency projects such as roads, electricity, industries, among others which aid development. The central thesis of this research is to determine the extent to which the legislature can be an instrument of development through appropriate legislation. Towards this end, it explored legislative behaviour, processes and organization, to determine whether the pace of socio-economic development in Benue State can be attributed to its legislature. The method of study involved wide coverage of three senatorial zones by selecting six constituencies from each. Both participant observations and interview methods covering key informants/stakeholders were employed. The systems theory with particular reference to David Easton’s Political System Model of analysis was adopted. The major finding is that the Benue State House of Assembly is deficient in Law-making, Representation and Oversight functions. Instead of exposing ‘corruption, inefficiency or waste’ by government ministries and departments, the Assembly itself was enmeshed in corruption and ineptitudeness. Most laws passed originated from the Executive. The Assembly failed in its enormous responsibilities of enhancing ‘good governance’ and being a catalyst for socio-economic development in the state because it is bedeviled by a poor resource base that bothers on inadequate support staff, lack of financial autonomy, absence of up-to-date equipment and, above all, members that are inexperienced on legislative matters. The recommendations are the establishment of a Legislative Training Institute, Assembly Commission and Legislation of Assembly Autonomy Bill. Others are the eradication of poverty and loyalty to the state/constitution instead of political party in the performances of legislative duties. The minimum qualification for election should be a University degree, while a level playing ground should be provided for the opposition, among others.