Former Senate President David Mark has expressed criticism toward the National Assembly for the expansion of house committees in both the Senate and the House of Representatives. The Senate now has 71 special and standing committees, while the House of Representatives has 81, bringing the total to 152.
According to Naija News, during a retreat for principal officers of the 10th National Assembly in Ikot-Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, Mark argued that creating an excessive number of committees is counterproductive and hinders efficient functioning. He explained that when lawmakers are members of multiple committees, it can impede their ability to deliver effectively and efficiently.
Mark emphasized that it should be recognized that not every senator can be a committee chairman, and being a committee member is equally valuable; therefore, overcommitment may not allow members to perform at their best.
He said, “The total of 71 committees (8 plus 63) in the Senate and 81 committees (7 plus 74) in the House of Representatives, in my opinion, is unwieldy. You must understand that not every senator or house member can be the chairman of a committee.
“A ranking member of a committee is as effective and influential as a committee chairman. Creating so many committees for patronage and political expediency is counter-productive.
“In constituting the committee, it will be advisable to ensure expertise, party spread, geographical balancing, and ranking. I must emphasise the issue of ranking; it is very important in the legislature.”
