David Mark, the former Senate President, has expressed criticism towards the National Assembly for the proliferation of house committees in both the Senate and the House of Representatives…CONTINUE READING....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Currently, the Senate boasts 71 special and standing committees, while the House of Representatives has 81 committees, totaling 152.

Mark voiced his concerns during a retreat for principal officers of the 10th National Assembly held in Ikot-Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State. He argued that the creation of an excessive number of committees is counterproductive and hampers efficient functionality.

Mark highlighted that when a lawmaker is a member of numerous committees, it hinders their ability to deliver effectively and efficiently.

He emphasized that not every senator or house member can serve as the chairman of a committee, and the effectiveness of a committee member should not be underestimated.

He stated, “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 emphasize the issue of ranking; it is very important in the legislature.”