The National Institute for Legislative Studies recently held a two-day workshop in Ilorin focussing on how to minimise conflict between the executive and legislature. Hammed Shittu, in Ilorin, reports

Mutual allegation of usurpation of constitutional powers and rights between the executive and legislature is a major feature of Nigeria's current democratic experience that often slows down government business at both the federal and state levels. The conflicts border on the question of separation of powers, given the thin line of separation between the functions of the two arms of government in some areas.

But to ensure the smooth running of government, the executive and legislative arms must eschew confrontation, needless friction and tension. They must let the spirit of sacrifice, compromise, and synergy rule their relationship.

It was to deliberate on how to ensure harmony between the executive and legislature that a two-day workshop was convened in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, recently by the National Institute for Legislative Studies, Abuja. The workshop tried to address the issues that frequently form the bone of contention between the two arms of government by identifying the constitutional roles of each on a democracy. NILS said its objective was to create a conducive environment for quality legislations on the part of the legislature and proper execution of such laws by the executive.

Legislative Powers

The theme of the workshop was "Constitutional Powers of Legislature." It was organised for the members of the committees on justice, judiciary and human rights of the two chambers of the National Assembly and Speakers and Attorneys General of the states.

Among resource persons in attendance were former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Aminu Bello Masari; former Deputy Senate President Ibrahim Mantu; and former governor of Edo State, Professor Oserheimen Osunbor

In his welcome address, chairman, House of Representatives Committee o Justice, Hon. Ali Ahmad, said the workshop was designed to address issues and concerns in relation to the constitutional powers of the legislature. He said the idea was to find out the extent to which such concerns may affect the realisation of the ideals and beauties of democracy.