Abuja, June 5, 2026 — Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro, has expressed concern over the outcome of recent party primaries, warning that poor internal party democracy could undermine Nigeria’s broader democratic system.
Moro, who represents Benue South Senatorial District, said in an interview in Abuja on Friday that the increasing influence of powerful political figures in candidate selection processes has weakened participation and sidelined many experienced lawmakers ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He disclosed that over 55 sitting senators failed to secure party tickets during primaries conducted across various political parties, a development he warned could erode institutional memory and legislative experience in the National Assembly.
He argued that democracy suffers when party structures are manipulated in the process of selecting candidates, stressing the need for stronger internal democratic practices.
“We must take deliberate steps to deepen internal democracy and strengthen democratic traditions if Nigeria is to achieve the level of democratic development its people desire,” he said.
Speaking on the upcoming third anniversary of the 10th Senate scheduled for June 9, Moro called for sustained efforts to reinforce democratic institutions and governance structures.
He noted that while the Senate has recorded notable legislative progress, the survival of democracy depends on stronger institutions and consistent adherence to democratic principles.
According to him, governance must also focus on policies that directly improve citizens’ welfare.
Moro said Nigeria must continuously reform its political and governance systems to protect and deepen democratic practice, adding that the legislature plays a central role in ensuring accountability, inclusiveness, and good governance.
He said the 10th Senate has remained active in fulfilling its constitutional duties, particularly in lawmaking, oversight, and representation.
He disclosed that by its second anniversary, the Senate had processed over 844 bills, with more than 500 passed and forwarded for presidential assent, while the number of bills under consideration has now exceeded 1,000.
Moro described the legislative output as evidence of the Senate’s commitment to strengthening democratic governance and institutional development.
He added that lawmakers have continued to use motions, debates, and committee work to address key national issues.
However, he stressed that the passage of laws alone is not sufficient, noting that the real measure of success lies in how legislation improves living conditions for Nigerians.
He pointed to ongoing challenges such as poverty, unemployment, poor infrastructure, and unstable electricity supply, saying these require stronger cooperation between the executive and legislative arms of government.
On the role of the opposition in the Senate, Moro defended what he described as a strategy of constructive engagement rather than confrontation, aimed at protecting democratic values.
He cited efforts by opposition lawmakers to ensure that the Senate Committee on Public Accounts remained chaired by an opposition member in line with parliamentary tradition, following the defection of its former chairman to the ruling party.