From Ndubuisi Orji, Abuja
The speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has said that challenge in ensuring accountability from leaders and democratic institutions has resulted in cynicism and distrust among the populace.
Abbas  stated this, at the weekend , in Abuja, at event to mark the end of the “House Open Week 2024.” Nevertheless, he stated that House  through programmes like that the “Open Week”, has a unique opportunities to strengthen its “commitment to good governance and re- establish a robust connection with citizens.”
The speaker added that the Green chamber, in response to grassroots engagements, will hold town hall meetings across the six geo-political zones. Furthermore, he stated that the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) will also adopt a citizen-inclusive approach.
According to him, “over the past twenty-five years, there have been challenges in ensuring accountability and engagement from leaders and democratic institutions, resulting in a sense of disconnection, cynicism and even distrust among the populace.
” However, through activities like the Open Week, we have a unique opportunity to strengthen our commitment to good governance and re-establish a robust connection with the citizens.
“In response to calls for grassroots engagement, the House, in collaboration with the Ford Foundation, plans to roll out citizens’ engagement town halls across the six geopolitical zones very soon.
Our constitutional amendment process will also adopt a citizen-inclusive approach. The onus is now on citizens to actively engage with their representatives…
“In the face of declining interest and trust in democracy, transparency and regular citizens’ engagement are more crucial than ever. We strongly believe that transparency ensures that government actions are open to public scrutiny and fostering accountability. “