Acta Universitatis Danubius. Juridica, Vol 9, No 2 (2013)

Abstract

Objectives: - The trust of this research is to locate the legislative oversight functions as a key element in promoting accountability and transparency in Africa, view through Nigeria perspective.  Prior work: - The paper is anchored on the concept of separation of powers as it addresses an essential legislative role in ensuring checks and limitations on the exercise of executive powers. Approach: - The research is basically observation, analytical and comparative. Results: - The research shows that since 1999, the legislative body in Nigeria has been wobbling from one sleaze to another because of misuse of oversight functions, thus undermines democratic governance. Implication: - This study contains useful information on the practice of legislative oversight which can stimulate academics and researchers to undertake further comparative research on this topic. Value: - The work made several suggestions which include the need to overhaul democratization process in Nigeria as there is nexus between the failure of the legislature to dutifully discharge its oversight functions and inherent incapacity of those elected into office.