Bridging the Gap: The Crucial Role of AFAS FLC Accountability to Constituents
Jolaade Ifeoluwayimika
In any democracy, the cornerstone of effective governance lies in the principle of accountability. Elected representatives, tasked with the solemn duty of representing their constituents, are entrusted with the power to legislate and make decisions on behalf of the people. However, this power comes with a profound responsibility– the obligation to be accountable to those who placed their trust in them. Nowhere is this accountability more crucial than in the context of constituent members in legislative bodies. The Faculty of Art offers a compelling case study, highlighting the critical need for elected officials to be answerable and responsive to their electorate.
Constituent members, at all levels with three members per department, wield significant influence over policy-making, resource allocation, and the overall direction of governance. Yet, too often, the gap between promise and action widens, leaving constituents disillusioned and disenfranchised. The realization of the office they hold gets into them making them forget those who voted them in to serve their interest.
Accountability within the Faculty Legislative Council (FLC) is paramount as it ensures a transparent and participatory democratic process within the Association of Faculty of Arts Students (AFAS). Representatives of various constituencies play a pivotal role in bridging the communication gap between students and the FLC. By being accountable to their constituents, these representatives establish trust and foster a sense of inclusivity. It is essential for them to regularly inform their constituents about the policies, decisions, and positions taken by the FLC, keeping the student body well-informed and engaged in the legislative process.
Elections to the FLC should align with those of the Executive, emphasizing the interconnectedness of both branches in representing student interests. This simultaneous election process ensures that the legislative and executive arms work collaboratively and that representatives are elected based on a comprehensive understanding of student needs. The principle that no honourable member should automatically return to the house reinforces the commitment to meritocracy and prevents complacency. Allowing returning members to be subjected to evaluation and voting by the students they represent ensures that they continually earn the trust and support of their constituents.
It is important to take cognizance of the fact that accountability breeds trust. In Nigeria, where trust in public institutions and the government is fragile, establishing a culture of transparency and answerability is paramount. When constituents of the faculty perceive their representatives as being open, honest, and responsive to their needs, trust flourishes, fostering a robust democratic ecosystem. This allows for a strong relationship and cohabitation amongst AFASites.
Furthermore, accountability ensures representation. The faculty is filled with a unique set of challenges, goals and aspirations. Constituent members must embody the voices of their electorate, advocating for policies that reflect the diverse needs and interests of their constituents. Without being accountable, there is a risk of detachment from the realities faced by AFASites, leading to decisions that are disconnected from the grassroots.
In addition, accountability wrestles corruption. Nigeria has wrestled with endemic corruption for decades, hindering progress and dissolving public trust. By holding constituent members of the faculty to account, the students can demand transparency in decision-making processes and scrutinise the allocation of resources. This scrutiny acts as a deterrent to corrupt practices, fostering a culture of integrity and ethical governance.
Also, accountability enhances good service delivery. Across the faculty, the students are faced with several issues. Constituent members, as stewards of public resources, are entrusted with addressing these pressing issues. Through accountability mechanisms such as town hall meetings, constituency outreach, and performance evaluations, students can hold their representatives accountable for delivering tangible results that improve their quality of life.
With respect to all the above, the constituent members have to be engaging in constituency-reporting and giving minutes of each meeting held. All these basically boil down to how well students in the faculty can make their representatives accountable to them. The student members of the FLC should be able to relay the thoughts and conclusion of their constituency to the House. AFASites should be fully represented in the House by their constituent members.
In Nigeria, the journey towards accountability is ongoing, marked by progresses, setbacks, and challenges. Yet, amidst the complexities, there are shining examples of constituent members who exemplify the principles of accountability, tirelessly serving their constituents with integrity and dedication. These individuals demonstrate that accountability is not merely a theoretical concept, but a practical necessity for effective governance and nation-building.
As the faculty continues in its quest for progress and development, the imperative of accountability remains non-negotiable. Constituent members must heed the clarion call to be answerable to their constituency, recognizing that their power emanates from the people they serve. Only through accountability can the faculty realize its full potential, as a vibrant democracy where the voices of the people truly shape the course of history.
