Edet Ikotidem
Right Hon. Mark Esset, the representative for Uyo Federal Constituency, has underscored the importance of extending legislative tenures to ensure lawmakers accumulate the necessary experience and influence to serve effectively.
In a recent meeting at his Uyo residence with media professionals, Esset highlighted that short-term tenures prevent legislators from reaching their full potential, thereby limiting the benefits that their constituents can derive from their service.
Esset emphasized that legislative duties, especially at the national level, require more than just the initial learning period of the first and second terms.
He argued that experienced lawmakers have a greater capacity to attract and implement significant projects, benefiting their constituencies more effectively.
Legislative Tenure Extension
According to Esset, longer tenures allow legislators to build on their knowledge, establish stronger networks, and exert more influence in national politics.
This, in turn, enhances their ability to deliver on their campaign promises and contribute to meaningful development.
He urged the people of Akwa Ibom to reconsider their approach to national politics by recognizing the advantages of having seasoned legislators.
Esset pointed out that experienced lawmakers can navigate the complexities of the legislative process more efficiently and secure more resources and projects for their constituencies.
This perspective shift, he argued, is crucial for achieving sustainable development and improving the quality of representation.
Esset pledged to deliver on his campaign promises by initiating flagship projects in each of the 42 wards within the Uyo Federal Constituency.
He criticized the practice of some representatives who only engage with their constituents during election periods, calling it detrimental to the democratic process.
To foster a healthier relationship with his constituents, Esset committed to being accessible within the state twice a month, despite financial constraints.
This commitment is aimed at maintaining regular communication with his constituents and addressing their concerns more effectively.
One of the major initiatives Esset announced is a comprehensive medical outreach program across all four local governments within the Federal Constituency.
This program is part of a broader Constituency briefing and empowerment initiative, designed to provide tangible benefits to the constituents.
The medical outreach, scheduled from June 20 to July 18, 2024, will offer major surgeries, general tests, treatments, and drugs to patients free of charge.
The detailed schedule for the outreach is as follows:
- Uyo: The outreach will begin on Thursday, June 20, and run until Saturday, June 22, at the Ikot Ebido Oku Health Center. Due to the large population in Uyo, a second outreach is scheduled for Tuesday, July 16, to Thursday, July 18, at the Primary Health Center Ifa.
- Ibesikpo Asutan: Constituents will be served from Tuesday, June 25, to Thursday, June 27, at the Primary Health Center, Nung Udoe.
- Nsit Atai: The outreach will take place from Tuesday, July 2, to Thursday, July 4, at Cottage Hospital, Ikot Nkpene.
- Uruan: The final phase of the outreach will be held from Tuesday, July 9, to Thursday, July 11, at General Hospital, Ituk Mbang.
This outreach program is part of Esset’s efforts to mark his first year in the National Assembly with significant, beneficial projects for his constituents.
By providing free medical services, he aims to address one of the critical needs in his constituency and demonstrate his commitment to improving the welfare of the people.
In addition to his constituency projects, Esset, who serves as the Chairman of the House Committee on Inter-Parliamentary Relations, has been active in legislative efforts.
He provided insights into some of his bills and motions, one of which aims to eliminate discrimination between Higher National Diploma (HND) and Bachelor of Science (BSc) holders in public service.
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This bill is intended to ensure equal opportunities for all graduates and promote fairness in the public sector employment system.
Esset’s legislative initiatives reflect his dedication to addressing systemic issues and improving the socio-economic conditions of his constituents.
By advocating policy changes and implementing developmental projects, he aims to create a more inclusive and equitable society.
Esset’s approach to public engagement sets him apart from many of his peers.
By committing to regular visits to his constituency and maintaining an open line of communication with his constituents, he aims to foster trust and transparency.
This accessibility ensures that he remains attuned to the needs and concerns of the people he represents, allowing him to address issues promptly and effectively.
Esset’s criticism of representatives who only engage with their constituents during election periods highlights a common issue in Nigerian politics.
Many politicians are often perceived as disconnected from their constituents, only reappearing during election cycles to solicit votes. By contrast, Esset’s commitment to regular engagement and presence within his constituency is a model of how representatives can build stronger, more effective relationships with the people they serve.
While Esset’s initiatives and commitment to his constituency are commendable, they are not without challenges.
The financial constraints he mentioned can limit the scope and frequency of his engagements and projects. Additionally, sustaining the momentum of these initiatives over the long term requires consistent effort, resources, and support from both the government and the community.
However, these challenges also present opportunities for growth and innovation. By leveraging partnerships with local and international organizations, Esset can expand the reach and impact of his projects. Collaborations with healthcare providers, non-governmental organizations, and private sector partners can enhance the quality and sustainability of the medical outreach programs and other initiatives.
Moreover, Esset’s emphasis on legislative tenure extension aligns with broader discussions about governance and institutional stability in Nigeria. By advocating longer tenures, he contributes to the debate on how to build a more experienced and effective legislative body that can drive national development.
