CALL FOR ING EXERCISE IN FUTILITY, MARK INSISTS

President of the Nigerian Senate, David Mark today revealed that Nigeria was in a moment of trial, since it has been under tension consequent upon the forth coming general elections and inflammatory comments by the political class.

Besides, Mark equally argued that the suggestion for an Interim National Government (ING), by some Nigerians remains a futile exercise that was alien to the nation’s Constitution.

In his address while welcoming members of the upper legislative chambers from recess, maintained that they should be prepared for the postponed 2015 elections, with an appeal that senators should rise to the occasion and pull down the tension in the polity and also back of statements that could raise the already charged atmosphere.

According to Senator Mark, "Ordinarily, we would have commenced our legislative activities this morning without a welcome address. But, these are not ordinary times in our nation. There is palpable tension in the land and the comments and even the body language of the political class further exacerbates the tension.

"As statesmen and women, we must rise to the occasion and help reduce tension. We must refrain from acts or statements that will aggravate this already charged atmosphere across the country. This is time for us to be true statesmen and women; both in words and deeds.

"I am alarmed that the issue of Interim National Government (ING) has been given undeserved prominence in our national discourse. This is imprecise, sordid and strange. Interim National Government is alien to the 1999 Constitution (as Amended).

"Therefore those calling for ING are pushing for an exercise in futility. This Senate is committed to the provisions of our Constitution which we swore to protect and we will not do anything to sabotage the democratic process."

The upper legislative chamber also charged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to continue to prepare to conduct a free, fair, transparent and credible general election.

"We owe it a duty to our country men and women to give INEC all the support it needs to conduct a free, fair, transparent and credible election.

"It is important to note that on the 29th of May, 2015 a democratic government elected through a free, fair, transparent and credible election will be sworn-in."

Photo: Dailypost