Jake D Dan-Azumi | National Institute for Legislative Studies (original) (raw)
Papers by Jake D Dan-Azumi
Chiedza (Harare, Zimbabwe), 2004
Chiedza (Harare, Zimbabwe), 2005
Chiedza (Harare, Zimbabwe), 2001
Global Journal of Science Frontier Research, Jul 17, 2016
This paper presents results from a recent fieldwork in Nigeria and explores the socioeconomic dim... more This paper presents results from a recent fieldwork in Nigeria and explores the socioeconomic dimension of gender as it relates to agriculture in the fadama areas of North-Central Nigeria. Findings reveal the central role women play in smallholder agriculture and how this is shaped by complex social processes that are inextricably linked with power relations. Through direct and indirect agricultural activities, women provide the bulk of the labor in smallholder agriculture. This is often in addition to the central role they play in maintaining the family structure. Notwithstanding their input to agricultural production and the family, women in the study areas are greatly disadvantaged as demonstrated by cultural practices that exclude them from owning the primary means of production, land and relegate them to the status of second class citizens. This prejudicial position of women in these communities was found out to be the result of multifaceted factors that include cultural practices which understands ‘the woman in a certain way’ and thus constructs her identity and role accordingly.
Chiedza (Harare, Zimbabwe), 2003
Chiedza (Harare, Zimbabwe), 2004
Journal of Public Administration and Governance, 2021
This study focuses on women legislative representation in Nigeria since the commencement of the F... more This study focuses on women legislative representation in Nigeria since the commencement of the Fourth Republic (1999 to 2020). It investigates the low levels of representation of women in the National Assembly and factors that explain this. Results from the study show that the majority of female respondents indicate active interest in politics but are discouraged by factors that include prevailing gender stereotypes, cultural/religious reasons, unfavourable political environment, lack of financial capacity, electoral violence and restrictive party structures and processes amongst others. The bulk of male respondents confirm these structural biases and barriers to women’s political participation. In view of these findings, some recommendations offered include implementation of deliberate policies and legislations that target women quotas and affirmative action, elimination of structural barriers to women's participation, reducing the cost of political participation for women, re...
A Political Economy of Pandemics and Consequences of COVID-19 for Nigeria, 2021
This chapter evaluates the role of the Nigerian parliament in managing the COVID-19 pandemic. Evi... more This chapter evaluates the role of the Nigerian parliament in managing the COVID-19 pandemic. Evidence shows that the National Assembly engaged early on COVID-19 related matters urging the executive to take pre-emptive measures to limit the impact on the economy and the livelihoods of the citizens. Despite the disruptive effect of the pandemic on legislative business, the National Assembly considered and approved the revised budget as well as the loan request of the Federal Government in the face of limited consultations with the stakeholders. Furthermore, the two chambers of the National Assembly held interactive sessions with the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19 and other government officials to assess the government’s response. Among others, the author discussed two important legislations initiated in the House of Representatives, namely, Economic Stimulus and the Infectious Diseases Bills which could not be passed for presidential assent as of November 2020. Notwithstanding these legislative measures, the quality of oversight of government spending and activities during the pandemic because remain largely superficial with little to suggest any serious positive outcomes. In the light of the poor performance of the legislature, especially in providing effective oversight of the executive in emergency situations, a revision of House and Senate Rules is recommended to enable the legislature to better adapt to emergencies by leveraging on new technologies to conducting legislative business, engage with the public and perform oversight functions. Additional recommendations include special legislative mechanisms to enhancing the effectiveness of legislative check on the executive both in the exercise of emergency powers and emergency expenditure.
Journal of Political Sciences & Public Affairs, 2019
This research study reviews all dimensions of the recent agitations for political restructuring o... more This research study reviews all dimensions of the recent agitations for political restructuring of Nigeria. A range of stakeholders from all the states in the federation were interviewed on a range of issues including the structure of the federation. Key findings from the study show that on the whole, respondents generally believe in a united Nigeria despite the challenges to Nigerian unity. Furthermore, while there is a clear preference for the retention of the current federal structure with states as federating units. The consensus is that some kind of re-structuring is necessary particularly through devolution of powers and allocation of more resources to the states to make for a more functional and effective federal system. The study therefore recommends, among others, greater autonomy for states and local governments in the forms of devolution/decentralization of power and resources using established principles of distribution of powers such as subsidiarity and proportionality.
Chiedza (Harare, Zimbabwe), 2007
International Journal of Agriculture and Forestry, 2016
A study of smallholder agriculture in Africa reveal a delicate interaction and negotiation across... more A study of smallholder agriculture in Africa reveal a delicate interaction and negotiation across the formal and informal boundaries where traditional agricultural practices, based on an understanding of the particular physical reality and exploitation of natural synergies, are combined with inputs typical of conventional agriculture. African agriculture thus stands poised at crossroads; whether to abandon tradition in favour of entirely "modern" methods and export markets as often advocated for in certain circles or depend on time tested indigenous knowledge systems and grassroots-defined development vision which combines popular livelihoods with respect for nature"s systems. Drawing on Bruno Latour, the metaphor of "hybridisation" is used to justify a negotiated compromise between official discourses, which promote the use of chemicals and grassroots reality which relies on nature"s systems. Agroecology is offered as a model to overcome this agricultu...
World environment, 2016
Faced by multiple stressors such as climate variability, policy inconsistency and economic global... more Faced by multiple stressors such as climate variability, policy inconsistency and economic globalization among others, smallholders in developing countries are constantly seeking ways to adapt and reduce the vulnerability of their farming systems. Indigenous knowledge systems have provided the basis for efficient and cost effective resource management for many centuries. In this study of two fadama communities in Northern Nigeria, findings reveal the significant role and value indigenous knowledge in improving the resilience and adaptive capacity of fadama agricultural systems especially in light of increasing pressures, both natural and man-made. These farmers provide an excellent example of how local knowledge can contribute in the quest for sustainable systems through the promotion of adaptive strategies for resource management.
This paper explores the connection between socio-economic development and insecurity in Nigeria. ... more This paper explores the connection between socio-economic development and insecurity in Nigeria. Of particular significance to this paper is the link between economic decline (characterized by high rates of unemployment, low wages and income, corruption and injustice) and the proliferation of conflict particularly in the north-east. The data presented in this study show a relationship between insecurity challenges in the north-east and rates of poverty and unemployment in the zone. Furthermore, the study shows that despite increased spending by the government, the number of attacks and resulting casualties continued to rise between 2009 and 2017. In the final analysis, it is here argued that for proposed long term solutions to the insecurity situation in Nigeria to be effective, they must be predicated on the rule of law, protective of personal and political freedoms and equality, accountable and transparent and more importantly, in service of the common good. Keywords: Insecurity, ...
This paper examines the role of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in health care delivery throug... more This paper examines the role of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in health care delivery through legislative advocacy. It highlights the various efforts of civil society organisations (CSOs) towards the passage of the National Health Bill (2014). The role of CSOs spanned the various stages of the legislative process. Evidence from their engagement and advocacy for the NHB shows that when CSOs are engaged in developing and reviewing national health plans, they can assist in identifying or sharpening national priorities and consequently help improve health outcomes. The paper concludes by highlighting key lessons learnt in the advocacy process and critical success factors which include knowledge of the legislative process, ability to leverage on existing relationships and networks, and partnership with international partners, among others. Keywords: National Health Act, CSOs, Legislative Advocacy, National Assembly
This paper examines the role of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in health care delivery throug... more This paper examines the role of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in health care delivery through legislative advocacy. It highlights the various efforts of civil society organisations (CSOs) towards the passage of the National Health Bill (2014). The role of CSOs spanned the various stages of the legislative process. Evidence from their engagement and advocacy for the NHB shows that when CSOs are engaged in developing and reviewing national health plans, they can assist in identifying or sharpening national priorities and consequently help improve health outcomes. The paper concludes by highlighting key lessons learnt in the advocacy process and critical success factors which include knowledge of the legislative process, ability to leverage on existing relationships and networks, and partnership with international partners, among others.
This paper explores the connection between socioeconomic development and insecurity in Nigeria. O... more This paper explores the connection between socioeconomic development and insecurity in Nigeria. Of particular significance to this paper is the link between economic decline (characterized by high rates of unemployment, low wages and income, corruption and injustice) and the proliferation of conflict particularly in the northeast. The data presented in this study show a relationship between insecurity challenges in the northeast and rates of poverty and unemployment in the zone. Furthermore, the study shows that despite increased spending by the government, the number of attacks and resulting casualties continued to rise between 2009 and 2017. In the final analysis, it is here argued that for proposed long term solutions to the insecurity situation in Nigeria to be effective, they must be predicated on the rule of law, protective of personal and political freedoms and equality, accountable and transparent and more importantly, in service of the common good.
This study seeks to assess an output-based performance of Nigeria’s National Assembly, as against... more This study seeks to assess an output-based performance of Nigeria’s National Assembly, as against the mainstream capacity-based performance. The goal is to find out whether or not resource competence affects legislative performance. A priori, resource competence is critical to legislative performance. But the public outcry against the NASS would suggest that resource competence does not improve legislative performance for NASS. This will in effect mean that the resources appropriated by the NASS is a waste of tax payers’ money.
The paper seeks to quantify performance, provide proof of legislative activities as outputs and relate those to the resources consumed by parliament. The goal is to identify and use indicators that objectively capture parliamentary output and use these to measure performance, and to analyse the relationship, if any, between the legislative output and resource competence of the legislature. In analysing such relationship, if any, differing intervening variables (given different environmental contexts of legislatures) and presence of non-measurable qualitative variables, must be assessed as well (Hopkin 2002, Arter 2006, Landman 2000, Sartori 1970).
Nigeria Journal of Legislative Affairs, 2017
While all legislations enacted by the National Assembly are binding and important, there are many... more While all legislations enacted by the National Assembly are binding and
important, there are many laws that are significant for their span or because they point to a major and official decisive moment for the country. Since the return to democratic governance in 1999, the National Assembly has passed several critical legislations aimed at transforming state institutions that have become moribund under successive military regimes and influencing particular attitudes and social behaviours on a large scale. This paper critically assesses such "landmark legislations" in Nigeria that were passed from 1999 to 2016 in terms of their potentials for positive impacts on development and democratic re-engineering. These legislations cover such areas as finance and the economy, politics, security, corruption, democracy and governance, and the social sector among others. Also, some of the challenges faced in their implementation are discussed.
There is ample evidence which suggest that media in general, and increasingly social media, have ... more There is ample evidence which suggest that media in general, and increasingly social media, have direct and important consequences on the democratic process. This is more so given the changes in the means and the speed of information
platforms make it possible to quickly and directly disseminate news among huge number of people across vast geographical
spread. One of the more direct consequences of this media revolution is that it tilts the scale of influence in favour of citizens who are now able to directly, at negligible cost, communicate with people hitherto inaccessible including decision makers and those in authority. Additionally, through the agency of (social) media, people are able to share ideals , build social movements and demand for action from government. The chapter is structured thus: section two examines social media and its import on democratic governance; this is followed by section three which examines the ways in which social media is being used by government agencies and parliaments to reach out to more citizens; and in conclusion, section four provides an in-depth analysis of the role of social media in governance with specific reference to the Nigerian National Assembly. An assessment is then made of the opportunities, risks and implications presented by this new form of engagement. Though this chapter recognises the advantages that social media offers to citizens to hold government and Parliaments accountable, it is primarily concerned with how Parliaments can, through social media,
promote greater public engagement and good governance.
Chiedza (Harare, Zimbabwe), 2004
Chiedza (Harare, Zimbabwe), 2005
Chiedza (Harare, Zimbabwe), 2001
Global Journal of Science Frontier Research, Jul 17, 2016
This paper presents results from a recent fieldwork in Nigeria and explores the socioeconomic dim... more This paper presents results from a recent fieldwork in Nigeria and explores the socioeconomic dimension of gender as it relates to agriculture in the fadama areas of North-Central Nigeria. Findings reveal the central role women play in smallholder agriculture and how this is shaped by complex social processes that are inextricably linked with power relations. Through direct and indirect agricultural activities, women provide the bulk of the labor in smallholder agriculture. This is often in addition to the central role they play in maintaining the family structure. Notwithstanding their input to agricultural production and the family, women in the study areas are greatly disadvantaged as demonstrated by cultural practices that exclude them from owning the primary means of production, land and relegate them to the status of second class citizens. This prejudicial position of women in these communities was found out to be the result of multifaceted factors that include cultural practices which understands ‘the woman in a certain way’ and thus constructs her identity and role accordingly.
Chiedza (Harare, Zimbabwe), 2003
Chiedza (Harare, Zimbabwe), 2004
Journal of Public Administration and Governance, 2021
This study focuses on women legislative representation in Nigeria since the commencement of the F... more This study focuses on women legislative representation in Nigeria since the commencement of the Fourth Republic (1999 to 2020). It investigates the low levels of representation of women in the National Assembly and factors that explain this. Results from the study show that the majority of female respondents indicate active interest in politics but are discouraged by factors that include prevailing gender stereotypes, cultural/religious reasons, unfavourable political environment, lack of financial capacity, electoral violence and restrictive party structures and processes amongst others. The bulk of male respondents confirm these structural biases and barriers to women’s political participation. In view of these findings, some recommendations offered include implementation of deliberate policies and legislations that target women quotas and affirmative action, elimination of structural barriers to women's participation, reducing the cost of political participation for women, re...
A Political Economy of Pandemics and Consequences of COVID-19 for Nigeria, 2021
This chapter evaluates the role of the Nigerian parliament in managing the COVID-19 pandemic. Evi... more This chapter evaluates the role of the Nigerian parliament in managing the COVID-19 pandemic. Evidence shows that the National Assembly engaged early on COVID-19 related matters urging the executive to take pre-emptive measures to limit the impact on the economy and the livelihoods of the citizens. Despite the disruptive effect of the pandemic on legislative business, the National Assembly considered and approved the revised budget as well as the loan request of the Federal Government in the face of limited consultations with the stakeholders. Furthermore, the two chambers of the National Assembly held interactive sessions with the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19 and other government officials to assess the government’s response. Among others, the author discussed two important legislations initiated in the House of Representatives, namely, Economic Stimulus and the Infectious Diseases Bills which could not be passed for presidential assent as of November 2020. Notwithstanding these legislative measures, the quality of oversight of government spending and activities during the pandemic because remain largely superficial with little to suggest any serious positive outcomes. In the light of the poor performance of the legislature, especially in providing effective oversight of the executive in emergency situations, a revision of House and Senate Rules is recommended to enable the legislature to better adapt to emergencies by leveraging on new technologies to conducting legislative business, engage with the public and perform oversight functions. Additional recommendations include special legislative mechanisms to enhancing the effectiveness of legislative check on the executive both in the exercise of emergency powers and emergency expenditure.
Journal of Political Sciences & Public Affairs, 2019
This research study reviews all dimensions of the recent agitations for political restructuring o... more This research study reviews all dimensions of the recent agitations for political restructuring of Nigeria. A range of stakeholders from all the states in the federation were interviewed on a range of issues including the structure of the federation. Key findings from the study show that on the whole, respondents generally believe in a united Nigeria despite the challenges to Nigerian unity. Furthermore, while there is a clear preference for the retention of the current federal structure with states as federating units. The consensus is that some kind of re-structuring is necessary particularly through devolution of powers and allocation of more resources to the states to make for a more functional and effective federal system. The study therefore recommends, among others, greater autonomy for states and local governments in the forms of devolution/decentralization of power and resources using established principles of distribution of powers such as subsidiarity and proportionality.
Chiedza (Harare, Zimbabwe), 2007
International Journal of Agriculture and Forestry, 2016
A study of smallholder agriculture in Africa reveal a delicate interaction and negotiation across... more A study of smallholder agriculture in Africa reveal a delicate interaction and negotiation across the formal and informal boundaries where traditional agricultural practices, based on an understanding of the particular physical reality and exploitation of natural synergies, are combined with inputs typical of conventional agriculture. African agriculture thus stands poised at crossroads; whether to abandon tradition in favour of entirely "modern" methods and export markets as often advocated for in certain circles or depend on time tested indigenous knowledge systems and grassroots-defined development vision which combines popular livelihoods with respect for nature"s systems. Drawing on Bruno Latour, the metaphor of "hybridisation" is used to justify a negotiated compromise between official discourses, which promote the use of chemicals and grassroots reality which relies on nature"s systems. Agroecology is offered as a model to overcome this agricultu...
World environment, 2016
Faced by multiple stressors such as climate variability, policy inconsistency and economic global... more Faced by multiple stressors such as climate variability, policy inconsistency and economic globalization among others, smallholders in developing countries are constantly seeking ways to adapt and reduce the vulnerability of their farming systems. Indigenous knowledge systems have provided the basis for efficient and cost effective resource management for many centuries. In this study of two fadama communities in Northern Nigeria, findings reveal the significant role and value indigenous knowledge in improving the resilience and adaptive capacity of fadama agricultural systems especially in light of increasing pressures, both natural and man-made. These farmers provide an excellent example of how local knowledge can contribute in the quest for sustainable systems through the promotion of adaptive strategies for resource management.
This paper explores the connection between socio-economic development and insecurity in Nigeria. ... more This paper explores the connection between socio-economic development and insecurity in Nigeria. Of particular significance to this paper is the link between economic decline (characterized by high rates of unemployment, low wages and income, corruption and injustice) and the proliferation of conflict particularly in the north-east. The data presented in this study show a relationship between insecurity challenges in the north-east and rates of poverty and unemployment in the zone. Furthermore, the study shows that despite increased spending by the government, the number of attacks and resulting casualties continued to rise between 2009 and 2017. In the final analysis, it is here argued that for proposed long term solutions to the insecurity situation in Nigeria to be effective, they must be predicated on the rule of law, protective of personal and political freedoms and equality, accountable and transparent and more importantly, in service of the common good. Keywords: Insecurity, ...
This paper examines the role of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in health care delivery throug... more This paper examines the role of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in health care delivery through legislative advocacy. It highlights the various efforts of civil society organisations (CSOs) towards the passage of the National Health Bill (2014). The role of CSOs spanned the various stages of the legislative process. Evidence from their engagement and advocacy for the NHB shows that when CSOs are engaged in developing and reviewing national health plans, they can assist in identifying or sharpening national priorities and consequently help improve health outcomes. The paper concludes by highlighting key lessons learnt in the advocacy process and critical success factors which include knowledge of the legislative process, ability to leverage on existing relationships and networks, and partnership with international partners, among others. Keywords: National Health Act, CSOs, Legislative Advocacy, National Assembly
This paper examines the role of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in health care delivery throug... more This paper examines the role of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in health care delivery through legislative advocacy. It highlights the various efforts of civil society organisations (CSOs) towards the passage of the National Health Bill (2014). The role of CSOs spanned the various stages of the legislative process. Evidence from their engagement and advocacy for the NHB shows that when CSOs are engaged in developing and reviewing national health plans, they can assist in identifying or sharpening national priorities and consequently help improve health outcomes. The paper concludes by highlighting key lessons learnt in the advocacy process and critical success factors which include knowledge of the legislative process, ability to leverage on existing relationships and networks, and partnership with international partners, among others.
This paper explores the connection between socioeconomic development and insecurity in Nigeria. O... more This paper explores the connection between socioeconomic development and insecurity in Nigeria. Of particular significance to this paper is the link between economic decline (characterized by high rates of unemployment, low wages and income, corruption and injustice) and the proliferation of conflict particularly in the northeast. The data presented in this study show a relationship between insecurity challenges in the northeast and rates of poverty and unemployment in the zone. Furthermore, the study shows that despite increased spending by the government, the number of attacks and resulting casualties continued to rise between 2009 and 2017. In the final analysis, it is here argued that for proposed long term solutions to the insecurity situation in Nigeria to be effective, they must be predicated on the rule of law, protective of personal and political freedoms and equality, accountable and transparent and more importantly, in service of the common good.
This study seeks to assess an output-based performance of Nigeria’s National Assembly, as against... more This study seeks to assess an output-based performance of Nigeria’s National Assembly, as against the mainstream capacity-based performance. The goal is to find out whether or not resource competence affects legislative performance. A priori, resource competence is critical to legislative performance. But the public outcry against the NASS would suggest that resource competence does not improve legislative performance for NASS. This will in effect mean that the resources appropriated by the NASS is a waste of tax payers’ money.
The paper seeks to quantify performance, provide proof of legislative activities as outputs and relate those to the resources consumed by parliament. The goal is to identify and use indicators that objectively capture parliamentary output and use these to measure performance, and to analyse the relationship, if any, between the legislative output and resource competence of the legislature. In analysing such relationship, if any, differing intervening variables (given different environmental contexts of legislatures) and presence of non-measurable qualitative variables, must be assessed as well (Hopkin 2002, Arter 2006, Landman 2000, Sartori 1970).
Nigeria Journal of Legislative Affairs, 2017
While all legislations enacted by the National Assembly are binding and important, there are many... more While all legislations enacted by the National Assembly are binding and
important, there are many laws that are significant for their span or because they point to a major and official decisive moment for the country. Since the return to democratic governance in 1999, the National Assembly has passed several critical legislations aimed at transforming state institutions that have become moribund under successive military regimes and influencing particular attitudes and social behaviours on a large scale. This paper critically assesses such "landmark legislations" in Nigeria that were passed from 1999 to 2016 in terms of their potentials for positive impacts on development and democratic re-engineering. These legislations cover such areas as finance and the economy, politics, security, corruption, democracy and governance, and the social sector among others. Also, some of the challenges faced in their implementation are discussed.
There is ample evidence which suggest that media in general, and increasingly social media, have ... more There is ample evidence which suggest that media in general, and increasingly social media, have direct and important consequences on the democratic process. This is more so given the changes in the means and the speed of information
platforms make it possible to quickly and directly disseminate news among huge number of people across vast geographical
spread. One of the more direct consequences of this media revolution is that it tilts the scale of influence in favour of citizens who are now able to directly, at negligible cost, communicate with people hitherto inaccessible including decision makers and those in authority. Additionally, through the agency of (social) media, people are able to share ideals , build social movements and demand for action from government. The chapter is structured thus: section two examines social media and its import on democratic governance; this is followed by section three which examines the ways in which social media is being used by government agencies and parliaments to reach out to more citizens; and in conclusion, section four provides an in-depth analysis of the role of social media in governance with specific reference to the Nigerian National Assembly. An assessment is then made of the opportunities, risks and implications presented by this new form of engagement. Though this chapter recognises the advantages that social media offers to citizens to hold government and Parliaments accountable, it is primarily concerned with how Parliaments can, through social media,
promote greater public engagement and good governance.