The war of words between the Presidency and leadership of the Senate is yet another eruption in the frosty relationship between the executive and the legislative branches of government since the inception of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.

The combative exchanges followed the Monday June 27, 2016 arraignment of Senate President, Senator Bukola Saraki and Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, for the alleged forgery of the Senate Standing Rules. The charges were preferred by the Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN).

The arraignment of the Number Three Citizen of the country and his deputy over such a grievous allegation is a clear demonstration that the law is no respecter of persons. This has larger implications on the polity. One of the fundamental issues it has thrown up is the need to keep elected officials available to face criminal prosecution whenever the need arises. Cloaking them with immunity will not compel them to remain above-board in their dealings at all times.

Though the Federal lawmakers and some legal opinions question the prosecution of the Senate Chiefs by the AGF, the advantage of taking this matter before the Judiciary is that it will enable us ascertain if the “amendment” of the Standing Rules is an issue the Executive Branch should be interested in. Does this constitute “interference”? Or is the AGF correct to pursue the case of “forgery” against the perpetrators? We leave these questions for the courts to determine.

We are, however, concerned about the harsh words spewing from the Senate leaders and the Presidency over the issue. It shows there is much more going on between the combatants in both arms of government, beyond the mere issue of alleged forgery. Political issues should not be ruled out.

The Judiciary is now called to its true element: to interpret the law without fear or favour and separate the law from the narrow political contentions between the two estates of the realm. The Judiciary must play its role patriotically and do justice to whom it is due with despatch to enable everyone face the business for which they were elected.

While the courts go about this business we call on the Presidency and the Senate to exercise restraint in responding to issues related to the matter. The exchange of words does not do the country any good. We believe that government business must be conducted with tact, maturity and dignity.

What Nigerians desire at this time is good governance that guarantees their security and welfare, not petty bickering and muscle flexing between the executive and the legislature. They must face their duties while we wait for the courts to come out with their verdicts.