The Senate President, David Mark, says the National Assembly will not provide safety net for any of its members found wanting in their responsibilities as lawmakers.

He vowed that no amount of blackmail would deter the institution from carrying out its oversight functions.

Mark made the pledge in a statement signed by his Special Adviser (Media and Publicity), Mr Kola Ologbondiyan on Saturday in Abuja.

He stated this in Lagos at the National Assembly-Private Sector Forum organised by the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI).

He, however, cautioned members of the public against compromising lawmakers in the discharge of their duties.

According to him, the National Assembly will continue to clear itself in its strong determination to meet the expectations of the electorate.

"There are those who say that the National Assembly take the bunch of the budget. This is very ridiculous. I know that what goes to the National Assembly is not more than 2.5 per cent of the total budget.

"The National Assembly members are always accused of corruption but Nigerians to a large extent are responsible for this alleged corruption.

"We will cleanse our house to earn the respect of those that elected us into our respective offices.

"We will continue to clean our house and those who bring us to shame will get their punishment accordingly."

Mark advised members of the LCCI to participate in the public hearing on the forthcoming Constitution review exercise particularly on the issue of the Land Use Act.

The President of the LCCI, Chief Goodie Ibru, urged the National Assembly to expeditiously pass the Petroleum Industry Bill as well as the amendment to the Land Use Act.

NAN