a. Summary of facts 28. In its defense, the Respondent reiterated its commitment to the protection of the rights of all citizens of Nigeria within the framework of democratic principles subscribed to by the Respondent State and enshrined in the Federal Constitution. 29. The Respondent elaborated the relevant provisions of its 1999 Federal Constitution (as amended) and stated that the protection of freedom of expression and the press have been entrenched by Section 39 of the Constitution with noted exceptions under Section 45(1) (a) & (b). 30. The Respondent further states that members of its National Assembly comprising the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Federal Republic of Nigeria were elected from all parts of the country to ensure the smooth administration of the country with constitutional mandate to make laws for the betterment of the citizenry. The Legislature, according to the Respondent, has a laid down statutory procedures for enacting laws. 31. It is the contention of the Respondent that in respect of the subject matter of the instant suit, the Draft Bill was presented to the National Assembly by a member in pursuance of the exercise of his statutory duty and the Bill was deliberated upon by the House but has not reached the stage of public hearing. 32. The Respondent added that it is at the public hearing stage of the Bill that memoranda are solicited from the public to capture their grievance and contends that the Applicants ought to have waited to approach the House with their grievances or observations when the Bill reaches that stage. 10