Speaker renew push for legislative financial autonomy

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mr Mudashiru Obasa, joined 35 other Speakers to push for full financial autonomy for all State Assemblies.

Obasa made the call while hosting the Conference of Speakers, Deputy Speakers, and Majority Leaders from State Assemblies to Iftar at the Assembly complex in Ikeja, on Friday.

It was reported the high-profile delegation was led by the Conference Chairman, Mr Adebo Ogundoyin.

Our correspondent reported that only five State Assemblies – Lagos, Delta, Plateau, Oyo, and Nasarawa – currently enjoy near-full financial independence.

Twelve Assemblies with partial autonomy include Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Enugu, Kogi, Kwara, Bauchi, Ogun, Osun, and Rivers.

Assemblies without any financial autonomy include Ondo, Katsina, Gombe, Taraba, Yobe, Ekiti, Abia, Imo, Bayelsa, Anambra, Ebonyi, Niger, Kebbi, Sokoto, Zamfara, Kano, Jigawa, and Kaduna.

Obasa, the immediate past Chairman of the Conference, thanked his colleagues and reaffirmed his commitment to autonomy, legislative independence, and cooperation among State lawmakers.

He stressed that effective State Assemblies are essential for good governance and sustainable development throughout Nigeria.

“The Iftar offered lawmakers a chance to enhance inter-State legislative ties, exchange ideas, and address pressing challenges facing their respective Assemblies.

“There is a provision in Section 121 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, which grants financial autonomy to State legislatures.

“All we are demanding is for every State government to implement this constitutional provision.

“I appreciate your visit and support. Our collective duty is to uphold the integrity of our Assemblies.

“We must work together for the progress of our individual States and Nigeria as a whole,” he said.

Speaking for the delegation, Ogundoyin, Speaker of Oyo State House of Assembly, praised Obasa’s commitment to legislative autonomy and institutional growth.

He acknowledged Obasa’s key contributions to strengthening Nigeria’s legislative governance and promoting effective lawmaking.

“Obasa remains a strong advocate for Nigeria’s State Assemblies. His dedication to autonomy and governance is truly commendable,” Ogundoyin said.

NAN noted that the event included rich discussions on best legislative practices and challenges, culminating in a symbolic Iftar fostering unity among lawmakers.

The gathering reaffirmed state legislatures’ dedication to democracy, legislative excellence, and improved governance nationwide.