FIRST ANNIVERSARY: OGUN ASSEMBLY USING LEGISLATIVE INSTRUMENTS IN PROMOTING GOOD GOVERNANCE

Ogun State House of Assembly has just marked its first anniversary under a new leadership led by Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Olusegun Elemide, who many have described as a visionary and democratic leader, with the magic wand to take the legislative arm to its rightful place among the comity of State Houses of Assembly in the country. Upon his assumption of office early in this year, Rt. Hon. Elemide made a solemn promise in his acceptance speech to be a symbol of positive change, with relentless commitment to adding value to the entire governance in the State.  Added to that was his assurance that his tenure would accord high regards to the welfare of the millions of constituents across the State, his colleague-lawmakers and staffers of the legislative arm. This, he promised to achieve through the collaborative efforts of his colleague-lawmakers and the other arms of government in the State.

 It is therefore not surprising, seeing the feats achieved, which made the recent celebration of the first anniversary of the 10th legislature in the State not a mere ceremony but a testament to the  unwavering commitment to progress, transparency, and the democratic ideals which have commenced in the last one year. Thus, within a short time, the Assembly has redefined its purpose and direction, charting a path of renewal, steadfast and dedication to the people it serves.

Since its inauguration on June 20, 2023, the 10th Legislature has embarked on a purposeful mission to address the aspirations and needs of the various constituents in the State. In contributing its quota to good governance in the State, the Assembly  has passed no fewer than seven bills into law, while additional seven bills are at the various stages of legislative process preparatory to their passage.

This is just as over 24 motions passed into resolutions, the Assembly has thus exemplified proactive and responsive governance aimed at tangible outcomes in virtually all sectors of the State economy.

The above legislations span critical  areas of governance, including the yearly appropriation bill, judiciary fund management and legislative funds management meant to promote self accounting process for the two arms of government to be better positioned for public scrutiny. The various amendments to the Magistrates' Court and Local Government laws were not just procedural adjustments but strategic enhancements to promote efficiency and responsiveness in their operations. Each legislative intentions and outcomes represent a strategic effort to achieve a more effective and accountable governance framework.

It is important to note that, in its recent special plenary commemorating the first anniversary, all the members of the 10th Assembly not only acknowledged but commended the State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun for non-interference as the Assembly carried out its various oversights on Ministries, Departments and Agencies of Government with the primary purpose of promoting accounting and transparency, thereby creating value for government resources. The members particularly commended the governor for creating an enabling environment for the different House Committees  especially Committee on Public Accounts and Anti-Corruption to consider all audit reports on MDAs and Local Government Councils in the State, which was meant to block leakages and strengthen the process of administering public resources.

Various issues, especially those that required urgent public importance have equally received robust legislative attention, reflecting an arm of government that is responsible and responsive to the socio-economic and political demands and requirements  of the  people. Among such were different resolutions meant to call for the review of the State’s security architecture, promotion of cultural heritage, and the need to safeguard public health, which illustrated a legislature deeply committed to addressing immediate and long-term needs of the people.

Similarly, the house resolution geared towards preventing the subtle takeover of native industries by foreign interests underscored the Assembly’s commitment to preserving local enterprises and promoting indigenous culture. Other resolutions like those meant to urge government and security agents in the State to take proactive stance against cultism and the push for appointment of a Youth Commissioner highlight the legislature’s dedication to societal well-being and youth empowerment.

It is important to note that conflict resolution has been another cornerstone of the Assembly’s  agenda. Thus, the 10th Assembly passed some resolutions to mediate disputes among companies and individuals to further engender peace and justice as part of its legislative mandate.

The feats the Assembly has achieved within a short time indicated that the Assembly’s unanimous election of Rt. Hon. Elemide as the Speaker earlier this year has propelled the needed unity among members to further deliver on more laudable and progressive initiatives. Hence, under the new leadership, the Assembly has facilitated significant projects, including the ongoing comprehensive renovation of the Assembly Complex, while the long-standing issue of potable water at the Assembly Complex has just been addressed with some new sets of furniture distributed to staffers. These infrastructural upgrades symbolize a commitment to enhancing the working environment and improving the quality of life for members and staff.

As the Assembly looks to the future, it pledges to maintain a collaborative mutual interdependence with the executive arm, ensuring legislative actions are aligned with the broader objectives of the State government. The very essence is to deliver tangible benefits to the people, while safeguarding the integrity of the legislative arm. As the 10th Legislature embarks on its second year, it has reassured the people of its commitment towards exploring all legislative process to further the interest and aspirations of the people of the State to aid good governance.

The achievements of the past year will surely assist in laying a solid foundation for the Assembly to navigate the challenges ahead with determination, resilience and unity. 

The State legislature is set on a clearly defined mission reflecting  a new dawn in democratic governance in the State. This is best captured in the popular maxim, "a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step," which aptly summarized the spirit of this anniversary. It signifies the first of many strides toward sustained progress and development. As Ogun State moves forward, the collective efforts of its Legislature and the executive arm with the support of the citizens will undoubtedly continue to chart a course toward a brighter and more prosperous future for its people.

Jamiu Lawal writes from OGHA, Abeokuta.