The Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Oludaisi Elemide, has again called for full legislative autonomy, stressing that independence from the executive arm is essential for effective lawmaking and oversight.
Speaking with journalists during a review of his two-year stewardship, Elemide said the absence of financial autonomy continues to limit the performance of the legislature, despite progress recorded in legislative output.
He explained that while state assemblies enjoy administrative autonomy, the lack of financial independence remains a major challenge, noting that the situation is not peculiar to Ogun State but affects most Houses of Assembly across the country.
According to the Speaker, the Assembly passed twelve bills within the period, with eight others currently undergoing legislative processes. He added that over sixty House resolutions, many bordering on conflict resolution and community disputes, were successfully handled.
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Among the laws passed are the Scavengers and Waste Dealers Regulation Law, 2025 and the Ogun State Consumer Protection Law, 2024, which he said were designed to improve public safety, regulate informal activities, and strengthen consumer rights.
Elemide noted that although constitutional and legal frameworks exist to guarantee legislative autonomy, the struggle for full independence persists, particularly at the state and local levels where executive influence remains strong. He expressed optimism that continued engagement and reforms would strengthen legislative autonomy and democratic governance in Ogun State.
(Editor: Ada Ononye)
