Delta Assembly Tasks Federal Gov’t On Patience, Lobbying Over LG Autonomy

During the flag-off celebration of the first year anniversary of the Delta State’s eighth Assembly, Speaker Rt. Hon. Guwor Dennis advised the Federal Government to either exercise patience with the constitutional amendment process or engage in lobbying to achieve local government autonomy goals.

The Speaker emphasized that deducting local government funds from state allocation before the constitutional amendment would be inappropriate.

He criticized the federal government’s actions on local government autonomy as unconstitutional and aberrant, while also noting that the state has consistently supported autonomy for local governments.

Delta State is one of the 36 states involved in the lawsuit. It is anticipated that the Supreme Court will make a decision.

Prior to the state assemblies being informed, the Speakers held their executive meeting. Despite the fact that two-thirds of the states must agree to grant local government autonomy, Delta Assembly aligned with only 16 states and did not achieve the necessary majority, as stated by the Speaker.

He highlighted the Assembly’s accomplishments over the past year, noting that a total of 18 bills were received, including 15 executive bills and three private members bills.

Of these, nine bills have been passed and three have been signed into law. The House has also addressed significant motions and resolutions to safeguard the welfare and security of Deltans.

The legislative journey has been marked by consistent progress, purposeful actions, and meaningful impact. These bills aim to benefit Deltans across various areas such as social welfare, economic development, justice reform, and environmental protection.

Rather than lowering standards, the Assembly has raised them through the development and adoption of the 8th Legislative Agenda.

It is important to note that the Eighth Assembly is fully prepared to fulfill its responsibilities of creating laws, representing the people, and overseeing government initiatives.

In line with its constitutional obligations, Dennis mentioned that the House has reviewed and approved candidates for positions in the State Executive Council and various government bodies.

We are committed to working together with the executive branch while maintaining the autonomy of the legislature to ensure that development reaches every corner of the state.

The Speaker affirmed the House’s unwavering commitment to supporting government policies aimed at alleviating the economic challenges faced by Nigerians and Deltans in the past year.

Moving into the second session, he emphasized their readiness to fulfill their duties and uphold the government’s policy objectives outlined in their legislative agenda for the benefit of Deltans.

The Speaker highlighted significant progress made in legislative collaboration with the executive and judicial branches, as well as other key stakeholders over the past year.