The Osun State House of Assembly has begun modifying the laws pertaining to the establishment and administration of local governments and the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission.
The move by the Assembly is coming following the recent judgment by the Supreme Court granting financial autonomy to the 774 local governments in Nigeria.
According to the Speaker, Adewale Egbedun during plenary on Tuesday, the bills slated for amendments include the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (Amendment No 1) Bill, 2024, and the Osun State Local Government Areas (Creation and Administration) (Harmonised) Bill, 2024.
Egbedun maintained that it was imperative that the Assembly delved into the amendments.
This, he insisted, was to ensure that its legislative framework aligned with the new legal landscape.
He said, “I trust that each one of us is well-informed about the recent landmark ruling delivered by the Supreme Court, which has authorized financial independence for the 774 Local Governments across Nigeria.
“This significant judgement has brought about the nullification of certain existing laws that were in place.
“In light of this development, I am urging this Honorable House that we promptly initiate the process of amending the current Osun State Local Government Areas (Creation and Administration) Laws, as well as the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission Law.
“To facilitate this crucial process, I am proposing two new bills for consideration: (i) Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (Amendment No 1) Bill, 2024, and Osun State Local Government Areas (Creation and Administration) (Harmonised) Bill, 2024.
“Let us work collaboratively to enact laws that not only comply with the Supreme Court’s ruling but also promote good governance and effective administration at the local government level.
“Your dedication and expertise in this matter are highly valued, and I am confident that together, we can enact legislation that serves the best interests of our constituents and upholds the principles of democracy.”
Written By Francis Ezediuno