"lawmakers reiterated commitment"

Speakers of state legislatures in Nigeria at the weekend rose from a retreat in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, insisting financial autonomy is a necessary ingredient for the effective discharge of their constitutional duties.

In a communique issued at the end of the speakers’ retreat with the theme ‘The Role of the Legislature as Instrument of Stability in Democratic Governance,’ the speakers agree that only financial autonomy could shield them from the  overbearing influence of the executive.

The lawmakers reiterated commitment towards ensuring the passage of the clauses as they relate to the autonomy of the state legislature in the ongoing constitution amendment exercise.
The communique which was presented by the speaker Enugu State House of Assembly, Eugene Odo, called on the National Assembly to expedite action on the ongoing process of Constitution amendment and transmit same to State Assemblies  for further legislative actions.
The conference also called upon state lawmakers to ensure stability in the polity and entrenchment of democracy by avoiding frequent and unconstitutional change of leadership in the State Assemblies.
Speaker of the House of Representatives,  Alh. Aminu Wazari Tambuwal, in his address, advised the state legislators to remain focused saying they should be bold and selfless to safeguard the weak from the strong.