By Felix Kuyinu
Lawmakers at the Lagos State House of Assembly, LAHA, have called for more independence of the legislative arm of government in activities for developments in states across the country.
LAHA in a plenary on Tuesday in commemoration of the 2024 International Day of Parliamentarism reprimanded being seen as appendage and called for more partnership between state House of Assemblies and Governors at the executive arm.
In line with the stewardship of the House Speaker, Honourable Mudashiru Obasa, the legislators called on the National Assembly to criminalize any act that violates the significance or independence of the legislative arm.
Obasa urged the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to create an avenue in recognizing the efforts of his past predecessors and members of the Assembly which has significantly contributed to the state’s growth and development.
Obasa said, “The significance of honouring past speakers who have served and contributed to the development of the state needs to be held highly.
“Without them, the parliament, there is no democracy. The Assembly holds a crucial role in governance through lawmaking, motions and resolutions.
“I congratulate the parliamentarians across the country for their contributions toward the nation’s development. It also important to note that a government has three arms, and if one is missing, there is no government.
Obasa added,“Since 1979 when this House was established under Alhaji Lateef Jakande, none of the past speakers have been celebrated.
“We should celebrate those who have represented us well and convey to the National Assembly the need to allow Houses of Assembly to practise what the constitution says about the parliament effectively and to provide the necessary support.
“The governors should also give the political will to the parliament to enable it to perform its duties as stated in the constitution.”
Speaking in like terms with the Speaker, Honourable Gbolahan Yishawu, representing Eti-Osa constituency 2, said the role of a parliament cannot be overemphasized.
Yishawu said that the Assembly is a bridge that links the people and government. However, he hinted that sometimes the House is underappreciated.
Honourable Desmond Elliot, representing Surulere Constituecy 01, noted that the parliamentary is closer to the residents and their request for a better democracy can be easily passed for dialogue at the Assembly, hence, reaching the apex arm of government.
Honourable Adedamola Kasunmu, Deputy Majority Leader of the House urged that the Assembly should consider being a part of the Inter-Parliamentary Union.
