The Osun State House of Assembly has initiated the process of amending the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission and Local Government Creation (OSSIEC) and Administration Law.
ADULAWO NEWS reports that this action by the Assembly is a direct response to the recent decision by the Supreme Court that has granted financial autonomy to the 774 local governments in Nigeria.
During the plenary session on Tuesday, Speaker Adewale Egbedun disclosed that the bills under consideration for amendments are 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 emphasized the necessity for the Assembly to thoroughly examine these amendments.
He stressed the importance of ensuring that the legislative framework of the Assembly is in harmony with the evolving legal environment.
According to him, “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.”