The Oyo State House of Assembly has shunned elaborate activities marking its third anniversary, citing prevailing security concerns in parts of the state, particularly in the Oke-Ogun and Ogbomoso axis as reasons.
Instead, the legislature reflected on its performance over the last three legislative reflecte as a critical arm of government.
This was as the House equally highlighted key legislative milestones achieved since its inauguration on June 14, 2023.
Recall that the 10th Oyo State House of Assembly was inaugurated on June 14, 2023, and has since maintained that its activities are guided by the principles of accountability, transparency and people-oriented governance.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, disclosed during the House’s Wednesday plenary sitting that the decision of the state legislature was informed by the recent security challenges confronting some communities in the state and the need to show solidarity with affected areas and residents.
According to the Assembly, while the occasion would ordinarily have been marked with celebrations and public engagements, members resolved to focus attention on governance, legislative responsibilities and efforts geared towards addressing the security situation.
A document released by the Assembly detailing its scorecard showed that the 10th Legislature has recorded significant achievements in line with its legislative agenda and the Omituntun 2.0 Roadmap for Sustainable Development 2023–2027.
Among the accomplishments highlighted was the passage of 36 bills into law, covering various sectors of governance and development.
The Assembly also revealed that it had passed 276 resolutions, which were transmitted to the executive arm and other relevant government institutions for implementation.
It noted that the resolutions are being monitored through the oversight activities of various committees to ensure compliance and effectiveness.
In its efforts to strengthen governance and accountability, the legislature stated that its Post Legislative Scrutiny (PLS) Unit conducted inquiries into the implementation of the Open Rearing and Grazing Regulation Law, 2019, as well as the Oyo State Security Agency Law, 2020.
The Assembly further listed the organization of a Security Summit as one of its notable interventions during the period under review.
The summit, it explained, was convened in response to persistent and recurring security challenges affecting parts of the state.
The House also disclosed that it conducted nine public hearings on various bills under consideration, providing stakeholders, civil society groups and members of the public opportunities to contribute to the legislative process.
The lawmakers in their separate submissions during legislative deliberations, reaffirmed their commitment to lawmaking, oversight and effective representation.
They noted that the Assembly remains focused on delivering democratic dividends and supporting policies that promote peace, security and socio-economic development in Oyo State.
The House assured residents that it would continue to work closely with the executive arm of government and security agencies to address emerging challenges while pursuing legislative initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of citizens.