…Call For The Recognition of Martin Amaewhule-led Rivers State House of Assembly
The Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to legislative independence and good governance while addressing key national and sub-national issues.
This was arrived at at the Conference of Speakers’ meeting held on February 13, 2025, in Abuja.
In a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting presided over by its national Chairman and Speaker of Oyo state House of Assembly, Rt. Honorable Adebo Ogundoyin, the Speakers’ Conference strongly condemned external interference in the affairs of the Lagos State House of Assembly.
The body called for the recognition of the Martin Amaewhule-led Rivers State House of Assembly, and commended ongoing tax reform efforts at the federal level.
The Conference acknowledged the constitutional right of a legislature to remove its presiding officers but emphasized that such processes must strictly adhere to the Nigerian Constitution and other enabling laws.
Expressing concern over external influences in the Lagos State House of Assembly’s leadership changes, the Speakers warned that any interference in legislative affairs undermines the independence of state assemblies.
They however, urged all stakeholders to allow the House to resolve its internal matters without coercion.
According to the communique issued at the endof its meeting, the political crisis in Rivers State also drew attention from the Conference.
The Speakers noted recent court rulings that affirmed the legitimacy of the Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule-led House of Assembly and called on the Rivers State Governor, Dr. Siminalayi Fubara, to recognize and engage with the duly constituted legislature.
Emphasizing the importance of judicial decisions, the Conference urged all political actors to respect court rulings and promote institutional harmony for effective governance in Rivers State.
On economic matters, the Speakers commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for pushing forward critical tax reform bills currently being reviewed by the National Assembly.
While acknowledging concerns raised by citizens, the Conference expressed optimism that the reforms would strengthen fiscal federalism and grant states greater financial autonomy through improved tax collection and administration.
“If enacted, these reforms are expected to boost infrastructure development and enhance public services across the federation,” the communique reads partly.
The Conference however, reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening democracy and upholding legislative independence, while ensuring that good governance thrive across the 36 states of Nigeria.
The communiqué was signed on behalf of the body by the leadership of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria.