The Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, formally proclaimed the 8th Assembly Forum during a special dinner hosted in Ibadan for members of the 8th Oyo State House of Assembly yesterday.
The event, attended by over 20 former lawmakers, served as a platform not only for reunion but for reaffirming shared legislative ideals and strengthening collaboration beyond active political service.
Westernmirror.com.ng reports that the 8th Assembly holds personal significance for Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin, as it marked the beginning of his legislative career before rising to become Speaker in the 9th Assembly and currently in the 10th.
Speaking at the gathering, the Speaker unveiled the 8th Assembly Forum as a non-partisan body intended to unite former legislators, regardless of party affiliation, while focusing on welfare, collaboration, and mentorship for upcoming politicians.
“With this inauguration and inaugural dinner, I am not only honouring my roots but also laying the foundation for a more connected and empowered legislative community in Oyo State.
“The 8th Assembly Forum now stands as a symbol of continuity, unity, and shared responsibility,” Ogundoyin stated.
In an unprecedented move to support former lawmakers, the Speaker announced plans to introduce a comprehensive health insurance scheme and explore additional welfare packages for past members.
He also pledged to advocate for pension and gratuity reforms at the national level through the Conference of Speakers, seeking constitutional amendments to secure the rights of former legislators.
The forum also unveiled its executive committee, naming Rt. Hon. Gunju Ojo, former Speaker of the 8th Assembly, as Chairman.
Other members of the executive include Hon. AbdulWasi Musah as Vice-Chairman, Hon. Gbenga Oyekola as Organizing Secretary, Hon. Bolaji Badmos as Secretary, and Hon. Fatai Adesina as Treasurer.
In his remarks, Rt. Hon. Gunju Ojo lauded the initiative and promised to work with members of the Forum to advance its course.
“This forum is a timely and noble idea. It reminds us that our service to the people doesn’t end with our tenure. We are a family, and this platform ensures we continue to support one another and contribute meaningfully to the state.”
The gathering also observed a solemn tribute in honour of four late members of the 8th Assembly: Rt. Hon. Michael Adeyemo (Ibarapa East), Hon. Kehinde Subair (former Majority Leader), Hon. Gideon (Oorelope), and Hon. Jimoh (Ibarapa North and Central).
A key resolution of the forum was to convene quarterly meetings aimed at strengthening bonds among past lawmakers and expanding the forum to include other alumni of the Oyo State House of Assembly.
The goal, members said, is to build a robust network of experienced legislators committed to mentorship, mutual support, and the long-term development of legislative institutions in Oyo State.