Speakers forum condemns external interference in Rivers, Lagos assemblies

Speakers of the 36 State Houses of Assembly under the aegis of Nigeria’s Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures have condemned what they alleged as external interferences in the Rivers and Lagos State Houses of Assembly crises, emphasising the importance of respecting legislative independence.

This was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting of the Conference held in Abuja

The meeting was presided over by the Chairman of the Conference and Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin

The Conference specifically highlighted the need for adherence to constitutional provisions and enabling laws in removing presiding officers, rather than external interference.

In the case of Rivers State, the Conference acknowledged court judgments affirming the legitimacy of the Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule-led House of Assembly and called for recognition and engagement with the duly constituted Assembly to promote stability and progress.

“The Conference notes the court judgments affirming the legitimacy of the Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule-led House of Assembly. We call on the Executive Governor of Rivers State, His Excellency Dr. Siminalayi Fubara, and other stakeholders to recognise and engage with the duly constituted Assembly to promote stability and progress. Respect for judicial decisions and institutional harmony is essential for effective governance.”

Similarly, in Lagos State, the Conference condemned external interference in the House of Assembly’s affairs, stressing that such actions undermine legislative independence.

“The Conference acknowledges the constitutional provisions for the removal of presiding officers but insists that such processes must strictly comply with the Constitution and enabling laws. We condemn external interference in the Lagos State House of Assembly’s affairs, as it undermines legislative independence. All stakeholders are urged to respect the Assembly’s autonomy and ensure internal matters are resolved without external coercion.”

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,” they said.

The Conference, however, reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening democracy and upholding legislative independence, while ensuring that good governance thrives 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.