…We need better resources to deliver— Speaker
Members of the 7th Ekiti State House of Assembly have been equipped with relevant knowledge and skills needed to enhance their primary function of law making and effective representation of their constituencies.
This followed a retreat organized for the lawmakers with the themed “Legislating and Oversight: In a Challenging Time,” marking the commencement of a new legislative year.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye said it is important to build the capacity of the lawmakers so as to enhance their delivery but expressed concern over access to resources.
The Speaker of the 7th Assembly pointed out that, despite the prevailing economic hardships in the country, lawmakers have been receiving the same salary since the 4th Assembly, which has hindered their ability to effectively perform in their respective constituencies.
Speaking with journalists, he explained that the unchanged salary structure, which has not been reviewed by the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) to reflect the country’s current economic realities, has been a major barrier to delivering adequate projects to communities.
He said, “Capacity building is crucial for this arm of government. It helps us stay updated and prepared for our responsibilities. We cannot ignore the realities of the moment. We all know these are challenging times, so how do we legislate and perform oversight functions in such a period?
“One legislative year has ended, and we are about to begin a new one. We’ve come together to equip ourselves with the necessary tools to do our jobs responsibly and more effectively.
“When you look at the huge demands members receive daily, the Assembly is still earning what members of the 4th Assembly earned. You have to balance the expectations of the people with your limited resources so that everything works together for the common good of our people and the development of the state.
“The honorary members are the most vulnerable. How do you expect a lawmaker to distribute 10 motorcycles when one unit now costs over one million naira, just because someone did it years ago when a motorcycle cost 45,000 naira?
“Back then, cement was sold for N750, but we are still collecting the same salary now that cement is very expensive.”
While reiterating the Assembly’s commitment, Aribasoye added, “We won’t do less; we are stepping up our game. We will ensure we pass impactful laws that touch even the most vulnerable members of society. We will perform our oversight functions diligently to promote transparency and accountability in governance.”
In his remarks, the governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji, urged the lawmakers to engage with stakeholders and community members to implement laws effectively.
Oyebanji, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaja Habibat Adubiaro, noted that the lawmakers’ oversight functions are a cornerstone of democratic governance, urging them to uphold integrity, diligence, and service to improve the state’s future and the lives of its residents.
She said, “Legislators must be equipped not only with legislative knowledge but also with a deep understanding of socio-economic issues.
“Our legislative body must actively engage with stakeholders, including community members, experts, and other governmental bodies.
“Oversight functions are the cornerstone of our democratic system, ensuring that laws are implemented effectively.
“The role of oversight becomes even more critical in our focus on transparency and accountability, promoting a culture where public officials are held accountable for their actions and decisions.
“We must work effectively with executive agencies to ensure that oversight is constructive. Be guided by and uphold the principles of integrity, diligence, and service.
“Our work is not just about creating policy but about shaping the future of Ekiti State and improving the lives of our citizens”.