By Suleiman Abubakar
The Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures in Nigeria has strongly condemned external interference in the crises affecting the Rivers and Lagos State Houses of Assembly, emphasizing the need for legislative independence.
In a communiqué issued after its meeting on February 13, 2025, in Abuja, the Conference, chaired by Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, called for strict adherence to constitutional provisions in the removal of presiding officers.
Regarding Rivers State, the Conference acknowledged court judgments affirming the legitimacy of the Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule-led House of Assembly and urged Governor Siminalayi Fubara to engage with the duly constituted Assembly for stability.
Similarly, in Lagos State, the Speakers condemned any form of external interference in the Assembly's affairs, stressing the importance of legislative autonomy.
On economic matters, the Conference commended President Bola Tinubu’s tax reform initiatives, expressing optimism that the reforms would enhance fiscal federalism and state financial autonomy.
Reaffirming its commitment to democratic governance, the Conference vowed to uphold legislative independence and promote good governance across Nigeria’s 36 states.
