World parliamentary day: Lagos Assembly calls for advancement of legislative independence

In a bid to commemorate the World Parliamentary Day, the Lagos State House of Assembly has highlighted the critical role the parliaments play in promoting democracy and ensuring accountability.

It would be recalled that every 30th of June is recognized globally as World Parliamentary Day by the United Nations marking the establishment of the Inter-parliamentary Union in 1989.

The prime mover of the motion, the Deputy Majority Leader of the House, Hon. Adedamola Richard Kasunmu, emphasized that the Day is recognized globally to celebrate parliaments in strengthening democratic Institutions and as well as promote accountability.

He noted the importance of building inclusive, transparent and responsive democratic structures, especially in confronting global challenges such as inequality, political polarization, climate change and threats to democratic norms.

Kasunmu also called for the need to increase public engagement in parliamentary processes and the value of civic education in rebuilding trust between citizens and governance and also criminalize any act undermining legislative independence.

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In his contribution, Hon. Oladipo Ajomale noted that the World Parliamentary Day is under-celebrated and suggested that future celebrations be formally marked within the House to create greater awareness. He lauded Speaker Obasa for his dedication and vast experience as a parliamentarian.

Hon. Desmond Elliott applauded the founding fathers of Nigeria’s Legislature,while accentuating the need for their recognition and celebration, he however, suggested that the Conference of Speakers of Legislatures of Nigeria should enhance inter-regional engagement and cooperation.

Other Lawmakers who made further comments on the role of parliamentarian opined that it goes beyond making laws, while describing the Day as one meant for performance assessment in key areas, they call for the inclusion of Lagos State House of Assembly in national programmes and the need to strengthen democracy by enacting laws which will promote good governance.

Following the commendations, the House resolves to congratulate the Senate President, Sen. Godswill Akpabio; the Speaker House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abass; Distinguished Senators and other members of the National Assembly for their contributions to nation building.

In his remarks, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa described the parliament as the backbone of democracy and a vital force in State development. He underscored the need for greater awareness of the legislature’s role in the society and reiterated the Assembly’s commitment to democratic values.

He thereafter enjoined the parliamentarians to do more in propagating the sustainability of democratic governance.