Autonomy: Oyo, Edo, Kano, Ogun, and Ondo Assembly Workers Shutdown Legislative Houses

In a coordinated effort to demand the implementation of financial autonomy for legislative houses, staff of the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN) in Oyo, Edo, Kano, Ogun, and Ondo states have embarked on an indefinite strike, effectively closing the gates leading to their respective Houses of Assembly.

The strike, which began yesterday, followed the expiration of the ultimatum given to the Federal Government by PASAN, which was initiated on a national level but has seen significant involvement from state chapters. The workers, holding placards with various inscriptions, have been resolute in their efforts to convey their demands.

In Oyo State, assembly workers, led by their chairman, Mr. Yemi Alade, blocked the entrance of the Assembly, insisting on the implementation of financial autonomy as outlined in section 121 (3a, 3b, and 4a) of the 1999 constitution (as amended). They also seek the implementation of the Consolidated Legislative Salary Structures (CONLESS) for Assembly staff and the commission.

Chairman of Oyo PASAN, Mr. Alade, emphasized that the strike would be indefinite, with gate closures continuing until their demands are met.

Meanwhile, in Edo State, the House of Assembly complex was also shut as PASAN members barricaded the gates, preventing lawmakers from accessing the chambers. The chairman of PASAN in Edo State, Umaru Haruna, highlighted the importance of autonomy and expressed disappointment in the lack of implementation despite the constitutional provisions.

Kano State also witnessed the shutdown of its Assembly, with Chairman of PASAN, Bashir Yahaya, explaining the necessity of their action in pressing for the financial autonomy. He cited the government’s failure to implement the Financial Autonomy Act, despite a two-year waiting period.

Ogun State joined the strike, with PASAN members in the state embarking on an indefinite strike to emphasize their demand for financial autonomy. Ojediran Ayotunde, the chairman, pointed out that non-compliance with the laws had resulted in the non-payment of due salaries and allowances to bureaucratic staff of the legislature. He raised concerns about staff members being excluded from the 40% peculiar allowance paid to civil servants in the state.

In Ondo State, PASAN staff staged a peaceful walk at the Assembly, displaying placards and chanting solidarity songs. Their chairperson, Mrs. Omolola Olufemi, stressed the importance of financial autonomy for the growth of the legislature and urged the government to implement it promptly.

The nationwide strike, involving these states and possibly others, underlines the resolute determination of legislative staff to secure their financial autonomy and strengthen the role of legislative houses in Nigeria. The striking workers emphasize that financial autonomy is essential to uphold the principles of democracy and ensure equitable access to resources, allowing legislative bodies to effectively carry out their mandates and budgetary responsibilities. The strike action will continue until their demands are met, according to the affected state chapters of PASAN.