The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has resumed plenary for its second legislative year.
In his welcome address at the Plenary on Wednesday, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Udeme Otong acknowledged the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, particularly with the recent Supreme Court verdict on autonomy for local governments.
He emphasized the critical role of the Legislature in supervising the management of the autonomy for the betterment of the people, especially in rural communities.
“From all indications, particularly the recent Supreme Court Verdict on Autonomy for Local Governments, our job, going forward promises to be all the more challenging and exciting. Because of the unique role of the Legislature as the heart and soul of democratic governance, the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly would be a critical factor in supervising the management of the autonomy regime for the betterment of Akwa Ibom people, especially our people in rural communities.”
The Speaker commended the Assembly members for their efforts in mandate delivery, noting that they have done well so far.
“So far, we can say without fear of contradictions that as a Legislature, we have done well in mandate delivery. I am aware that all of us seized the opportunity of the recess to touch our constituencies with one form of empowerment program or the other. I personally did, and wish to commend all of us for such regular return to our constituencies for the fulfilment of our electioneering promises”, he said.
He encouraged them to continue touching their constituencies with empowerment programmes and fulfilling their election promises.
While requesting that the members steer the course of the Assembly with a united voice, peaceful demeanor, and support for the Executive, the Speaker commended the Assembly staff for their contributions to the overall success of the Assembly and urged them to continue aiming for improvement.
The Speaker expressed optimism that the second legislative year will bring the best possibilities for the 8th Assembly, the state, and its people.
He believes that the Assembly can register improvements in their various areas of focus, enhancing the full bloom of the ARISE Agenda and the Golden Era of Governor Umo Bassey Eno.
Flash back: Executive Bills Scorecard of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly within their 1st Legislative Year
