Ekiti Assembly dismisses ‘rubber-stamp’ claim, defends record of performance

The Ekiti State House of Assembly has rejected allegations that it functions as a “rubber-stamp” of the executive, describing the claim as unfounded and politically motivated.

The clarification followed remarks by politician Kayode Ojo, who accused the lawmakers of lacking independence in their relationship with Governor Biodun Oyebanji. In a statement signed by the Chairman of the House Committee on Media, Hon. Babatunde Oke, the Assembly described the comments as “demeaning and scurrilous,” insisting its cooperation with the executive is to promote good governance.

Oke noted that since its inauguration in June 2023 under Speaker Adeoye Aribasoye, the Assembly has passed over 30 bills, with 24 already signed into law. He stressed that the lawmakers were elected to deliver development to their constituents, not to engage in public quarrels with the governor.

“For anyone to brand this Assembly as rubber-stamp because of its seamless dealings with the executive is an extreme display of political naivety,” the statement said. “Our people voted us to bring development to their doorsteps.”

The Assembly also highlighted its commitment to transparency, citing the live streaming of plenary and public hearing sessions. This innovation, it said, earned it the award for Best in ICT Integration in Nigeria in 2024 from the Bureau of Public Reforms, Office of the Presidency.

On oversight, Oke explained that commissioners and local government chairmen are regularly summoned to account for their stewardship. He also noted that the House passed a resolution that led to the recall of some sacked workers, which the executive promptly implemented.

The lawmakers added that Governor Oyebanji presents annual budgets and accounts of stewardship directly before the House, highlighting mutual respect between the two arms. Just last week, the Assembly led a delegation to Agbeyewa Farms for an on-the-spot assessment of agricultural projects.

Dismissing Ojo’s comments as those of a “frustrated politician,” the Assembly maintained that its support for Oyebanji’s second term bid was a constitutional right of association. It pledged to remain loyal to the Constitution, its Standing Orders, and the people of Ekiti, while continuing to engage the executive constructively to deliver responsive governance.