Thelma Osatohanmwen
The staff of the Anambra State House of Assembly, under the banner of the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN), have initiated an indefinite strike to demand financial autonomy for the legislature.
This move follows their previous efforts to draw attention to their concerns.
NEWSTODAYNG gathered that, earlier this week, employees who reported to work at the State House of Assembly were met with denied entry, as the union’s taskforce barred access to the premises.
While speaking with Journalists, Abraham Okoye, Chairman of PASAN in Anambra State, in the state capital, Awka, explained that the strike was a response to the executive arm of various state governments failing to grant the legislative arm full financial autonomy.
Okoye referenced the constitution, particularly Section 121, which mandates that the three arms of government should operate autonomously from each other. This separation of powers is crucial for ensuring checks and balances within the government structure.
“The association has issued a 21-day ultimatum, followed by another seven days’ notice, but regretfully, the state governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, has yet to make any move towards implementing this demand,” Okoye stated.
Considering that one of the governor’s key agenda is to uphold the rule of law and order in Anambra State, Okoye emphasized that granting full autonomy to the legislature is vital, noting that the delay in the process has had adverse effects on the daily operations of legislative staff.
Okoye also pointed out the dire situation within the State House of Assembly, where there is only one operational vehicle to serve 29 standing committees, and the infrastructure within the Assembly complex is in a poor state. He characterized the situation as shameful, highlighting the urgent need for improved resources and autonomy to facilitate the efficient functioning of the legislative arm.
The strike by PASAN in Anambra State underscores the ongoing struggle for financial autonomy within Nigeria’s legislative bodies and the determination of staff to ensure their demands are met.
