Lagos Assembly executive order summon sparks tension over law interpretation

Lagos Assembly executive order summon challenges governor’s directive on Local Government Law as lawmakers defend legislative authority on World Parliamentary Day

[dropcap]L[/dropcap]agos Assembly executive order summon has ignited legal tensions within the state following lawmakers’ decision to question top officials over a controversial directive related to the Local Government Administration Law 2025.

Also read: Obasa leadership decade milestone celebrated by Lagos Assembly

The House took this step during Tuesday’s plenary, which also coincided with the commemoration of World Parliamentary Day.

The Assembly invited the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro SAN, Solicitor-General Ahmed Oyenuga, Commissioner for Local Government Bolaji Roberts, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, and the Director of Litigation to explain the legality of the Executive Order.

The letter, read by the Clerk, stated that the governor’s assent to the law did not signal its immediate commencement, pushing the effective date to August 4, 2025.

This raised concern among lawmakers, who argued that any law assented to by the governor should be considered effective unless otherwise provided by legislation.

Hon. Sanni Ganiyu Babatunde, Chairman of the Committee on Local Government Administration, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Rural Development, described the Executive Order as sensitive.

“The sanctity of the law should be respected,” he said, adding that varying its commencement through an executive directive could erode legislative authority.

Hon. Oladipo Ajomale, Chairman of the Judiciary and Human Rights Committee, expressed confusion at the delay, noting that the law was made public immediately after the governor’s assent in May.

“Why are we seeing a turnaround now?” he asked, signalling potential overreach by the executive arm.

Hon. Sa’ad Olumoh further stated that no Executive Order could override a valid law already signed by the governor.

He argued that the legislature must defend its authority to maintain the credibility of the legal process.

Speaker Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Mudashiru Obasa used the opportunity to educate the public on the legislative process.

He reminded the chamber that once a bill receives the governor’s assent, it becomes law unless repealed or amended.

He added that the unfolding situation serves as a test of the law’s spirit and the strength of the Assembly’s procedures.

Meanwhile, the Assembly marked World Parliamentary Day, reflecting on the global significance of strong legislative institutions.

Deputy Majority Leader Hon. Adedamola Richard Kasunmu, who moved the motion, emphasised the need for public engagement, civic education, and transparency to strengthen democratic structures.

“Increasing public engagement in parliamentary processes and enhancing civic education are crucial in rebuilding trust between citizens and governance,” Kasunmu said.

He urged lawmakers to advocate for legislative independence and more inclusive governance.

Hon. Oladipo Ajomale noted that the day remains under-recognised and suggested formalising its annual observance to highlight the role of parliaments in promoting democracy.

Hon. Desmond Elliott paid tribute to Nigeria’s legislative pioneers and called for stronger inter-regional legislative cooperation through the Conference of Speakers.

All lawmakers agreed that the Assembly’s role transcends lawmaking.

Speaker Obasa described the legislature as democracy’s backbone and stressed its responsibility in advancing governance, especially in volatile political climates.

In another development, the Assembly received a letter from Otto-Awori Local Council Development Area regarding the swearing-in of Hon. Abdulkareem Azeez Abiodun as the new Chairman following the death of Prince Musibau Ashafa.

Concerns were raised over procedural irregularities in the succession, particularly the unclear transition from vice chairman to acting chairman.

The Assembly resolved to investigate the matter and ensure compliance with legal processes.

Speaker Obasa instructed the Clerk to notify the Governor and invite the Council Manager and legal officers to appear before the relevant committee to clarify the succession.

Also read: Lagos Speaker Obasa commends journalists honoured for democracy contributions

As the Lagos Assembly executive order summon intensifies scrutiny over legal boundaries between arms of government, lawmakers reaffirmed their commitment to transparency, due process, and legislative sovereignty in the state’s democratic evolution.