The Abia State House of Assembly has challenged the Abia chapter of the Nigeria Labour Union (NLC) to provide evidence for its claims that the state government intends to seize 90% of local government allocations, leaving councils with only 10%.
This statement came during a media briefing in Umuahia following a meeting between Assembly members and Governor Alex Otti at his residence in Isiala Ngwa South council. Speaker of the Assembly, Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa, emphasized that while the constitution allows the House to legislate on local government affairs, there is currently no such bill being considered.
Emeruwa stated, “I challenge the NLC to produce evidence of what they wrote because you cannot say what you don’t know. There is nothing like that before me. If we are making any new law regarding local governments, it is our legitimate right and mandate because the constitution gives the House of Assembly the right to oversee the local government.”
The Speaker also condemned the behavior of Hon. Alex Ikwechegh, the lawmaker representing Aba South/Aba North in the House of Representatives, who was seen in a widely circulated video harassing a Bolt driver. Emeruwa apologized on behalf of Ikwechegh for his actions.
He further expressed solidarity with Governor Otti, commending his policies and programs aimed at improving the state. The Speaker noted the unity within the Assembly, stating that both opposition members and those from the Labour Party are in agreement in supporting the upcoming local government elections scheduled for November 2nd.
Emeruwa urged the electorate to come out en masse on election day to vote for their preferred leaders, regardless of political affiliations. He emphasized that a strong local administration is crucial for effective governance and community development.