Governor Usman Ododo of Kogi State signed seven bills into law on Thursday, emphasizing their importance in advancing the state’s social and economic development. The bills, described by Ododo as “people’s laws,” are aimed at enhancing governance, promoting transparency, and improving the lives of Kogi State residents.
The new laws include:
1. **Repeal and Re-enactment of the Kogi Local Government Service Commission Law, 2014**: This law updates the framework for local government service commissions in the state.
2. **Repeal and Re-enactment of the Kogi State Scholarship Board Edict, 1998**: This law modernizes the regulations governing the state’s scholarship board, ensuring better management of educational grants.
3. **Kogi Electricity Market and State Electricity Regulatory Commission Law**: Establishes a regulatory commission to oversee electricity generation, transmission, distribution, and supply within the state. It aims to encourage private sector investment and public-private partnerships in various electricity options, including renewable and non-renewable sources.
4. **Kogi State Anti-Corruption Agency Law**: Sets up an anti-corruption agency to tackle corruption within the state, promoting transparency and accountability in public affairs.
5. **Kogi State Commodity Exchange, Export Promotion, and Market Development Agency Law**: Creates an agency to boost commodity exchange, promote exports, and develop markets, enhancing the state’s economic activities.
6. **Kogi State Information Technology Development Agency Law**: Establishes an agency dedicated to advancing information technology development, fostering digital transformation in the state.
7. **Kogi State Urban Planning Law**: Updates the regulations for urban planning, aiming to improve the planning and development of urban areas in Kogi State.
Governor Ododo expressed his commitment to transparency, accountability, and governance guided by the fear of God. He assured residents that the new laws would significantly contribute to the state’s development, stressing that no one is above the law under his administration. He encouraged all residents, especially those in positions of authority, to familiarize themselves with the new laws and adhere to their provisions.