Members of the Osun Masterminds have accused the Osun State House of Assembly of sheer irresponsibility by failing to answer requests and enquires made by citizens of the State.
The Civil Societies Coalition at the August 2024 State of the State address in Osogbo on Saturday said the House leadership has shown arrogance and irresponsibility.
In his Address, Executive Director of the organization, Prof. Wasiu Oyedokun-Alli bemoaned and condemned Speaker Adewale Egbedun for failing to respond to freedom of information requests.
“We bemoan and condemn in very strong terms the irresponsibility of the Osun House of Assembly in the management of demands placed on them and response to petitions written to her.
“As a group, we have record of petitions written to the house of Assembly by groups that form our coalition and those not even related to us at all.
“The house of Assembly should be a place of succor for the people they represent and and one with utmost standard of integrity, probity and accountability but when such ignores call for accountability and response to public outcry, it becomes worrisome.
“We charge the state house of Assembly to be alive to her duties and know that it is part of her responsibility to respond to letters and petitions written to her. No society thrives on impunity and lack of respect for the people with whom lies the ultimate power.”
Speaking at the briefing, a member of the team, Ayo Ologun called on the Assembly to live up to its duties and mandate.
“If a House of Assembly has failed to respond to requests and enquires from the people, it’s not just about being irresponsible it’s also an indication of arrogance. It also shows that the leadership of the House is undeserving of the seats they are holding.” He said.
In telephone interview, the Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Publicity, Adekunle Oladimeji however insisted that the House “reserves right to respond to any enquires.”
Oladimeji said the only auditors can have access to the finances of the House.
“It depends on the kind of information you’re asking us. If you’re asking the House about the financial details, it’s not possible you get it when you’re not an auditor.”
When probed further on if it’s only the auditor that can have access to the Parliament’s account, Oladimeji said “yes. Only auditors can access the finances of the House”.
