The Lagos State House of Assembly has faulted Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s decision to postpone the implementation of the recently signed 2025 Local Government Administration Law, describing it as a challenge to legislative authority.
During plenary on Tuesday, Speaker Mudashiru Obasa read a letter from the governor, delivered through the Solicitor-General, Ahmed Oyenuga, indicating plans to delay the law’s enforcement until August. This development did not sit well with lawmakers.
The new legislation, signed by the governor on May 7, outlines clear provisions regarding tenure, succession, and disqualification criteria for chairpersons and vice-chairpersons across Lagos State’s 20 Local Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas.
The delay is coming just weeks before the scheduled local government elections, which the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission has fixed for July 12.
Speaker Obasa expressed concern over the move, stating that such friction between the executive and legislature presents an opportunity to test the strength and clarity of the state’s laws. He emphasized the need for transparency and accountability, and consequently summoned key government officials to explain the proposed delay.
Those summoned include Attorney-General Lawal Pedro, Solicitor-General Ahmed Oyenuga, Local Government Commissioner Bolaji Robert, and the Director of Litigation at the Ministry of Justice.
Several lawmakers voiced strong objections during the session. Sani Okanlawon (Kosofe I) asserted that no executive order can supersede a law duly passed by the legislature. Dipo Ajomale (Oshodi II) questioned both the rationale and timing of the proposed delay, noting that the law had already been enacted since early May. Similarly, Sa’ad Olumoh reinforced the legislative supremacy, urging that all arms of government must uphold the rule of law.
In a related matter, the Assembly also addressed a leadership crisis in Oto-Awori LCDA following the recent death of Chairman Musbau Ashafa.
The House Clerk, Olalekan Onafeko, informed members that the Vice Chairman, Kareem Abiodun, had declined to take over as acting chairman, citing his interest in contesting the upcoming local government polls.
Reacting, Speaker Obasa maintained that Abiodun must either assume office in accordance with the law or resign if he wishes to pursue his political ambition. He further clarified that under the amended local government law, a vice-chairman who steps in after the chairman’s death is considered to have completed a full term.
Obasa also issued a warning to Abiodun, urging him to manage council finances responsibly, cautioning that any misconduct could jeopardize his future political aspirations.
Following this, the House resolved to summon the council manager, treasurer, and the chairman of the Local Government Service Commission in Oto-Awori for further clarification on the situation.
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