The Speaker of the Ogun House of Assembly, Oludaisi Elemide, says the House has resolved about 55 per cent of land grabbing petitions through legislative intervention.
MR Elemide disclosed this during a media parley at the Assembly Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, while reviewing the 10th Assembly’s activities over the past two years.
He said land grabbing cases accounted for most petitions received, noting that the House often invited complainants and defendants to encourage amicable dispute resolution.
“Most petitions received by the Assembly border on land grabbing.
“The House intervenes by inviting both parties to resolve disputes amicably, and about 55 per cent of such cases have been successfully resolved,” he said.
Mr Elemide said resolving land disputes largely depended on executive political will, while the legislature continued performing its constitutional role without fear or favour.
“Relevant security agencies, including the Inspector-General of Police and the Department of State Services, are empowered to act on such matters,” he said.
He said the assembly had passed laws against land grabbing and ensured assent, urging citizens and authorities to utilise the existing legal framework.
Mr Elemide explained that the land grabbing law aimed to curb recurring disputes and related offences, contributing to relative peace in several communities.
He disclosed that the 10th Assembly passed 12 bills in two years, including the Scavengers and Waste Dealers Law, Principals General Establishment Law and Obas and Chiefs Law.
According to him, eight other bills are at various legislative stages, while over 60 resolutions have been passed to address issues affecting constituents.
Mr Elemide commended Governor Dapo Abiodun, the State Executive Council, lawmakers and Assembly staff for their collaboration and support.
He noted significant infrastructural upgrades, including the redesign of the assembly chamber and the transformation of the complex into an ultra-modern facility.
Mr Elemide said cordial executive-legislative relations led to the approval of N150 million for constituency projects across the state.
“The funds enable lawmakers to execute constituency projects, complementing government efforts at delivering democratic dividends,” he said.
He reiterated the need for full financial and administrative autonomy for state legislatures to enhance performance and democratic governance.
“Granting full autonomy would remove operational limitations, deepen accountability and improve governance outcomes in Ogun,” Mr Elemide said.
He assured residents that the assembly would continue discharging its duties diligently and enact new laws when necessary to protect life and property.
(NAN)
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