By Adeyinka Adeniran
In a groundbreaking move, Oyo State House of Assembly in partnership with the National Institute for Democratic and Legislative Studies (NILDS) and the Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD) on Wednesday officially launched Nigeria’s first Post Legislative Scrutiny (PLS) Units in both the state legislature and the Ministry of Justice.
The Speaker, Adebo Ogundoyin officially inaugurated the units during a brief ceremony which held at the Western Hall, Oyo State House of Assembly, Secretariat Ibadan
The pioneering initiative according to the parties involved aims to strengthen legislative oversight, ensure accountability, and enhance the impact of laws passed by the Assembly.
Ogundoyin who was represented by his deputy, Muhammad Fadeyi said the introduction of PLS into the Assembly’s legislative framework is a testament to the lawmaker’s commitment to deepening democracy, fostering inclusiveness, and ensuring that the voices of the people they serve resonate in the decisions that shape their lives.
He added that the PLS Unit is designed to provide a structured approach to reviewing the performance of laws, identifying gaps, and making necessary improvements.
Ogundoyin said, “Our duty as lawmakers does not end with the passage of laws; we must ensure that these laws are effectively implemented and remain relevant in addressing societal needs. With this Unit now fully established in Oyo State, our Assembly is positioned to lead in ensuring that laws passed by this House translate into real benefits for our people”.
The State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Abiodun Aikomo represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mrs. Olubunmi Aare said the PLS Unit would contribute to better legislation.
The Country Representative of WFD, Mr. Adebowale Olorunmola, praised the State Assembly for making history with the launch of the PLS Unit.
Olorunmola said, “The careful selection of the OYHA as pioneer for piloting the establishment of a PLS Unit is strategic, not only because of its position as one of the first legislative bodies in Nigeria, but also due to the laudable interest and commitment that the leadership of the House has shown towards the project.
“Though we recognise that the knowledge of PLS and its practice across the globe is still budding, the establishment of PLS Unit in Oyo State will serve as a model for other state legislatures in Nigeria as it symbolizes a commitment to fostering a democracy that is responsive to the needs of the citizenry”.
In his remarks, Prof Adewale Aderemi of NILDS said the importance of PLS in improving the quality of legislation could not be underestimated.
“PLS is really important. Oyo State benefitted at the expense of the National Assembly. We urge the House to use PLS to test itself and ensure that laws passed are having the desired effects in terms of implementation and compliance”.
Other highlight of the Programme was the inauguration and induction of pioneer staff of PLS units in the Oyo State House of Assembly and the State Ministry of Justice.
