The Kogi State House of Assembly, under the leadership of Speaker Rt. Hon. Aliyu Umar Yusuf, has emphatically asserted its authority and warned against any attempts to undermine the legislative arm of government. This firm stance was prompted by the repeated refusal of Hajiya Aishat Oyiza Omade, Coordinator of the Kogi State Social Investment Programme Agency (KOSSIPA), to honor invitations from a House committee. The Speaker made it clear that no individual, regardless of their political position, is above the law or the authority of the House.
The central issue revolved around Omade’s defiance of the House adhoc Standing Committee on Special Duties, Legislative Compliance, Government House Administration, and the Governor’s office. This committee, chaired by Majority Leader Hon. Suleiman Abdulrazak, sought Omade’s appearance to address certain matters related to KOSSIPA’s operations. However, Omade repeatedly ignored these invitations, prompting the House to issue a stern warning and threaten a bench warrant for her arrest. This decisive action underscored the Assembly’s commitment to upholding its legislative powers and ensuring accountability from all government officials.
The Speaker emphasized the gravity of Omade’s actions, highlighting that her refusal to appear before the committee was not only a slight against the committee itself but also a challenge to the authority of the entire House. He reiterated that the Assembly’s primary role is to ensure good governance and hold public officials accountable. Omade’s eventual appearance before the House, after the threat of a warrant, was seen as a victory for the legislative body and a clear message to all government officials that the House would not tolerate any form of disrespect or disregard for its authority.
Addressing public speculation regarding the House’s motives, Speaker Yusuf categorically denied any ulterior motives or external influences in the matter. He dismissed insinuations of bribery or political maneuvering, emphasizing the House’s genuine concern for upholding the rule of law and ensuring accountability. The Speaker reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to its constitutional duties and its resolve to act independently, without fear or favor. He stressed that the House’s actions were solely motivated by its mandate to oversee government agencies and ensure their compliance with established laws and regulations.
The Speaker further explained the rationale behind referring Omade back to the committee she had initially disregarded. This decision, he stated, was a demonstration of the House’s magnanimity and its commitment to due process. By allowing the committee to proceed with its inquiries, the House aimed to address the underlying issues that prompted the initial summons. This approach also reinforced the principle that committees, as extensions of the House, possess the authority to conduct oversight functions and demand cooperation from government officials.
The entire episode serves as a potent example of the Kogi State House of Assembly’s determination to uphold its legislative authority and ensure accountability within the state government. The Speaker’s firm pronouncements and the House’s decisive actions send a clear message that no individual or office is exempt from scrutiny or above the law. This commitment to legislative oversight is crucial for maintaining good governance, promoting transparency, and ensuring that public resources are utilized responsibly. The House’s actions also demonstrate its resolve to strengthen the principles of separation of powers and maintain the integrity of the legislative arm of government.
