Abia Assembly Not Controlled by Executive, Says Speaker

Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Emmanuel Emeruwa, has strongly denied allegations that the legislative arm is under the control of the executive. Speaking in Umuahia during activities marking the third anniversary of the 8th Abia State House of Assembly, Emeruwa asserted that both branches of government maintain a cordial working relationship, prioritizing the state's benefit.

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We maintained a cordial relationship with the government because, if there is any rift, the state will suffer.

"We maintained a cordial relationship with the government because, if there is any rift, the state will suffer," Emeruwa stated. He elaborated that the relationship between the House and the Executive has been "very cordial and harmonious, and we intend to keep it that way." While acknowledging that disagreements can occur, he stressed that issues are resolved amicably, directly countering the notion that the executive has "pocketed" the Assembly.

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I disagree with the idea that the Executive has pocketed the State Assembly. We can disagree, and at the end, the matter is settled in a peaceful manner.

Emeruwa highlighted the significant legislative achievements of the 8th Assembly, noting the passage of numerous bills covering welfare, criminal justice, politics, and appropriation. He suggested that the Assembly has been so prolific in lawmaking that it might be time to focus on implementing existing laws. "Every field, every aspect of human life has been touched. We have covered almost everywhere in lawmaking, within this eighth assembly," he said.

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There are too many laws that you may even say we should stop making laws for now, to implement the ones we have already done.

Looking ahead, the Speaker disclosed plans to digitize the Assembly's operations, though he identified funding as a major obstacle. Regarding constituency projects, Emeruwa confirmed that lawmakers have executed projects across the state, reiterating that lawmaking remains the Assembly's primary responsibility. He also expressed satisfaction with the increase in Labour Party lawmakers, from nine to eleven members. In response to the killing of nursing student Wendy Achumba in Imo State, Emeruwa stated that Assembly members had visited the victim's family and expressed confidence that justice would be served, given that suspects have been apprehended.

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Since those suspects have been caught, it is the duty of the law to investigate them and probably those who are arrested, will face justice.