In a groundbreaking move, the Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin has officially launched Nigeria’s first Post Legislative Scrutiny (PLS) Units in both the State Legislature and the Ministry of Justice
This pioneering initiative aims to strengthen legislative oversight, ensure accountability, and enhance the impact of laws passed by the Assembly.
The Speaker performed the official inauguration of the pioneer PLS units today at the Western Hall, Oyo State House of Assembly, Secretariat Ibadan
According to Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin who was represented by his deputy, Hon. Muhammad Abiodun Fadeyi, the introduction of PLS into our legislative framework is a testament to our commitment to deepening democracy, fostering inclusiveness, and ensuring that the voices of the people we serve resonate in the decisions that shape their lived.
Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin added that the PLS Unit is designed to provide a structured approach to reviewing the performance of laws, identifying gaps, and making necessary improvements.
“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”. Oyo Speaker said
The State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Abiodun Ayodeji Aikomo represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mrs. Olubunmi Aare said the Post Legislative Scrutiny, PLS Unit would contribute to better legislation.
The establishment of the PLS Unit was made possible through the partnership between the National Institute for Democratic and Legislative Studies (NILDS) and the Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD).
The Country Representative of WFD, Mr. Adebowale Olorunmola, praised the Oyo State House of Assembly for making history with the launch of the PLS Unit.
“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 program was the inauguration and induction of pioneer staff of PLS units in the Oyo State House of Assembly and the State Ministry of Justice