The Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria has threatened a shutdown if the financial autonomy of the state Houses of Assembly is not implemented.
The National President of the association, Mohammmed Usman, made this known on Thursday in Lafia when he led other National officials of the body on a courtesy visit on the Speaker, Nasarawa State House of Assembly, Mr. Ibrahim Abdullahi.
He stated the implementation of the financial autonomy for the state Houses of Assembly would strengthen the institution, legislative duties of the state lawmakers, adding that this would ensure optimal productivity by the staff of the state Houses of Assembly.
He said, “We are here to discuss some issues with our members. First of the issues is the financial autonomy of the state Houses of assembly and the second issue is the establishment of the state Houses of Assembly Service Commission.
“As Parliamentarians, our independence is paramount to us in order to enhance our productivity.
“Nasarawa State is our first point of visitation due to its proximity to Abuja as we are going round across the 36 states of the federation.
“We will move to ensure that the state Houses of Assembly financial autonomy is implemented. We have been patient for a long time over the delay in the implementation of financial autonomy.
“If things are not done appropriately as provided by the law and our rights being denied, we will have no option than to shut down assemblies and the states as a whole.”
Abdullahi, who was represented by his deputy, Mr. Nehemiah Dandaura, also said the financial autonomy of the state legislators would boost productivity among the legislators and staff.
“I have heard all that you have said. The financial autonomy itself came from the presidency and we have given it our support and by God’s grace it will be implemented,” the speaker said.
