Nigerian Parliamentary Staff Issue Ultimatum for Financial Autonomy, Threaten Shutdown
The Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN) has issued an ultimatum to the Nigerian government to implement financial autonomy for state assemblies, as outlined in the 1999 Constitution.
This demand extends to the nation’s governors, who are being urged to enact financial autonomy for state assemblies in accordance with constitutional provisions.
PASAN has given a 21-day notice of industrial action, which had expired, but the governors failed to address their concerns.
To press home their demands, PASAN has announced its intention to shut down the National Assembly and Houses of Assembly.
Chairman of PASAN, Comrade Francis Adole, emphasized the significance of parliamentary autonomy, stressing that financial independence is pivotal for parliaments.
They insist on equitable access to resources, enabling parliaments to carry out their legislative duties, including overseeing the budget.
In response to PASAN’s ultimatum, the government is now working to address these concerns.
The Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, outlined plans to clear the backlog of foreign exchange demand, establish transparent guidelines in the foreign exchange market, and enhance liquidity in the naira forward market.
The demands from PASAN come amidst ongoing efforts to harness Nigeria’s vast solid mineral resources.
The Federal Government has recently signed a memorandum of understanding with a German company, Geo-scan GmbH, to invest $700 million in the exploration of solid mineral deposits.
This initiative is aimed at boosting the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and promoting the mining sector.
In the meantime, it remains to be seen how PASAN’s demands will be addressed and whether the shutdown of legislative bodies will proceed.
The situation underscores the ongoing need for financial autonomy and independence for state assemblies, as it is vital for the democratic process and the effective functioning of the legislature.
Source: The Nation Newspaper
