The new Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Yekini Idaiye, has denied claims that the state legislature had removed the financial autonomy of the Assembly and judiciary.

Idaiye spoke during the signing of the Edo House of Assembly Funds Management Bill 2023 and the State Judiciary Financial Autonomy 2023 Amendment Bill into law by Governor Monday Okpebholo.

He explained that the amendments only affected the management of capital funds, while recurrent expenditure would continue to go directly to the Assembly and judiciary.

“The legislation did not remove the financial autonomy of the House of Assembly or the judiciary,” Idaiye said, adding that the amendment was targeted at preventing the alleged abuse of capital funds.

According to him, the Assembly and judiciary would submit proposals for capital projects to the executive for approval before accessing the funds.

He assured workers that their salaries would not be affected by the new arrangement, stressing that the financial autonomy of the two arms of government remained intact.

“The autonomy is still in place; there is no fear on any side, and the unions should not have any fear,” the Speaker said.

Governor Okpebholo, who signed the bills at the Government House in Benin City, commended the lawmakers for their swift passage of the legislation.

He said the amendment was necessary because funds meant for capital projects were allegedly not reaching the people, stressing that such projects were important for improving residents’ welfare.

Okpebholo also emphasised the distinct constitutional responsibilities of the executive, legislature and judiciary, saying each arm should operate within its mandate.

The governor said the new arrangement was aimed at ensuring better management of public funds while maintaining the independence of the legislature and judiciary.