The Lagos State House of Assembly has raised strong objections to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s decision to postpone the implementation of the recently amended Local Government Administration Law, originally scheduled to take immediate effect but now proposed to commence in August 2025.

The Assembly’s reaction followed a letter signed by the Solicitor-General, Mr. Ahmed Oyenuga, conveying the governor’s position. In response, lawmakers summoned Mr. Oyenuga; the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro; the Commissioner for Local Government, Mr. Bolaji Robert; and the Director of Litigation from the Ministry of Justice to appear before the House to justify the proposed delay.

During Tuesday’s plenary, members of the Assembly condemned the executive’s move. Hon. Sani Okanlawon (Kosofe I) insisted that no executive directive can override an existing statutory law, while Hon. Dipo Ajomale (Oshodi II) questioned the rationale behind the delay, pointing out that the governor had already signed the law on May 7, 2025.

Hon. Sa’ad Olumoh echoed similar concerns, emphasizing that legislative enactments take precedence over executive preferences. Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, described the development as a test of the resilience of the state’s laws and stressed the importance of transparency.

He underscored the need for the summoned officials to appear before the House to clarify the matter.

In a related development, the Assembly also summoned key officials from the Oto Awori Local Council Development Area following a leadership vacuum created by the death of the council’s chairman, Mr. Musbau Adekunle Ashafa.

According to a letter read by the Clerk of the House, Mr. Olalekan Onafeko, Vice Chairman Kareem Abiodun declined to assume the role of acting chairman, citing his intention to contest the upcoming local government elections slated for July 12, 2025.

Reacting to the situation, Speaker Obasa stated that Abiodun must choose between his political ambition and his constitutional responsibility.

He reminded the Assembly that under the amended Local Government Administration Law of 2025, a vice chairman who assumes office following the death or removal of a chairman is deemed to have completed a full term.

Obasa also warned Abiodun to exercise caution in the handling of public funds, adding that any financial mismanagement could have legal consequences if he becomes chairman.

Consequently, the Assembly has summoned the council manager, treasurer, and chairman of the Local Government Service Commission of Oto Awori to provide further explanations.

The House adjourned its sitting to Thursday, July 3, 2025.