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- Promises to uphold autonomy of legislature
From Paul Osuyi, Asaba
The new Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, Dennis Emomotimi Guwor, has vowed to continue to uphold the independence and autonomy of the legislature.
He stated that while the House under his leadership, would work closely with the executive arm, the relationship should not be mistaken as working for the executive.
Guwor was elected Speaker alongside his deputy, Arthur Akpowowo, of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), dominated House on Tuesday following the proclamation of the 8th Assembly by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori via a letter.
A second-time lawmaker, Guwor represents Warri South-West, the constituency of ex-militant leader, Mr Government Ekpemupolo aka Tompolo as well as the immediate past deputy governor, Kingsley Otuaro.
His deputy, Akpowowo who is the first timer in the House, represents Ethiope East constituency.
Speaking after subscribing to the relevant oath, Guwor assured his colleagues that their choice and trust were not misplaced, stating that he would carry out his duties with diligence and in line with the Standing Orders of the House and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).
He said the legislature remained the “repository of democratic hope and aspirations of our people. Without the legislature, there is no democracy. Therefore, the 8th Assembly will act with dignity, honour and a sense of purpose.
“The House under my leadership will work for the people of Delta State that gave us their mandate to represent them in this hallowed Chamber.
“We will cooperate and work harmoniously with the executive arm of government to deliver good governance in the State and democratic dividends for our constituents.
“Working with the executive should not be mistaken as WORKING FOR THE EXECUTIVE. The 8th Assembly shall continue to uphold the independence and autonomy of the legislature.
“The House under my leadership will anchor the wellbeing of our people by strategically keeping faith with our duties of law-making, representation and oversight of the executive arm of government.
“To achieve the goals of the 8th Assembly with efficiency, we shall draw up a legislative agenda that will outline our action plans and legislative programmes and activities.
“The legislative agenda of the 8th Assembly will complement the M.O.R.E agenda of the state government. It is axiomatic that good governance can only be effected when all arms of government are working in harmony for the common good of the people.
“The House under my watch will be open to constructive criticism by the public and robust debates among members.”
The Speaker thanked the governor, Mr Sheriff Oborevwori, ex-Governor Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, and his deputy, Otuaro, for nurturing him in politics.
