The Anambra chapter of the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN) commenced an indefinite strike on Thursday due to the state government’s failure to implement full legislative financial autonomy.
This decision was communicated through a circular signed by the association’s chairman, Abraham Okoye, and secretary, Ugochukwu Obiwulu, in Awka, Anambra.
Following Tuesday’s plenary session, the parliament adjourned its sitting until April 11. A visit to the assembly complex revealed the absence of legislators and staff, with only security personnel present.
Ifeoma Okoli, the vice-chairman of PASAN in Anambra, stated that the strike was in compliance with a directive and circular from the association’s national body.
She further explained that the industrial action was prompted by the expiration of the ultimatum issued on March 6 regarding the full implementation of financial autonomy for state assemblies.
Ms. Okoli emphasized that the implementation of financial autonomy aligns with Section 121 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended.
“The Anambra state government has failed to implement the memorandum of understanding reached with the Nigeria Governors’ Forum through the Conference of Speakers. The state government is dragging its feet over the implementation of legislative financial autonomy in spite of receiving a series of letters from both the state and national body of PASAN.
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“This warranted the National secretariat of PASAN to direct all its members to embark on an indefinite industrial action with effect from Thursday, March 28,” she said.
In November 2023, PASAN decided to halt its nationwide indefinite strike, which had lasted for three weeks, aimed at pressuring authorities to enforce financial autonomy for state assemblies.
This decision followed an agreement reached between the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Conference of Speakers of State Houses of Assembly, and PASAN’s national executive.
As per the terms of the agreement, starting from January 2024, there would be complete implementation of financial autonomy for state assemblies.
Moreover, the Consolidated Legislative Salary Structure (CONLESS) would be fully enforced.
(NAN)
