Ovation magazine issue 160 by t2eOvation

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SINCE 1996

FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND INTERVIEWS AND PHOTOSHOOT WITH 40 LEGISLATORS AND THE CLERK OF THE HOUSE

THE COMPLETE SUCCESS STORY OF THE

7TH LAGOS STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY PLUS STRATEGIES, WINNING WAYS AND SUSTAINING POWER OF THE THREE TIME SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE,

RT. HON. ADEYEMI SABIT IKUFORIJI

EVER GRACEFUL

MRS. AUGUSTA DAVIES

JOINS OCTOGENARIAN CLUB

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PUBLISHER’S INTRO

ISSN-1362-7309 Issue 160 CREW PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Dele Momodu momodudele@yahoo.co.uk

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Mobolaji Momodu EDITOR Michael Effiong mikeffiong2009@yahoo.com mikeffiong@ovationinternational.com

MANAGING EDITOR Segun Adebowale PHOTO EDITOR Adekoya Adegbite PRODUCTION MANAGER/ART DIRECTOR Isaac Kwame Edoh-Philip ASSISTANT DESIGNER Kwaku Yeboah Darteh CORRESPONDENT Mo Salami…Dele Salako…Babatunde Martins PHOTO JOURNALISTS Colin Ramsay… Ade James (USA)… Dayo Adedayo Isaac Adegbite… Dragan Mikki… Bodise Wilson Soji Adekunle… Vera Odjugo… Tope Brown Solomon Ekhaiyemhe… Abraham Falodun Segun Lawal… Ken Ehimen...Sunmisola Olorunnisola Guy L’ Avenir (Benin Republic) Ben Dzakah (Ghana) MARKETING/ADVERTS Zed Dominic Okolue (Benin Republic) US CORRESPONDENTS Samantha Ofole Prince… Shola Orolugbagbe CONTRIBUTORS Jimi Akinniyi… Sanya Ojikutu… Isatou N’jie Dayo Olomu… Makeba Boateng LAGOS OFFICE Bamisebi Richard Ojo-Head Admin Aderemi Abiola-Admin. Officer UK OPERATIONS 7 Du Maurier House, Lawn Road, London NW3 2XE Tel: +447951026178, +447956967160 UK DISTRIBUTION/WORLDWIDE SUBSCRIPTION Jay Magazine & Newspaper Distribution, UK +44(20) 76358888, +447976628251 UK AND EUROPE DISTRIBUTION Quality Magazine Distribution Global Distribution MANAGING EDITOR BENIN REPUBLIC BUREAU Jeanne-Frances Maduakor Centre Commercial Xanadu-Ancien Pont, Wlacodji Contonou Tel: +229 97221918, +229 98155422 CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Onukaba Adinoyi-Ojo… Ike Okonta… Sunmi Smart-Cole Okagbue Aduba… Osasu Obayiuwana… Dupe Ashama Isha Tejan-Cole (West Africa) ...Richie Dayo Johnson GHANA OPERATIONS #17, Asafoatse Afua Street, West Airport. Tel: +233-21-762595, 778737. Fax +233244843099 LAGOS 13B Ladipo Kuku Street, Off Allen Avenue, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria Tel: +234-0-8023002090, (0)8055069220, (0)8055069212, (1)4543030 TOGO BUREAU King Nee +2289160855 Chinyere Ndukwe +22890039631 PRINTED BY The Magazine Printing Company Ltd., Enfield, England. DIRECTORS Segun Fatoye, Mobolaji Momodu, Damola Aderemi, Dele Momodu (CEO) OVATION Magazine is published as a periodical by OVATION Comm. Ltd. ©OVATION International Reproduction in full or part of any contents of OVATION magazine (without prior written consent from the publisher) is strictly prohibited.

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THE COMPLETE SUCCESS STORY OF THE

7TH LAGOS STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY

PLUS STRATEGIES, WINNING WAYS AND SUSTAINING POWER OF THE THREE TIME SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE,

RT. HON. ADEYEMI IKUFORIJI,

AND FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND INTERVIEWS AND PHOTOSHOOT WITH 40 LEGISLATORS AND THE CLERK OF THE HOUSE Interviews: Segun Adebowale, Terso Achiniku & Funmilayo Adeyemi Photoshoot: Adekoya Adegbite, Ken Ehimen, Segun Lawal,Sunmisola Olorunisola & Solomon Ekhaiyemhe, Additional Pictures from LSHA Library Make up: Taiwo Olufunke Gbenle

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Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji, Speaker Lagos State House & Assembly with Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, SAN

pride of place is eternally reserved for

and procedural issues, presents itself in Lagos, the

sometimes played out in what have often proven to be

arrowheads who spearheaded change in

commercial capital of Nigeria, Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest

quite inflammatory political exchanges.

succeeding

democracy.

eras

human,

political,

Since the country's return to democracy in 1999,

State, the self-styled and acclaimed, Centre of

their names written conspicuously and indelibly in the

there has never been a shortage of drama regarding the

Excellence. Over the course of different democratic

history of the world and annals of great democracies,

rocky relationships between Presidents and Governors

dispensations

civilisations and nations.

and their Federal and State Legislators. In fact, the

account of an historical commitment to the common

that relationship has been solid on

Likewise, in the world's developed democracies,

office of the Speaker of the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lower House,

good at the expense of personal and political gain or

much of the adulation and accolades for a job well done

House of Representatives is currently being manned by

differences.

is usually showered on government's Executive arm.

the fouth occupant, since the return to democracy. The

The Legislative arm is neither celebrated nor

three

acknowledged as the pivot of such successes or

controversies that cut short their tenures.

encomiums.

former

occupants

were

embroiled

The Lagos State House of Assembly (LSHA), currently in its seventh incarnation and led by the enigmatic and highly respected Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Sabit

Interestingly, the current speaker, Rt. Hon. Aminu

Ikuforiji, has laid down the marker for other State

It is however not in doubt that, the success of the

Tambuwal has been rumoured to have fallen out of

Legislative Chambers across the federation. It is fair to

Executive in any robust democracy is delicately hinged

favour with the Executive and therefore marking his

say that, Rt. Hon. Ikuforiji, who is spending 10 out of

on the strength and fluidity of its working relationship

last days in office. Yet, he can be likened to a cat with

his 12 years in the Parliament as a Speaker and his

with its Legislature. Without any iota of doubt, a

nine lives! Some Houses of Assembly have also not

colleagues are the yin to the State Governor, Babatunde

vibrant, cooperative and proactive Legislative

been spared in terms of skirmishes and crises and there

Raji Fashola's yang. It is a peerless Executive-

machinery clears the path for the Executive's peak

have been casualties here and there. These box office

Legislature relationship that has become a touchstone -

performance. Not even advanced democracies can

battle royates have often had all the attractions of

something even of a gold standard - for other states in

boast of such fluid cooperation between both parties.

Hollywood political blockbusters filled with high

the country. The speed and rate at which Executive

drama.

policies

However, a glaring example of such rare and

However, the reverse has been the case in Lagos

economic and social development. Such enigmas have

geared

towards

development

receive

fascinating harmony between the two arms, which

Not even Hollywood's most imaginative screen

Legislative approval and the resultant ease and pace of

otherwise are often at loggerheads over politics, policy

cum script writers could think up the events that have

transformation constitute a glowing tribute to that

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Mr Speaker stepping into the hallowed Assembly Chambers led by the Sergeant at-Arms

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Mr. Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji in action

(Front row) L-R, Gov. Babatunde Fashola, Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji, Rt. Hon. Aminu Tambural & Asiwaju Bola Tinubu with members of the House of Assembly at the opening of the new Legislative Chamber

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The Lagos State House of Assembly in session

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Exterior view of the Lagos House of Assembly Complex

harmonious relationship.

That ethos that serves as the unifying theme for all

Newspapers, Deplorable Condition of Barracks in

The Lagos State House of Assembly, which has

LSHA activities reads: "We, the honourable members

Lagos State and the Lagos State N167.5 Billion Debt

been adjudged as the numero uno House in the nation

of the Lagos State House of Assembly will strive at all

Issuance Programme.

is far from being a product of an accident. Rather, the

times by way of motions, resolutions and legislations

While speaking to OVATION in an interview that

accolades being showered on the Houses are a

to enhance the quality of the living condition of the

spanned over two days the speaker, Rt. Hon. Ikuforiji

consequence of rigorous and pain staking activities and

people in all the 40 Constituencies of Lagos State;

declared, ‘’I can tell you that, the sense of

Legislative Sagacity. Apart from being the only

cooperate with well- meaning individuals, groups and

accomplishment is there and the joy of being able to

Assembly that is financially autonomous, it is also the

organizations for the entrenchment of a virile

beat your chest and say it anywhere that, ‘With God

first House which made it mandatory for its common

democracy in a true federation; and in totality, by our

through you and the support of your colleagues, one

indigenous Language, Yoruba , to be the official

actions and deeds, give meaning to the concept of true

has been able to build what is generally and unarguably

Language in one of its plenary sessions in the week. In

representation."

accepted to be the model of Legislature in this country.

fact, the Thursday’s session caught on like wild fire

That sacred commitment to the people has seen the

When we started out,we knew where we were

and it is no sheer surprise that other Assemblies are

LSHA pass 191 laws from 1999 till date, most of them,

going and what we wanted and we worked very hard to

now toeing the same line.

revolutionary. So far, the current Assembly with 40

accomplish it. Today, it is a thing of joy for one. Yes, I

Neither rumoured altercations nor unfounded

members representing the 20 Local Governments and

believe that, there is so much to be done but the

allegations of malfeasance proven false by the Federal

37 Local Development Council Areas (LCDAs) in the

satisfaction is there that it has changed from the ways

courts could halt that collaborative march towards an

state have passed 23 Laws and over 200 motions.

I met the Assembly. In all ramifications, the Lagos

all-encompassing growth and development. That is

Some of the laws include, the Lagos State Residents'

House of Assembly is totally different from where it

not to say that, the Lagos State House of Assembly has

Registration Agency Law (2011), Lagos State Road

started and totally different from the other Houses in

abdicated its day job of being a collective

Traffic Law, Lagos State Tenancy Law (2011), Lagos

the country. ‘’

representative of the people in serving as a check on

State Scholarship Board Law (2012), Ibile Oil and Gas

In a first-of-its-kind exclusive coverage of a state

the other arms of government. On the contrary, it is in

Law (2013), Regulation of Smoking Law (2014) and

Assembly ever conducted by an international celebrity

staying true to its covenant of true representation with

Consumer Protection Agency Law (2014).

journal OVATION takes you on an all-access journey into

its Constituents that, the LSHA, rather than being an

The motions also passed by the Assembly include,

the workings of the Lagos State House of Assembly,

opposite or contrary force for antagonism, has opted to

Constitution of the State Executive Council,

complete with exclusive chats with the people behind

be a cooperative and complementary force for good,

Suspension of the President of the Court of Appeal, A

the passionate public service that has seen Lagos

for truth, for justice, for development and for

Need for a Special Status for Lagos State, Unlawful

transform from just another African city into one of the

transformation.

arrest and detention of Editors of the Nation

emerging mega cities to watch in the 21st Century. 11

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The Mace: The Symbol of Authority in the Legislative Arm of Government

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SPEAKER, LAGOS STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY,

RT. HON.

ADEYEMI IKUFORIJI “WE ARE LEAVING THE HOUSE FAR BETTER THAN WE MET IT”

he story of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Sabit Ikuforiji , incumbent Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly is that of a man, who rose from a very humble beginning to the position of prominence and honour. Born 56 years ago to the family of Chief Murtala Atanda Ikuforiji and Alhaja Ibironke Ikuforiji (Nee Shabi) of blessed memories, in Epe, Lagos State, Rt. Hon. Ikuforiji attended Local Authority Central School, Epe and completed in 1969. He proceeded to Epe Grammar School, Epe, where he sat for the West African School Certificate Examination in June 1975. To show how exceptional young ‘Yemi’ was, he set a new record in the old Epe Division by breaking a four- year-long jinx, which made him the only candidate that obtained Division 1 out of the 105 students that sat for the examination that year. It was that sterling performance of his that earned him the Lagos State Government overseas scholarship to study in Romania. While in Romania, he studied at the Babes-Bolyai University and at the Academy of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania, where he obtained his Masters of Science Degree in Economic Planning and Cybernetics in September, 1981. Even in Romania, his brilliant academic performance won him the Rector’s award for academic excellence in December 1980. On returning to Nigeria, he enrolled at the University of Lagos and was awarded a Master of Business Administration (MBA) of the University in 1986. Rt. Hon. Ikuforiji started his working career at the defunct International Bank for West Africa (later renamed Afribank and now Keystone Bank ) in 1983, after his compulsory one year National Youth Service Corps Scheme. He left Afribank in 1992 to set up his own business Springfield Ventures Ltd that engages in Import and Export, Procurement and General Contracting. He was also the Managing Partner at Next Century Systems Ltd., a Computer consulting firm that developed the first indigenous comprehensive Banking software package, which was used in a number of Banks in the country back then. He however relocated to the United States of America (USA) in 1998. While in the USA, he lectured Network Technology at Wake Technical Community College in Raleigh, North Carolina. He also sat and passed the qualifying examinations for the North Carolina Real Estate Licence, which enabled him to enter the money-spinning Real Estate business and instantly became a dealer in North Carolina.

POLITICAL ACTIVITIES Rt. Hon. Ikuforiji's political journey commenced in 1978 when he was elected as the Secretary General

of the National Union of Nigerian Students in Romania. He was also a Delegate to the Conference of All Nigerians Overseas, which took place in London, UK in the summer of 1979. He was later elected as the President, National Union of Nigerian Students in Romania between 1980 and 1981. Between 1982 and 1983, he equally served as the General Secretary, Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) in Ward A4 Epe, and was an active member of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) of the same ward in 1990. What brought Ikuforiji back home from the United States to participate in the 2003 general election in which he contested and won election into the Lagos State House of Assembly on the platform of the Alliance for Democracy (AD) was his love for good governance and quality representation of his people. Owing to his wide acceptance, he was elected to represent Epe Constituency I in the Lagos Fourth Assembly. Exactly two years later, luck smiled on Ikuforiji as he emerged as the Speaker of the House in December, 2005.

For an elected political office holder like the Speaker of a State House of Assembly, to have been elected without any rancor as the Number One lawmaker in a State like Lagos, is definitely a very rare achievement. And that came about as a result of Ikuforiji's level-headedness, superb interpersonal relationship and excellent Legislative and sound political leadership style. These are among the unique qualities that endeared Ikuforiji to his 39 other colleagues in the Assembly, thus convincing them to re-elect him with an unanimous vote as Speaker at the inception of the sixth Assembly on June 4, 2007. This is also another first in the history of Lagos State, as he became the first person to be a 3-term Speaker of Assembly. He set yet another record in 2011 to again make history as the first person in the history of the House to be ever elected Speaker for the third time. And that was largely due to his ability to mobilize his promising fellow legislators, the total transformation of the entire third arm of the Lagos State Government. 13

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Even within the Lagos State Assembly Complex itself today, a world class and e-compliant state of the art chamber has now replaced the old one built 33 years ago. The first wing of a two-part multi-storey complex to house all the elected Legislators, their aides and members of the Assembly staff members has since been completed and now occupied, while work on the second has reached 90 per cent completion. Today, Rt. Hon. Ikuforiji's vision of transforming the Lagos House of Assembly into a model as the first among equals in the African continent has been largely accomplished. And that has placed Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole on the world radar of countries with first-rate legislative Chambers at the state level, and sound and resourceful Legislators who demonstrate total commitment to the well-being of their electorates at all times. In the course of his political career, Rt. Hon. Ikuforiji has been bestowed with several awards and chieftaincy titles based on his commitment to the service of his people. In September 2006, he was bestowed with Dr. Kwame Nkrumah African Leadership Awards in Accra, Ghana. And in the following year, he bagged an Award of Excellent Performance from the Onigbongbo Legislative Arm. He also got a Merit Award from the Yoruba Council of Elders in April, 2008. In June of that year, he was given the Oodua Prestige Award. Again in August 2008, the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) decorated him with an Honorarium of Excellence. And in October of 2009, he was bestowed with the Leadership Award by the Action Congress, Overseas Chapter. In 2010, amongst the many awards received by on Rt. Hon. Ikuforiji were: The Achievements' Award by the Lagos State University Chapter of School of Masters of Business 14

Administration, an Honorarium of Honour by the Ikeja Indigenous Forum in 2011 and The Voice of the Masses Award by the Social Reformers Club of Nigeria in 2012. He was installed in March, 2014 as the Aare Alaketu of Ketu Kingdom by Oba Adegboyega Adefowora, the Alaketu of Ketu Kingdom, while the Chief Imam of Epe, Alhaji Kolawole Sanni honoured him with the Islamic title of Turaki Adinni of Epe Land in June, 2014. Before his demise, late elder statesman, Chief Anthony Enahoro personally paid Rt. Hon. Ikuforiji a courtesy visit to commend his resolve to conduct Legislative business in the Lagos State House of Assembly in Yoruba Language, thus making the Assembly the very first such to do so, among State Assemblies in the entire South-West of the country. It is worthy to note that Rt. Hon. Ikuforiji is a honorary citizen of many States. In the State of Georgia, United States of America, the then Secretary of State at the time, Karen C. Handel proclaimed him as citizen of Georgia on the 17th of October, 2008. President of the Senate of Kentucky, David L. Williams also honored him with citizenship of the State of Kentucky during the National Conference of State Legislatures, Louisville, also in the United States of America in 2010. These were all in recognition of Rt. Hon. Ikuforiji's unfailing battles to ensure that poverty becomes a thing of the past amongst the people of Lagos and by extension, Nigeria, through the passing of pro-development and pro-people laws. An advocate of sound training and re-training of both Legislators and the entire staff members of the

Assembly, Rt. Hon. Ikuforiji is a strong believer in the acquisition of knowledge by everyone around him. The Lagos State Number Three Citizen has a Degree- in - view at the Harvard Kennedy School of Politics on Global Change Agents. This exemplary, highly refined and pro-people Legislator is a devout Muslim, happily married to a devout Christian in the person of Pastor (Mrs) Mayowa Ikuforiji and they are blessed with children. He loves playing Lawn Tennis, Table Tennis, Football and also enjoys Swimming and intellectual discourse. What struck me the minute I entered was the Piano and I cannot but ask you, do you play the Piano

Yeah, I am just learning but I have always admired people that play the Organ. Honestly, it is one

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‘’In terms of capacity building, I really do not think that, there is any Legislative House in the country, not even the National Assembly that can boast of the type of training and exposure that we have given members of the House and the supporting staff over these last few years.’’

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of the things I missed as a young man while growing up. Now, I think more time needs to be created for such things, because apart from putting one in a relaxed mood, it also has spiritual connotations. However, I really would love to be proficient on the keyboard. Have you started practicing and how often do you practice

Yes, I have started learning and my teacher comes around once or twice a week to put me through. Though, I have a tight schedule and I travel often, which affects the practice sessions but I still dedicate my spare time to learn it. What other things did you miss while growing up

Opening of the new Legislative Chamber of the House of Assembly

Growing up was beautiful, because there was no segregation or class syndrome and we were very free. I had the opportunity of growing up in the village and you can imagine the amount of freedom one enjoyed as a village boy. We went all around the forest without molestation and Epe, my little town, where I was born, raised and schooled was blessed with a Lagoon. That afforded us the opportunity of swimming, playing football and engaging in activities that the young ones of those days did while growing up. It cost us next to nothing, apart from renting a bicycle at the rate of one Kobo for five minutes. There is no doubt that we played all the beautiful pranks that the young ones played. I would not say that I missed much because we did not know more than what was around and the world was not as sophisticated as it is today. It was beautiful and everyone was relatively straight forward and there was neither sophistication nor complexity in those days. Did you have a nickname while growing up

Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji with Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, H.E Gu Xiaojie

Yes, I had a number of nicknames and in fact, one of the names my father gave me, Olorun Lalaro, sounds like a nickname. Its literal translation means, ‘God that replenishes or replaces.’ This is because, my father lost a number of children before I was born and most of them were males, who mattered most to him then, like every father then. He had already buried eight boys before me and the last one he buried was from my mother and he died on the day of his naming ceremony. That was a big blow to him and the Muslim clerics who officiated at the event felt embarrassed by the situation and offered special prayers, believing that God would replace the lost boy with another one,that would be everything a father would dream of in a son. He therefore named me, Olorun Lalaro and soon, everyone started calling me Lalaran. I dropped it in Secondary school though, because it sounded more like a nickname than a name. Did you have any other one

Another one was Obe Laya. I used to man the defence whenever we were playing football and attackers were always scared of the way I used to charge at them. They used to say that, ‘Obe Laya would push you down’ (Laughter). Another nickname, Iku Baba stuck to me in Secondary school. As a young and brilliant chap, whenever we went for Literary and Debating competition and I spoke some high vocabulary words, the students would hail me, Iku Baba!(Laughter). You recorded a landmark while growing up, particularly when you finished Secondary school

Yes, you are right. Out of the 105 candidates presented by my school for the West African Examination Council, I was the only one that made Division 1, which was a landmark then. That meant I was at the apex of the grading structure as far as 16

Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji with Asiwaju Bola Tinubu

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“The sense of belonging is there, and no single law or Bill goes through the Lagos State House of Assembly without the input of the people through public hearing before we take a final decision. All these have endeared us to Lagosians.’’ that examination was concerned. I also broke another jinx, because my school never had anyone who made the Division 1 four years before that time. That must have made you a superstar in that community. How did you feel

Of course, it did and it was a nice feeling. It is still being talked about till today. It was and still encouraging that, when you put in an effort, you would be appreciated. That is why till date, I always ensure that, I keep on trying to be the best, because when you attain the best, it can be very rewarding. Moving from your youthful days, let us talk about the Assembly. As the Assembly draws to its conclusion, how would you describe your sojourn in the Lagos State House of Assembly so far

I am in my 12th year in the Assembly and my 10th year as the Speaker of the House. I can tell you that, the sense of accomplishment is there and the joy of being able to beat your chest and say it anywhere that, ‘With God, through you, and the support of your colleagues, one has been able to build what is generally and unarguably accepted to be the model of Legislature in this country.’ When we started, we knew where we were going and what we wanted and we worked very hard to accomplish it. Today, it is a thing of joy for one. Yes, I believe that, there is so much to be done but the satisfaction is there that, it has changed from the way I met the Assembly. In all ramifications, the Lagos House of Assembly is totally different from where it started and totally different from the other Houses in the country. Sir, you have been able to record a number of accomplishments during your time at the helm of the Lagos State Legislative Chamber, could you run us through some of them, especially those considered to be ground-breaking

In terms of capacity building, I really do not think that, there is any Legislative House in the country, not even the National Assembly can boast of the type of training and exposure that we have given members of the House and the supporting staff members over these last few years. We have also succeeded in building a rapport between the House and Constituents. Lagosians have come to see the House as their house and it is interesting to see the confidence they have in the House. Lagosians would rather come here with their protests or petitions, even on family matters and that is the extent of the confidence the people have in the House. We have resolved communal issues amicably among Lagosians all over the state. We have also developed a relationship with Lagosians to the extent that, land disputes, chieftaincy issues and other sundry matters are brought to the House for resolution. Of course, that has its implications and one of which is that, the courts are less congested now. Now, people come around to watch the proceedings of the House and they also contribute to the governance in the state. We have introduced these over the years and we also have

Town Hall meetings all over the state which make our Constituents feel that, they are truly the of governance and that, their contributions are well appreciated in the process. All these initiatives have endeared us to the people. If you come around, we have also created an atmosphere that gives that homely feeling instead

of a place filled with a group of people who are just strolling out and making laws without their contributions and participation. The sense of belonging is there, and no single Law or Bill goes through the Lagos State House of Assembly without the input of the people through public hearing before 17

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Group photograph taken after presentation of an award to the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji by the Armed Forces

we take a final decision. All these have endeared us to Lagosians. We are grateful to the first democratically elected Governor of the State, our Papa, Alhaji Lateef Jakande who laid a solid foundation and did so much to make Lagos what it is today. He built that complex for us within his first year in office but today, we have built on that foundation. Today, we have a new Chamber that, even a British Member of Parliament (MP) that came during the inauguration of the Chamber admitted that, our Chamber is as beautiful as the House of Commons, if not, more beautiful. We also have new office blocks for members and another one nearing completion for staff members. If you go to any of the offices of the members of the House, you would feel confident that, you are being well represented. The environment is conducive, there are tools to work and this encourages productivity. ‘To whom much is given, much is expected, hence we cannot afford to let the people of Lagos down. We must get to the task of making good laws, effective governance and administration of the state in the paramount and collective interest of the people.’ These words are credited to you from your 2011 victory speech. Would you say that, you and your colleagues have lived up to the standard you laid at the inception of this Assembly

To a very large extent, yes. We have over the years carried Lagosians along, listened to them, worked according to what we perceived to be the interests of Lagosians as shown to us through their participations in public hearings and their contributions in letters and petitions as well as through other means they have contributed to the process of law making. At every point in time, we have represented Lagosians to the very best of our knowledge and in the best way possible. We do our job in the House with the best interest of the people at heart and at every point in time, we ensure that our own personal interests are subdued while the interests of the larger society are played up. Your colleagues have spoken to us about you in glowing terms, particularly regarding your all- inclusive leadership style. What values have you run the Lagos State House of Assembly on

I come from a very humble background and I started life in the rural part of the state where we grew up to know communal living. We also imbibed some 18

morals from the very beginning. We learnt that, whatever is given to you through the grace of God is not meant for you alone, but for everyone around you. We also learnt that, no one is perfect, except the Creator and you must do unto your neighbours as you want them to do unto you. We learnt all these from the beginning and my exposure did not give me the opportunity of being less the Manager than I have been and I could not have led in any other manner than I have done. Despite my humble background, I had a scholarship to study in Romania at the age of 18. I came back, had my Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Lagos and also worked as a Banker, Teacher and Consultant. I had lived and lectured in the United States and I have been exposed to the wider world and I know what is right and can differentiate wrong from right. I also learnt very early in life that, it is tough to get a load on your head with only one hand because you would need the two or a supportive hand of your neighbour to do it. So, it was a thing that came to me so easily, to carry everyone along, because everyone has something to offer and contribute as well as something that can add to the progress of the group and even the entire society. Those are the basic values entrenched in me right from childhood and they are still my guiding values, till today. You introduced the conduct of plenary sessions in the native tongue (Yoruba Language),which was the first-of its-kind in the country. What informed that innovation and what other changes have you brought to the Lagos Assembly in terms of operations and administration

The introduction of the use of Yoruba Language at the plenary sessions of the House was borne out of the need to see ourselves as real Nigerians. If we lose our Language, Culture and Traditions with the way things are going, then we would have lost ourselves. We are lucky enough to have a House where everyone speaks the same Nigerian Language (Yoruba) and we already know what is happening out there. It is sad that, many of our children do not understand our Language properly. And this is not restricted to only the Yorubas. It is the same situation across the country and it is very sad. If you go to China, they speak Chinese and even if a child wants to learn any other Language (English, Arabic or French), the first language is Chinese. The medium of expression is Chinese and they learn

Mathematics, English and Sciences in Chinese Language. It gives you an advantage and the same thing applies in Russia. In addition, they speak English Language from the beginning in the United Kingdom. Today, there is no nation in the world that has attained greatness in Science and Technology, even socio-economic greatness, without making its own Language the first Language. We are striving to attain socio-economic advancement in Science, Technology and Economy, but we learn everything in a Secondary Language that is alien to us. Every Culture has a Language to go with it. When you now put another Language to go with your Culture, you can never be complete and you can never compete or get it right. I am a Yoruba man and there is the Ifa divinity. As proficient as Wole Soyinka is in English Language, he can translate Ifa into English effortlessly, but if you give it to another Yoruba man, who is equally proficient in both Languages, to translate it back into Yoruba Language, so much will be lost in the process. We need to rejuvenate and really bring back our Tradition and Culture and it is only when we develop ourselves using our Language(s) that we will get better. A situation where we throw away what belongs to us and bring in something that is someone else’s to describe ourselves will never work. All these submissions led to the resolution to the House to start conducting its plenary session once a week in Yoruba Language out of the three days for plenary sessions. We also encourage our children to learn the Language. How would you describe your relationship with His Excellency, Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN)

It is a healthy and cordial relationship. Yes, we have had our differences, as well as up’s and down’s as you would expect, because we were elected to do the same thing, but differently. We have a goal but the route that we are supposed to go through, towards the goal is different. He was elected as the Governor to execute the laws that the Legislature makes and members of the House were elected to represent the people, make laws and perform oversight functions over the activities of the Governor and members of his team. Of course, you would not expect that, everything would be smooth sailing, because we are all human beings and no one naturally wants anyone else to dictate to him or her or to perform functions that would check his or her activities. Interestingly, this is the 16th year of democratic experimentation and it is the very first time that it has

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‘’I will ensure that, public schools in Lagos become the schools for children of the high and mighty in the society, starting with members of the cabinet in the state. It is when we do so that, I would feel comfortable and I know it is attainable.’’ gone this far, considering our history. If you look at it from that aspect, we have done very well in Lagos State. You would see that the relationship between the Governor and myself, as the Speaker as individuals on one hand and the relationship between the House and the Executive arm of government as two different arms of the same government, have been wonderful. With our background, Tradition and Culture, the number one citizen of our society used to be the Oba or Emir. An Oba in Yorubaland is seen as the Kabiyesi, one person who cannot be queried or questioned, but it is only God that should be addressed as such. But here, we have brought in the foreign culture of democracy. The Oba used to make, execute and adjudicate the laws. So, he used to perform all the three functions which the three arms of government perform in a democratically elected government. Unlike the larger than life image of the Oba, the Governor or President does not have such, though he is still the number one citizen. He cannot make laws; it is the work of the Legislature and the Judiciary adjudicates the laws. So, when the people are now doing the job that they were elected to do, naturally the Executive could be suspicious of the intention. Those were the things you saw then at the beginning. How did you resolve all of them

The honest truth is that, we are all working towards one goal, which is to make Lagos, the Lagos of our dreams and take the state to the highest height possible. That is the interest of everyone in the government. Gov. Fashola wants Lagosians to enjoy life in abundance, same as the Speaker and his House members; but we have different roles to play in the actualization of this goal. While we are working independently, we still have to contend with the interdependency forces that will create or make us realize our common goal. While emphasizing the independent nature of each arm of government, the Constitution also creates an environment of the arms being inter-dependent of one another. So, we have created a model in Lagos State that we feel others should emulate. Should every House of Assembly be financially autonomous like the Lagos State House of Assembly

We need to give God the praise and adoration for what He has done for Lagosians. The Financial Autonomy Bill was passed and signed to law during the Asiwaju Bola Tinubu administration when Senator Olorunimbe Mamora was the Speaker of the House this was in 2001. The Governor and House agreed that the Bill was desirable but unfortunately, the financial situation then could not accommodate it. However, they agreed on the modalities for its implementation. As the financial position of the state improved, there came the need for the implementation of the law in its entirety during the first term of Governor Fashola. Being a lawyer himself and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Gov. Fashola saw the need to implement the law in 2010. I feel that

every state of the federation should emulate that. Lagos State has undoubtedly witnessed tremendous growth and development in multiple sectors under Gov. Fashola’s administration. Now, most people tend to see and give credit only to the Executive for such strides. What role would you ascribe to the Lagos State House of Assembly in the on-going massive development that the state is witnessing

There is no doubt that the Governor and his team which comprise the Executive are the ones who execute the laws, but who makes the laws? It is the Legislature. When there is any conflict, disagreement or an atmosphere of inadequate clarity, the Judiciary interprets. Since the Governor cannot go out to collect taxes from the people or spend the funds of the state on projects like Road construction, building of schools and hospitals without enabling laws made by the House, then, there is nothing that the Governor has done without the direct input of the House. And do not forget that, the House also has the function of putting the Governor and his team on their toes. If this is done in a manner that would be destructive of the activities of the Executive, then, the state would not have witnessed the type of massive infrastructural renewal and socio-economic development that, it has

witnessed in the past years. Obviously, the House made it possible and it is safe to say that, the foundation of the sucess story of Lagos is the House of Assembly. You have been through some torrid times as the Speaker- allegations of alleged corruption, law suits and the likes. How have these challenges influenced you as a person and how have they affected your perception of people and power

I knew from the beginning of life that leadership is sacrifice and that, aside from air and a few other things in life, nothing comes free. If you want to lead, then you must be prepared to carry the cross. I take solace most times in those little things we learn from the scriptures. The Lord Jesus Christ in His few years on earth, cured people of their ailments, gave sight to the blind, healed the lepers, raised the dead and performed many miracles. Instead of the world to carry him shoulder high and praise Him, what did they do? They nailed Him to the cross. This tells us that doing good is not enough to help you out of some trials. All sorts of allegations were levelled against me. In fact, the petition that led EFCC to the House alleged that I had embezzled N7bn over 14 months. After three months and a week of investigation, 19

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EFCC did not find even N1m that was embezzled. We were in court, not for corruption, embezzlement, misappropriation or stealing but for money laundering. Most Nigerians do not understand the Money Laundering Law. The law under which I was charged to court says that, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;If you decide to sell your car to my brother there for N550,000 and he pays you cash, the next day in same amount, you are guilty of the law.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; This is because the Money Laundering Law states that, no transaction in cash must exceed N500,000. Let me not go deeply into the case. I had to talk a little about it because you brought it up because I know that, most Nigerians do not understand what the case was all about. It is sad that, if someone has led the arm of government that I have led in this state and in Nigeria, for as long as I have done, and you now accuse him of committing money laundering, because you want to get rid of him. The offence was that, we collected cash from the Accounts department of the House for the things we did. So, how do you feel winning the case

I feel happy and great. I want to thank everyone that supported me and also the Almighty Lord for making everything possible and for His steadfastness. He is without doubt, a merciful father and awesome too. He has even done it more than expected. We have always fasted and prayed for it and in the end, we thank God for the victory because it was a clear case of witch-hunting. It was a case, where people saw someone trying to beat the common standards and went after him in order to distract him from the good work he is doing. In doing so, they created problems for the larger society. But EFCC said it would appeal against the judgement

Let them appeal, but I think, the judgment is clear and stands out and even my Counsel, who is one of the best available today, concurred with the fact that it was one of the best judgements he has ever had. I think by appealing, it even helps further to tell the world what this whole thing is about. What have been the most challenging moments of your Legislative career and how were you able to overcome them

I have faced a lot of challenges and cannot describe any as extraordinary. Most times, the challenges I face come especially, during the end of the year when the Budget proposal comes from the Governor and Committee of the House begin to look into different aspects of it. There may be conflicts when the members of the Governorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cabinet are not on the same page with members of the Committee of the House. Naturally, I have to wade in to restore peace to the House. At times, the Governor might need something urgently and asks for my help and the House refuses to tag along. And you do not want to tell the Governor that the House is not supportive. Those are some of the challenges I have been facing and I have been managing them. I also manage challenges, even in the House among the members. Do not forget that, we have 40 Legislators in this House from different background and demography and you know how complex this could be. There is also the case of managing the relationship between the Legislators and the support staff members, the Legislative and other arms of government as well as the Constituents who sent us to the House. The challenges are daily and come in different ways but glory be to God. A lot of reasons have been adduced for your having to move from representing your indigenous Epe Constituency 1 to representing an Ikeja Constituency, it would be great to hear from you what actually happened and why that was necessary

It is an interesting question and I thank you for that. I am a native of Epe and I spent my early years in Epe. My parents are from families known in Epe and they both grew up from Epe. In Epe, there is this unwritten convention that, nobody is elected twice into the House. They do not want to vote you into the House now and you move to the House of Representatives the next election year since everyone wants same opportunity. That is their mentality. In 2003, when I contested for the Lagos State House of Assembly seat in Epe, I became the very first in the history of the town to be overwhelmingly voted for by the entire community from my own part of the town. It was a landslide victory. In 2007, I wanted to go back to the House but there was the issue of zoning, because some people claimed it was time for another

person. Through the grace of God and efforts of my supporters who were mainly made up of the youths, I won the second time, breaking the jinx of no -two terms for anybody. In fact, if you were the son of an Oba in Epe, you still would not have been elected for a second term in Epe. The honest truth is that, before that election, a number of my junior ones were looking forward to contest for the House. When the word came out that, I was going to contest for another term as the Speaker, a tug of war ensued and thankfully, reason prevailed and about six of them dropped their ambitions. Though I never thought of the third term, but the leadership of the party in its wisdom decided that, I should go back to the House. I agreed with them, but I told them that I would not contest from Epe. This

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was because , communal life is a give and take affair. Since people had bent backwards for me, then , I would not be showing signs of leadership if I go back to them for the third term. The same set of boys who stepped down for me in 2007 cannot be expected to step down again. They might be forced to do that but the truth is that they would not have done it in good faith. I have lived and worked here in Ikeja and I am from the State. So, I was eligible to represent the people of Ikeja. Some have said and it has even been reported that, you are no longer in the good books of your local Epe community and that, even your installation as the Aare Alaketu of Epe was a mere diversion from that reality. How do you react to this

If I had known that, you would bring up a question like this, I would have invited King Sunny Ade and alongside my piano, we would have sung that popular song of his, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Won le ma sa ta, haba, let them say.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; (Laughter) Who are these people? In the history of Epe, nobody has represented, favoured or done as much for Epe as I have done. Nobody has also been favoured by the people of Epe as much as I have been favoured. I was moved to tears with the love shown me by the people during the installation. If I move to Epe right now, do you know how I would be received? Everybody including, the Obas, Chiefs and youths in the Epe community came for the installation. Where in the world have parents thrown away their star-child? As I represent Ikeja, I must confess that, 85-90 per cent of favours have been given to the people of Epe, probably 15 per cent to Ikeja Constituents. I did not request for any Chieftaincy title and all areas of that community had offered me one Chieftaincy title or the other. Asides the Aare Alaketu, I was installed three months ago as the Turaki Adini of the entire place. I had the Aare Adini before then from another area of the town. You know in politics, when people find a character that they cannot bend, compete against favourably or a larger than life one, they try very hard to smash the image. But they have just been knocking their heads against the rock in my own case. In Epe, I have sent children, whose parents I do not know to school. I have paid examination fees and since 1995, I have been sponsoring a Football competition for the entire division, even before I started politics actively. I have sent unknown number of people on pilgrimages to Mecca and Jerusalem. I have rehabilitated and built a number of Churches and Mosques, even in remote areas of the town. The number of boreholes I have sunk with my personal money, even the Local Government cannot claim to have sunk more than I have. I have built blocks of classrooms with my personal funds in Army Children High School and St. Michael Primary School, which was equipped with benches and desks, toilets and the head masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s room. And the truth is, I did not attend those schools, neither are my children attending them. So, how would a citizen of that area want such a man thrown out of the community? If you were to be listening to hearsay from these people, you would be given them some undue successes, because all they want to do is divert your attention from the good things you have been doing to come down to their level. All they are interested in is to drag one behind but I am always forging ahead. If you could put this past decade of your tenure on replay, what would you have done differently

As far as my career and politics are concerned, giving the opportunity, I would probably take the same road again. I have no cause for regrets and I 22

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The Ikuforijiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Family

have done everything with the fear of God and the interests of the people at heart. I do not want to change that. Although, there are little things, like dealing with people here and there and other minor things, but in totality, I will take the same path the same way I have done. Your political odyssey started in Romania first, as the President of the National Union of Nigerian Students and then, the President of the Association of Nigerian Students. Tell us about your early years in politics and some of the strategies that have kept you on top of your game

Even in Romania, I believed in unity, even in our diversity. I started out there with different groups among the Nigerian society and I tried to bring everybody together. I was lucky to have had most of the guys rallying round me. From my very early years, I have never lived a life based on discrimination and creating sharp divisions among people and it has never been part of me. I have always believed in service to the people, service to the group you belong to, communal growth and interests of the generality. These are indices which have always played major roles in my life and they remain so, even till today. Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has played the role of midwife in the political successes of so many politicians in the South West since the return to democracy. How would you describe the role he played in your political experience thus far and how has he influenced you personally

Let us be honest about it, Asiwaju is a rare gift to this generation and he has been nurturing the process since his entry into our political lives and his tenure as Governor of the state witnessed the laying of a solid foundation for an economic take- off for the state. He has demonstrated rare public spiritedness in his approach. He brought a lot of innovations to

governance and introduced policies that have turned out to be inspiring. He created, probably the very first cabinet of diverse brains (technocrats, politicians, and a myriad of people) and the performance was wonderful. He increased the Internal Generated Revenue (IGR) of the state from N600Million from 1999 to over N8billion in 2007. He also attracted and encouraged young, smart, agile and brilliant people to the political terrain without knowing their background. Most of them would not probably have ventured into politics but with his help, they saw that it was not as bad, as it seemed, just like me. I was a Lecturer in the United States before I decided to contest in 2003 and I confess to you that, Asiwaju was the major reason I resigned my appointment and I felt that, one could team up with him to make the state better. Your gubernatorial aspirations are not a matter of conjecture any longer. You have more than an eye for the highest office in the state. Seeing that you are up against other viable contenders within your party, the All Progressives Congress, what are your chances are of scaling intra- party hurdles

From the responses I have gotten so far, from my party and the general populace, I think I have the most brilliant chance of becoming the next Governor of Lagos State by the grace of God. Opponents of your party have pointed accusing fingers at the APC as lacking internal democracy, stating that the choice of one man, rather than of the majority holds sway. What are your thoughts on that and how do you see this perceived structure of selection, rather than election working for or against you

Everyone has his own right or opinion, but I cannot agree with anyone that, the choice of one person holds sway in our party. Many have contested and won and yet, others have contested and lost. Today, we have more gubernatorial candidates in my party

than any other in the state. I do not want to start naming them, but I am sure that, you can count a few who are jostling for the ticket of the party. So, why will these people jostle for the ticket if truly only one person has decided the fate of the party? I reject that insinuation and I know it is false and I say it again that, I have the most brilliant chance of becoming the next Governor of Lagos State and that will be ,Insha Allah. Another controversial issue in Lagos politics is one of religion. Some people say that, the state has not had a democratically elected Christian Governor since the Late Sir Michael Otedola. As a Muslim yourself who is vying for that office, what are your thoughts on the issue of religion in politics

I have the fear of God in me and believe that, the Creator knows more than all of us together. He has a design for things and when we make attempts to tamper with His design or plans, we inadvertently bring problems upon ourselves as people. Lagos is unique and indeed in all the states of the Western Nigeria, religion does not play roles in the emergence of the Governor or elected representatives of the people. We can look at it objectively, Sir Michael Otedola, may his soul rest in peace, became the Governor, not because anybody went shopping for a Catholic Governor. Politics paved the way for his emergence. Bola Ahmed Tinubu became Governor, not because anybody was looking for an Ahmed. Religion has never been an issue in the Yoruba nation and it should not be today. When Tinubu was the Governor, his wife was a member of the Redeemed Church and she was even an Assistant Pastor. My Governor today, Fashola, who is also a Muslim and not a fanatical one at that, has a wife who is a Dame in the Catholic Church. So, where does religion really play its role? I am a Muslim and my wife is a Pastor of a Pentecostal Church in the state. We have to be careful 23

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because we should not allow issues that have destroyed other societies come between us. If the wife of the Governor is a Pastor of a Redeemed Church or a Catholic Church, what do you think would happen in the Government House? The door would be open to all Christians, even though, the Governor is a Muslim. Let us not bring stupidity into this. If by chance or God’s desire, even if there’s a noble atheist and politics throws him up as a Governor, as long as he respects the Constitution and loves the people despite his religious inclination, that is all. For God’s sake, let us live together as one and allow who God has chosen to lead us, irrespective of his religion. The issue of tuition fees in Lagos Stateowned tertiary institutions has raised a lot of heat in the recent past among students, their parents and the government, what assurances are you giving the students if you become the Governor

I am sure in Lagos today, students and also graduates know that, education is a priority in my life. I believe that we need to give qualitative education to our children and the government must do as much as possible to make education available to our children. I do not think, there is an issue because the Governor has reduced the fees drastically to N25,000 per annum. We 24

must thank the Governor and thank God for the guidance He has given to the Governor and I believe that the issue is settled forever. My own take as Governor of Lagos State, is to take LASU into the league of the very best institutions of higher learning in the world. I want to make sure that, public schools in Lagos State return to where they were when I attended public Primary and Secondary schools. I will ensure that, public schools in Lagos become the schools for children of the high and mighty in the society, starting with members of the cabinet in the state. It is when we do so that, I would feel comfortable and I know it is attainable. Supposing you emerge as your party’s candidate for the elections, why should Nigerians vote you

I will emerge. Lagosians have a lot of reasons to vote for me and no matter whom you say my opponents are, they cannot claim to know Lagos as much as I do. They cannot claim to know the people of Lagos as much as I do and they cannot claim to have the wealth of experience, as much as I do. Through the grace of God and my colleagues, Lagos today boasts of the very best parliament, the first among equals House of Assembly in this country. If we were able to build the most difficult arm of government in

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Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji receieving an award from the Fmr. Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen Onyabor Azubuike Ihejirika

this state, you can be sure that, that midas touch remains and we can use it to make Lagos government the model for the world. The interest of the people remains the most important thing for me in the House and I want to take that to the Government House and make life more abundantly for the people of Lagos. I have studied carefully, governance under Tinubu and I have done so under Fashola and I can assure you that, Adeyemi Ikuforiji as the Governor of the State is capable of combining excellence in the two administrations to create a Lagos, where the word excellence, would remain the watch word and a Lagos that would stand tall head and shoulders, above others. I know that, we have the resources and we can harness them, because we have done it in the Legislative arm and we can do it better in the Executive arm.

supportive. I think in these last few years, she has had my back and the truth is that, my family has had to put up with my shortcomings, because I spend the larger part of my time outside our home. Of course, every wife and child wants to have the husbandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s or fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time, but that has not been the case these past few years. What kind of music do you listen to

I love listening to Juju, Fuji and the traditional music. From the Western World, I love Country music, Jazz and Classical music. When you are not running the House, what do you do in your leisure time

Running the House is like a 24 -hour job because there is no time that, you are not bothered with the

rigors of the House. Of course, I still try to create little time for relaxation. In the little free time I have, I love reading and also try to swim. I am also learning to play the Piano which I have always admired but never had the opportunity to learn. I hope that would also occupy some of my time in future. What would you want to be written about you in the future

I want people to say, he was a man who lived to see a better world. I want to be remembered for outstanding service to the people and one who left the world, some inches better than he met it. It has been a pleasure talking to you, Sir

Thank you very much.

In your opinion, what does Lagos need the most today

Lagos needs sound education and extraordinary infrastructural renewal. When I talk about infrastructure, I am talking about Transportation, Energy, massive Housing for the people and extraordinary Healthcare delivery system for the people. We can do it, it is achievable and I have a template for it. Let us talk about your immediate family, what was the attraction when you met your wife

My wife was a very stunning and pretty woman and she still is stunning and pretty! The first time I met her, she was barely 20 years old then and had just been matriculated in Ile Ife. For a pretty woman like that, I think any young man with discerning eyes would want to probe further and I did exactly that and it has brought some good results. How do you manage to combine the pressures of work and family

You know my wife is a Pastor and she is so Managing Editor, Ovation, Segun Adebowale interviewing the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

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MAKING LAGOS A GLOBAL CITY OFFICIAL DECLARATION OF

ADEYEMI IKUFORIJI

RT. HON.

AS THE NEXT GOVERNOR OF LAGOS STATE

arty leaders, honorable members of the Lagos state House of Assembly, party members, friends and colleagues and gentlemen of the pre.I sincerely thank you for your presence here today. A few weeks ago, I intimidated my colleagues, members and staff of the Lagos state house of assembly about my admission to seek the ticket of our party, All Progressive Congress (APC) for the governorship election of Lagos state. By the grace of God, the wishes of the good people of Lagos state and the support of the honorable members, I am the longest serving speaker in Nigeria’s history. However, in revealing my ambition to the members of the House and the staff, I emphasized that though I had prayed to God about the decision and consulted widely, the time was not ripe for my formal declaration. Now the time has come! I believe the time has come for us to dwell on the dreams and aspirations that unite us as Lagosians and not the issues that separate us as individuals. My dear Lagosians, I believe the time has come for the consolidation of the gains of tradition of good governance which Lagos State has exemplified since the beginning of the second Republic ; the time has come to rearticulate the vision of the founding fathers of Lagos state and reenergize the people of this great city-state, which even by the 19th century had been declared “the Queen of West African Settlements”, the time has come to build on the foundations laid in the golden years of democratic. Lagos under the leadership of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his successor, Governor

BabatundeFashola ,SAN, and make Lagos not just the Queen of all African cities and the nerve center of the economic and social processes in the continent, but also a truly global city. My core vision is to consolidate and enlarge the enviable legacy of good Governance, sterling leadership and unmatched excellence for which Lagos State has come to be known; and to ensure that the greatest good generated in, and attracted globally by Lagos is shareable among all Lagosians. Under my governorship, Lagos will truly become a global city, one that all Lagosians will be proud of. I will work hard to make Lagos the African Alpha city, one that will link the African economy to the world economy; thus, Lagos will constitute the Heartbeat of the continent in the 21st century. I believe that our state has all that it takes to seize this role. And I am convinced that we can make it happen under my leadership. As a technocrat and a widely travelled politician, I will contribute my quota to the charting of a new of a new trajectory for our political party by ensuring that our politics is devoid of rancor and favoritism. I will ensure that even to the most politically aloof Lagosian, politics will be attractive and no longer perceived as a dirty game characterized by nepotism. Under my watch, our political culture will improve. I am an individual awakened to the desire to make Lagos a destination city; our state must take its pride of place among megacities; I am called to make that happen. I am called here to consolidate the work that was begun by the first civilian Governor of Lagos State AlhajiLateefJakande, Our Governor Emeritus,

Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the present Governor, Mr.BabatundeRajiFashola SAN. My government will combine the populist approach of Jakande, the financial ingenuity of Tinubu and the vigor of Fashola to initiate and implement trailblazing policies and policies and projects that willmake our state on of the most livable places in the world class standard; and government officials including myself will be mandated to undergo their medical check-up in our facilities instead of going abroad. Our schools will be restored to their former glory; government officials would be able to send their children to public schools; I will not rest until the Lagos State University becomes one of the top 500 universities in the world. I am in this race to make a difference; my conscience tells me that this is the best time to do the will of God for Lagosians; I am conscious of the huge responsibility that goes with the office I seek. Again, I believe I am well placed to lead this new place in the history of our great state. I have the needed training, the required local and global experience- the vision and concrete programs, the leadership qualities as displayed in the last 9 years in managing the affairs of the most visible and most dynamic state legislature in Nigeria. I have also the sagacity and cosmopolitanoutlook that is necessary for the governorship of Lagos state. From the beginning of my political career as a ward official for the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) through my years in the Social Democratic Party (SDP), to the period when I joined the Alliance for Democracy (AD) –which became the Action Congress (AC) and later Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN)

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â&#x20AC;&#x201C;and eventually merged with others to form the All Progressive Congress (APC), my commitment to progressive politics has been unwavering and steadfast. I have used my talent and energy in helping not only to build democratic governance in Lagos state, but also to expand the frontiers of government accountability and transparency. In the struggle to ensure that Lagos state maintains its place in the nation, and indeed becomes Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pre-eminent citystate, I have suffered all sorts of attempt at distraction, triumphed over trumped-up charges and even survived assassination attempt. But through it all, I have remained committed to the ideals of democratic governance, democratic accountability, legislative oversight, justice, equity and equality of all. However, beyond and above my past demonstration of commitment to democratic governance, other credentials that make me eminently qualified for the Gubernatorial candidacy of the APC and the governorship of Lagos state include my experience and training, my keen at intricate knowledge of what needs to be done to make Lagos a global city, and the strength of character that I have shown, particularly, since I was elected in 2003 as a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly and the speaker of the House in 2005. Having legislated qualitatively and efficiently for more than a decade as acknowledged by all and sundry, in am therefore emboldened and encouraged today, to present my agenda for the continued transformation of Lagos state, which is captured in the following 10-points cardinal programs- which I believe, when implemented, will integrate he gains of the past with the outstanding achievement of today 28

and subsequently help us to build a new future: that of a global city-state. Dear Lagosians, my 10-points cardinal program connect all the critical areas of the political, economic and social lives of Lagos state and provides a synergy between, not only all the arms of government but also all the different sectors of Lagos state economy qualities, culture and social life. In the course of this speech I will highlight the most critical dimensions of the all-encompassing 10point cardinal programme, produced by many months of hard work, research, deliberations, consultations and exchange of ideas with some of the finest brains that our country can boast of. In the area of job creation and poverty alleviation, full and gainful employment will be approached as an indispensable tool of ensuring good life for Lagosians. Towards this end,we will be approached as an indispensable tool of ensuring good life for Lagosians.Towards this end we will establish a youth enterprise initiative with the aim of expanding the skill base of young people;we will create an unemployment portal for the state that will allow for proper planning and mobilization of resources for the unemployed;we will create a women focused and gender-sensitive government that will end the perennial neglect of this important demography and turn women and women issues into top priority,especially in terms of employment opportunities; and establish an all year state-wide youth training programme,as a form of social engineering,which will serve to rehabilitate and re-integrate street urchins and area boys in the society. We will emphasize a knowledgeâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;based economy

and entrepreneurship. In doing this, we will consolidate and expand the Internally Generated Revenue(IGR) and the resource base of the state. We will also encourage and promote local industries to stimulate growth, drive innovation and create unemployment through the creation of funding and mentoring schemes by adopting the right policy and political framework. We will work and provide tax incentives for local and global companies that will generate employment for Lagosians; we will create a department a Diaspora Relations to work with Lagosiansin the diaspora in order to find ways of engaging their skills to encourage massive inflow of investments in the state; provide substantial funding for entrepreneurial education and skill acquisition by young people; invest massively in agriculture through public and private partnerships and states to ensure that food is available and affordable for Lagosians; and we will elevate the Lagos Annual Trade Fair to global standards. Energy constitutes another key point. We recognize that energy is critical for powering the economic and social life of Lagos.Therefore, we will undertake the identification, through precise and up to date data, of the energy needs of Lagos, design measures and work with state and private agencies to meet this needs; and also ensure increased production of independent power projects below 100MW to utilize the states vast hydropower potential, given that around 40 percent of Lagos State is made up of water. The energy sector is of strategic importance to socioeconomic growth. It has a crucial role to play in the development of Lagos State, particularly in relation to

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factors such as security, employment, poverty alleviation and wealth creation. Our goal is to develop and Implement a sustainable energy strategy that will ensure that Lagos remains the commercial hub of Nigeria, Another important aspect is of our action plan is security. A government cannot be said to be good if public safety cannot be guaranteed. We all know that the issue of security is a major challenge facing Nigeria. Therefore, priority will be given to security, within the state under my administration; my government will also ensure that security outfits are fully equipped to combat crime. In other to guarantee security, we will implement a zero tolerance approach on acts of crime, such as terrorism, kidnapping and robbery. We will encourage community participation in crime prevention and strengthen existing programmes such as community and residential police checkpoints. Another core cardinal point, transportation,will be approached holistically.We will embark on massive rebuilding and expansion of roads, completion oflight rail network and expansion of (Inland) water transportation. We will declare a state of emergency in the area of roads after we must have convened a “Road summit” in order to achieve a roadmap to the road infrastructure in Lagos State. We shall enact roads standard for our roads, all rural roads in Lagos state will be graded while we will build more roads to create shorter distances and connect communities within the state. We will hold ourselves to the highest standards of regular road maintenance;in fact, this will be incorporated into road construction contracts. A key feature of our integrated Transportation

programme will be the introduction of the Tram system in order to ease transportation within the metropolis; Overhead bridges will be built where necessary to reduce incidence of motorist-pedestrian accident. My government will develop the necessary software infrastructure to capture the training of supervising personnel; introduce and maintain a light rail network that will connect the farthest places in the state; and dredge the waterways in the state in order to allow for the introduction of the “lite boat” transport system. In the area of Housing, we recognize that shelter is crucial for a decent life.Therefore we will introduce a social Housing concept to address the perennial housing challenges in the state; we will also establish a Lagos Housing fund to re-invigorate mass housing: we will regenerate slums throughout Lagos state through a humane, just and efficient process that meets global standards; and ensure aggressive construction of high rise buildings throughout the state to address the shortage in housing. In the area of education, under my governorship, good education will be the bedrock of the building of a prosperous and democratic state and society. A former president of the United States, Franklin D. Rooselvet, once said “Democracy cannot succeed unless those who express choice are prepared to choose wisely. The real safeguard for democracy, therefore,is education.” Consequently, we will improve the quality of education in Lagos State for owned schools; we will establish Research and Development centers, which will be adequately and efficiently funded; we will incorporate technical skills acquisition into secondary

school curriculum; increase the budgetary allocation for education in the state backed by legislation, e.g. the feeding of school children programme; we will encourage free education in Lagos State through the enhancement of bursary and scholarship schemes. For health care, our activities will be based on the recognition of a healthy citizenry as an essential part of good governance. Against this backdrop, we will pursue an aggressive renewal and revitalization of all health institutions and services in the state, particularly, the general and teaching hospitals; ensure increased funding, expansion and monitoring of emergency services; embark on aggressive training and retraining of doctor, nurses and other health workers as well as the introduction of a license regime for renewing the knowledge and expertise of doctors, nurses and other health workers. We will also refocus and re-organize primary health care centers for efficient functioning and massive reduction of infant and maternal mortality rates. Tourism is another focus of our cardinal programme, because we intend to make it the greatest employer of labor in Lagos state. To do this, we will implement measures that will make Lagos one of Africa within a few years; we will encourage domestic tourism and rekindle the spirit and awareness of Lagosians regarding outdoor and recreational activities; establish state funded parks all over the state, as well as collaborate with the private sector towards improving the social wellbeing of Lagosians and the aesthetics of the metropolis. We will also ensure the return of entertainment nightlife with commensurate security of lives and properties. Sports is a fundamental part of our programme because it is important for both the physical health and entertainment of Lagosians. We will design activities that will ensure the discovery of talented Lagosians in

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all kinds of sports; create adequate centers for sporting activities that meet global standards; encourage the hosting of continental and global sporting events in Lagos; also support the establishment of more gyms, jogging paths, spaces and centers for physical exercises in the city. We will also focus on our Environment. The need to protect our environment has become ubiquitously popular in recent years and rightfully so. With many factors adding to the degradation of our environment, under the new administration, the Lagos State government will place increased significance on the environment, and this will require the co-operation of all Lagosians. According to Richard Rogers, “The only way forward, if we are going to improve the quality of the environment is to get everybody involved.” By educating the public at every level, we can show just how important the environment is to Lagos State. We will also increase sensitization through regulations and invest in proper research and development to understand how to spread the message of ‘Environmental friendliness’Lagosians will not have to remind us to protect the environment. Ladies and gentlemen, our guiding principle will be Governance,Justice and the Rule of Law; we will work to improve public confidence and integrity in governance by ensuring that the Rule of Law takes pre-eminence in all dealings of government. Also, we will modernize governance through new information and communication technologies; expand and renew laws and statues based on global standards to ensure the regulation of all activities in the state; oversee and open-door policy for all stakeholders to have access to the governor via different efficient and effective channels; we will ensure 100% work ability of the procurement law and introduce a software application (APP) that Lagosians can download on their mobile devices to access and keep abreast of the workings of the state government. Above all, we will ensure the integration of all these cardinal programmes under my leadership. Educational opportunities will be linked to the creation of economic opportunities, which will in turn be linked to health care, physical and sporting activities, full employment, good housing and the creation of a good environment. Our efforts in the area of energy will also be linked to our effort to boost tourism and create and efficient transportation system powered by existing forms of energy and renewable energy. All of these will lead to good governance and the promotion of confidence in public administration. My dear Lagosians and fellow party members, all of these cannot happen without your support. What I offer is a solid plan backed by unflinching commitment to the greater good of Lagos state and all Lagosians. The possibilities of this great dream of a global city rest on your support. I believe that with your support, we can take Lagos state to greater heights still. I offer myself as a candidate with a clear vision of greater Lagos and a commitment to leading the state on a new journey which will consolidate the gains of the past and chart a new vision for the future. I trust that you will join me in this effort. Account on your support; and I thank you for your presence here and your attention. Together, we will move Lagos forward. 30

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MY DESIRE IS TO REACH THE ZENITH OF MY

LEGISLATIVE ASSIGNMENT

-DEPUTY SPEAKER, HON. TAIWO KOLAWOLE ‘’If you look at my cap, my symbol is Pyramid which means starting from the bottom to the zenith. I want to hit the zenith of the House of Assembly because I have spent so much time here and I pray that my colleagues will find me worthy enough to succeed Rt. Hon. Ikuforiji.’’ narguably, Hon. Taiwo Musibau Kolawole is the longest serving member of the Lagos State House of Assembly. B orn in the Odunfa area of Lagos Island, Hon. Kolawole had his Primary school education at the then W.J. David Memorial Baptist School, Lagos. For his Secondary school education, he attended St. Charles Grammar School, Oshogbo, Osun State. Having passed his West Africa School Certificate Examination, he proceeded to the Federal Polytechnic, Bida for his Ordinary National Diploma in Statistics. He came out with Upper Credit in Statistics. His love for higher and qualitative education made him to seek admission into the University of Ilorin to again study Statistics. He came out of the University with Second Class Upper Division. He later went for the compulsory National Youth Corps Scheme in Abuja where he served the nation at both the National Population Commission (NPC) and Girl’s Senior Science Secondary School Kuje, Abuja. His strong love and desire for higher learning came to fore again after his NYSC. He went for his Master’s Degree in Statistics at the University of Ibadan. Hon. Kolawole had a working experience with Tripple G Plc. Abule Osun, Lagos State before venturing into politics. His political experiences which spans over two decades, started with the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP) and then to the Grassroots Democratic Movement (GDM) where he was first made the State Assistant Welfare Officer and then, State Financial Secretary. He was a member of Alliance for Democracy (AD), the political party platform on which he contested and won the position of Honourable member into the Lagos State House of Assembly in 1999. A four timer in the Lagos State House of Assembly, representing the good people of Ajeromi/Ifelodun Local Government Constituency1, Hon. Kolawole has contested and won elections into the Lagos State House of Assembly in 1999, 2003, 2007 and 2011. He is a member of defunct Action Congress of Nigeria, which has morphed into the All Progressives

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Congress (APC). At the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Kolawole has served as the Chairman of different Committees including, Hotels and Tourism; House Services; Science and Technology; Education; Associate Chairman, Economic Planning and Budget and Acting Chairman on Environment Committee. He has also been the Majority Leader, Chairman House Committee on Business, Rules and Standing Order and now, he is the Deputy Speaker. Hon. Kolawole is a community leader, role model, Legislator par excellence, opinion leader and philanthropyist extraordinare. He has over the years given out Poverty Alleviation gifts to over 5000 people from his Constituency. Also recently, he empowered his people through training in Computer education; textile and thread making, soap and cream production. Hon. Kolawole is equally a sports lover. A footballer himself, he is a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly Honourable memberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team. He has over the years institutionalized HKT Football Championship Cup in his Constituency, Ajeromi/Ifelodun Constituency 1. He also set up a Football Championship which is often played at Navy Barracks annually and 34

Hon. Taiwo Kolawole with Asiwaju Bole Tinubu

so also, Ifelodun Football Square and Street Soccer, which is played in all the wards within his Constituency. His love for Boxing also knows no bound. He has sponsored many Boxing Championships within his Local Government and for his love for Boxing, he was unanimously appointed Pillar of Boxing in his Local Government, Ajeromi/Ifelodun Local Government. Hon. Kolawole has received numerous awards and certificates, among which are, the Most Distinguished Deputy Speaker of the year 2011 by the Chartered Institute of Local Government and Public Administration of Nigeria, Most Consistent Legislator from 1999 to Date by the Executive and members of the National Association of Political Science Students, Award of Excellence by National Institute of Sports, Most Outstanding Community Representative by Community Service Development and Outstanding Political Colossus of our time by Community Development Committee in collaboration with all CDAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S of Ifelodun Local Government Area. His other awards include Honour as a Texan from the State of Texans, Award of Honour by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Commonwealth

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;I thank God for the strength He has given me to serve my people, because my life is one of service. My people have also shown me tremendous love,because it is not a regular thing to vote the same person into the same office for four consecutive terms. They have done what my parents cannot do. My parents gave me education but education is not enough in Politics. I was at Ajegunle recently to declare my intentions to run again and I am praying to become the next Speaker. If I am the Speaker

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of Kentucky and Award of Excellence by Al-Fath Quareb Islamic Society of Nigeria. The Hotelier, Farmer and Sports lover, is happily married with children. As the longest serving member in the House of Assembly since 1999, what responsibility has this conferred on you

It has only added more and more responsibilities. Everybody expects you to be different, because you have become the custodian of the precedence in the House. You must always make sure you are never wrong on any issue, because the House relies on you. Though, one is happy that God has made one to be here for this long, but not exactly my choice. This is because, each time I try to veer off politically from the House and aspire for a higher office, I still get drawn back to the House. I have occupied several positions in the House, starting from being the Chairman of Hotel and Tourism Committee and today, as the Deputy Speaker of the House. Your political odyssey took off in the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP), after which you joined the Grassroots Democratic Movement (GDM) and later, the Alliance of Democracy (AD), under whose platform you won election into the House of Assembly in 1999. How did you develop the passion for Politics

I think it is in-born, because I have always practiced Politics, almost all my life. In the University, I was the President of the National Association of Statistics Students, Bida Branch and I was also the Student Representative Council member in the University of Ilorin. I have always loved Politics and later on in life, I realized that, the course that I studied in the University is not my calling. Politics is indeed my calling. I had my Masters in 1993 when the late Moshood Kashimawo Abiola was supposed to have been the President and also,that was the year, the Western world realized that, Africa was a huge market and the destination should have been Nigeria. But we got it wrong, the day late Gen. Sanni Abacha annulled that election and hindered the development that should have come to Nigeria. Moreover, the Nigerian economy also started nose-diving that same year. A year later, I had my first child and became responsible overnight! I began to think of ways to take care of my family and because of my passion for my 36

Managing Editor, Ovation, Segun Adebowale with Dep. Speaker, Hon. Kolawole Taiwo

people, I started to develop a sense of service. I started mobilizing people, especially youths in my area Ajegunle, majority of whom did not want to go to the University. I was able to do this, because they have always looked up to me. Moreover, I have always stood out, even in the University, when I was the Best Research graduating student. I represent the people of Ajeromi Ifelodun Constituency 1 and I thank God for the strength He has given me to serve my people, because my life is one of service. My people have also shown me tremendous love,because it is not a regular thing to vote the same person into the same office for four consecutive terms. They have done what my parents cannot do. My parents gave me education but education is not enough in Politics. I was at Ajegunle recently to declare my intentions to run again and I am praying to become the next Speaker. If I am the Speaker today, I will be able to change my Constituency and also the state. You have contested and won elections into the House in 1999,2003, 2007 and 2011, representing Ajeromi felodun Constituency 1, what would you consider your legacies in all those years

If you go to my Constituency now, you would see that,it is not the way it was when I entered the House in 1999. Then, I could count the number of tarred roads in my Constituency, because almost all the roads were untarred. It is different now, because almost all the roads have been tarred. Moreover, when I resumed office, my area was battling cholera epidemic and there were heaps of refuse everywhere but today, we have a well -equipped General Hospital and our environment has also been cleared of waste. Therefore, we have improved health wise and the environment, too. I recall that, my first motion then in 1999 was in respect of LAWMA and asides that, I have an Environment programme that runs throughout the year and also an Empowerment Programme every 24th of December, which has been running for the past 10 years. I am working on a Youth Centre and work will commence any moment from now on the building. I got the inspiration during a trip outside the country with Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and I

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decided to replicate it in Nigeria. Youths will converge at the center and be trained in both formal and informal education. Recently, my daughter who will soon be going to the University outside Nigeria told me that, she had found a school to learn Catering pending the time she will resume in the University. That is the way it should be. You have chaired different House Committees, like Hotel and Tourism, House Services, Science and Technology and others, can you reflect on your contributions in these Committees

I did not spend much time in Hotel and Tourism Committee,because the then Speaker felt I could do more than that. He later made me the House Services Chairman. This was a bit more challenging, because it involved the welfare and running of the House and I worked hand in hand with him for the rest of our tenure. In one of the books written about me, he acknowledged that I was hardworking and diligent and that I changed the status of House Services. The House Services then did more, because we did not have our own funds but I always found solutions to challenges. This made the members to nickname me Agbonmagbe. I was also in charge of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikouforiji & Hon. Taiwo Kolawole

contracts in the House and I did not really have complaints from members. Later on, I moved over to the Science and Technology Committee and that was when there was no ministry for Science and Technology. That was like a punishment, because we lost out during the race for the position for the Speaker and some people protested that, I had been Chairman of two previous Committees and that, I was already very rich (chuckles). Hon. Mustapha of blessed memory told me to lobby the then Speaker (Rt. Hon. Pelumi) but I reluctantly went, because I felt I should not be lobbying a fresher. The Speaker eventually gave me a Committee, alongside the Associate Chairmanship of the Economic Planning and Budget Committee which took most of my time. Since then, I have been working on the Budget and making use of my knowledge as a Statistician, until the last one we passed when I felt some other members should start doing it. At some point, I became the Chairman of Education Committee and also acted as the Chairman of Environment Committee, taking over from Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji who had become the Speaker. As the 37

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Chairman, Education Committee, my Committee was busy throughout, because that was the period we reformed the Education sector. Therefore, all the laws concerning education were reformed by my Committee. I did not do much as Acting Chairman of Environment Committee but my high point was the establishment of the Lagos State Advertisement Signage (LASAA). From there, I became the Majority Leader and also the Chairman of Business Rule and Standing Order. As the Majority Leader, I had a lot of work to do, because that was the turning point of the House, when the House got its financial autonomy and independence. Now, I am the Deputy Speaker and I have passed the stage of heading any Committee. I am the lower of the Presiding Officer and the Vice Chairman of the Selection Committee. In the light of all of these, how would you describe your Legislative journey

It has been filled with very interesting occurrences and I give thanks to God. I remember that I started as a young man, who wanted to show the world that someone from Ajegunle had a voice. I recall my first motion about the filthy nature of Lagos and the need to reform LAWMA by the Executive, which was the most controversial of that motion. This was because, Lagos Island politicians believed that, LAWMA was theirs and this started an uproar in and outside the House. In fact, some Legislators did not take kindly to my motion and even wondered, why the Speaker would allow a political neophyte like me to talk in the House. It got to a point that, I became scared to speak on the floor of the House. Luckily, the government took the motion seriously and reformed LAWMA and the environment became neater and flood free. The Manager of LAWMA then was an Ojora man and when I got home, I met the people complaining that, they did not vote me to remove their kinsman from his political seat. Unfortunately,the man in question was removed and the environment was sanitized. It took me three months before I could recover from that incident. I also recall seeking to serve as Chairman of Works and Housing. We were only 21 that won seats for Senator Mamora as the Speaker with six of us as Principal Officers, leaving 15 privileged ones to jostle for the Chairmanship positions of the various Committees. After signifying my intention for the Works and 38

Housing Committee, along with two other influential members of the House, they said they were surprised that a man from Ajegunle wanted to head that Committee. Anyway, the Ministry was divided into two, Ministry of Works and Ministry of Lands and Housing for the two of them to chair separately. I was given the Hotel and Tourism Committee. How has it been working with the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

I think he is a very wonderful and visionary person. When we brought him in as the Speaker then, he started to re-arrange things in the lobby one Saturday. Some Legislators who were suspicious of his motives,started quizzing him regarding the source of the funds for the renovations and he revealed that, he was doing it on his own because Martin Luther King Jnr. was visiting the House and he did not want it to look shabby. He said he would request for reimbursement later. I was impressed and immediately knew we were on track to something sigificant. Before, it was a privilege for members to travel out, but because we have been able to get financial autonomy also in the Speaker’s tenure, we go for training and retraining, along with our staff members. He has also done well with the infrastructural facilities in the House. Will you say that the Legislative arm of government been given its due recognition for the success story of the Gov. Babatunde Fashola’s administration

I remember when I was asked to deliver a paper during one of our Executive-Legislature parley, I noted that, it was impossible for the government to function without a virile Legislature. Even if the Governor is the chief policy maker, he still needs laws to back his actions and that comes from the Legislature. Therefore, for every positive contribution of the Executive, there is a commensurate contribution from the Legislature. We have a mutual respect for each other and this accounts for the harmony existing between both arms of government. Unlike before when we used to declare Budgets, ‘Dead on Arrival’, preliminary discussions take place now between and among the House and Executive to discuss the Budget before presentation. We understand that, you have instituted quite a number of skill acquisition programs in your Constituency, could you please run us through some of your projects and how they have helped the people

There was a time two indigent people from my Constituency went to learn Adire and Stone thread, based

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‘’The Manager of LAWMA then was an Ojora man and when I got home, I met the people complaining that, they did not vote me to remove their kinsman from his political seat.’’

Hon. Taiwo Kolawole & Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila

on the request letter from the Commissioner for Women Affairs. Upon their return, they were able to stand on their own and hence, we started selecting people from five different areas for different vocational trades. After the first trial of 100 people, it became an instant hit and we have over 1000 applicants. Later on, it became part of our Empowerment program. I am not a millionaire, but I try my best possible to please my people. I bought my first land in Badagry and my people became vexed but after I explained that the land was just 70,000 Naira, they understood since the same land cost 400,000 naira in our Constituency. Later, I bought a number of lands and gave them out to some people in my area. I encouraged them to become house owners. I understand you are a Footballer and that you are in fact in the Lagos State House of Assembly Honourable member’s team, what position do you play

Bolanle Boyejo (JP) with Hon. Taiwo Kolawole

Yes, I am a striker and a prominent member of that team. I am from Ajegunle for crying out loud and the simplest way to break out of poverty in our area is through sports. I still play Football, but what I am missing is the stamina and zeal that I used to have in those days. I am no longer a young man, you know. You also organize Sports tournaments in your Constituency

Segun Adebowale & Hon. Taiwo Kolawole

They call me HKT ( Hon. Kolawole Taiwo) in my area, because of this tournament called the HKT Cradle Championship. I am also referred to as the Pillar of Sports in Boxing in Ajeromi Ifelodun and also due to my annual Boxing championship. We have a chief in our area and he was the one who coined the nickname for me. I used to box when I was in Secondary school. We in Ajegunle are gifted, but only lack sponsors. I was thinking of starting a Football Club and I was advised to buy a huge hectare of land to develop into an Academy. Can you reel out some of the awards you have won

I have a lot that, I cannot even remember but the one I hold dear to heart is the Community Development Award. The award 40

Ovation’s Segun Lawal with Hon. Taiwo Kolawole

came from the grassroots and that is what I love the most about it, since it shows that, I care for the people at the local level. I also have a number of Chieftaincy titles. I am the Otunba Korede of Itore Land, Aare Ajaguna of Ojora, Mayegun of Ilogberemu and the Obagunwa of Ojo. You are a Farmer and Hotelier, tell us about your businesses

I am a farmer and the owner of Bedrock Hotels in Badagry and I am planning another one in Ibeju Lekki. I have a Livestock Farm in Badagry and a cash crop farm in Oshogbo which is 42 hectares of Palm fruit. The Oyo State Government have given me 21 hectares of land for planting and farming and I also have a Garri processing site in the same state. What are your thoughts on the complaints of multiple taxation by Hoteliers

I also complain about that and I am not happy about the running of the industry. The way out of the woods is to decentralize the Value Added Tax which is a state tax. Tell us about your family

I am married to a beautiful wife and she has blessed me with three boys and one girl. We have been married for 21 years now and I describe her as my first gift from God. How do you unwind

I do not think I unwind. My time

revolves

around

Legislative duties, hotel and farm. I know I would retire one day. What are your political aspirations

I pray to God to crown my efforts and let me completemy political tasks. If you look at my cap, my symbol is Pyramid which means, starting from the bottom to the zenith. I want to hit the zenith of the House of Assembly, because I have spent so much time here

and

pray

that,

colleagues will find me worthy enough to succeed Rt. Hon. Ikuforiji. I still want to serve my people, but it depends on God’s will. I believe that, there are still a lot of things to be done in Ajegunle, after all, we are a wonderful people. If I am given this honor, I believe that, I can take my people to greater heights.

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A STATE CANNOT

PROGRESS WITHOUT AN

EXPERIENCED LEGISLATURE

-MAJORITY LEADER, HON (DR.) AJIBAYO ADEYEYE

on. Dr Ajibayo Adeyeye is versed not only in his professional field-Medicine- but also in the art of law making. For over seven years, he has been a shining figure in the Lagos State House of Assembly. From being a member, he is today the Majority leader of the House and he is till desirous of coming back to the House.

You had an early baptism into Politics being an active participant at the University of Lagos where you studied Medicine. In fact, one could say that, University of Lagos provided a mock experience Legislative for you,since you were twice elected a member of the UNILAG Students Union Parliament. Wheredid the flair for Politics come from

Like you rightly said, I was a very active member of the Students Union of the University of Lagos. After my studies at the University of Lagos, I was twice elected the Publicity Secretary of the Lagos State Chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association(NMA) and also a National Officer of the NMA. I actually entered Politics fully in 1998 when I ran for the Local Government Chairmanship position in my area in a bid to solve the electricity challenge. I lost at the primaries, though. But in 1999, I contested for the House elections and won in the partyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s primary but for some manipulations, I still did not come to the House of Assembly until 2007 when

I got elected. It is fascinating how you managed to go through Medical courses unscathed even though you were deeply involved in University politics. How did you balance Medicine and Politics

I was not exceptionally brilliant but I knew what I wanted and luckily for me, I did notwrite an examination twice. I also visited all the Medical tertiary institutions in Nigeria for one meeting or the other. Although, I was very active playing politics in the University, it did not affect my academic pursuit,because I ensured that I did all I had to do to 41

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;In fact, they believe that, we are a waste of resources since they have been used to the Executive. What they do not knwo is that, the Governor cannot do anything without our approval.â&#x20AC;? pass my examinations and I was also at my Ward round and Clinics. As you know, the law does not permit us to engage in other jobs asides the Legislature and as such, I had to get some people to manage my firm. I also stopped consulting for some other hospitals.It is not about trying to manage both professions, because I cannot practice Medicine as long as I am in the House of Assembly. (Cuts in)Do you miss practicing Medicine

Definitely, I do. I have practiced for close to 20 years and I miss it a lot. Sometimes, I think that I might be slowly losing my skillwhich is very precious, because there are not too many Anesthetists in the country. I gave up my profession to serve the people and be part of the government, instead of sitting down and complaining about the way the state is being run. You were born in Ondo and in fact, spent your early years there, from your Nursery school days to the Federal Government College, Idoani, Ondo State. One would have thought that, being your biological home, Ondo would have been your natural political home. Here you are as the Majority Leader in the Lagos House of Assembly, was it easy choosing Lagos State over Ondo State

Yes, you are right. I am an indigene of Ondo State and I spent my early life in Ondo State but I have spent most of my adult life here in Lagos. I came to Lagos in 1984 and since then, I have been living in the same address for over 20 years. However, the Nigerian political system permits you to contest elections where you reside, not necessarilywhere you come from. Everything about me is in Lagos and I thank my Constituents for not resenting me, despite my background. Will you go back home to contest like some other people

I do not think so but I cannot rule it out. For now, I am a Lagosian, my children were all born in Lagos, my business is in Lagos and everything about me is Lagos. You started out as a Deputy Majority Leader in 2007 and then, Majority Leader in 2011, representing Kosofe Constituency II, what have these experiences been like for you

It has been quite interesting. As the Deputy Majority Leader, I was new in the House and needed to learn a lot of things but as the Majority Leader, I have had to contend with a lot of challenges, trying to organize the business of the House and ensuring that good laws are passed for good governance in the state.I also coordinate the affairs of the various Committees in the House and make sure that, every motion or Bill is reviewed with diligence,so that everyone would have a say on the issue and we all come up with a resolution. What would you consider to be your Legislative legacies, particularly with regard to your Constituency, Kosofe II

My Legislative legacies start with my lawmaking duties. In the last Assembly, I proposed the only private Member Bill, the Special Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Law, which is now functioning in the state. I followed it up, till it became a law in the state. It is meant to give equality to disabled people in the society and ensure that, they are treated speciallyand not neglected in the society. That is an important legacy in the state. As the Majority Leader,I have done my best to ensure that, everything in the House is functional, from reports to basic activities. It has been a lot of work being the Majority Leader, because I must be very active and vigilant to ensure that votes and proceedings are in order. On the representative side, it was a big challenge for the people of Agilete during the last Assembly to access their community during rainfall and they were usually cut off from the other parts of the state. Through my efforts, the government has undertaken some serious urban renewal in Agilete and the people are grateful for it. Through representation to the state, I have also managed to facilitate some transformers to various areas in the Constituency where electricity was a problem. There was a time in Ajegunlearea of my Constituency when the flooding was so bad that, even President Goodluck Jonathan had to visit the area. Through my lobbying and 42

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‘’Sometimes, I think that I might be slowly losing my skill which is very precious, because there are not too many Anesthetists in the country. I gave up my profession to serve the people and be part of the government instead of sitting down and complaining about the way the state is being run ’’

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persistent pressure on the state, the government constructed a big canal there and there has not been flooding, despite heavy downpour of rain this year. Also, I have facilitated the tarring and rehabilitation of some roads in the Constituency, including Ololade Street in Shangisha and Mosudi Street in Ikosi, among others. In the aspect of community relations, despite not having Constituency projects funds in the Lagos House of Assembly, I have dug boreholes from my own pocket in areas like Jimoh Balogun, Ikosi Market and Omojua in the Constituency. For the past six years, I have continually had free

I believe that the peace in the state is due to the

political party, both in the Executive and Legislative

experience of the leadership of the House. The

arms of government. That is not to say that, we do not

Speaker has been magnificent in his job and as you are

quarrel or pass everything the Governor brings to the

aware, he has been here for a decade. When the leader

House. Suffice to say that, the relationship is healthy,

is transparent in his activities and carries the people

cordial and inter-dependent. It is not that of a master

along, there would always be peace. Also, the policy of leaving some experienced hands in the House to serve various terms has also been yielding positive results. I hope the people continue with this, because they decide the occupants of this

House.

Moreover,

Computer training in my Constituency office and we

constant changing of hands

train at least 150 youths every three months and about

does

2000 youths have benefited from it. I also publish

Legislature, anywhere in

not

help

any

Kosofe Echo, a magazine that outlines the things that

the world.

happen around the government and how they affect

How would you describe the relationship between the House and the Executive and how has this helped to foster development in the state

my Constituents. I circulate the magazine free of charge in my Constituency. I hold meetings with the community to discuss petitions and issues affecting them which I follow up, until something is done either at my level or the state government level. The Lagos House of Assembly has been peaceful unlike most Houses of Assembly in the country,why is this so

The

relationship

cordial, because we are all members of the same

and servant, but symbiotic and harmonious. Would you say therefore that the Legislative arm of government has been given its due recognition for the success story of Gov. Babatunde Fasholaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sadministration

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‘’Also, the policy of leaving some experienced hands in the House to serve various terms has also been yielding positive results. I hope the people continue with this, because they decide the occupants of this House. Moreover, constant changing of hands does not help any Legislature, anywhere in the world.’’ We play and continue to play different roles to make the administration the yardstick for good governance in Nigeria. We have been under the military for a long time and the Legislature came into play in 1999, but most people are still ignorant of our duties and functions. In fact, they believe that, we are a waste of resources, since they have been used to the Executive. What they do not know is that, the Governor cannot do anything without our approval. I think it will take a while for the people to understand that we are really the government and the Executive only implements what we approve. We need to educate our people continuously on the functions of Legislators. As your tenure winds down, what is your political aspiration

My political aspiration is very clear and I want to return to the House of Assembly. I have been learning the art of Legislature since 2007 but yet to learn enough. I have a better understanding of the system and I have also risen in the political hierarchy. I believe that,it is time for my community to benefit from my experiences, expertise and connections. If someone comes here, he will start all over again. For now, I think I am better suited for this job and I will do a better job next term. Already, I have started telling my Constituents that, it is better to retain me in the House than bring a fresher who will start from the beginning. Moreover, a state cannot move forward without experienced Legislators and Legislature. Your marriage is one forged in Medicine, considering that your wife is a Consultant Respiratory Physician, did you meet her in the University

Yes, you are correct. I am married to Dr. Olufunke Adeyeye and we were classmates in the University. I have known her since 1986 and we got married in 1995. My daughter is also studying Medicine, while my son is studying Engineering and the last child is still in Secondary school. How do you unwind

I like to swim, play table tennis, read and follow the news. I have some newspapers here but a lot of times,I realize that I do not have the time to read them and they end up as reference materials. I hope to be better organized to accommodate my hobbies. I have also taken an interest in farming and I have a farm now, after all, that is the only job we are allowed to do constitutionally. 45

Issue 01-64A_Issue 130 A.qxd 17-Feb-15 5:35 PM Page 46

‘’In the last Assembly, I proposed the only private Member Bill, the Special People’s Law, which is now functioning in the state. I followed it up till it became a Law in the state. It is meant to give equality to disabled people in the society and ensure that, they are treated specially and not neglected in the society. That is an important legacy in the state.’’

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‘’I do not think so but I cannot rule it out. For now, I am a Lagosian, my children were all born in Lagos, my business is in Lagos and everything about me is Lagos.’’

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I ENJOY MAKING

LAWS FOR THE PEOPLE

-DEPUTY MAJORITY LEADER, HON. (MRS.) LOLA AKANDE

on. (Mrs.) Lola Akande attended Queens School, Ibadan where she obtained her Secondary School Leaving Certificate. She obtained her BSc in Botany from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) and thereafter, a Post Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE). She later obtained her Masters Degree in Public Administration (MPA) with specialization in Public Policy from the University of Lagos (UNILAG). She served as a Youth Corper in Cadbury Nig. Ltd, taught for many years before she ventured into private business. She was loved by her students for her zeal and diligence in the discharge of her duties as well as her motherly attitude. She is a progressive politician and leader, who began her political career with the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP) in 1991 and since then, she has been a member of United Nigeria

Issue 01-64A_Issue 130 A.qxd 17-Feb-15 5:35 PM Page 50

Congress Party (UNCP), Alliance for Democracy (AD), Action Congress (AC) and Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN). She was elected into the Lagos State House of Assembly (LAHA) as the Deputy Chief Whip and honourable member representing Ikeja Constituency II, from 2007 to 2011 and was re-elected in the 2011 elections as the Deputy Majority Leader of the House. She presently flies the flag of the All Progressive Congress (APC). She has contributed her quota on the floor of the House with the sponsorship of motions, heading of some Ad-hoc Committees and cosponsoring of Bills. She was once a Secretary for SDP in Ikeja Local Government and a Secretary for the Justice Forum of Ikeja Local Government. She has also been a Treasurer of Adekunle/Oloti CDA and Secretary to Frontliners in Ikeja Local Government. She was a LATSMA Board member before being elected in 2007. Hon. (Mrs.)Akande is no doubt a woman of great accomplishments, particularly in the service of the people. She is a role model and one of the few women that are making the Nigerian women proud by her inspiring and courageous efforts in the political landscape, especially in Lagos State. As a zealous Educationist, she displays her love for educational advancement with her ‘Annual Public Speaking and Mathematics Motivational Competition’ for Primary School pupils, which attracts cash prizes of Twenty Five Thousand Naira (N25,000), Ten Thousand Naira (N10,000) and Five Thousand Naira (N5,000), while the winners from Junior and Senior Secondary School segments are awarded cash prizes of Fifty Thousand Naira (N50,000), Twenty Five Thousand Naira (N25,000) and Ten Thousand Naira (N10,000) for the 1st, 2nd and 3rd positions respectively for each of the competitions. The year 2013 which was the 7th episode of the Annual competition was a special one, because apart from the trophies and cash presented to the winners, she inspired the management and staff of the winning schools to do more and not relent in their efforts by donating according to their specific needs. Among the items she donated were, ; a‘32’- inch LCD TV and a DVD Home Theatre to Estate Primary School, Ogba for Mathematics, voluminous Water Tank to Ojodu Primary School II, Ojodu for Public Speaking, Bands Set to Oke-Ira Junior Grammar School, OkeIra for Mathematics, Band Set to Ogba Junior Grammar School, Ogba for Public Speaking, Submersible Water Pumping Machine and Surface Pumping Machine to Agidingbi Senior Grammar School, Ikeja for Mathematics and a set of Computer to Babs Fafunwa Millenium Senior Grammar School for Public Speaking. She also gave out the 2013 GCE forms to 20 beneficiaries. Hon. (Mrs.) Akande is such a genuine philanthropist that, she had created an initiative to empower youths, widows and the less privileged. The initiative called ‘Annual Empowerment Programme’, an avenue through which she has given out cash, tools and Equipment since 2007. She has also sponsored Vocational Trainings and Skill Acquisition programmes for 150 men, women and youths at the 6th Edition of her Annual Empowerment Programme held at the Ojodu LCDA Secretariat with cash for each beneficiary to kick start the operations of their area of specialization. The previous year, 21 youths were empowered with cash of One Hundred Thousand Naira (N100,000) each. The initiative was borne out of her passion to assist and extend the dividends of democracy to her Constituents. She has also given out Microfinance loans in the past edition to deserving individuals and constructed a borehole in Anifowose Community. She is a member of the Olave Baden Powell Society (OB-PS). The Society supports the Mission of the World Association of Girls Guide and Girls Scout (WAGGGS) to enable girls and young women attain their fullest potentials as responsible citizens of the world. OB-PS members invest in the future leadership of young girls and boys, who will lead their families, communities, countries and the world. There is a branch of the Olave Baden Powell Society (OB-PS) in Nigeria which is currently geared towards assisting the Girl Guides and Girl Scouts here too. She was once the President of Ikeja Peridot Lions Club where under her able leadership; she constructed a stocked Library at Omole Grammar School as her pet project which had been handed over to the Ministry of Education. She has received so many honours, amongst including; the Ikeja Indigenes Forum Gold Award as the Outstanding Defender of Ikeja Interest and Commander of Ikeja Indigenes Forum (CIIF); Award of 50

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Issue 01-64A_Issue 130 A.qxd 17-Feb-15 5:35 PM Page 53

‘’I have an annual Empowerment Programme where we give out vocational tools which would help the people but we got to the stage where cash became the priority of the people and ever since, we have been giving financial assistance to various people, both young and old for personal and business purposes.‘’ Recognition of Contribution to the Upliftment of the Yoruba Culture and Tradition;Ikeja City Awards as Outstanding Visionary Leader of the Year 2011 and Great Women Awards as the Outstanding Honourable Member of the year 2012 (Southwest). Others are Classic International Magazine Awards (CAMA) as the Most Outstanding Female Politician of the Year 2013; Top Celebrities Magazine as the Outstanding Female Politician of the Year 2013; Leadership and Followership Development Centre Gold Award and International Outstanding Leadership Award from the Institute of Chartered Personnel Management (ICPM). She also holds Chieftaincy titles in Epe-Shagamu as the Arobake of Epe, Amuwo-Odofin as the YeyeGbobaniyi of Ado Kingdom, Ikeja as the Akorede of Ikeja Landand Itori as Bewaji of Itori Land. She is happily married with children and grandchildren. Hon. how would you describe your Legislative assignment

It has been interesting, especially if you are learned and read a lot. It can be tedious, because you have to keep doing research, but generally I am enjoying it, because the people I work with; make life interesting for me. What have been your contributions to the House

As the Deputy Chief Whip then, it was our job to control the House and instil discipline and as the Deputy Majority Leader, it is my job to assist the Majority Leader in his duties. Have you initiated any Bill that has been passed into Law

As the Deputy Majority Leader, I am part of every passage of Bills into laws but the Bill I initiated which has not been passed yet, is the Sexual Harassment Bill which is at the second stage now. I think the Bill is very important, because the case of sexually harassment is very rampant everywhere and I know what it is to be sexual harassed. I wish the Bill would be passed to curtail the excesses of the philanderers in the society. In my first tenure, I tried to push the Social Security Bill but it did not even come to the floor of the House at all. What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

I represent Ikeja Constituency II which comprises of Ogba, Oke-Ira, Aguda, Omole, Ojodu, Adeniyi Jones and some parts of Allen. I have tried to uplift the standard of living of my people, since that is my basic responsibility and I treat petitions from my Constituents. I have an annual Empowerment Programme where we give out vocational tools which would help the people but we got to the stage where cash became the priority of the people and ever since, we have been giving financial assistance

to various people, both young and old for personal and business purposes. I have also facilitated the training of a huge number of people in various vocational trades. I have constructed a Library at Omole Senior Grammar School which was my pet project as the President of the then Ikeja Peridot Lion Club and I have erected various water projects. I initiated a Public Speaking Competition and Maths Motivational Competition in which the winners were well rewarded with cash prizes and trophies. The winning schools were also given various equipment according to their demands. I have been involved in this since 2007 and I continue to do it every year. I also have not forgotten the elderly people’s home, orphanages and the home for the disabled. Recently, I had the Hon. Lola Akande Soccer Challenge where we had the Hon. Lola Akande Cup and Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Cup for U-15 Season 1. We just had a recognition event where diligence, hard work and consistency were acknowledged by the Principal. It was an inspiring event for all others. Lagos State has been a yardstick for good governance in Nigeria, how has the House impacted on the good governance in the state

We have been able to create laws to back the Executive to execute projects and policies. Apart from the law, we have oversight functions and we ensure that projects are properly done. You conduct your sessions in your mother tongue, Yoruba Language every Thursday, has this helped in anyway

It has really improved us. I myself have mastered a word or two from our sessions. We have also decided that, the teaching of Yoruba Language as a subject, should become a permanent and compulsory feature in our schools curriculum. How would you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

He has been able to conduct the House in an orderly manner. He has also been able to move the House forward, despite the squabbling, that arises sometimes. It was during his tenure that, we were adjudged to be the best Assembly. So, I think he has done well. Tell us about yourself

I am Hon (Mrs.) Lola Akande and the Deputy Majority Leader, Lagos State House of Assembly. I attended Queen’s School Ibadan and later, I studied Botany in the University of Ife after which I went to Cadbury for my Youth Corp service. I got married after Cadbury and got employed by the Lagos State Teaching Service Commission for seven years, during which time; I also went for my Post Graduate studies in Education at the University of Lagos. I went into private business and later bagged my Masters in Public Administration with specialization in Public Policy. I came out for the Local Government Chairmanship position in Ikeja under SDP and then later contested for the Lagos State House of Assembly position under the United Nigeria Congress Party, (UNCP). We won but we were not allowed to work with the military then. I also contested under the Zero party for the Chairmanship, after which I contested for the Lagos State House of Assembly. I have been here since 2007. Will you be back in 2015

I will leave it in the hands of the Lord since I do not have the final say. However, I do plan on vying for the House of Representatives.

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I HAVE BEEN PART OF THE SUCCEESS STORY OF

LAGOS STATE - HON. (DR.) ABDURRAZAQ BALOGUN

He was elected into

orn to Late Chief (Dr.) and

Mrs.

Muniru

the Lagos State House of

Balogun

(Asiwaju of Lagos) of

Assembly in 2003 to 2007

Epetedo area of Lagos Island, Hon.

where he held the post of

(Dr.) Abdurrazaq Balogun attended

the

Federal

Leader of the House.He

Government

College

Deputy

Majority

Kaduna where he obtained his Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

was re-elected in 2007 and

Level and then proceeded to the

held the position of the

University of Maiduguri where he

Chief Whip of the House.He

bagged a Bachelor of Medicine

was elected again in 2011 to

and Surgery (MBBS) with a

date where he is presently

distinction in Microbiology. He is also a holder of Master

the Chief Whip of the House and the Chairman of Ethics

of Public Health (MPH) from the

Privileges and Protocols. He

University of Lagos and also a

Master of Public Administration

Constituency

(MPA) from the Lagos State

consists of the following

has

attended

many

courses and seminars at various institutions of repute including, the

II,

Surulere which

areas, Orile-Iganmu, Aguda,

University. He

representing

prestigious

Harvard

Ijeshatedo, Ikate, Itire and Coker areas. He is the first Legislator from Surulere to be elected for

University Kennedy School of

three terms and has served in

Government, London School of

all the 26 Committees of the

Economics Science,

and

Imperial

Political

House, hence making him

College,

very experienced, astute and

decisive Legislator.He has also

Brighton and University of

contributed robustly to the

London,

University

Cambridge Judge Business

quality legislations passed in the

School, among others.

House from 2003 to date and

Issue 01-64A_Issue 130 A.qxd 17-Feb-15 5:35 PM Page 55

through his dogged quest for the

the 26 Committees of the House

development of his Constituency,

of Assembly at different times and

he has been able to bring

chaired

meaningful

and

Committees. You can see that I

improvement of infrastructure in

have been part of the success

the constituency too numerous to

story of Lagos State by way of the

mention.

Bills we have passed into Laws.

development

He was awarded the best

The

over

motions

that

Ad-hoc

have

Legislator in Lagos State by the

sponsored, have also affected the

Action Congress of Nigeria

lives of people positively. I think

Group in Europe in 2010 and his

posterity shall judge.

hobbies

Have you sponsored or cosponsored any Bill in the House

Reading,

are

Travelling

especially

and

reading

Autobiographies. He is married with three children. Hon. how would you describe theis Legislative assignment

I have co-sponsored the Cremation Law, Anti-Terrorism Bill, Lagos State Sunset Bill, Lagos State Anti- smoking Law,

very

Assisted Conception Bill and

fascinating, intriguing, fulfilling

others.The Cremation Law has

yet sometimes frustrating.

been passed and others are at

have

found

The Legislature is a place where you have to build team work. You also have to be constantly reading and abreast with happenings in the society, especially your Constituency, representing their yearnings and using all legal means within your powers to achieve their yearnings. It is not a place for the weak and feeble. What have been your contributions to the House of Assembly

various stages of completion. What impact have these Bills had on the people of the state

Most Bills passed in the House of Assembly are Executive Bills and they have impacted positively on the lives of our people. For example, the Health Reform Law

un-bundled the

Lagos State Health Care System which also led to autonomous control and creation of more General Hospitals in Lagos, With

I really do not know where to

these, the people patronize our

start from, having been here for

facilities more and are getting

the past 10 years. I have been in

quality

leadership positions, served on all

Appropriation Laws enable the

care.

Also,

the

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‘‘I have been part of the success story of Lagos State by way of the Bills we have passed into Laws. The motions that I have sponsored, have also affected the lives of people positively. I think posterity shall judge.’’

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Executive Arm to build infrastructures

interact with Constituents and offer

for the good of the people.

various

Economic

Empowerment

Finally, the Security Trust Fund

Programmes, donations and assistance.

Law has enhanced the lives and

Lagos State has been the yardstick for good governance in Nigeria, how has the Lagos House of Assembly impacted on good governance in the state

protection of the people in the state. What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

I represent Surulere II which comprises

Orile-Iganmu,

Coker

We have created good synergy, partnership

and

above

all,

understand the enormity of our role to our

people

dispensation.

Ijeshatedo. If you are familiar with

discharged our responsibilities with a

these areas, you can attest to the quantum Leap we have achieved in terms of infrastructural up-grade. All the

state

schools

have

been

rehabilitated and new ones have been constructed. Major roads have also been expanded and rebuilt. â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Water

Works

were

built

Mini and

commissioned as well as Maternal and Child Care Centers. Various Health Centers have also been built and these have been achieved through my tenacious effort and experience in the Appropriation Committee as well as lobbying of the Executive. As per personal efforts, I have held various Town-Hall meetings at least (three) per year where I continue to

Hence,

democratic

Village, Aguda, Itire, Ikate and

have

high sense of commitment. Do you believe that the Legislative arm has been given its due recognition for the success story of the Gov. Fasholaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sadministration

I believe posterity will judge us positively. The role of the Legislature is not quite understood by majority of the populace and the administration is one, hence the accolade of the present administration goes to all the men and women in the Executive, Legislature and Judiciary, including the Bureaucracy. You conduct the House session in Yoruba Language on Thursdays, has this helped in anyway

We were inspired by a Professor from the University of Lagos,who incidentally is an Igbo woman to use Yoruba Language in our proceedings. It has been a success story because we 57

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get positive feedback from our Constituents.

travelling. I have been in the Assembly for

How would you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. AdeyemiIkuforiji

over 10 years. I was elected in 2003

I give him a pass mark. He has

and held the position of the Deputy

made his mark in the annals of the

Majority Leader and was re-elected

Lagos State House of Assembly and

in both 2007 and 2011 and have

also contributed to the success story

held the position of the Chief Whip

of Lagos State.

of the House since 2007.

Tell us about yourself

Tell us about your family

I was born 44 years ago in Surulere, Lagos. My parents of blessed

memory

were

Dr.

MunirAtanda Balogun(Asiwaju of Lagos) and Mrs.Atiat Balogun of Epetedo area of Lagos State. I attended Mainland Preparatory Primary School Bank-Olemoh Street Surulere and then, I proceeded to the Federal Government College, Kaduna for my Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Level. I finally graduated from the University of Maiduguri with Bachelors of Medicine and Surgery with

distinction

Microbiology

(MBBS) after a stint at the Usman Dan Fodio University Sokoto, where I started my medical pursuit. I am a holder of Master of Public Health (MPH) and Master of Public Administration (MPA). I am married with

I have a very close relationship with my siblings and in-laws. With my immediate family, we have a special bond that has been there for the past 27 years with my wife and over 16 years with my kids. I am truly blessed. Will you be back in 2015

Coming back to where? But if you mean the House of Assembly, I certainly enjoy being a Legislator. Having gathered this much experience, coupled with the resources the state has expended on me, I certainly will love to continue in the Legislature. However, I hope that our great party - the All Progressives Congress (APC) will still give me the opportunity to represent her again.Thank you.

children and my hobbies are reading and 59

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â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;I believe posterity will judge us positively. The role of the Legislature is quite not understood by majority of the populace and the administration is one, hence the accolade of the present administration goes to all the men and women in the Executive, Legislature and Judiciary, including the

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WITHOUT DOUBT, I HAVE IMPACTED

POSITIVELY ON MY PEOPLE

-DEPUTY WHIP, HON. ROTIMI ABIRU ‘’We are a wonderful tribe and if we deviate completely from our Language, we will erode our Culture and Tradition. With these sessions, we have picked up on various patterns in which the Language can be rightly spoken.’’ on. Rotimi Lateef Abiru, Deputy Whip, Lagos State House of Assembly, represents Somolu Constituency II (Bariga).He is the scion of the Legal luminary, Late Hon. (Justice) Mubashiru Akanbi Olatunji Abiru, who was also a distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in the 3rd Republic (1979). Hon. Abiru holds a Master’s Degree in Chemistry from the University of Lagos and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemistry from Lagos University, (LASU) Lagos. He also attended Baptist Academy, Obanikoro for his Secondary Education. He has attended several training workshops and seminars including, those of the Leadership Institution Arlington, Virginia, Harvard Kennedy School and the Judge Business School University of Cambridge. Hon. Abiru served the nation (NYSC) at the Nigeria Ports Authority, Port Harcourt, Rivers State in 1990. He also worked at Honeywell Group Limited as a Management Trainee. He has an imposing figure, which stands him out in any gathering, but what more distinguishes him, is his humanity to everybody; regardless of age or status. He is an embodiment of many sterling qualities. He is humble, humane, honest, magnanimous and simple. He is a politician with a difference. In spite of his position and tight schedule, he is always ready to serve, ready to listen and ready to assist without complaints, even when groaning under an obvious yoke. He became a Member of the Lagos State House of Assembly in 2007, representing Somolu Constituency 11 (Bariga) and since then, his contributions in the House and Constituency are ‘unsurprisingly’ impressive, excellent and heartwarming. To those who know Hon. Abiru very well, nothing less is expected of him, considering his family, educational, business and political background. Born into the Abiru family of Ikorodu, a family that has in abundance, brilliant and successful sons and daughters in all professions, he is a shrewd businessman and politically, his modest achievements as the Supervisory Councilor for Agriculture, Rural Development, Sports and Youth Development in Bariga Local Council

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Development Area (LCDA) will remain evergreen. In 2005, he led Bariga LCDA to the first positive at the Lagos State Sports Festival with 71 Gold medals, 62 Silver medals and 58 Bronze medals. In the same year, Bariga LCDA also won the coveted Senator Mamoraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cup (Football Competition). Hon. Abiru has positively touched the lives of many people especially the youths through his free Computer training programme and given further assistance to those with excellent results. He is married with wonderful children. Sir, how would you describe the Legislative assignment

The Legislature has been very interesting. It is indeed the symbol of democracy, because whenever there was a military takeover in the past, and the Constitution was suspended, the Legislature would cease to exist. The Legislature is that arm of government,which makes the laws, carries out oversight functions, represents the people and legitimizes government programmes and policies in democratically-elected governments. What have been your contributions as a Member of the House

At the beginning of my first term, I was the Chairman of Waterfront Infrastructure Development and we fashioned out a law which gave the state the power to regulate activities on the Waterways and the Waterfront. Of course, this law has been contentious; we are yet to be challenged in any court of law. In my 62

opinion, it is not rational for a Federal agency which is situated in Lokoja to monitor the activities of the Waterways in Lagos. For interstate waters, the Federal Government could have roles to play, but for water bodies around the state, we deemed it fit to create an agency that would regulate such activities. We now have the Lagos State Waterways Authority and the Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development which has the power to regulate activities on the Waterways and Waterfront, respectively. Other than that, I have been a member of the Youth and Sports Committee and that of Commerce and Industry. In my second term as a Member of the House, I was elected the Deputy Whip of the House and that means that, other than administration and ensuring discipline in the House, I also liaise with the party on behalf of the members and the House of Assembly. Have you sponsored any Bill or motion in the House

I have been involved in numerous Bills and motions, but recently, we came up with the Sunset Bill, which hopes to give a timeline to the activities of some of our government agencies. Other than the 33 Ministries that exist in the state, Government sometimes comes up with various agencies to suit some few needs. The essence of the Bill is to ensure that, an agency accelerates its activities and finishes as at when due. Though the Bill is at the second stage at the moment, I hope it would be passed into law soon. How do you think this Bill would impact on the society

We believe that, the Bill would conserve government funds in the long run. It would also put personnel in agencies on their toes, since there would now be a law that oversees their activities and could deem their agency unimportant. But basically, it is aimed at conserving funds for the government. What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have your Constituents been able to reap the dividends of democracy

I would rather; you asked my Constituents this question. However, in the last seven years of my representation, I have impacted positively on many lives. For instance, I run a Computer training programme for my people, in which they stand a chance of winning Computer sets if they come out on top of their graduating classes. I have testimonies from the beneficiaries and as we speak, over 2000 people have benefitted. Other than this, we recently introduced the Computer-based test for Joint Admissions Matriculation Board students. We also created a Football programme for the talented ones and we have had cause to give out GCE forms, which is now a yearly ritual. I have been instrumental to the payment of staff members in the party secretariat. I have also created avenues for employment for the people and this has really benefitted them immensely. Within my limited resources, I have given various financial support and assistance to my Constituents in addition to my various gifts during festivities. I can award myself a very high mark on this, although it is never

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enough for the people. Lagos State has been the yardstick for good governance in Nigeria, how has the House impacted on the good governance in the state

There are three arms of government and there is a level of independence and inter-dependence between and among these arms. For instance, all the Bills that this House has been able to pass have assisted the Executive to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people. We have also been seen as the peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s court, because we entertain complaints and petitions here. We have also given hope to the hopeless in the Assembly, because the people believe that if they bring their petitions here, we would resolve their grievances. For one to see a performing Executive, the Legislature must seriously be functioning well enough and without blowing our trumpets, I have to say that, the Lagos State House of Assembly is a trailblazer for others to follow. You conduct the plenary sessions of the House in Yoruba Language on Thursdays, has this helped in anyway

It has helped tremendously. You realize that, the Yoruba we speak is not exactly the real Yoruba and it

is rubbing off on our children. My children come back from school and show me their challenges in Yoruba Language and I must say that, I am not pleased at all. We are a wonderful tribe and if we deviate completely from our language, we will erode our Culture and Tradition. With these sessions, we have picked up on various patterns in which the Language can be rightly spoken. How would you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

I have had the opportunity of working with him for the past seven years and I have witnessed some of the ways he works and he has tremendously improved on the capacity of members. For instance, we have attended quite a number of seminars in and out of the country and that has developed and improved our way of Legislation. He has also improved on the infrastructural development of the Legislature. In his tenure, we have got a new Chamber and upgrade from the old one which was built in the time of Alhaji Lateef Jakande. We have also gotten a new office block and he has really developed the House. I think he has done

his bit, despite his few short comings, I can rate him 85 per cent. Tell us about yourself

My name is Hon. Rotimi Abiru. I am from the Ikorodu Division of Lagos State and I was born into the family of Late Hon.(Justice) M.A.O. Abiru. I had my early education in Lagos, bagged my first degree in Chemistry from Lagos State University and a Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Degree from the University of Lagos. I have attended a number of courses from within and outside Nigeria, including those at Cambridge and Harvard University. I represent Somolu Constituency II, which is Bariga in the Lagos House of Assembly. I am happily married with children. Will you be back to the House in 2015

I think that depends on my party, but personally, I can say that I am still willing to serve, because the Legislature has been very interesting to me and I would want to impact more,

either in the State

Assembly or the National Assembly. 63

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Issue 65-118B_Issue 130 B.qxd 17-Feb-15 5:39 PM Page 1

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‘’For one to see a performing Executive, the Legislature must seriously be functioning well enough and without blowing our trumpets, I have to say that, the Lagos State House of Assembly is a trailblazer” for others to follow.’’

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I AM PREPARED TO SERVE THE NATION IN ANY CAPACITY, BECAUSE I AM AS GOOD AS THE OCCUPANT OF THE OFFICE-HON. ADEFUNMILAYO TEJUOSO on. Adefunmilayo Tejuoso is not only beautiful but also brilliant. The outspoken Hon. Tejuoso was born to the family of Chief (Dr.) and the late Chief (Mrs) Emmanuel Ademola Smith in Lagos, Nigeria. Hon. Tejuoso attended University of Lagos Staff School, Akoka, Yaba (19711977) and then proceeded to the Queens College Yaba, Lagos (1977 -1982). She however completed her Secondary education at St. Francis High School, West Virginia.She later attended West Virginia University where she was awarded a Bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Degree in Biology with Honors in 1987. On returning to Nigeria, she did her National Youth Service in 1988 at Queens College, Yaba-Lagos, her Alma Mater, as a Biology Teacher. After her Youth Service, she proceeded to the University of Buckingham England where she read Law and was awarded Bachelor of Laws with honors, LL.B (Hons) in 1991. She returned to Nigeria to attend the Nigerian Law School and upon completion thereafter, she was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1993. Hon. Tejuoso thereafter practiced as a Lawyer for a while at the Firms of AdemolaOdunsi and Co; IdowuBarristers and Solicitors, as well as SmithTejuoso and Co. Later, she proceeded to the University of Lagos, where she obtained a Masters Degree in Law (LL.M). She is currently writing her Doctorate(Ph.D.) Degree at University of Lagos. Aside being a Legal Practitioner, she is a gender activist and a progressive politician.She has also collaborated with other progressive gender activists and Non Governmental Organizations in the area of Women Empowerment and has been working relentlessly towards raising the awareness of women about their social and political rights. She believes that political platform can be optimally utilized to achieve gender equality. Being a compassionate mother and friend to the less privilege, she periodically engages in Poverty Alleviation Programmes to wipe away the sufferings of her Constituents. At one of her programmes, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu was a special guest and he helped to distribute the items including; Motorcycles, Hairdryers, Generators, Sewing Machine, Embroidery Machine, Grinding Machine, Barbing kits with Clippers accompanied with Small Yamaha Generators, Cash gifts, Telephones, Tables and Chairs for Business (payphone) Centre Operators and food stuff (bags of Rice, Beans etc) for petty canteen operators.The items were worth millions of naira. In the House of Assembly, she sponsored the passage of the Domestic

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Violence Bill into Law (as a Private Member Bill) in the 5th Assembly as the then Deputy Chief Whip and Chairman, House Committee on Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. Hon. Tejuoso also moved the motion for the use of Yoruba Language for Legislative Business and which was adopted by the House and set Thursdays for its usage.She also supported and contributed to the passage of other Bills including Education, Health, Infrastructure, Youth Empowerment and Development Information, Security, Appropriation and the Childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Right Law. She is the author of the book, Overcoming Domestic Violence. She contributes in debates on a wide range of socio-economic and political issues on the floor of the hallowed Chamber. She has appeared on several talk shows and granted interviews both on the Television and Radio, bordering on matters that concern women and children, general family and societal issues. At the completion of her first term, Hon. Tejuoso re-contested at the April 2007 general polls and she won second term convincing to represent her Constituency, Mushin 1 and later emerged the Deputy Speaker of the 6th Assembly at its inauguration. She became thesecond female Legislator to be elected Deputy Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly. Tejo, as she is fondly called, has been a role model and a source of hope and inspiration for the political aspirations of women in the state and country in general. As a result of her contributions towards the success and achievements of the 5th and 6th Legislative Assembly, it was not a surprise that, she was returned for a third term at the last elections in April 2011, thus becoming the first and only female Legislator to be elected for three terms consecutively. She is currently the Chairman of the House Committee on Finance. She is also a member of the following Committees, Economic Planning and Budget, Judiciary, Human Rights and Public Petitions and Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. Her Constituency is sub-divided into Alakara, IdiOro/Odi-Olowo, Baba Olosa, Ojuwoye, Ilupeju, Olateju, Kayode/Fadeyi and Ilupeju Industrial. She is a Christian and happily married to Prince Kayode Tejuoso blessed with four wonderful and promising Children. Her political background include, member, Grassroots Democratic Movement (GDM),House of Representatives Candidate (GDM); Member, Alliance for Democracy (AD);Founder, TejuosoCampaign Organization (TEJCO) and pioneering member, BATCO-Bola Ahmed TinubuCampaignOrganization(BATCO).

Hon. how would you describe the Legislative assignment

It is basically law making and our primary focus is to make laws for the people. We also regulate the budget and we make laws that would allow the government to legally implement some policies. So, it is a job where we need to understand the public and the government. Since all ministries are competing for funds, we have to balance it. For example, you cannot reach the hospital if the roads are bad. In effect, what we do as Legislators is to make sure that we communicate with our people, make good laws and make sure that the people accept the laws so as to avoid civil disturbance. What have been your contributions to the House of Assembly

So far so good. In 2003, I was the first to move a Private Memberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bill-The Domestic Violence Bill, which is my brain child. Though, it took me almost a whole term to pass the Bill into law, being at that time the only female out of 40 honorable members.When you talk about gender, you have to be careful so as not to be seen as being feminist. I was able to convince the House that women issues are of utmost importance to the House. I also worked on the Child's Right Law with Senator Remi Tinubu and we were able to (with the Executive) assemble all the Laws concerning children, amended the sections that needed amendment, increased penalties where we deemed fit, making a Child's Right law that is all encompassing. I am also working on the Gender and Equal Opportunities Law so that women can feel comfortable anywhere. The Domestic Violence Law has really helped, since we realized that women did not want their marriages to end but wanted the violence to stop. They also did not really want to take their men to court or the Police station to avoid the stigma of being the woman that got her husband behind bars. With the law, you can have privacy throughout your case. The law also recognizes all relationships, either boyfriend or livein- partner, or even exes with children between them, domestic servants and family relations that live with you. The Child's Right Law has helped a great deal as well. It has shielded children who are being abused either in school or at home. The law states that, all children must go to school and even if your child should trade, it must be outside school hours and away from major roads. We have also increased the status of Education in the Lagos State University, (LASU). As we speak now, LASU can compete with any University in Nigeria. What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

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‘’So far so good and I believe that in 2003, I was the first to move a Private Member’s Bill- The Domestic Violence Bill, which is my brain child. Though, it took me almost a whole term to pass the Bill into law, being at that time the only female out of 40 honorable members.’’ My Constituency includes Ilupeju, Palmgrove, Onipanu and Fadeyi and if truth be told, I have done a lot for my people. I must say that, the largest Poverty Alleviation Programme so far came from me and I have improved the status of Mushin. I have helped them with employment. The Lagos State Government has even established a Skill Acquisition Centre in Mushin, where the people are given equipment when they graduate. That has helped them to help themselves and not stay idle. I have provided pupils with school bags and Joint Admissions Matriculation Board forms. Every year, I give scholarships to students but the happiest moments are ones like this year, when a scholarship benefactor came all the way to my office in Alausa to thank me. I actually do not encourage people coming all the way to say thank you. I prefer God's blessing as I do such things from my heart but she insisted, and I am glad she did because she said I paid for her JAMB form and I have gone ahead to bless her with a scholarship to further her education. This kind of feedback encourages me to continue earnestly. I have given Transformers, Boreholes and at Alakara Police Station, we have renovated a department for street abandoned street kids to improve the living conditions of these children until they can find their parents. I have also donated bulletproof vests to Police Stations. I remember one incident that involved one Inspector Sani who was a very nice man. I was passing by Coker Road one day and there he was on the floor dead, as his bullet proof vest could not save his life against the onslaught of the armed robbers. I wrote to the government and they were able to give vehicles and equipment to enable the policemen do their jobs with ease. So, those are the kinds of things that I have been doing and will continue to do. Lagos State has been the yardstick for good governance, how has the House impacted on the good governance in the state

Over here, we do a lot of training and re-training and we improve ourselves on a regular basis. We also work harmoniously with the two other arms of government to move the state forward. We have some oversight functions and since I am the Chairman of the Finance Committee, it is my job to oversee the Ministry of Finance and agencies like the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service, Lagos Building Corporation and others. We place emphasis on those that receive international loans and generate revenue for the state and we make sure they do their job right. If we do not ensure that the Budget of the state is implemented well, we would have failed in our duties. We have been trained to conduct ourselves right and be accurate in our duties. As a Legislator, you must be able to review the Budget, to know if the government has judiciously spent the money appropriated by the House. Moreover, good governance imbibes equity, as the law must favour everybody. Also, you must learn to share the Budget to every sector to avoid friction. The House has contributed in no small measure to the good governance in the state. Do you believe that the Legislature has been given its due recognition for the successstory of the Gov. Babatunde Fashola administration

I think it is gradually being realized that if the

Legislature is not successful, then the administration would fail. However, I am of the opinion that, we are not recognized enough, as people see only the leader and not the backroom staff. We are the most important arm in the governance, because we give the government the legal backing it needs to function. I think for us to be recognized, the people need to be sensitized to appreciate that, we are the most important set of people in the government. Nowadays, students come from schools to witness plenary sessions and they are beginning to understand what and how it is to make laws. But I still think that, we need to be more appreciated. In all fairness, the Governor appreciates us very much and commends our actions. He wants us present during launchings or commissioning of projects but the people still do not understand our functions. You conduct the plenary session of the House in Yoruba Language on Thursdays, has it helped in anyway

It has helped a lot. I moved the motion to start speaking Yoruba on Thursdays, when we got a letter from some academics in the University of Lagos. The motion was well received and we adopted that day to express ourselves in Yoruba. However, we assist one another since some of us cannot express themselves fluently in Yoruba. We as a Yoruba people need to appreciate our Culture and Tradition. We are enjoying it now, although it was tough initially, especially interpreting the Budget and reeling out figures in Yoruba Language. But with some training and books, we have improved. How would you rate the leadership of Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

I would say that, he has done his best, since it is not easy to manage 40 of your peers at the same time. Although, he has his shortcomings, I must say that, he has been helped by the members agreeing to work harmoniously. Although, we disagree at times, he is doing his best to manage all of us. The good thing about the House is that, we are all educated and civilized people, which has helped us a lot; since we have focused solely on the people. Will you be back to the House in 2015

I do not know yet, but for now, I am focused on my present task. Anybody who knows me would tell you that, I am very prepared to work in whatever office in the nation because I know I am as good as the person working in that office, if not better. Tell us about yourself

My name is Hon. (Mrs.) Adefunmilayo Tejuoso and I represent Mushin Constituency 1. I have been in the House since 2003 and I was once a Deputy Chief Whip and Deputy Speaker of the House. Currently, I am the Chairman of the Finance Committee and I am a Lawyer by profession.I attended Queens College in Yaba before moving to St. Francis High School in Morgantown, West Virginia, USA where I was supposed to study Medicine, since my late father was a Doctor but I realized that I could not stand the sight of blood and hospitals. After my Pre Medical Degree, I came back to Lagos to serve and taught at my alma mater, Queens College. I moved to the University of Buckingham, London to study Law and went to Nigerian Law School and later bagged my Masters at the University of Lagos. Right now, I am pursuing a Ph.D. Tell us about your family

I have four children and I am married to Prince Kayode Tejuoso, a politician in Ogun State. Two of my children are in the United Kingdom, one is in the University and another just finished A Levels, while "my babies", the last two are in Nigeria with me. So, with all of these, you can see that my hands are full. My message to the girl-child is that, they bear in mind that,what a woman cannot do, can never be done. 70

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‘’Anybody who knows me would tell you that, I am very prepared to work in whatever office in the nation because I know I am as good as the person working in that office, if not better.’’

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GOV. BABATUNDE FASHOLA IS A BLESSING TO US IN LAGOS -HON. ADEBIMPE AKINSOLA

orn to the family of High Chief Onasanya and Mrs. Onasanya, in Igbogbo town in Lagos State, Hon. Adebimpe Akinsola attendedUAMC (Eleja), Igbogboand later, Government Teachers College, Igbogbo, between 1976 and 1983. She proceeded to the Lagos State College of Education (now Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education) Ijanikin, before moving to Ogun State University (now Olabisi Onabanjo University) Ago Iwoye.

Hon. Akinsola worked as a teacher, at the AUD

Primary School, Igbogbo, Iganmu High School, Sari Iganmu, United Christian Junior Secondary School, Liverpool Road, Apapa and Apapa Senior High School, Pelewura Crescent, Apapa. She retired from active teaching service to contest the 2011 General Election into Lagos State House of Assembly, Ikorodu Constituency 11, under the platform of Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN). A true Community activist and lover of youths and women, Hon. Akinsola is the Vice Chairman,

STATE

House Committee on Environment, member of the House Committees on Ethics, Protocol and Privileges; Economic Planning and Budget, Education, Science and Technology;as well as Agriculture, Co-operatives and Rural Development An active member of the Conference of Leaders of Ikorodu Division (COLID), Hon. Akinsola is a Lay-Reader at the Diocese of Lagos West Anglican Communion, Chairman, Choir cum Youth Committee of All Saints Anglican Church, 72

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Ilewe-Meta, Isolo and member of Guild of Stewards, Diocese of Lagos West Anglican Communion. She has been the Life Matron of Alpha Brothers Social Club of Igbogbo since 1982 and also Video Rentals Operators of Nigeria,(VRON) Igbogbo/Bayeku Local Council Development Area. Her recognitions and awards include, Distinguished Speaker Award from Redeemersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; University, chieftaincy title as the Olu-Omo of Igbogbo Land and Exemplary Leadership Award by the National Association of Nigerian Students. Madam how will you describe the Legislative assignment

The Legislative assignment is a straight forward assignment. As a Legislator, you know what you are expected to do. Our first assignment is to participate in making laws that will be beneficial to the people we are representing. In discharging our Legislative duties, a lot is expected from us by the people, but with God on our side, we are trying to make them understand the things we are supposed to do and the limitations of some of those things, especially from our Constituencies. What have been your contributions to the House of Assembly since you joined in 2011

I am the Vice Chairman of House Committee on Environment. I also belong to the Committees on Education, Economic Planning and Budget, Ethics, Protocols and Privileges as well as Agriculture, Cooperative and Rural Development. I have always been participating actively in the Business Rules of the House of Assembly. I was a Member of the Committee that visited some mortuaries in Lagos State to ascertain the situation of things in these mortuaries. This was because, we had a 73

lot of reports coming from the government on the state of hospitals, especially the one in Isolo. Our factfinding report gave birth to the Cremation Bill that was passed in the Lagos State House of Assembly. What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

I represent Ikorodu Constituency II. When I came in 2011, I started the Educational Award for Excellence. In each of the schools in my Constituency, I asked the schools to present the students with the best West African School Certificate performance. I also gave out laptops and forms for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to the overall best student and two runners-up. The essence of doing this

is to motivate students in their academics. The best student in 2011 is now in the University of Lagos studying Medicine. The best student for 2012, who is an orphan, is also studying Medicine at OAU. Last year, I included the Junior Secondary School category. In 2012, I did an Empowerment programme for the old citizens in my Constituency and facilitated medical attention. I also bought a big generator for a market in Igbogbo and this has drastically reduced the crime rate in my Constituency, especially at night. I provided a Public Address System for a market in Imota. Every Wednesday, I organize Stakeholders meeting where I brief the people of the activities in the House and my own representation. I also organize Town Hall Meetings and I ensure

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Some of us speak Yoruba Language but we do not have in-depth understanding of the language. However, we have improved greatly and our mastery of the language is now second to none.

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Prior to contesting, I have always participated in developmental programs in my community and representing them is natural to me.

that I empower as many people in my Constituency as possible. At the last one which took place in June this year, I gave out generators, rechargeable fans, sewing machines, hair dryers, clippers, provisions, Coca Cola products, flip flops and CONSAT dishes, amongst others. Lagos State has been the yardstick for good governance in Nigeria, how has the Lagos State House of Assembly impacted on good governance in the state

The applauses and encomiums being showered on Governor Babatunde Fashola are a result of the activities of the House of Assembly and the government is not working in isolation. I am sure you know that the Executive is carrying out its duties because there is a proper and an effective Legislation in the state. We are one big family in the state and we work hand-in-hand, after all, the success of the government rests on the shoulders of all of us. In Nigeria today, it is only Lagos State that prepares her Budget before the end of the year and the secret behind it is that, we start working on the Budget as soon as it is presented to us by the Governor. Sometimes, members of the House Committee on Budget and Planning do not go for holidays in order to meet the deadline to pass the Appropriation Bill. Do you believe that the Legislative arm of government has been given its due recognition for the success story of Gov.Babatunde Fasholaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s administration

Yes, we have been given our due recognition because Governor Babatunde Fashola is always commending the House for keeping his administration on its toes and I am sure you know that our Governor is a blessing to us all and Lagos State is fortunate to 75

have the best man for the job.

Tell us about yourself

You conduct the plenary session of the House in Yoruba Language on Thursdays, has this helped in anyway

I was born into the family of Chief Onasanya and Mrs. Onasanya in Igbogbo, Ikorodu Local Government. I attended UAMC (Eleja), Igbogbo; Government Teachers College, Igbogbo; Lagos State College of Education (now Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education) Ijanikin. After my education, I travelled out of the country and came back later to take up my teaching career. In between, I bagged a Bachelor of Arts in Education at Olabisi Onabanjo University and also played politics on a part-time basis. In 2007, I decided to contest to represent my people, because I have the passion to serve and I was also well known in my community in Igbogbo town. Prior to contesting, I have always participated in developmental programmes in my community and representing them is natural to me. It did not work out in 2007 but to God be the glory, I contested again in 2011 and was elected as a member of the House of Assembly.

Yes, it has really helped tremendously. Some of us speak Yoruba Language but we do not have in-depth understanding of the language. However, we have improved greatly and our mastery of the language is now second to none. Moreover, most Lagosians are happy that we do that on Thursdays and the gallery is always filled up with people who come to watch the proceedings.

How will you describe the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji in my view, is an excellent politician,a prolific leader,a very humble and God fearing man as well as virtuous team leader. He is the number one Speaker in Nigeria. Tell us about your family

I have two daughters and two sons to the glory of God. Will you be back in 2015

I wish to come back to the House in 2015 if my party says I should. However, God is the ultimate decision maker.

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WE MAKE LAWS IN THE HOUSE,

WE DO NOT SHARE MONEY -HON. LAWRENCE AYENI

on. Lawrence Ayeni is very passionate about the development of his people. No wonder, he has been flying the flag of his constituency Oshodi/Isola for the past seven years in the House. He is also the chairman, House Committee on Youth, Sports and Social Development.

Hon. how can you describe the Legislative assignment.

When I came to the House almost seven years ago, I thought that it was one of the political assignments where you would come to the Chamber to make only laws, but it goes beyond

that. It is an opportunity for me to express myself, to serve my people and to contribute my own quota to the State in terms of Legislation and other things. So, it is wonderful being here. What have been your contributions to the house

Firstly, our duty in the House of Assembly is to legislate on certain things to become laws, but at the same time, you serve in many places like the Committee level. I was the Chairman in my first tenure and I am still the Chairman. This means that, I performed well. I was also voted for in my Constituency, so that I will be able to represent

them, including attracting infrastructures to the community which I did during my first tenure and I am still doing it. The people of my Constituency know that I have tried my best in terms of infrastructure and youth empowerment. Apart from law making, you must also touch the lives of your people. You must also be loyal to the people, to your party and the government. Therefore, I believe that I have tried my best as a Legislator. Have you sponsored or co-sponsored any motion or Bill and what has been its impact on the society

There is no way you will be in the House for 76

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almost seven years without sponsoring, cosponsoring a Bill or supporting a motion. During my first tenure, I co-sponsored the Physical Challenge Bill which is for special people. The Bill was applauded by the less privilege because it is the first of its kind in Nigeria, before the recently Disability Bill by the National Assembly. In my Committee, I introduced many things, like grass root sports and development and they have yielded results in Lagos State. All these came from our table before the ministry executed them. What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

When your people give you their trust and confidence to represent them, firstly, you must make sure that you are upright in your Legislative duty. At the same time, you must make sure that, the little thing that you collect, you must touch lives. I started my Foundation before I became a Member in the Lagos State House of Assembly. I established Computer training for the people of my Constituency without collecting any money and I have trained more than 20,000 people. I also empowered many women in Vocational Training, because I believe in teaching people fishing instead of giving them fishes to eat. Every year, I have about 1500 people as graduates in my Constituency since 2000. I increased the number in 2007 when I joined the House. I also gave out scholarships to students in the higher institutions in my Constituency. I have also helped the needy, because I believe in humanitarian service. Politics is just like a workshop. If you have an ambition without people, you cannot get there. And you must know how to cater for them. For instance, if you have a business and you do not take good care of it, your business will collapse. If people give you an opportunity like this, you must touch their lives, not only within the Chamber of the House, but you must touch their lives outside the Chamber. Lagos State has been a yardstick for good governance in Nigeria, how has the House impacted on the good governance in the state

Whenever the Governor sends Bills to us, we engage in robust debates and at the same time, we call for public hearing. We also do same on Private Member Bills. By the time the Bills become laws, the Governor can then work on them. It is our legal backing that makes Governor Babatunde Fashola to succeed in his government. We work in unity, that is why we have not been fighting and throwing chairs at one other. We always resolve issues amicably whenever there is a misunderstanding between the House and the Executive. Do you believe that the Legislative arm has been given its due recognition for the success story of the Gov. Babatunde Fasholaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s administration

Democracy in Nigeria is almost 16 years now and people are now familiar with the works of the Legislature. Between 2007 and 2011, most people were ignorant of the duties of Legislators. They thought that we were not doing anything in the House, whereas we are the brain behind what is going on the outside. But now, people have started to realize our contributions to governance. That is why we have to thank our Hon. Speaker; Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Kuforiji who has trained us 77

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‘’The Town Hall meeting have also given us the opportunity to inform the public about our duties. People now know that Legislators do not even share money in the House but make laws for good governance in the state.’’

very well in the discharge of our duties. The town hall meeting have also given us the opportunity to inform the public about our duties. People now know that, Legislators do not even share money in the House but make laws for good governance in the state. You conduct your plenary sessions in Yoruba Language every Thursday, has this helped in anyway

It has helped a lot. One of the people in my Constituency once came to me that he used to listen to our debate on Thursday and wanted us to add two more days. I told him that it was not possible. The Thursday’s session makes the illiterates to know the importance of the Legislators. We should not also forget our Culture. If in India, South Korea and Italy, they use their languages to do their official work over there, then, we also should make use of our mother tongue. If we do not want our Language to go into extinction, we must continue to speak it very well. We should also pass it as a law in Nigeria that in a certain areas, you must speak your language. British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) has an Hausa service as there is a reason for that. Therefore, Yoruba language must not die.

was the Majority Leader of the Oshodi/ Isolo Local Government from 1999 to 2002. Then, I did not believe that, I could get to this position. And whatever I have, I give to people as a humanitarian and philanthropist and this has been helping me. Although, I was born in Ilesha but I thank Lagosians, especially Oshodi /Isolo people who have always supported me and since then, I have been moving forward. I have touched the lives of almost 10,000 people and even in my town, Ilesha because this place is like a farm, by the time you finish on the farm, you will go home. I believe that till the end of my life, I will still be contributing to humanity and to the less privilege. Tell us about your family

I am married with children and they are all doing fine. I have an aged mother and all the people of my Constituency are my family members. How will you describe the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi

Kuforiji

He is a wonderful leader. There is no way you can be in a position and satisfy everybody, especially 40 honourable members in the House of Assembly, who represent each Constituency. It is very tasking and I give him kudos. People may be saying anything about him, but to lead 40 Legislators for almost eight years without coming to the House for his impeachment for once, is an achievement. That is enough to say that, he is a good leader. He is also God-fearing, responsible and he deserves to be the President. Will you be back to the house in 2015

I am always contented in what I have and I believe in what God has given to me. It is not by force but as a human being , you must have an ambition, which I believe that in 2015, God will do the wonder He has been doing before in my life.

Tell us about yourself

I am Hon. Lawrence Babatunde Ayeni. I represent Oshodi /Isolo Local Government Constituency 1 in the Lagos State House of Assembly. I am the Chairman, House Committee on Youth, Sport and Social Development. I was born in 1960. I am a native of Ilesha in Osun State. I am a man that God really helped because I never knew that I would find myself in this position. I have no god fathers neither was I born with a sliver spoon. That was why I floated the Hon. L.B. Ayeni Foundation in 2000 because I was a Councilor then. I 78

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‘’I am a man that God really helped because I never knew that I would find myself in this position. I have no godfathers neither was I born with a sliver spoon.’’

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THE SUCCESS OF

THE 7TH ASSEMBLY IS A COLLECTIVE ONE -HON. LAWAL OLAJIDE

program every day, since my Constituents come up to me every time for help. Through our facilities, most people in my Constituency have become literate in Computer and we have also dug boreholes here and there. Our Governor charged us not to stick with only Legislative assignments but should also help the people in any way we can. Lagos State has been the yardstick for good governance in Nigeria, how has the House impacted on good governance in the state

Our slogan here is, to go above the common standards. We are so organised and meticulous that, other Houses come to tap from our wealth of experiences. There is no doubt that, we have helped to impact on that good governance because the state is run with laws passed in this House. Do you believe that the Legislative arm has been given its due recognition for the success story of the Gov. Babatunde Fasholaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s administration

Of course, the people have given us our due recognition and most especially the Governor, who acknowledges us publicly. You conduct the plenary session of the House in Yoruba Language on Thursdays, has this helped in anyway

Of course, it has. Most of our Constituents in Lagos do not speak English Language very well and there is a need for them to connect with us and the mode of communication is Yoruba Language. The House is not an elitist one since we represent the interest of the people and we need to improve our level of communication. How would you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

Excellent and I pray that, we will have a competent hand to replace him when he leaves. Tell us about yourself

I am Hon. Kabir Olajide Lawal and I represent ne of the notable members of the legal

profession in the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Lawal Olajide represents

Have you sponsored or co-sponsored any motion or Bill and what impact has it had in the society

We passed a Bill that eventually gave birth to the

Surulere Constituency in the House of Assembly.

Muslim and Christian Pilgrims Board and as the

Hon. Olajide has not only been representing his people

Chairman of the Committee, I was at the forefront of

very will in the House Assembly but also concerned

its passage. Before now, an Ad-hoc Committee was set

about the upliftment of Lagosians in general.

up for those going for holy pilgrimages yearly but with

Sir how would you describe the Legislative assignment

It is very interesting and one must be very

the passage of the law, we now have a Board that runs the affairs of the bodies. It has also helped to stabilise

passionate about it.

religious movement to holy lands.

What have been your contributions to the House

What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

Here in the House, we act as one. I do not think there is anyone that can lay claim to any success of any

Ordinarily in a civilised environment, we are

project. In other words, what we do here is a team

expected to make laws that will protect the interests of

effort and there is no separate contribution.

the people. I can tell you that, I run an empowerment

Surulere Constituency 1 which consists of Ogunmola, Ogunlana Drive, some parts of Ojuelegba and Yaba. I am a Lawyer by profession and I am the Chairman, House Committee on Culture, Tourism and InterGovernmental Affairs. I attended St. Paul School in Lagos and Anwaru Islam College in Agege. I proceeded to Oyo State College of Arts and Science for my A Levels and later, Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, where I read Law. I went to the Law School and came back to Ahmadu Bello University for my National Youth Service, (NYSC). Tell us about your family

I am married with two boys and two girls. Will you be back to the House in 2015

I cannot decide that on my own, so I will leave it to God. 80

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‘’Most of our Constituents in Lagos do not speak English Language very well and there is a need for them to connect with us and the mode of communication is Yoruba Language. The House is not an elitist one since we represent the interest of the people and we need to improve our level of communication.’’

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Issue 65-118B_Issue 130 B.qxd 17-Feb-15 5:40 PM Page 19

IT IS A PRIVILEDGE

SERVING THE

PEOPLE

-HON. ADEBAYO OSINOWO ‘’As a representative of the people, it is a privilege, since out of the 18million people in Lagos, I was picked amongst 39 others.’’ he story of June 12 elections in Nigeria is

incomplete without the inclusion of Hon. Adebayo Sikiri Osinowo along with the late

Bashorun Moshood Kasimawo Abiola, Hon. Osinowo paid the price for the insisting on June 12 Born in the mid-50’s into the family of Late Alhaji Rabiu Osinowo of Odo-Egbo in Ijebu-Ode and Alhaja Moriamo Taiwo Osinowo of Etitale, Ijebu-Ode. A successful politician and contributor to our nascent democracy, Hon. Osinowo

attended St. Augustine

Primary School, Ijebu-Ode, Isoyin Grammar School, Isoyin Ijebu-Ode. He worked briefly in Lagos with the Ministry of Works, as Land Officer between 1977 and 1979 before travelling abroad for studies and he attended University of Perugia, Italy;

Instituto per Geometra

Rome, Italy and Urbaniana Universita Rome, Italy. He holds a Master’s degree in Communications. Upon his return to Nigeria, he set up the Nigeria Italian Company (NITAL Ltd.) and NIMCO Ltd. in 1986. Hon.

Osinowo started active politicking in the

Second Republic as a prominent Youth Chairman of the ruling party, when the late Bashorun Moshood Kasimawo Abiola was the state Chairman of the party. Hon. Osinowo was also a member of defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP) in 1993 and he played a prominent role in the development and success of the party as well as the election of M.K.O. Abiola that was annulled. He participated fully in actualization of June 12 mandate that led to his detention with M.K.O. Abiola with other progressives throughout the late Gen. Sanni Abacha’s regime. Upon return to democratic rule, he joined the Alliance for Democracy (AD) that metamorphosed to Action Congress later to Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and now All Progressives Congress, (APC). Hon. Osinowo declared his intention to contest for the House of Assembly in 2003 and emerged the candidate of the AD. He contested and won the Kosofe Constituency 1 seat in the Lagos State House of Assembly. He got re-elected in 2007 and 2011. Since 2003, he has been the Chairman, House Committee on Land and 83

Housing. He is married to Alhaja Mariam Ayodele Osinowo, one of the daughters of Alhaji Taofeek Kehinde from Esure Esugbon Quarters, Ijebu Mushin and they are blessed with children, all Medical Doctors. Hon. Osinowo is an Islamic Scholar by divine intervention, who has been contributing his quota to the development of his people. Among his Chieftaincy titles are,The Otunba Tayese of Isheri-Oke, Lagos, The Otunba Mayegun of Imoru

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Sir how would you describe the Legislative assignment

the state and that explains the fact that, I am spending

stages beforeit eventually becomes a law.I have been

It is one of the most cherished assignments for any politician, because a Legislator is the closest politician to his people and they trust him enough to represent them. The Legislature is the only institution where you

my 3rd term in the House.

the Chairman of Land and Housing for the past 11

Have you sponsored a motion or Bill and how have they impacted on the people

years and virtually all the Bills concerning land have

are free to talk and also consult the Governor about the affairs of the people. As a representative of the people, it is a privilege, since out of the 18million people in Lagos, I was picked amongst 39 others. The demerits are that, the people do not really understand what we do and think that we should be tarring their roads and building

Bills are always co-sponsored since no one person can singlehandedly move a Bill through the various

been sponsored and passed through me. So, in truth, I have been involved in a lot of Bills. We just passed a Bill to consolidate all laws that concernthe issues of

infrastructure facilities, which are the preserve of the Executive. What have been your contributions to the Houseof Assembly

I have been in this House since 2003 and this is my third term in the House. I am sure that, my people and the party are satisfied with my contributions in the party, community and 84

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‘’We have suffered a lot for democracy and those who lost their lives then did not die in vain because democracy is growing in leaps and bounds in Nigeria.’’ land in the stateand we intend merging all the laws. Some of these laws are outdated and we are trying to curb the activities of land grabbers. By the special grace of God, I have been the Chairman of Land and Housing for the past 11years and that shows that I am a good Legislator and if this was another field, I would have been offered different PhD Degrees. I enjoy it because we are impacting and sensitizingthe people on the value of land. We are lucky that our Governors in Lagos are purposeful and strategic. When we generated 600 million naira during Marwa’s regime, we all celebrated. But when Asiwaju Bola Tinubu used his professional expertise as an Accountant to block leakages in many sectors and sanitized the sectors, we started generating between 2 and 6 billion naira. As a matter of fact, Gov. Babatunde Fashola improved it to 25 billion naira.Now, we generate at least 25billion naira. I believe that, we have had marvelous and exemplary leaders in Lagos and our Governors have always had a keen sense of accountability and they know exactly how to use the funds made available to them. Lagos State has been the yardstick for good governance in Nigeria, howhas the House of Assembly impacted on good governance in the state

There is no state in Nigeria that has not learnt from our House because we are number one. It is not that we are more brilliant than others, but we have set a yardstick that cannot be easily surpassed. Do you believe that the Legislative arm of government has been given its due recognition for the success story of the Gov. Babatunde Fashola’s administration

This House is a very autonomous House and the Governor does not dabble into our affairs. The Governor is open minded and understands the rules of the game, after all he is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria. If we say that we are not passing a Bill, then we are not and he will understand as because he is also a lawyer. We can reduce or increase the Budget of the state as stipulated by the rules of the House in line with the constitution of the country. We must thank God for that. So far, so good, the rapport has been good. You conduct the plenary session of the House in Yoruba Language on Thursdays, has this helped in anyway

I think others are even trying to emulate 85

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us. I am aware that some states in the East and North

There is no single law that says that you must

want to toe the line. We have gained a lot from it and

write an exam to become a Speaker and the law states

did not die in vain because democracy is growing in leaps and bounds in Nigeria.

those who voted us in can witness the sessions and

that we should pick one among us to become Mr.

Tell us about your family

understand us since most of them are indigenes and

Speaker. If he is not good enough, he will notbe there

I am married to Mrs. Ayodele Osinowo and we are

they will like their dialects which will be more

till now. If he is not capable, he will not have led us for

blessed with three children namely, Dr. Taiwo Bakare,

so long. He is a man of honor and integrity. He has

Dr.

invested heavily on improving our intellect with

Osinowo. They chose Medicine themselves and I

explanatory. Moreover, representation is not for the rich and literates only. It goes beyond just communication; it also shows that we love our culture because we always adorn our traditional outfits on

seminars and lectures and even if you had come here as an illiterate, you would have become very learned by your second term.

Thursdays. The only way you can explain better

Tell us about yourself

during sessions is through your language. If you look

I schooled in Italy and attended Instituto Camile. I started politics in 1979 during the time of Unity Party of Nigeria and National Party of Nigeria but later,the military struck. Democracy returned in1999 and I contested for the House election and I won. At the moment, I represent the good people of Kosofe Constituency 1 in the Lagos House of Assembly.I fought for democracy in this country and Iwas imprisoned and condemned to death but by the grace of God, Gen. Sanni Abacha died. We have suffered a lot for democracy and those who lost their lives then

at the countries that form the G8 Forum, you would observe that they speak their languages in spite of their proximity to Britain or America. Yet, we are the ones championing the English Language and we are very distant to them. I like the idea that other states want to speak their indigenous languages in one of the days set aside for Legislation. How would you rate the leadership of Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

Kehinde Adebisi as well as Dr.

Babatunde

thank God for their lives. How did you come about your sobriquet,‘Pepperito’

It started years back in school when I was very stubborn and principled. And I am still principled now. I was never afraid of anybody or anything, except God Almighty, even till now. I believe that, God is the only one we should fear. People used to say that, my eyes were always red like pepper. They started calling me ‘Orator Pepper’but later change it to Pepper, which has almost become my name. Will you be back to the House in 2015

I am a believer and it is only God that knows the future and I pray that God grants us our wishes. I have been here for years and it is not that I cannot vie for any other office but I leave it to the Almighty. 86

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PUBLIC PERCEPTION OF THE

LEGISLATURE IS POOR -HON. BISI YUSUF

orn to the Royal Family of Oba

Administration (MPA ) in view from the Ladoke

pioneering Welfare Officer and later General

Agunkeloy Omu-Aran, Kwara State, Hon.

Akintola University, Ogbomosho, began his career

Secretary, Alimosho Federal Constituency for the

(Prince) Abdulrahaman Adebisi Yusuf

as a

pupil Teacher and Staff of Kwara State

Alliance for Democracy, founding member, leader

attend Muslim Community Primary School, Omu-

Ministry of Social Welfare. He is a business man of

and promoter of Action Congress of Nigeria,

Aran, Oke Ode Grammar School, Kwara College

over 30 years as well as a seasoned Politician,

Executive Secretary, AyoboIpaja Local Council

of Technology and Ahmadu Bello University

Administrator, Unionist, Human and Social Rights

Development Area (LCDA) and years later,

where he bagged a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc)

Crusader.

Executive Chairman of the same LCDA.

Degree in Sociology. Hon. Yusuf who has a Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in Public 87

He was once the Principal Co-ordinator for the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Campaign Organisation,

currently

the

Chairman

House

Committee on Transport, Commerce and Industry

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‘‘I have a Democratic Centre where all the youths in my Constituency gather and we exchange and generate ideas, because I believe that ideas rule the world. When you generate ideas, you generate wealth. I have trained students on Information and Communications Technology, (ICT).’’

and also a member of Public Account Committee, Administration and Chieftaincy Matters as well as Establishment, Training, Civil Service and Pension. He is married with children. Sir., how will you describe the Legislative assignment

It is very interesting and demanding. If you have the love of the people in mind, you will find it very interesting. But the work of the Legislator is not for a lazy person, because we have to carry out research, collect and aggregate the collective view of our Constituents and bring it to the House

of Assembly. This is to meet the needs of the people directly, but in a situation whereby you cannot do it, you would have to use lobby to attract infrastructural developments to your Constituency. What have been you contributions to the House of Assembly

The first motion of the 7th House of Assembly was moved by me and that was on the Kuramo Beach. We all know that Kuramo Beach can most likely be likened to a tourist attraction centre. However, it is always an ugly situation when 88

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‘‘My Constituency is the most populous, biggest and the most politically-sophisticated Constituency in Nigeria. It is a state on its own. Because of her enormous political fortune, I use that advantage to lobby the Executive and attract infrastructural development to my area.’’

foreigners come to this Beach and witness illicit acts being carried out. I saw this and moved the motion and it gladdened the hearts of the people. I also moved the motion for the construction of over-head Bridge in my Constituency, because of incessant accidents. I moved

Library for students, because I believe that, a reader

it is a first class road. Meiran Road was nothing to

is a leader. Another thing that gladdens my heart is

write home about, but now the first and the second

the recent Traffic Law which was done under my

phase of the project have been awarded. Aboru Canal

supervision. It is easier now to drive in Lagos than

was also terrible. Before I became a Member of the House of Assembly, there were always tragic events whenever rain fell, because the resultant flood used to carry people away, but through the channelization by the state government, it has become a thing of the past. I have a Democratic Centre where all the youths in my Constituency gather and we exchange and generate ideas, because I believe that, ideas rule the

before. The last law was passed in the 40’s and at that time, the population of Lagos was barely what we have today. How can such a law still be effective between early 40’s and now? Today, we can see the effect of the new law. Have you sponsored or co-sponsored any Bill

We have passed more of Executive Bills than Private Bills. However, I have always been

effective during the presentation of motions and Bills in the House. What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

the motion also on the need to curb the indiscriminate

My Constituency is the most populous, biggest

hanging of passengers on Rail Coaches within the

and the most politically- sophisticated Constituency in

state. I have worked on more than 15 petitions as the

Nigeria. It is a state on its own. Because of her

Chairman,

Transport,

enormous political fortune, I use that advantage to

Commerce and Industry. I opened a large and

lobby the Executive and attract infrastructural

functioning Constituency office that opens 24 hours a

development to my area. The road from Abesan Gate

day. I also have a very sophisticated

to Ayobo Road was formerly a death zone, but today,

House

Committee

world. When you generate ideas, you generate wealth. I have trained students on Information and Communications Technology, (ICT).I have done vocational training and artisanship programmes for over 150 graduates and undergraduates, and I have been giving out GCE&JAMB forms to students for the past three years. I conducted free eye glasses and diabetes screening with free distribution of eye glasses for Christian Association of Nigeria, League of Imams and the CDC’s, and in all more than 5,000 people benefitted. I donated over 3,500 books each to two Libraries in Ayobo-Ipaja LCDA and Agbado Oke Odo,

Issue 65-118B_Issue 130 B.qxd 17-Feb-15 5:40 PM Page 26

respectively. I am sponsoring over 100 students in different Universities, Polytechnics and Colleges of Education spread across the country.I do not neglect my people, because their mandate brought me to the House of Assembly.

due recognition.

politically sophisticated in Nigeria. It consists of four

You conduct the plenary session of the House in Yoruba Language on Thursdays, has this helped in anyway

Local Governments and that is the largest in the

That is why the Lagos State House of Assembly is very unique. Those countries that are developing very

country. I had the highest number of votes in Nigeria during the last general election into the House of

Lagos State has been a yardstick for good governance in Nigeria, how has Lagos State House of Assembly impacted on good governance in the state

well use their mother tongues. If I am communicating

Assembly. My Constituency comprises Agbado Oke

in English, there are some words I could mispronounce

Odo LCDA, Ayobo Ipaja LCDA, Alimosho Local

and others that I will not know their true meanings. But

Government and Mosan Okunola LCDA.

When you talk of any government in Lagos State, the House of Assembly is number one, because if you do not have dynamic, functioning and effective laws, the Executive will not be able to perform. We have been receiving many accolades from people. Other Legislators use our laws as case studies. We have been able to scrutinize the Executive through our oversight functions and this is an instrument with which to keep the Governor on his toes.

when you speak in your mother tongue, the love will

I was born in 1954 to the paramount royal family

be there and you will be able to pronounce it very well

of Agunkeloye family, Omu Aran. My mother was also

and know the deep meanings of words.

a Princess from the same town, Olasankale Olanioka. I

How will you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Kuforiji

attended Omu Aran Community Primary School,

Do you believe that the Legislative arm of government has been given its due recognition for the success story of the Gov. Fasholaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s administration

The perception of the public is poor regarding the Legislature and the media needs to educate the people. The people want you to perform the function of the Executive and that is why people have been coming to me that I have never constructed roads. Those people that know our duty as Legislators have given us our

His leadership is inspiring and superb because he is developing the institution that will outlive him.

where I spent three years, 1966 to 1969, because I was gifted and I had about four promotions. Then, I

Some foreigners who came to the House were very

proceeded to Oke Ode Grammar School and graduated

astonished with the infrastructure in the Lagos State

in 1974. I later went to Kwara College of Technology,

House of Assembly. He has also contributed to

now Kwara State Polytechnic. I proceeded to Ahmadu

Legislative development. Recently, we had a retreat

Bello University, Zaria and I graduated in 1981. This

and it was conducted by dons from the University of

is my first term and I am the Chairman House

Cambridge in London who came to Lagos, Nigeria. He

Committee on Transportation, Commerce and

is forever developing individuals and institution.

Industry. Tell us about your family

Tell us about yourself

I am Hon. Bisi Yusuf and I represent Alimosho Federal Constituency 1, which is regarded as the most

I am happily married and blessed with children. Will you be back in 2015

That is left for God and my Constituency. 90

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LAW MAKING IS

INTERESTING AND

CHALLENGING -HON. BASHIR OLOTO

disciple of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Hon. (Prince) Bashir Oloto is a man of few words. However, he is very resolute about pursuing the best for the good people Lagos Mainland Constituency in which he represent in the House of Assembly. Born into the family of Oloto to His Royal Majesty, Oba Ganiyu Odewale Odesanya-Oloto and Ayishat Olasunbo OdesanyaOloto, he attended Christ Church Cathedral Primary School and Methodist Boyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s High School for his Secondary education. He proceeded to Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria where he studied Political Science. He later worked with the Governor Emeritus, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as his Personal Assistant (P.A) before being elected as an Honourable member into the State House of Assembly. Sir how would you describe the Legislative assignment

It is very interesting and challenging, since as a Legislator, you have a lot of commitments to the people. The laws we pass must also be in the interest of the people, thus the Legislature is the heart of the government and without it, there is no government. What have been your contributions to the House of Assembly

Though, this is my first term in the House but I have always been active in the sessions in the House. I moved a motion on the floor of the House that a pedestrian Bridge between Oto and Iddo should be rehabilitated. Also, there is a canal at Makoko which I have rehabilitated and also facilitated the construction of some roads. I am also part of the Youth and Sport Committee and I have been making my inputs in that Committee. Have you sponsored orco-sponsored any motion or Bill in the House and what impact has it had on the people

I have co-sponsored some Bills like the Okada Restriction Bill and the Tenancy Bill. The Tenancy Bill serves the interests of both the landlord and residents and also creates harmony between and amongst them. The Okada Bill has reduced accidents and theft in the society. What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

First and foremost, I organise Football competitions in my Constituency for the youths. I have constructed 13 boreholes in some areas in the Constituency including, Makoko, Simpson, Apapa Road and Cemetery Bus Stop. I have bought over 120 GCE Forms and provided three transformers for my Constituents. I also assist them personally and I had a bounteous Ramadan package for my people. 91

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Lagos State has been the yardstick for good governance in Nigeria, how has the Lagos House of Assembly impacted on the good governance in the state

It is very simple, because the Governor cannot do anything without our support. We approve motions or Bills that he brings, which we believe would benefit the people. We have also given him 100 per cent support. Do you believe that the Legislative arm of government has been given its due recognition for the success story of the Gov. Babatunde Fashola administration

Those who know or care to know have been applauding to the House for the work we have been doing. We have also received commendation outside the country. You conduct the plenary session of the House in Yoruba Language on Thursdays, has this helped in anyway

It has helped a lot, because so many individuals are carried away by the Western culture and this move is helping us to come back to our roots. It has also given the upcoming ones hope that, our culture will not be eroded in the future. How would you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

Excellent. He has been very magnificent. Tell us about yourself

My name is Prince Bashir Abisoye Oloto, a Prince in Oloto

community in Lagos Mainland. I represent Lagos Mainland Constituency 1, which consists of Oyingbo, Costain and others. I have a degree in Political Science and I have worked as a civil servant and used to be the Personal Assistant to Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. This is my first term in the House and I am the Vice Chairman, Committee on Transport, Commerce and Industry. Tell us about your family

I am married with two daughters. Will you be back in 2015

By the special grace of God, yes. I will also leave the decision to my party and the people. 92

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‘‘Those who know or care to know have been applauding the House for the work we have been doing. We have also received commendation outside the country.’’

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LEGISLATORS ARE YET TO BE GIVEN PROPER

RECOGNITION BY THE PEOPLE -HON. OMOTAYO ODUNTAN

Issue 65-118B_Issue 130 B.qxd 17-Feb-15 5:40 PM Page 31

on. Omotayo Oduntan is one

when she was in Kano because she

of the four shining female

lived close to late Aminu Kanoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s house

Legislators in the Lagos State

and was fascinated by his leadership

House of Assembly.

quality and how he was championing

She attended U.N.A. now First African

Church

Primary

Back home, she pitched her tent

Phoenix Lane, Lagos and proceeded to

with the Unity Party of Nigeria (U.P.N)

Ansar-Ud-Deen

High

and has never looked back. When the

FaloluSurulere,

Lagos

School, for

her

Secondary education. her

education

after

military came to power, she was involved in sundrey business to make

She could not immediately further

ends meet and was able to take care of

School

her child and her siblings. She later

Certificate due to the death of her father.

became a member of Social Democratic

She started working at the supplies

Party (SDP) in Alimosho. She contested

Department

University

for the House of Assembly in 1991 and

Teaching Hospital, Idi Araba from

was asked to step down for another

1974-1976. She left for Kano to join her

candidate by her party. She was later

husband and worked at the Estate

made the Vice-Chairman of the party in

Department of Bayero University, Kano

Alimosho Local Government.

Lagos

her

from 1977 to 1979.

Under the five political parties

She had to relocate back home to

during

the

Abacha

regime,

she

further her studies at DOF Institute of

contested

Catering and Hotel Management where

election on the platform of DPN but lost

she obtained both Certificate and

the seat.

the

Vice-Chairmanship

Diploma in Food Hygiene and Food

When the country returned to civil

Handling from the Royal Institute of

rule in 1998, she joined the Alliance for

Public

Democracy (AD), contested and won

Health

and

Hygiene(R.I.R.P.H.H.) London. She first got interested in Politics 95

the course of his people.

School

the election into the Lagos State House of Assembly from 1999 to 2003.

Issue 65-118B_Issue 130 B.qxd 17-Feb-15 5:40 PM Page 32

Now representing Alimosho Constituency

11,she

the

Chairman, House Committee on Women

Affairs,

Poverty

Alleviation and Job Creation. Hon. Oduntan is a veritable grassroot leader who is passionate about the welfare of her people, especially women. She is a member of some socials clubs, a devoted Christian and “IyaIjo” of her Church. She has received so many awards and a chieftaincy title in her community. She is a generous woman, a mobiliser of progress, jovial and easily accessible. God fearing, she is blessed with children who look up to her. Hon. Ma., how would you describe the Legislative assignment

has

been

challenging,

fulfilling and very rewarding. What have been your contributions to the House of Assembly

I have contributed in a lot of ways towards bringing governance closer to my people. For your Bill or motion to be passed, you have to enlist the support of your colleagues. The law on Domestic Violence is on now, so also the law on Child Abuse and Child’s Right. We have moved motions on what affect our people and we are working on a law to abolish all forms of violence against women. What impact have these laws had on the people

The government is sensitizing and educating people on what the law entails and all the Supervisors for women in various Local Government and L.C.D.A’s have been mandated to go and educate women about these laws. What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

That is a very tricky question, because most of the time, the people do not understand the dividends of democracy. To an ordinary person, it is money for personal needs, like school fees and others. Most times, when I go to my Constituency, I have to educate them that, amenities and infrastructure that make life easier for them are in fact the real dividends of democracy. On my own part, I have been able to impact people in my Constituency 96

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Most times, people do not even know our roles, because we are always in the background and most people think it is the Governor that does it all. However, people are gradually recognizing our roles and we were recently adjudged the best House of Assembly in Nigeria.

constructing

of our members also do on the floor of the

boreholes, renovating school, toilets and

various

ways

House. However, the Speaker would ask us

car wash, poverty alleviation to the youth,

to speak only in Yoruba and votes and

women and widows. And recently, we

proceedings are also carried out in our

started a programme for the elderly.

mother tongue. It has been fun though, and

Lagos State has been the yardstick for good governance in Nigeria, how has the Lagos State House of Assembly impacted on the good governance in the state

educative too. How would you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

There is nothing the Governor does

His performance has been very

that would not come to the House first. We

outstanding and he has exposed us to

are working together with the Executive to

various experiences, which have in the

improve the lives of Lagosians.

long run helped to improve us, as

Do you believe that the Legislative arm has been given its due recognition for the success story of the Gov. Fasholaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s administration

Legislators.

Tell us about yourself

My name is Hon. Omotayo Aramide Oduntan, a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly and I represent Alimosho Constituency II. I was in the 4th Assembly between 1999 and 2003 and I am back again. I am the Chairman, Women

House Affairs

Committee and

Poverty

Alleviation. Will you be back to the House

It has improved the way we speak Yoruba

That decision, I would leave to

Language because, most Lagosians tend to mix

God and my Constituents, but I am

our Yoruba language with English, which some

ready to go wherever I am sent.

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MY PEOPLEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S WELFARE IS

PARAMOUNT TO ME -HON. HAKEEM MASHA

ondly called HAMA, Hon. Prince Hakeem Agboola Masha is not only meticulous in his dress sense but also very organized and meticulous in carrying out his Legislative functions. Hon. Masha completed his Primary education at Junaid Anglican Primary School, South-West, Ikoyi and then proceeded to Government College, Victoria Island where he obtained his West African Examination Certificate,(WAEC). A Linguist by profession; he studied French Language and graduated from the Department of European Languages in the University of Lagos, Akokaand obtained a Bachelor of Arts (B. A. Hons). In addition to his tertiary education, Hon. Masha also obtained a Diplome de Langue Francaise from Le Village Francais du Nigeria and attended C.F.I.L.C Ecole de Langues, Paris, France. He is currently pursuing his Post Graduate studies at the Department of International Relations and Public Affairs, University of Lagos. He worked at Jones Cargo Services Holborn, United Kingdom from 1995-1997 as an Administrative Personnel and Mitras International Limited, Murtala International Airport from 1997-1999 as an Airport Representative. For a year between 1999-2000,

he was the Personal Assistant to the Secretary of Eti-Osa Local Government, Glover Road, Ikoyi, Lagos and moved to Agip Service Station Obalende, where he was a Sales Representative from 2000-2002. He then took time off work to conclude his tertiary education and once he obtained his certificate, he became the General Manager of Multitude Concept Limited, Prime Shopping Plaza, Victoria Island Lagos from 2006-2011. Hon. Masha is an active member of the Action Congress of Nigeria (A.C.N.), a wellrecognized and an ordained leader, a grassroots politician to the core, who seizes any opportunity, be it good or bad to bring out the best. As a true leader and one with an ambition to lead, his aspirations for a leadership position were well accepted, hence he was elected at the April 2011 elections. His Interests are not limited to his passion of being a leader or to his discipline of French Language. Hon. Masha loves interacting with people and enjoys travelling. He is married to Alhaja Basirat Yetunde Masha and blessed with children. Hon. how would you describe the Legislative assignment

Our job is to appropriate the Budget 98

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‘‘Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji’s performance has been commendable and he has laid a solid foundation and good structure for some other people to excel in the House. He is a selfless politician and a worthy leader.’’ for the state to run and we are the ears, eyes, noses and mouth pieces of our Constituencies. We represent various Local Governments and Constituencies in the Lagos State House of Assembly, listen to our Constituents, draw up their needs and bring them to the House for debates. We also reach out to the Executive and facilitate some projects through them for our Constituents. But our major function is to make laws for the Executive to implement and perform oversight functions. What have been your contributions to the House

Being a first term member, you have to go through some training and thanks to Mr. Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji, we have indeed enjoyed the best of training and capacity building. We have been able to learn some Legislative terms and lexicons as well as rules and functions of a proper Legislative House. We have been able to perform excellently on the floor of the House because of all of the timely workshops. Have you sponsored a motion or Bill and what impact has it had on the people

Yes, I have sponsored some motions in the House. Remarkably, I will talk about the Lagos Island Power Project. Though, I did not sponsor the motion but I was the one that moved for it to be brought to my own community and if you go all around my Constituency, you will see that so many places in the night have been lit up. I also co-sponsored the Cremation Bill, which eventually became a law and the objective was to rid mortuaries of unclaimed corpses. What have been your contributions to your Constituency and have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

My Constituency is Lagos Island 1 and it comprises ten wards and areas like Olowogbowo, Isale Eko, Ebute Ero, Onala, Oko Awo, Jankara, Oluwole and others. First and foremost, when we clocked a year in the House of Assembly in 2012, I went back to my people to give an account of my stewardship for one year after I came to the House of Assembly and together with some of my leaders and my team, we drew up a list of yearly projects. Our project for 2012 was Free Kerosene and we christened it ‘HAMA Free Kero’. HAMA was taken from the first two alphabets of my name and surname respectively. We gave each beneficiary five liters of kerosene. After evaluating the first project, we got a feedback that majority of the beneficiaries were politicians and not the electorate. We therefore set up Free Mobile Dental Clinics in the Constituency in 2013 and massively informed everyone to go there and get free health care. This year, we decided to support petty traders in the Constituency financially. In addition, the Chairmen of the two Local governments (Lagos Island and Lagos Island East) revived the LMTS public transportation and we helped to facilitate the project at the Executive level. The buses will ply different areas like, Obalende, Sura and Ebute Ero. It is about 70 per cent completed. There is also the Isale gangan project that is currently going on in phases. I have also been able to facilitate the 99

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100

Issue 65-118B_Issue 130 B.qxd 17-Feb-15 5:40 PM Page 37

intervention of the Lagos State Urban Renewal Authority at Adeniji Adele area as the living standard has deteriorated beyond acceptable standards. We have an ‘open office’ policy at our Constituency office where Constituents can walk in at any time to itemize their problems and we have members of the sub-constituencies (A, B &C) working as members of staff in the office. This is to see to effective and proper representation. The installation of about six transformers in various parts of the Constituency and some road projects, including the ongoing Sanusi/Olusi/Alakoro Road project was facilitated by me. The welfare of my people is paramount to me, thus the need for the provision of welfare packages for health, education, youth empowerment and sports. Even during festive periods like Eid-I-Fitri, Christmas, New Year, our Constituents are never forgotten. We also sponsor members of our Constituents for Hajj, Lesser Hajj and Jerusalem pilgrimages. Lagos state has been the yardstick for good governance in Nigeria, how has the Lagos State House of Assembly impacted on good governance in the state

There is no doubt that, the government cannot perform to people’s expectations without the support of the Legislators. I believe that, the economic power of any country or state is in the hands of Legislators. If Legislators do not approve Budget or foot drag on Bills, the state will be grounded to a halt. I believe that, we have impacted tremendously on that good governance. We make the laws in the first place and the Executive only implements them. Do you believe that the Legislative arm has been given its due recognition for the success story of the Gov. Fashola’sadministration

Yes, we have. You conduct the plenary session of the House in Yoruba Language on Thursdays, has this helped in anyway

Of course, it has helped us tremendously. It was an idea that was popularly supported and today, we have demonstrated in the House that we can uphold our culture and tradition as well as our language. How would you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. AdeyemiIkuforiji

His performance has been commendable and he has laid a solid foundation and good structure for some other people to excel in the House. He is a selfless politician and a worthy leader. Tell us about yourself

I am Hon. (Prince) Hakeem Masha and I represent Lagos Island, Constituency 1 in the Lagos State House of Assembly. Currently, I am the Vice Chairman, Public Account Committee (Local Government). I studied French at the University of Lagos and I was into Real Estate, working with Multitude Concept Limited as the General Manager before I started full time politics. I have always been a politician since 1999 and through the grace of God and the support of my people, I was elected into office in 2011. Tell us about your family

I am married to AlhajaBasiratYetunde Masha and we are blessed with children. Will you be back to the House in 2015

By the special grace of God, I look forward to being back here. This is because I still have so much to do in the House of Assembly and I still have so much to do for my people. 101

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LAGOS STATEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S SUCCEESS IS HINGED ON

SYNERGY AMONG THE THREE ARMS OF GOVERNMENT -HON. SULTAN ADENIJI-ADELE

he youngest lawmaker in the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Sultan Adegbayibi Adele is a proud scion of the Adenji Adele family. Hon. Adeniji-Adele began his early life in Festac, where he had his Primary education at Nazareth Primary School from 1984 to 1990. He proceeded to Kings College, Lagos, for his Secondary education between 1990 and 1996. To further his education, he opted for a Degree in Law from the Lagos State University (LASU, 1997-2001), where he bagged an LLB. Degree, before attending the Nigerian Law School in Kano from 2007-2008. His hobbies are, playing soccer and travelling. As a very active young man, Hon. Adeniji-Adele

was a Legal Adviser at Crown Forwarders between 2001 and 2004 and a Director at Miramar International from 2004 to 2011. He has also been very active in Politics right from his University days. He is a one-time presidential ward delegate and also, a member of the National Association of Nigerian Youths. Hon. Adeniji-Adele was elected as member,

making his people feel well represented in the House of Assembly. He is the Vice Chairman, House Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Public Petitions and a member of Finance; Health as well as Ethics, Protocol and Privileges Committees. Sir how would you describe the Legislative assignment

At first, I thought it was a simple thing, but after

Lagos State House of Assembly in June 2011, to

my time here, I have realised that it is deeper than

represent the good people of Amuwo Odofin

what we see on the outside. Aside from law making, it

Constituency 1. Since his election into office, he has

has to do with the people and oversight functions. It is

made immense contributions towards individual and

not a smooth ride and you have to be up and doing to

general growth and development of his Constituency,

function properly. 102

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What have been your contributions to the House of Assembly

I have contributed very well in the aspect of the youths and being a first timer, I am continuously listening and gathering knowledge, regarding the Legislative process. I have supported a few Bills and we are hoping that by the next term, we would eventually start to implement various functions. Tell us about motions or Bills that you have sponsored and their impact on the society

Yes, I have been part of some motions and some Bills particularly, the Wealth Creation Bill. The Bill tasks the government with finding temporary jobs for fresh graduates who have been registered as residents of Lagos. The job is specialised to the graduateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s field of study and as he is working as a temporary staff, the government also searches for a permanent job opportunity for the person. The Bill, when it is passed, would decrease the unemployment rate in the state. What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

My Constituency consists of Festac, Mile 2 and Abule Ado-Soba. There is a major bridge in Ado-Soba, which has been under construction by the government for years now. Since I joined in this term, I have influenced the speeding up of its construction work and the bridge should be done before the end of my term. 103

have

also

donated

transformers to various communities. As a sports lover, I have programmes for the youths in Football, Lawn Tennis and others. In the educational field, I have given JAMB and GCE forms to students in my Constituency and I have also given equipment to the uneducated for vocational activities. Personally, I assist the youths and elders in my zone with stipends and we also run a soft loan scheme in conjunction with a Micro finance Bank. Lagos State has been the yardstick for good governance in Nigeria, how has the House impacted on good governance in the state

As we all know, the money being spent is passed by the Legislators. More importantly, there is a synergy between the Executive and Legislative arms of government and we work as one big family. This explains the successes experienced by both arms of government. Do you believe that the Legislative arm of government has been given its due recognition for the success story of the Gov. BabatundeFasholaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sadministration

Yes, we have been given our due recognition. Moreover, the Governor always applauds and recognises us with every opportunity he gets and the people are also conscious of our efforts. You conduct the plenary session of the House on Thursdays in Yoruba Language, has this helped in anyway

It has revived our dying culture and has pushed other states to start plenary sessions in their mother tongue too. This is a plus for the House of Assembly

and I am not surprised that we were voted as No.1 in Nigeria. How would you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

Personally, I am a close person to him and I see him as my father, boss and an exemplary leader. He has distinguished us from other Assemblies in the country, because we are trained regularly by experts and this edifice came into being courtesy of his pragmatic leadership. Tell us about yourself

I am Hon. Sultan Adeniji-Adele and I represent Amuwo Odofin Constituency 1 in the House of Assembly. I am a Lawyer by profession and the youngest member of any Assembly in Nigeria. This is my first term and I am presently the Vice Chairman, House Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Public Petitions. I am also a member of the Finance, Health and Protocol Committees. Tell us about your family

I am married to Sahadat Omolola and although at first, she was against my political ambition but she has been my pillar. She is a Christian and I am a Muslim and we are expecting our first child soon. Will you be back to the House in 2015

Yes, I am willing to come back, because I have learnt a lot and would love to be given the opportunity to showcase my experiences.

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‘‘Yes, I have been part of some motions and some Bills particularly, the Wealth Creation Bill. The Bill tasks the government with finding temporary jobs for fresh graduates who have been registered as residents of Lagos.’’

104

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105

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LAGOS STATE IS A SUCCESS BECAUSE OF THE HARMONIOUS RELATIONSHIP AMONG THE TIERS OF GOVERNMENT-HON. OMOWUNMI EDET ‘’l can proudly say that, the Lagos Assembly is blessed with competent men and women, who understand why they are in the House and cannot afford to let their people down. We aim for the best all the time, by inviting stakeholders during public hearing in order for them to participate in what we do.’’

here are different categories of people that make the history of a particular generation. Some are like snakes that walk on mountains without leaving marks while others make laudable and monumental. Hon. Omowunmi Olatunji-Edet, an amazon, an astute Legislator in the Lagos State House of Assembly representing Oshodi/Isolo Constituency II was born into the family of Pa Eddo Samuel Olatunji in Lagos Island. Hon. Olatunji-Edet who is married and blessed with three children, has left indelible track records among her generation. She is a Education from the National Teachers Institute, Kaduna and English Language from the Lagos State University, (LASU). In the quest for knowledge and experience that will equip her to-stand the test of time, especially in her career as a Legislator, Hon. Olatunji-Edet has been to so many leadership training programmes in institutions such as, Harvard Kennedy School, United States of America, London Thames Valley University, Slough, United Kingdom, NIM Global Leadership qualification from Harvard Business School, (USA). A two term distinguished Honourable in the State House of Assembly and Chairman, House Committee on Establishment, Training, Pension and Public Service, she is also a member of other Committees which include Public Account (State), Home Affairs and Culture, Physical Planning, Urban Development and Central Business District as well as Health

Service. She is also a one time Chairman, House Committee on Science and Technology and former Board member, Ministry for Youths, Sport and Social Development, Lagos State. For enhancement of qualitative Legislative practice, this amiable Legislature attended various seminars and conferences which include, NSCL Annual Legislative Summit in Abuja, International Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Conference in Nairobi, Kenya, Olive Baden Powell Society in U.K. and a world conference in International Federation of Training and Development Organization, London. Since conviction creates attitude, attitude controls perception and perception dictates behavior, Hon. Olatunji-Edet’s perception about life dictates her behavior to people. No wonder, she is widely described as a woman with a big heart.The source of inspiration found in Hon. Olatunji-Edet is the passion she has for both her job and mankind. Some say she is influential but little do they know that, her type of leadership has the capacity to influence others through inspiration by a vision, produced by a conviction and ignited by a purpose. This has resulted into various political activities, quality representation of the people and enormous community projects which include the following, Youth Empowerment Programme, Soft Loan Scheme for over 314 market men and women, Scholarship Program to not less than 265 Secondary School

Students, Empowerment to the Aged and Widows across her Constituency and Empowerment to the Artisans and small scale business owners. Others include, Relief Transformers to various communities and Community Development Areas in her Constituency, facilitation of construction of roads, drainages and provision of infrastructures across the Constituency which includes James Oni Street Electrification Project, Ago/Okota Round about Traffic Light, Ibeh road, Pako Junction Traffic Light, Ago Palace Way Expansion Project, Ejigbo/Ajao Estate’s Link Bridge and connecting road. A woman with a large heart and a mother that has respect for life,Hon. Olatunji-Edet has facilitated overseas medical attention for two children with hole in the hearts who regained life after successful operations in India. Hon. how will you describe the Legislative assignment

The Constitution is clear about the role of Parliaments and it is the business of law making. In Lagos, we pride ourselves as the leading House in terms of Legislative excellence in the country. We make it a duty to carry people along when making our laws. There are three core duties of the Parliament which range from; good representation, law making and an unbiased oversight. l can proudly say that, the Lagos Assembly is blessed with competent men and women, who understand why they are in the House and cannot afford to let their people 106

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down. We aim for the best all the time, by inviting stakeholders during public hearing in order for them to participate in what we do. There is no law passed by the House that does not have inputs from the public. What have been your contributions to the House

When I came in newly, there was an incident that happened in my Constituency, which brought me to limelight. A little boy was abducted and I raised the matter at the plenary session with a motion which gave birth to the Rapid Response Squad (RRS). The incident was like a wake-up call,that if care is not taken,what is happening in other parts of the country could happen in Lagos. I called the attention of Mr.

Speaker and other members to the matter and the motion received a positive reaction from the Governor, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola. Since then, Lagos has become one of the safest states in the country. That was the third motion in the House of Assembly. Subsequently, I moved the motion on the immortalization of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to keep his name in the memory of Lagosians and it was seconded. I also moved motions on rape, decongestion of Oshodi Bridge and the removal of destitute from the rail track. I also facilitated the Resident Registration Law and the Public Service Staff Development Centre (PSSDC) Amendment Law 2014, then as the Chairman, House Committee on Science and Technology. Which other Bills have you initiated or co-sponsored

I have also co-sponsored the Bill for the physically challenged persons. However, I must let you know that, there are two different types of Bills, the Private Owners Bill and Executive Bill. Most of the Bills that come to the House are Executive Bills and very few are Private Owner Bills. This is due to the cumbersome process of putting a Bill together, like public hearing which requires several publications and the fact that, lot of money is needed to push it through, which may discourage a member from nursing the idea to sponsorany Bill. But for an Executive Bill, it is not so. That is why, I am still battling to have a Personal Bill. But the two bills that I chaired were Executive Bills, the Resident Registration Law and Lagos State Public Service Staff Development Centre (Amendments). The impact of 107

the former is that, we have improved our Institute and the Public Staff Development Centre in Magodo which used to beg for attention, because very few people attended the Center for training but now, we encourage trainin gacross board, since we have the capacity to do so under the new law. The state is definitely better off today in terms of capacity building. What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

Most importantly, as a representative, I thought it wise to have a Constituency office, strategically positioned between Ejigbo and Isolo, giving my people easy access. When we officially opened the office, I invited stakeholders to discuss their priorities on my action list so as to engage with them. This gave me the privilege to appreciate what is more pressing on my Constituentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; need list. In order to properly engage, it has to be a two way communication. I also

started the feedback mechanism, where people give their assessment of some of the projects we are either working on or completed. When I came on board, there used to be a terrible traffic congestion at Cele area, along Mile2/ Oshodi Express way. There was only one major turning at Mile 2 and my Constituents were in constant hardship because we had no other option but to go to Mile2 to make a turn. Although, some other people had made presentations about the same issue before mine, I was able to see it through lobbying and this led to the completion of the Cele Flyover. In addition, Ago Palace Way was nothing to write home aboutbut now construction is on-going. There is also a link Bridge between Ajao and Ejigbo which reduced traffic on Isolo/Mushin road and Osolo way, among other competing Constituencies lobbying to get such projects at their doorsteps. I also helped to facilitate the construction and installation of street light at James Oni street along Kogberegbe area of Isolo as well as the one on Osolo Way. Drainage system between Okafor and Rev Adegoke street and Canal Estate to take care of flooding problem in that community in Okota, I drew the attention of the government to the very recent fire outbreak at Jakande

retail market. Any moment from now, the Governor has directed LASEMA to see to the reconstruction and compensation of the affected shop owners. Through my humble office, I gave out interest-free loans to over 300 market men and women. I built bore-holes water system in Century Market , Jakande Retail Market and SOS Children Village in Isolo. I gave scholarships to students and empowered men and women across the 13 wards in my Constituency. I am actively encouraging the youths by bringing them together during Sports competitions like Football, Table Tennis and Opon-Ayo, all inter-ward. The aged and widows are also not left out. Lagos State has been the yardstick for good governance in Nigeria, how has the Lagos State Houseof Assembly impacted on good governance in the state

The Lagos State House of Assembly with the cooperation of the Executive make laws that Lagosians are proud of and the harmonious relationship between the Executive and Legislative in Lagos has helped to strengthen democracy in the state. Most Executive Bills presented to this House have never suffered any set back since I became a Legislator. We discharge our unbiased oversight

functions across the MDA's of government.The Executive and Legislative arms cannot function in vacuum. They have to work together. Some issues meant for parliamentary siccussion are not to be tabled at plenary depending on its sensitivity. Many things are better handled with a common resolution, to avoid unnecessary aggravated problem. It is important that, we work together for a common goal and the happiness of our people should be the driving force. We work as a family, although sometimes, we disagree but we go about it in a civilized manner. Do you believe that the Legislative arm of government has been given its due recognition for the success story of Gov. Babatunde Fasholaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s administration

Recognition is relative and when the resolution of the House is accorded its desired attention and responsiveness, the Legislature must be seen as a partner in achieving the common goal of good governance. Kudos to the Governor, he is one man that gives the House the recognition it deserves. The new office building we are today, is a plus to this administration and it is befitting, creating a more

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conducive environment for us to work. You conduct the plenary session of the House in Yoruba Language on Thursdays, has this helped in anyway

It has really helped. I have personally improvedand I speak better now. There is a mentality that, you are local when you speak your local dialect. We have been brain- washed and that is the same thing happening to our children today.My kids cannot speak Yoruba Language and I am not happy about that. As a Yoruba lady, my kids should be able to speak Yoruba fluently. One of the Professors in the University of Lagos wrote a letter to the House; challenging us to restore Yoruba Language and in so doing,we will not lose our beautiful culture and tradition to westernization. How will you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

He is a leader that should be respected for his doggedness. He is a man that does not discriminate between male and female members. He appreciates his colleagues, not leaving out anybody including, staff members. He ensures that, we all benefit from the same human capital development. It takes a large heart to do most of the things he does, because he believes in capacity building. He has also transformed this institution, making it the envy of all. He is a visionary leader and focused. My colleagues and I are proud of him. Tell us about yourself My name is Hon. Omowunmi Olatunji Edet and I am the representative of the good people of Oshodi/Isolo Constituency 2 in the Lagos State House of Assembly.I am a native of Akure in Ondo State and had my Primary and Secondary education in St.Matthias and St.Louis Girls Grammar School, respectively in Akure, Ondo State. I graduated from the Bible Faith Training Center with a Diploma in Religious Studies. I also attended the Kaduna Institute of Teachers and later proceeded to the Lagos State University, LASU, where I had my Degree in English Language. I am a Christian, an ordained Pastor, a writer and this is my second term in the Lagos State House of Assembly. Tell us about your family

My parents are from Akure and I am the last born in a family of 9. My Mum is late while my dad turned 91yrs on the 12th of June. He is a retired honest civil servant and a humble gentleman who takes pride in supporting his community. I am happily married and blessed with three children, Praise, Favour and Karis. My family remains my source of joy and I am glad they are well and contributing their quota in the discharge of my duties. Will you be back in 2015

By the special grace of God and the support of my people in Isolo and Ejigbo, Iwish to be back in Alausa come 2015, to continue with the business of lawmaking and championing the cause of my people. 108

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LEGISLATORS ARE MEANT TO BE

WORSHIPPED IN DEMOCRATIC SETTINGS -HON. MOSHOOD OSUN

on. Moshood Osun is a very vocal member of the Lagos State House of Assembly. Articulate, suave and outspoken, Hon. Oshun is also the Chairman of the Committee on Local Government Admmistration and Chieftaincy Affairs.

Sir how would you Legislative assignment

describe

the

Wonderful! It is an opportunity to serve and be there for your people. There are three arms of government in any democratic society and the arm that is well known and most visible is the Executive arm of government. But for me, I think the Legislative arm should be worshipped, because the Legislators come up with the laws that are implemented by the Executive arm. For example, if the Legislative arm comes up with a law that is against the people, that is what the Executive will implement. We see or hear the Governor commissioning roads, houses and other projects, but there will be no way for him to do all these without the Appropriation of funds from the Legislature. So, the first stage is for the Legislative arm to agree with the project. That is the more reason I feel that, we need to let the people know what the Legislative arm does. If we look at it this way, the Legislative

arm is actually the democratic arm of government. If there is a military coup, the only thing that will be taken out is the Legislative arm but others will still remain. So, if we are talking about a democratic government, the Legislative arm is very important. What have been your contributions to the House

We have passed so many Bills and I can tell you that, this is a House where everything brought to the floor are debated seriously. You have to argue your points and for you to represent your Constituency, you need to know the needs of your Constituency. I was the Chairman of the Committee on Transportation and it was under my chairmanship that we passed the LASTMA and transportation laws. These are laws that affect Lagosians indirectly or directly. Without these laws, there will be a break down, that is how important they are. Let us remove them from Lagos road for one day and see what happens. I am sure Lagosians will beg them to come back. One must contribute to every Bill that is discussed in the House but it will not be easy for one member to take credit for it. If someone brings a Bill that does not favour my Constituency, I will argue against it and if it favours 110

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‘‘The simple fact that we have visionary leaders and we are not in a military regime is in truth a dividend of democracy. Now, we can all sit down in front of our houses to relax and criticise the government. I can tell you for real that, I was almost killed in 1993 during the Abacha regime just because about five of us stood somewhere and were discussing the state of the nation, bad government and June 12 riot.’’ my constituency, I might change some things in it but give it support. So, if at the end of the day someone asks me what my contribution was to the bill, would I now be saying that I analysed a Bill or changed some things on some page? It is difficult to itemise what I have done but I know that, I have been a strong member of this House, a strong contributor and a key member that have fought for the stability of the House. Have you sponsored or co-sponsored any motion or Bill

Well, I have been a co-sponsor of many Bills and several motions. The one I love most was the Airtel motion. Few years ago, somebody brought to my attention that, Airtel was sacking about 3000 Nigerians and were bringing in foreigners to replace them. I went to the Speaker, explained to him and we brought it to the floor of the House. At the end of the day, over 3000 Nigerians were re-employed into Airtel with a policy that will enable them to stay for a long time. What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

The simple fact that, we have visionary leaders and we are not in a military regime is in truth a dividend of democracy. Now, we can all sit down in front of our houses to relax and criticise the government. I can tell you for real that, I was almost killed in 1993 during the Abacha regime just because about five of us stood somewhere and were discussing the state of the nation, bad government and June 12 riot. I was almost killed at Ikorodu Road because we were protesting against the annulment of June 12. They shot at us directly. So, the fact that, we are criticising Governor Fashola inspite of his achievements is a dividend of democracy. Secondly, talking about my Constituency, I thank God for what He has done and I thank the people of my Constituency for believing in me. For me to be re-elected, it is a strong faith and belief in me by my people and I appreciate it. I think I have been there for them. I live among them and provide the necessary amenities for 111

them. When there was a robbery attack in my Constituency, I went to the Governor to approve the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) to patrol the area. I have provided over 7 transformers and dug personally over 20 boreholes in my Constituency. I have personally rehabilitated schools and also lobbied the government to rehabilitate some other schools and provide street lights. I have also provided free medical check-up and treatment to the people in my Constituency. We have done this year’s own and I always convene a Town Hall meeting, where I meet with the people and ask them what they want. The free medical was something I started initially by myself. What I do every year is, I bring medical personnel to the Council and they examine the people by checking their blood pressures, sugar levels and eyes. Last year, I gave out glasses to over 400 people and we have treated over 4000 for different illnesses. I have a Widow’s programme covering the 9 Wards and I give widows monthly allowance. Which Wards Constitute Lagos Mainland constituency II

Well, it starts from ward A to G and the areas include, Onike, Abule Ijesha, Alagomejiand Iwaya. Before I came back, I promised them that, the first thing I was going to do was to open a Constituency office, which I did a month after I was sworn in. My Widow’s programme started about three or four months after that and I have been able to facilitate the employment of over 80 youths from my Constituency into different places, including LASTMA and some private and government agencies. What I have been able to do, is to teach my people how to fish and it gives me joy, because at the end of the day, I have taken my people to the next level, because they know that they are going somewhere. I also have some elderly people above 60 years old that I support on a monthly basis. Last year, we supported 250 people from the constituency to start their businesses and bought kits for some artisans. I do not like the word

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‘Empowerment’, because the truth of the matter, people end up selling things they are given or spend the money given to them on a cause different from the one you have in mind. Moreover, people can start a business and refuse to finish it. I will assist you the way I can, if you decide to spend it on beer that is your own wahala and if you decide to use the money productively and multiply the money, that is good. But the only person that can empower us is God and that is the truth. So, the word empowerment is not the word I like using but for me I try to assist in my own little way, so that at the end of the day; I can sleep well in my house. Have you been sleeping very well

Not very well,because election is around the corner (Laughs). Lagos State has been the yard stick for good governance in Nigeria, how has the House of Assembly impacted on that good governance

Governor Fashola is doing a wonderful job, because we are partners in progress. When he brings a Bill, we work on it. There are times we have cancelled our holidays, because he wants a Bill passed. We believe in what he is doing and we also agree with his vision for the State. We make sure that, the people are comfortable and the Bill is for the people. There is no way the Governor would function well without the support of the House of assembly. We work hand in hand. Do you believe that the Legislative arm of government has been given its due recognition for the success story of the Gov. BabatundeFasholaadministration

For now, I will say no. Why

I have never read anywhere in which the success of the Executive arm is attributed to the law passed by the House. The only thing we see or hear is Gov. Fashola commissioning projects but we are responsible for Appropriation of funds for the projects that he has commissioned. If he decides to build a Housing Estate for the poor and we debunk the bill, then we have killed a dream. When projects are implemented, the people need to know that we are the backbone behind those projects. We need to educate our people. You conduct the plenary session of the House in Yoruba Language on Thursdays, has this helped in any way

It has helped very much. I want to say that, we might not know the impact of it now. We have a few people that do not really understand the English language here. The cultural scene in our country is dying because we do not speak our language more often. Number two, what thrills a society is when Cultures are showcased and unfortunately, we are losing that today in Nigeria. Most of the parents now do not speak or teach their children their mother tongue, that is, their native language. The House conducting sessions in Yoruba Language has gone a long way in showing that we need to revamp our culture. When we first started, 40 members of the House struggled with the language because most of us could not even finish a sentence in our mother tongue. Thanks to the training and re-training, we have improved a lot. How would you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

I came in 2007 and the truth of the matter is that, he has done wonderfully well. There is no perfect being though and I believe that, if he can lead 39 other members for this long, then he must be doing something right. He is the longest serving Speaker in Nigeria and he is a man that is open, fair and free amongst us. Tell us about yourself

113

My name is OlarenwajuMoshoodOshun. I represent Lagos Mainland Constituency II in the Lagos State House of Assembly, Alausa, Lagos. I was born into a polygamous family and the last born of the family. I was born and bred in my Constituency, Lagos Mainland, actually AbuleIjesha. I went to Seventh Day Adventist Primary School for my Primary education and St. Finbar’s College, Akoka for my Secondary education. I went to Ogun State College of Education for my National Certificate in Education. Thereafter, I started teaching in 1991. I taught for some time and later went to England to further my education. I went to Westminster University in London for combined honours in Politics and Sociology. After that, I worked with the Prison Services in England. I came back in 2001 to contest for the House of Reps but it did not work out and contested again in 2007 for the

Lagos State House of Assembly which I won and in 2009, I went to the University of Lagos for my Master’s programme in Public and International Affairs. At the moment, I am doing another Master’s Programme in Political Science in the University of Lagos. I was the Chairman of the Committee on Transportation in my first term. I came back in 2011 for the second term and I am now the Chairman of the Committee on Local Government Administration and Chieftaincy Affairs. Tell us about your family

I am happily married with three boys. Will you be back to the House of Assembly in 2015

I am consulting with my people and I leave it in the hands of the Lord. But in 2015, Abuja should be my port of call. It has been a pleasure talking to you

It has been a pleasure talking to you too.

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MY DESIRE IS TO

EMANCIPATE PEOPLE IN MY COMMUNITY -HON. ROTIMI OLOWO

olitician, Pro-democracy activist, Philanthropist and Marketer par excellence, Hon. Rotimi Emmanuel Olowo, attended the Ondo State University, Ado-Ekiti where he graduated as a top of the class student with a Bachelor of Science (B.sc) Degree in Sociology in 1992. He later attended University of Nigeria where he obtained a Master’s Degree in Marketing in 1999. In order to have a well-rounded result oriented career experience, Hon. Olowo moved to the private sector in 1995 where he joined Conoil as a Retail Sales Executive, Enugu. He proved his mettle as an outstanding Marketing Executive at various stages and left the establishment as Area Business Manager, Port Harcourt. Like every visionary man that is capable of discovering his in-built talents and potentials, Hon. Olowo moved to Oando as Divisional Sales Manager, Port Harcourt. As a professional who believes greatly in exhibiting high professional integrity and excellence in all his dealings, he became the Branch Co-ordination Manager (West). He left the organization in 2007. Hon. Olowo’s urge to contribute positively to the society propelled him to venture into Politics and he later contested in April 2007 for Lagos State House of Assembly from Somolu Constituency 1, under the platform of Action Congress (AC) into the Lagos State House of Assembly. He is happily married to a wonderful and beautiful woman, Atinuke Olowo who bore him wonderful children.

Sir how would you describe the Legislative assignment

It can be very tasking. When you talk in terms of representation, you will appreciate the fact that, I represent a community which is called Shomolu and there is a need for me to highlight as well as table the individual and community needs of my people before the House and subsequently, the government through lobbying. We are also involved in law making and we go through many processes before it becomes a law. However, we must evaluate such motion or Bill and look at its pros and cons before debating on it. Most importantly is the fact that, an average Lagosian believes that, we are here to make money. Since we are at the grass root and we are the ones they see every day, the demand is so killing that at times, I find it very difficult to meet their demands. Some of them will come to you and say, ‘I do not have money.’ Some other ones will tell me that,‘your wife has given birth.’ I would be wondering, because I know that my wife is not pregnant. They will say that, their wives are mine too. They also come with other issues like, house rent, funeral ceremony and others. When you add those issues together, your demands will be big. The Legislature could be very tasking and interesting, because I resolved to live within my comfort zone before embracing Politics. I have always thought that if you allow fools and idiots to rule the nation, obviously the learned are the most stupid. When I was growing up, I was very popular in my community. Then, I had a thriving career, becoming the youngest Business Manager in the history of National Oil. I was like ‘John the Baptist’ in my community and was able to assist others. I am from a poor home living in one room with seven other people. Then, the environment was not conducive, because some of my peers did some odd jobs to survive. But for the few of us who thought that, probably we could compete, we did what we can and the rest they say is history. Having gone through this system, having been so exposed, having made it in life, having aspired beyond my expectation and with

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‘’An average Lagosian believes that it is the Executive rather than the Legislature that is working. This infers that we cannot claim any glory in the success of the Governor, yet we are the engine that runs the wheel.’’

all these, there is the need for me to come back. That was the reason I ventured into politics. We should be able to make the difference and right the wrong and probably, if we have some of my peers that are wellread in politics, we will have great Nigerians who are selfless and ready to serve this nation. But it is not easy at all. If you observe the color of my hair, it is almost grey. I have aged faster because of the stress. However, I find it rewarding, because my objective is to emancipate people in my community and make them have better lives. And I will continue doing so. What have been your contributions to the House of Assembly

As a first term member of the House, I have been

very visible and active. I have always been outraged at the issues that crop up between and among landlords and tenants and I championed the Law on Residency. My Committee worked on that law and till today, it has remained a legacy. The population in Lagos is escalating every day and there is an influx of people into the state. We have over 22 million people in Lagos and when you multiply that with accommodation, you will appreciate the fact that, there are lots of gaps. But even at that, that should not make our landlords to be extorting money from their tenants when they can collect three or six months. Issues on infrastructure also bother me and as the Chairman, House Committee on Works and Infrastructure, I told the Commissioner

that development in the state must be evenly distribution. I also did a lot of poverty reduce programmes to alleviate the sufferings of my people. Any other motion or Bills that you have sponsored or cosponsored

There are lots of motions, but I cannot even remember all of them. There was a time we had an issuein Shomolu, where one Divisional Police Officer (DPO) killed one of our residents and I raised a motion preventing the Police from arbitrary use of weapons. The motion states that, drunken policemen on duty with guns should be arrested and prosecuted. There was another motion on rape, stating that, the rapist should be prosecuted by law and he should be treated 116

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like a criminal or murderer. There is a case (in court now) in my community when a girl was gang raped by five guys. Three months later, the girl became sick and by the time she went for medical checkup, she was diagnosed with HIV. It was a painful incident because the lady is from Benue State. I did a lot of things to make sure that the culprits were arrested. What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

My Constituency (Shomolu 1) consists of Palmgrove, Onipanu, Akoka, Fola Agoro and Bajulaiye, Obanikoro and Fadeyi. I have done my best and posterity will testify that I have done so. I have helped the young and the old. I gave N10, 000 to 100 widows and bought Popcorn machines, Dryers and other materials for the youths. I donated 20 tables and 20 chairs as well as exercise books to Primary Schools, including my alma mater. I gave the General Hospital in Shomolu drugs worth N300,000 and I have dug 22 bore holes in my Constituency. I also gave them generators and they are still there, till today. However, the first Poverty Alleviation Programme was a flop because people sold the machines we gave them. The mistake was from me and the next year, I made it mandatory for thebeneficiaries to go on a one year training for those who are interested and paid for their training through their associations in Shomolu. After their training, especially for those who could endure, I gave them (157 beneficiaries), Sewing machines, Hair dressing tools and Clippers. In addition, I gave about N10,000 (each) to 150 widows. I also liaised with Skye Bank to give loans to 84 other people and I was responsible for paying their interests. I am doing all of these because I respect the family institution, which is the basic social institution and the makeup of a nation is the family. Nigeria is restless today and our youths are restless too, because they did not have proper upbringing. If we tackle the family institution, it will not be a major problem in the future. Lagos State has been a yardstick for good governance in Nigeria, how has the House of Assembly impacted on that good governance

There is no law that empowers the Executive to do anything, if it does not emanate from the House of Assembly. Basically, we are the unseen hands that hold the platform, for the masquerade to dance. If the quality of our laws is suspect, then the quality of the development in Lagos State would be suspect. Though, we have a great relationship with the Governor but we are not a rubber stamping House. If you ask the average Nigerian, he will tell you that, the Lagos House of Assembly is not a rubber stamp House. However, we all work hand in hand, the Executive, Judiciary and Legislature. Do you think the Legislative arm has been given its due recognition for the success story of the Gov. Fashola’s administration

An average Lagosian believes that, it is the Executive rather than the Legislature that is working. This infers that we cannot 117

claim any glory in the success of the Governor, yet we are the engine that runs the wheel. Thankfully, the Governor is aware of our impact but the people have not been fair to us and they must be aware that we are also part of the successes of Mr. Governor. How can we achieve that

There is a need for us to do more of enlightenment and re-orientation. I am sure this is one of the objectives of this project. You conduct the plenary session of the House on Thursday in Yoruba Language, has it helped in anyway

It has really helped, because the fact of the matter is that, most of the people living in Lagos State are Yoruba. Yes, we have other tribes in Lagos, but the Yoruba are in the majority and most of them do not understand English Language. The Thursday session affords them the opportunity to watch their representatives on the floor of the House. How will you rate the leadership of Honourable AdeyemiIkuforiji

Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji is a selfless, visionary and institution builder. Selfless in the sense that,he has helped to impact us with both localy and internationaly programes, both the Legislative staff members and members of the House of Assembly. He is a man of few words but he is making giant strides and the peaceful nature of the Lagos State Assembly is a consequence of his unique style of leadership. Tell us more about yourself

My name is Rotimi Olowo and I am a second term member of Lagos State House of Assembly. I represent Shomolu Constituency 1 and I am the Chairman of the House Committee on Works and Infrastructure. I was born in Shomolu 45 years ago. I attended St Peter and Paul Primary School in Shomolu. From there, I went to Igbobi College and I did my ‘A’ Level at CMS Grammar School. I gained admission into the Ondo State University, now University of Ado-Ekiti, where I had Second Class Upper in Sociology. In 1992, I graduated and served at AT and P in Sapele. Thereafter, I came back to Lagos after the service. I joined National Oil, now ConOil as a Sales Representative in 1995, because I was jobless for two years after youth service. From there, I was posted to Enugu as an Assistant Sales Representative. In a space of few years, I became the Area Zonal Manager of Conoil in Port-Harcourt. I left Conoil for Oando in 2004 as the Divisional Sales Manager. Thereafter, I became the Division Manager in PortHarcourt and a year after, I was transferred to Lagos as Branch Coordinator Manager for the East and Western Nigeria. In 2006, I resigned from Oando to join Politics. Tell us about your family

I am a Christian and I am married with two boys and two girls. Will you be back in 2015

Yes, I will back to the House. But it may be the House of Assembly or House of Representatives.

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LAGOS

ASSEMBLY IS SECOND TO NONE

-HON. MOJEED FATAI ADEBOLA

‘’Today in Nigeria, the Lagos State House of Assembly is rated as the best, simply because of the laws we make that have impacted positively on the lives of Lagosians and the rigorous procedures our Bills go through before they become laws.’’ on. Mojeed Fatai assumed office on the 4th of June 2011, as the Honourable member representing Ibeju Lekki Constituency 1 at the Lagos State House of Assembly. He is an Accountant and a visionary leader. He was the Secretary to Ibeju Lekki Local Government before he became a lawmaker. Born in Ibeju Lekki Lagos State, Hon. Fatai hails from Bogije . His educational career started with him passing the First School Leaving Certificate at Roman Catholic Mission Primary School, Bogije, Lagos State in 1985 and the West African School Certificate (W.A.S.C.) in 1991 from Iwerekun Community High School, Lakowe both in Nigeria. He got his first Degree in Accounting from Kwara State Polytechnic in 2001 and his Master’s in Finance from Ladoke Akintola University in 2013. He has attended many conferences and workshops both at home and abroad. Hon. Fatai has enjoyed many academic awards and recognitions. He started his working career in an Insurance firm in Marina, Lagos before he was appointed as the Supervisor for Works in his Local Government. In 2008, he was elevated to the post of the Secretary to Ibeju Lekki Local Government and was elected by the people of Ibeju Lekki Constituency 1 to represent them in the Parliament in 2011.

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Government. In 2008, he was elevated to the post of the Secretary to Ibeju Lekki Local Government and was elected by the people of Ibeju Lekki Constituency 1 to represent them in the Parliament in 2011. He is happily married with children and his Hobbies are Football, Reading and Meeting people. Sir how would you describe the Legislative assignment

It is very interesting to represent your Constituency and secondly, most of us especially the first term Legislators thought it was an easy assignment but it, turned out to be a different ball game entirely. What have been your contributions to the Houseof Assembly

Being a first timer, I am not privileged to chair any House Committee but I am part of different Committees due to my area of specialization which is Accounting and the Committees are House Service (Vice Chairman), Health (member), Public Account (member),Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (member) and Budget review crew. I have been performing my oversight functions excellently. I fervently defend my Constituency on the floor of the House and actively contribute to Bills and motions on the floor. Have you sponsored or cosponsored any motion or Bill and what impact has such had on the society

I have co-sponsored two Bills in the House. The first motion concerned the introduction of new Naira notes and the Cashless Policy as well as the dualisation of Lekki -Epe Express Road. I cosponsored those motions with the Deputy Speaker. On cashless policy, people are to travel with less cash because of the risks involved and that would even make our currency to be more durable. What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

My Constituency comprises Abijoh, Awoyaya, Eputu, Oribanwa, Lakowe, Adeba, Kajola ,Bogije, Mopo, Elerangbe area and others. I can say it without fear of contradiction that, I was the first lawmaker to organize an elaborate Empowerment Programme for people in my Constituency. I distributed machines (Grinding, Sewing and Hairdresser) as well as cash gifts. I also organised an Enlightenment programme on Laasa fever, annual Football competition for the youths ,regular town hall meetings to exchange ideas,plan for the future and to know the areas of needs. I purchase GCE and JAMB forms 119

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regularly for students that intend to continue their education on a regular basis too. I constructed boreholes in some communities like Ibeju ,Arapagi and others. I trained some Constituents on how to make soap,hair, perfume,cap and bag in conjunction with the Asiwaju Grassroot Foundation and Senator Gbenga Ashafa. Some projects were influenced to some communities like Road (Eputu) and relief Transformers to over 25 communities. Lagos State has been the yardstick for good governance in the state, how has the Lagos State House of Assembly impacted on good governance in the state

Today in Nigeria, the Lagos State House of Assembly is rated as the best, simply because of the laws we make that have impacted positively on the lives of Lagosians and the rigorous procedures our Bills go through before they become laws. This is also due to the competent men and women in the House and it is the only State Assembly that is self-

accounting.

Tell us about yourself

Do you believe that the Legislative arm has been given its due recognition for the success story of the Gov. Babatunde Fasholaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s administration

My name is Mojeed Fatai Adebola and I am representing Ibeju Lekki Constituency 1at the Lagos State House of Assembly. I am the Vice Chairman, House Service Committee and this is my first term in the House of Assembly. I was born 41years ago and I attended Roman Catholic School Bogije and Iwerekun Community both in Ibeju Lekki. I have a Higher National Diploma in Accounting and Master in Finance. I am a student member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), an Associate member of Accounting Technician and an Associate of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants. I am happily married and blessed with children.

Yes, I believe that we have been given a lot of recognition and recognition has also won the Lagos State House of Assembly many awards, both locally and internationally. You conduct the plenary session of the House in Yoruba Language on Thursdays, has this helped in anyway

It has helped a lot, because the people that we are representing can follow us and get the messages we are passing clearly. This is due to the fact that 70 per cent of Lagosians are Yorubas. How would you describe the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

He is the first Speaker to spend 10years in the House without crisis. He is a very wonderful man and I believe that he is capable of managing both human and capital resources very well.

Will you be back to the House in 2015

I believe that every step we take in life is destined by God. So, I will leave it to Him, although I would love to return. 120

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THERE IS MORE TO LAW MAKING THAN MEETS THE EYE -HON. MUHIBAT RUFAI-ADEYEMI to the Lagos State University, Ojo, where she bagged her Bachelor of Science Degree in Sociology and later, a Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Degree in Public Administration from the same University in 2003. In addition, the amiable Princess has to her credit a Certificate in Information Technology from the Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education, Oto, Ijanikin and she is also a member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPMN). In April, 2011, Hon. Rufai-Adeyemi contested for a seat in the State Legislature to represent Ojo Constituency 1 and was elected. Until her election to the State House of Assembly, she had served as an Audit Staff in Ojo Local Government, Ojo between 1999-2002 and an Administrative Staff at the AdeniranOgunsanya College of Education, Oto, Ijanikin, Lagos where she rose to the post of an Assistant Registrar. She is happily married and blessed with wonderful children. Hon. Madam how would you describe the Legislative assignment

At first, I thought it was a simple thing but after my time here, I have realized that it is deeper than what we see outside. Aside from law making, Legislative assignment also involves the people and we also perform some oversight functions. It is not a smooth ride and you have to be up and doing to function properly. What have been your contributions to the House of Assembly

So far, I have moved two motions on the floor of on. (Princess) Muhibat Titilola Rufai-

and Alhaja Hamdallah Rufai Ibrahim, Hon. Rufai-

Adeyemi is the second female Legislator to

Adeyemi had her Primary education at St. Michael

represent Ojo Constituency 1 in the history

Anglican School, Ojo, Lagos where she obtained her

of the State Legislature. She is equally one of the

First School Leaving Certificate and proceeded to

seven female Legislators that make up the current 7th

Awori College, Ojo for her Secondary School

Legislative Assembly.

education. She also has a Diploma in Banking and

Born in 1969 to a renowned royal family in Ojo

Finance from the Institute of Management and

Town of Lagos Area to Alhaji Sheikh Ahmed Rufai

Technology, Lagos. Her thirst for knowledge took her

the House.The first had to do with the persistent traffic congestion on the Lagos-Badagry Expressway and the second was an appeal to the State Government to take advantage of the new policy on Power Transmission. Both have been passed. Have you sponsored or co-sponsored a Bill and how it impacted society

As the Vice Chairman, Committee on Home Affairs, Culture and Tourism, we 122

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;The people need to be enlightened on the roles and functions of the Legislative arm, because most of our people do not really know our roles.â&#x20AC;? sponsored a Bill regarding the administration of the holy pilgrimages to both Mecca and Jerusalem. The Bill concerns the Lagos Muslim and Christian Pilgrims Welfare Boards and the essence is to stabilize and give proper direction for these holy pilgrimages. For some years now, we have not had a boards that runs the affairs of the Muslims and Christians during these pilgrimages and we considered it an anomaly. Thankfully, the Bill was passed and gave birth to the 123

body that runs the affairs of both religions now.

Schools in the Constituency, facilitation of admission

What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

of students in the Constituency into Tertiary

My Constituency consists of some parts of Ojo and

(LASU), Ojo (2010/2011 academic session) and the

Iba. Since the inception of this tenure,we have been

Institutions such as the Lagos State University Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education, Ijanikin.

able to achieve the following: construction of an ultra-

In the area of Infrastructure, the following were

modern Ojo 1 constituency office located at Olojo

achieved; construction of water boreholes at Ago

Palace, Ojo Local Government and in the area of

Hausa, Okokomaiko and Alaworo market, Ojo Town. I

Education, we made donations of Laser jet Printers to

also facilitated the construction of Isashi Road,

the Faculty of Social Sciences at the Lagos State

Ajangbadi Afromedia Road (which is under

University, LASU which is my Alma mater for the

construction),

advancement in their educational pursuits.

Ebute/Ojo Jetty as well as the dredging of canals in

I have also engaged in distribution of exercise

Palace/Ikemo

Road

leading

different communities within the Constituency.

books to Primary and Secondary School Pupils and

I also organized Empowerment Programmes for

Students as a relief for the parents, organization of quiz

the Constituents,facilitated employment opportunities

competitions among the Junior and Senior Secondary

for some youths and also distributed some

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transformers. I also provide material, financial and

Yes, it has helped. We still need more of these,

welfare support to youth groups during different

not only in the House but in the entire state as well

festive periods such as Ramadan, Eid-il-Fitri,

because the Yoruba culture is dying. For now, we

Christmas, New Year celebrations and other

have it on Thursdays and it has helped us very well

carnivals. I also provide financial assistance for the

and the House has organised trainings for us.

widows and aged in the Constituency.

How would you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

Lagos State has been the yardstick for good governance in Nigeria, how has the Lagos State House of Assembly impacted on good governance in the state

We have done tremendously well and our

He has done very well, although human beings cannot be perfect. He is one of the few leaders we can brag about and I think it calls for an ovation since he has led the House for a decade now.

impact on good governance in Lagos is enormous.

Tell us about yourself

The Executive cannot definitely do it all alone and

I am Hon. (Mrs.) Muhibat Rufai-Adeyemi and I

we work as a team. We also filter the Bills and

represent Ojo Constituency 1 in the House of

review Budgets for the government.

Assembly. I am a native of Ojo Town and I studied

Do you believe that the Legislative arm has been given its due recognition for the success story of the Gov. Babatunde Fashola administration

Sociology and I also have a Masters in Public

No, because we are seen and not heard and we still need more recognition. The people need to be enlightened on the roles and functions of the Legislative arm, because most of our people do not

Administration and a Diploma in Banking and Finance. I worked briefly in the Local Government before moving to Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education. This is my first term here and I am the Vice Chairman, Committee on Home Affairs, Culture and Tourism.

really know our roles.

Will you be back to the House in 2015

You conduct the plenary session of the House in Yoruba Language on Thursdays, has this helped in anyway

of God.

Yes, I want to return to the House by the grace

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WE ARE THE UNSUNG CHEFS

BEHIND THE

SWEET DISHES IN LAGOS STATE

-HON. LANRE OGUNYEMI IN THE BEGINNING

n a life odyssey is a mixture of one’s bittersweet

experiences

and

various

spectacular achievements, Hon. Olanrewaju

Michael Ogunyemi, JP who was born in 1963, has tasted it all.

IN SEARCH FOR GOLDEN FLEECE From his primary school days, to the pinnacle of academic advancement, Hon. Ogunyemi embraced education as the veritable vehicle with which to prepare himself for greater service to his community, state and humanity. He holds Certificates in Education (English/History) from the then Lagos State College of Education as well as Public Relations from the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations, (NIPR). In continuation, he gained admission into Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, Lagos State, where he obtained the B.A (Hons) Ed. English and a Master’s Degree in International Relations and Strategic Studies.

A CAREER OF QUALITY SERVICE What was immediately obvious about ‘Lanre’ was that, he had a peculiar ability: he enjoys teaching. Hence, he started out as a Teacher at Post Primary Teaching Service Commission, Lagos State.

POLITICS; IN SERVICE OF OJO LGA AND LAGOS STATE In acknowledgment of his role with regards to the progress of Ojo Local Government, Hon. Ogunyemi was appointed Personal Assistant (Administration) to the Council Chairman in 1999; a position he held for less than one year. Unassuming, courageous and dependable, he has handled so many committees, local and state assignments with utmost loyalty credibility and commitment. His captivating brilliance, training and professional practice, as well as inspiring performance have made his outlook stately; and he was able to positively utilize this by serving in different political capacities. He was State Secretary of the vibrant Alliance for Democracy Party from 2000-2003. Before this period, however, 125

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Hon. Ogunyemi served Ojo LGA at the Zone, Ward

Adviser on Political Affairs in the Deputy Governor’s

Ojo LG. Apostle Akin-Aina

and LGA levels as, Member, Social Democratic

office(June 2003- September 2006).

authored “Tinubu Versus Ogunlewe; The Lagos War

in 1999.He also

Party, (SDP), Ward B3, Ojo LGA,(1991-1993),

Hon. Ogunyemi has participated actively in civil

of Attrition” in 2004 and the book, ‘Perseverance,

Publicity Sec., National Centre Party of Nigeria

democratic activities to enthrone and sustain

Service and Loyalty’-The Political Sojourn of Lanre

(NCPN), Ojo Local Govt. (1996-1997), LGA

democracy. He is a member of the Coalition of

Ogunyemi so far, (2013).

Secretary, National Centre Party of Nigeria (NCPN),

Democrats for Electoral Reforms, CODER. In April

COMMUNITY SERVICE

Ojo Local Govt. (1997-1998), Secretary, Afenifere,

2011, Hon. Ogunyemi was the Candidate of Action

He was Chairman, 35th coronation anniversary

Ojo Local Government (Sept. 1998 - May 1999),

Congress of Nigeria for the Lagos State House of

committee for Onijanikin of Ijanikin Kingdom and he

Secretary, Leaders Forum, Alliance for Democracy,

Assembly seat for Ojo Constituency II at the National

is currently the Treasurer, Oba Oloto Central Palace

Ojo Local Gov. (1999-2000), Principal Coordinator,

elections. He emerged victorious and is presently the

Building Committee.

Bola Ahmed Tinubu Campaign Org. (BATCO), Ojo

Honourable Member representing Constituency.

Local Gov. Chapter (1998-2004) and Zonal

He is the Chairman, House Committee on

As Hon. Member, Lagos State House of Assembly, he has empowered youths, assisted the

Leader/Manager, Action Congress Campaigns,

Energy,

Waterfront

aged, widows, students, petty traders, fishermen and

Badagry Division, Lagos State (April 2007 General

Infrastructure. He is also a member of the House

others. Hon.Ogunyemi is happily married to Mrs.

Elections).

Committees on Education, Youth, Sports and Social

Ruth Oluwayemisi and they have children.

At the State scene, Hon. Ogunyemi has proven

Development and Establishment Training and

Sir how will you describe the Legislative Assignment

his capability as an intellectual; serving as a loyal,

Pension Matter.He is a member of the Foursquare

Let me start by saying that, I am a first timer in

competent and reliable trustee and his contributions

Gospel Church in Nigeria and an ordained Deacon of

the House and I must say that it is very challenging

at the State level are remarkable. He is a very

the Church.

and interesting. The challenges are very daunting, but

resourceful and vibrant member of the Lagos State

PUBLICATIONS

they are not insurmountable and it has been a

Mineral

Resources

and

House of Assembly who has proven himself to be a

He co-authored, “The making of a Chairman”, a

worthwhile experience, particularly in the area of

brilliant Legislator. He was a one-time, Special

biography and political piece on former Chairman,

service to the people. All we are trying to do is to 126

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better the welfare of the people and give quality representation to the people, by whose vote we hold

resources to boost the energy sector in the state.

in nature. For example, I have organized vocational

I also contributed a great deal to the Oil and Gas

training for 114 youths, given free eyes glasses for 300

power.

Cooperation

and

Constituents, assisted the widows, given scholarships

What have been your contributions to the House

Appropriation Bill. Regarding the Appropriation Bill,

to students and I have dug about 8 bore holes in various

Without wanting to sound arrogant or self â&#x20AC;&#x201C;

it is virtually impossible for the government to spend

communities in the last three years. I have empowered

praising, I have been a very vibrant member of this

money or carry out its activities without the

fisher men with their tools of trade because my

Assembly. Given my very robust political background,

Appropriation Law. Everybody knows that smoking is

Constituency is about 50 per cent riverine and also

I came into the House with a very rich political

dangerous to health and we are trying to help our

brought government presence to the Constituency. I am

background and I knew what I wanted to do which was

people to help themselves. Some people have also been

very close to the traditional rulers and they update me

and still is to raise the bar of Legislation and to make

known to be second or third party smokers. This is due

on the needs of the people in their communities.

sure that it is better than before. I think I have been

to the activities of some other people who have chosen

Recently, I had a mega-empowerment event and

able to achieve that, but overwhelmingly, I have been

to be indiscreet while smoking. We do not need to

assisted 250 constituents at once. I gave various items

Bill,

Anti

-Smoking

Bill

a cynosure of eyes amongst my members in the House.

endanger the lives of other people, hence the Anti-

out like, Sewing Machines, Hair dryers, Clippers,

It is a rare privilege and I want to believe that, based on

Smoking Law.

Popcorn Machines and other materials, including

my political background, the leadership has chosen to

What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

monetary allocations. I have also donated generators to

I represent Ojo Constituency II with communities

for some of my Constituents with the Lagos State

make me the Chairman of one of its standing

communities and facilitated employment opportunities

committees in the House, even as a first term member. Have you sponsored or co-sponsored any motion or Bill and what have been its impact in the society

like, Ijanikin, Oto-Awori, Ilogbo, Etegbin and the

In the life of this Assembly, I think we have had

riverine town of Irewe, which is home to the former

The state government has done so much for our

close to 30 Bills that have been passed into laws and

Deputy Governor, Princess Sarah Bisi Sosan. We also

people by donating life jackets to our boat operators in

close to 160 motions and I have contributed immensely

have other riverine communities like Egan Oromi,

to all of them. We have had motions on general welfare

Isagira and Esofin. Since I became a Legislator, I have

and I can recollect one which was on the need for the

tried to touch every area in my Constituency. I have

Lagos State has been a yardstick for good governance in Nigeria, how has the Lagos State House of Assembly impacted on good governance in the state

state government to be empowered with enough

engaged in activities of empowerment that are welfare

We are the unsung chefs behind the sweet dishes in

127

government.

the riverine area and establishing mobile clinics.

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‘‘It has, because we are beginning to see the mother language being eroded considerably and we believe that at our own end, we must set exemplary leadership in trying to ensure that we bring it back to the front burner.’’ Lagos State. It is not enough to applaud only Gov. Fashola but to also extend the applause to Asiwaju Bola Tinubu who laid a solid and strong foundation and also, we must commend the House of Assembly that has been very cooperative. However, I must stress that, we have not been a rubber-stamp Legislative House. Apart from Gov. Fashola and his Deputy who are the only elected candidates on the side of the Executive, all of us in the House of Assembly are the true representatives of the people. We know where the shoe pinches and we make critical recommendations, regarding issues affecting our Constituencies to the Executive. I think we have been a very strong back up and we have supported all that the Governor has achieved so far. Do you believe that the Legislative arm has been given its due recognition for the success story of the Gov. Fashola’sadministration

want

believe

have

co-existed

harmoniously and I want to say that, there is so much synergy in the overwhelming interests of our people. I must also commend the Fashola administration because the Governor particularly has allowed the Legislature to thrive. Yes, we have been given our due recognition. You conduct the plenary session of the House on Thursdays in Yoruba Language, has this helped in anyway

It has, because we are beginning to see the mother language being eroded considerably and we believe that at our own end, we must set exemplary leadership in trying to ensure that we bring it back to the front burner. I think that has helped tremendously because we want to encourage our people and also give our own language the pride of place it deserves. How would you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Kuforiji

Wonderful,because his experience has really

Teacher and a Public Relations person. I worked for

Tell us about your family

Asiwaju Bola Tinubu when he contested for the

My wife Ruth Oluwayemisi and I have been

business and some of us have learnt so much under his

Governorship position in Lagos State in 1998 and

married for 20 years and we are blessed with children.

leadership. He has opened up the template and has

2003 alongside Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola then.

elevated all of us, including our staff members. That

Between 2007 and 2011, I ran political errands for our

is why today, we pride ourselves as the House of

party. In 2011, I aspired to be a member of the House

I wish to be back, and do hope that the party will

Legislature that is above the common standard of

of Representatives but the party gave me the ticket to

give me the ticket again. However, I know that I have

excellence and the pathfinder to Africa’s Legislature

vie for the House of Assembly and today, I am the

been a worthy Ambassador in the past three years for

and indeed the best in Nigeria.

Chairman, Committee on Energy, Mineral Resources

the party and my people, and I am sure the party

Tell us about yourself

and Water Infrastructure at the Lagos State House of

would consider my request to continue serving it and

Assembly.

the Constituency in the House in 2015.

counted for him. He is very vast in the Legislative

My name is Lanre Ogunyemi. I am a Politician,

Will you be back to the House in 2015

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BEING A

LEGISLATOR IS TOUGH BUT INTERESTING -HON. IBRAHIM LAYODE

on. Ibrahim Olanrewaju Layode was born into the Muslim family of Alhaji Usman A. Layode and

Madam Falilat Layode at Layode compound

in Awhanjigoh Quarters, Badagry, Lagos State around three and half decades ago. As a result of his affluent background, Hon. Layode started his childhood education at Florida Day Nursery and Tolulope Nursery School, (the first set of Nursery Schools in Badagry). Thereafter, he was enrolled into Muslim

Primary School, Badagry where he

obtained his First Leaving Certificate in 1983, automatically paving way for his Secondary School education at Ansa-Ud-Deen Grammar School, Badagry, where he obtained his West African School Certificate (WASC) in 1989 and General Certificate Education (GCE). His determination to acquire valuable work experience saw him work briefly as a Clerical Officer at Timmy Jacks Wood Work, Ajara Badagry before he secured an admission into Lagos State College of Education, Otto-Ijanikin (now

Adeniran

Ogunsanya

College

Education) for the 1994/95 session. He graduated in the 1997/98 session as a trained and qualified Teacher in Education, Social Studies and Islamic Religion Knowledge. Hon. Layode believes that education offers a fine tunnel to the development of any individual as well as development of the macro economy of the Nigerian nation.This was what made him to enrol at the Lagos State University,Ojo for his Degree Programme. His desire to make most of the opportunity saw him graduating with a Bachelor of Arts, Honours Degree in Islamic and Religious Studies. He is a member of several bodies and associations including, Ansar-Ud-deen Society of Nigeria (Badagry Branch), Muslim Studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Society

Nigeria

(MSSN),

National

Association of Badagry Students, Abe-Igi Social Club of Nigeria (Badagry Branch), Youth Wing Movement under Zero Party, Awhanjigoh Zone, Ward 2, Badagryand National Association of Badagry Divisional Youth Movement. Hon. Layode is the Chairman, House Committee on Agriculture, Co-operatives and Rural Development. He is also a member, House Committees on Home Affairs 129

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130

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and

empowers communities to create their

Intergovernmental Relations, Energy,

own Community Police. It was passed

and

Culture,

Tourism

Mineral Resources and Waterfront Infrastructure Development. A holder of

Master

Degree

Administration,

Hon.

Public

Layode

happily married to his darling wife, Mrs.Aishat Adefunke Layode (nee Akran) and they are blessed with children. How would you describe the Legislative assignment

It is tough but interesting and weird at times, since most people assume we share same responsibilities with the Executive. Our core responsibilities are to make laws and oversee governmental

activities

avoid

Asides this CDA law, I moved a motion that confers some independence on the Lagos State College of Education but it failed due to some challenges. I also moved another one on rural development to give out transformers to the communities. What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

My Constituency consists of Badagry,

Seme Border, Owode

wastage of resources.

Border, Badagry Town and some other

What have been your contributions to the House of Assembly

communities. I have assisted the

initiated

the

Community

Development Association (CDA) Law that encourages communities to form associations on their own and be independent. When they come together to help themselves, then, Lagos State can also assist them. 131

in 2009 and we amended it this year. Have you sponsored or co-sponsored a motion or Bill and how has it impacted on the society

The law also

people materially and monetarily. In addition, I have helped to restore electricity to many areas, provided water facilities and I have been buying GCE forms for students on a yearly basis. Lagos State has been the yardstick for governance in Nigeria, how has the

Issue 119-168C_Issue 130 B.qxd 17-Feb-15 5:46 PM Page 14

‘’Some people also come here on Thursdays and they see that we are always on our toes. Moreover, we are also elevating our language, our culture and traditions.’’ Lagos State House of Assembly impacted on good governance in the state

There is a Yoruba proverb that says that, the head cannot stand without the neck. We are behind the success story of Gov. Fashola because we discharge our duties appropriately. We also work expeditiously on the Budget and there is no slow movement in the state. We are a big family and we are happy about that. Do you believe that the Legislative arm has been given its due recognition for the success story of the Gov. BabatundeFashola’sadministration

The military mentality is still amongst the people because they find it hard to give praise to the Legislators. The Parliament is always dissolved whenever the military strikes and people are just getting used to the Legislative arm of government. However, we need to educate

the

people

about

the

importance of Legislature. You conduct the plenary session of the House in Yoruba Language on Thursdays, has this helped in anyway

It has helped in a long way because, most of the people in my Constituency are happy that they can follow the proceedings of the House. Some people also come here on Thursdays and they see that we are always on our toes. Moreover, we are also elevating our language, our culture and tradition. How would you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

He is one of the best Speakers in the nation because he has lasted almost 10 years now and a person of incompetence could not have lasted that long. Tell us about yourself

I am Hon. Olarenwaju Ibrahim Layode and I am a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, representing Badagry Constituency 1. I am the Chairman, House Committee on Agriculture, Cooperatives and Rural Development and this is my second term. Tell us about your family.

I was born and bred in Badagry and I am married with children. Will you be back to the House in 2015

Yes, I believe I am coming back in 2015 with the help of my Constituents and God. 132

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PLENARY SESSIONS IN YORUBA LANGUAGE IS A BLESSING TO THE HOUSE -HON. OLUMUYIWA JIMOH

on. Olumuyiwa Wahab Jimoh is the best described as an activist-Legislator in the Lagos Sate House of Assembly. Gifted with the talent of oratory, Hon. Jimoh never fails to pass his message on the floor of the house. Born in the Badia-Ijora area of Lagos State to the family of Late Ahaji M.O. Jimoh. Hon. Jimoh commenced his Primary education career at St. Theresa’s Catholic Primary School, Apapa from where he obtained his First School Leaving Certificate. For his Secondary School education, he attended Tin Can Island High School. In his usual insatiable quest for knowledge, he sought and got admitted into 133

Nigeria’s premier and most prestigious citadel of higher learning, the University of Ibadan (UI) for a Bachelor of Arts Honours Degree (B.A.Hons.). In 2011, he secured admission into the University of Lagos, Akoka for a Masters of Philosophy programme which is still in view. Hon. Jimoh was a dedicated participant in progressive organizations and the National Association of Nigerian Students. At the University of Ibadan, he showed exemplary leadership qualities. He has a very extensive knowledge of Nigerian politics as well a strong network with the civil society, both nationally and internationally. He belongs to a generation of young

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Africanists in Nigeria whose energy and sacrifice were the driving force of the prodemocracy movement. He had worked in various capacities before his election into the Legislative arm of government in Lagos State. Some of the appointments he held include, Volunteer, Community EducatorCentre for Constitutional Governance (C.C.G.) 20002002, Examination Invigilating OfficerLagos State University, School of Part-time Studies, Ikoyi Campus, Personnel Manager, Good Intentions Services Limited, Apapa and Lagos State Coordinator Citizens Forum for Constitutional Reforms (C.F.C.R.). He was elected a Legislator at the Lagos State House of Assembly, Alausa, Lagos in 2011. He participated actively in political work activities right from the grassroots and this had always endeared him to his Constituency. Some of these political work activities include, Field Officer, Alliance for Democracy (AD), Member, Coordinating Committee of Bola Ahmed Tinubu Campaign Organization (BATCO) Apapa Local Government, Research Assistant, Directorate of Research, Planning and Strategy, Independent Campaign Group (ICG) and Action Congress Technical Facilitator, Apapa Local Government for the 2007 General Election. He is a member of various organizations and learned societies notably amongst which are Campaign for Democracy (CD), Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) and Nigeria Collective Council (NCC), amongst others. For his meritorious service and diligence in the execution of his duties and responsibilities, he was awarded different certificates of excellence, including Certificate of Meritorious service as Deputy Speaker Student Representative Council towards the upliftment of University of Ibadan and Certificate of Meritorious service by Nnamdi Awolowo Hall as Distinguished Union Leader of University of Ibadan. He enjoys travelling, reading and listening to music and he is happily married to Mrs. Olawunmi Jimoh. They are blessed with two lovely children. Sir how will you describe your Legislative assignment

I acknowledge that there are three tiers of government, the Executive, Judiciary and Legislative arms. Among these three tiers of government, it is the Legislative arm that gives lives to the other tiers of government, because policy formulation emanates from the Legislative arm of government. In the philosophy of world history and State as an institution, it is the law that emanates from the Legislative arm that the Judiciary will make use of and the Executive cannot perform any function without the appropriate laws being passed by the Legislative arm. What have been your contributions to the Lagos State House of Assembly

As a first term member, I have participated in virtually all debates, Committee works, including deliberations on 134

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petitions and resolutions. My activities as a Lawmaker in the Lagos State House of Assembly have been profiled in some Nigerian newspapers. Have you initiated any Bill

I am one of the initiators of the Child Rights and Gender Equality Bill and it has passed the secondary reading. It is crucial for every member of the House to take active interest in the passage of any Bill on the floor of the House; regardless of the fact that, you the one initiating the Bill or not. One important thing is that, as a member of the House, you need to lobby other members to see the merits in any Bill you are initiating or supporting. If eventually the bill on Child Rights and Gender Equality is passed into law, what impact will it have on the society The Bill will glaringly demonstrate that we are sensitive to gender issue in this part of the world. Even aside the Berlin Conference which people are talking about, the Yoruba traditional setting recognizes that Oba cannot take a decision without the representative of the women which is the Iyalode. She has to be on seat too just like the Otunba and others. It is good to reinforce the fact that gender equality has been part of the African or Yoruba traditional setting before colonialism. What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have your Constituents been able to reap the dividends of democracy

I have a functional Constituent office where empowerment activities are coordinated for the benefit of the communities and stakeholders. We have trained over 420 students in Computer training and we also have an annual Football competition. We have also constructed eight boreholes in my Constituency and we have made it a responsibility to train the youths and students annually. Very soon, some of our students will be going to Kwame Nkrumah Institute in Ghana for additional training in youth development. There are others in the pipeline. I have also facilitated the provision of five transformers in Apapa Constituency II and sponsored youths from my Constituency to participate in a month long Development and Leadership Training for Youths organized by Social Action in PortHarcourt. I sunk Borehole Water Projects in Amusu, Makanjuola, Marine Beach,Ashimi Lane and Abule and also provided security during Oke-Oja youth unrest.Ialso organized Football Career Counseling for footballers within the Constituency. I have also sponsored other skills acquisition and vocational training programmes for my Constituents. Lagos State has been the yardstick for good governance in Nigeria, how has the House of Assembly impacted on the good governance in the state

All the works of the Executive emanate from the House of Assembly whose major interest is to ensure that the Governor achieves his mandate and the manifestoes of our party. So, the House of Assembly has a symbiotic relationship with the Executive. 135

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The Legislative arm of the government passes Bills, approves the Budget and makes sure that the policy and projects implementation is effective through oversight functions in ministries, departments and agencies. Do you believe that the Legislative arm has been given its due recognition for the success story of the Gov. Babatunde Fashola’s administration

Yes indeed! The Governor is considerate, factual and more importantly, a democrat par excellence. As the Governor will always say, ‘The reward for hard work is more hard work’. We still have a long way to go because our democracy is still evolving and emerging. There is no doubt that Lagos State is a

reference point to other states in the federation. But I am of strong conviction we can still surpass much more than the successes already achieved. My take about Lagos is that, we have left Egypt but still need to do so much more to reach the promiseland. With continued support and cooperation of the good people of Lagos State, the momentum of progress and development would be irreversible. You conduct the plenary session of the House in Yoruba Language on Thursdays, has this helped in any way

In the history of the world, the population of Norwegians, Normans and Swedish are less than the Yoruba race. Yoruba is over 34 million by conservative estimation but the Norwegians are 9 million and they communicate in their mother tongue. Our language must not be allowed to go into extinction, all in the

name of modernization. Other states in Nigeria should be encouraged to toe the line of the Lagos State House of Assembly in this regard. The conduct of the House plenary in local language on Thursdays has been of tremendous assistance in helping us appreciate the depth of the richness of Yoruba Language and in making ample representations on behalf of our Constituencies in a factual; no-hold-barred manner. Since we started doing that, I speak better Yoruba Language than before. I am not saying that, people should not be versatile in other languages, but at the same time, we must cherish and protect the sanctity of our language.

How will you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Kuforiji has taken the Lagos State House of Assembly to a greater height in the areas of Legislative activities as well as administration of the Lagos State House of Assembly. The construction of the new edifice replacing the one constructed during the time of Alhaji Lateef Jakande administration is one unique testament of the tenure of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji. Our offices are now very comfortable and there is no doubt that, we need someone that will continue from where he is stopping, especially on capacity building vis a vis training and retraining of Honourable members and staff members. Tell us about yourself

My name is Olumuyiwa Wahab Jimoh. I am a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly

representing Apapa constituency 11, which comprises Badiya, Ijora, Sari -Iganmu, some parts of Orile Iganmu and Marine Beach. I was born in Apapa. I attended St. Theresa’s Primary School in Apapa and Tin Can Island High School, Tolu. I studied Philosophy at the University of Ibadan. During my undergraduate days, I belonged to the Generation of Young Africanists which was a prodemocracy movement in Nigeria. Over the years, I have worked with some human right and prodemocracy organizations as a volunteer. These organizations include Committee for Defence of Human Right (CDHR) and Campaign for Democracy

(CD), amongst others. This is my first term in the Lagos State House of Assembly and I am the Vice Chairman of the committee of Local Government Administration and Chieftaincy Affairs in the House. Will you be back to the House in 2015

God is the ultimate decider of what happens tomorrow. But of course, I will be willing to have another opportunity to contribute to good governance in Lagos State through the Legislative arm of government. I am willing and eager to bring my Legislative experience into bear in the next dispensation. This is because Legislative work demands experience and experience is the best teacher. Legislative work is not written in any book and with my knowledge in Philosophy, we need to learn it practically. 136

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MY ENTRY INTO THE HOUSE WAS BY PROVIDENCE -HON. KAZEEM ALIMI

on. Kazeem Ademila Alimi excelled in the civil service before offering himself for the service of his people. Hon. Alimi become a member of the house, he has distinguished himself. He was educated at Moba Community Primary School, Lagos, where he obtained his First School Leaving Certificate in 1980 and Government College, Maroko, Lagos, where he obtained his West Africa Secondary School Certificate in 1985. In 2000, Hon. Alimi bagged his Bachelor of Science in Economics from the Lagos State University, Ojo and he also holds other professional certificate, such as AAT and ACIT. In 2011, Hon. Alimi contested for a seat in the State Legislature to represent Eti â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Osa Constituency 1 under the aegis of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and was successfully elected. A Muslim by faith, Hon. Alimi is married to Mrs. Adijat Modupe Ogungbo-Alimi and they have two children. Sir how would you describe the Legislative assignment This is my first term and as such, I am still relatively a learner. Honestly, I am one of those who attends plenary sittings regularly. I have moved two motions under matters of urgent public importance. The first had to do with Ocean surge at Alfa Beac laimed two lives of school children and several wounded. The resolutions on these motions were unanimously passed by the House. I wish to state that, while the State Government is soliciting the support of 137

the Federal Government on how to tackle the surge, work has commenced on the five pedestrian bridges along Eti-Osa-Epe Highway. I support motions and also contribute to adoption of some Committee reports. I can boldly tell you that, we have brilliant lawmakers in this House of Assembly. What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy Let me take you back a little. I was once a Civil Servant and started my civil service career with the Lagos State House of Assembly in 1992 as a Clerical Officer and later changed to Account Officer. I worked with the then Speaker of the House, Hon.(Engr.) Abayomi Kiyomi. This office gave me an opportunity to be closer to most of the Honourable members. During this period, there was an issue regarding the demolition of my community called Moba alongside other communities by the Government in 1984. This issue was on for years. Immediately I realised that I could make use of the House to achieve our goal, I quickly used the opportunity. I approached the Chairman, House Committee on Land and Housing who assisted us and we were eventually compensated. This was an opener for other displaced communities. They came to me for support on how they too would be compensated. With the support of Almighty Allah, this was achieved. Consequently, I was approached to vie for the position of a member of the State House of Assembly. So, my entry into the House was by providence, I did not plan to become one at all but I am

glad they approached me to render selfless service to them. Initially, I did not want to consider this call because I was building my career in the civil service. But sometime in December 2006, an uncle told me to contest for the position of State House of Assembly. He said I stood a chance because, the incumbent was moving to the House of Representatives. That was the beginning of the march. We started campaigning until we were told that the incumbent would have to stay back. In 2010, I contested and was given the ticket. I have been useful to my Constituency and my Constituents have been useful to me too. You will agree with me that our function is mainly to make law, but I was able to facilitate the construction of Ado-Langbasa, Ilasan- Iroko Awe roads, the Child Ward of Eti â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Osa General Hospital which is about 95 per cent completed and installation of six 500KVA transformers. I purchase GCE & JAMB forms for indigent students on a regular basis within the Constituency. I also organized medical screening and we treated cases like Diabetes, Hypertension and gave out eye glasses to some people. Items such as Barbing kits, Hair Drier, Sewing machine, Popcorn machines, Generators and Grinding Machines were distributed during my Empowerment Programme. I must confess that, it is a very challenging task. My Constituency is one of the biggest with 13 Wards. Lagos State has been the yardstick for good governance, how has the Lagos House of Assembly impacted on the good governance in the state

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‘‘It is not easy leading 39 members who represent about 21million people in Lagos State and for a man to have spent about a decade doing that, he must be an extraordinary person.’’ If you look at the Governor of the State, he is determined and hardworking. As such, the Assembly has no choice than to support him in every step he takes to make Lagos a Centre of Excellence. That way, we are contributing to good governance in the state. Do you believe that the Legislative arm of government has been given its due recognition for the success story of the Gov. Fashola’s administration Yes. The Governor cannot do it alone, hence our support is also needed for him to excel. His administration’s success is as a result of good laws made by the House, so we are appreciated from time to time. You conduct the plenary session of the House in Yoruba Language on Thursdays, has this helped in anyway Yes, it has helped greatly. Some of our Constituents that do not understand English Language come on Thursdays for proceedings and since our sessions are televised, they take part in the session. How would you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

It is not easy leading 39 members who represent about 21million people in Lagos State and for a man to have spent about a decade doing that, he must be an extraordinary person. He is a good leader and has been a blessing to the House. Tell us about yourself My name is Hon. Kazeem Alimi and I represent Eti-Osa Constituency 1. I started working with Lagos State as a civil servant in 1992. I was born to the family of late Alhaji Rafiu and Alhaja Hafsat Alimi. I attended Moba Primary School in Eti-Osa and Government College, Maroko and I studied Economics at the Lagos State University. I am the Vice Chairman, Public Accounts Committee of the State. A Muslim by religion,I am married with children. Will you be back to the House in 2015 I wish to come back, since this is my first term and I want to acquire more knowledge and experience about law making. But, I will leave the decision to the Almighty Allah, my party and my Constituents. 138

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‘‘During this period, there was an issue regarding the demolition of my community called Moba alongside other communities by the Government in 1984. This issue was on for years. Immediately, I realised that I could make use of the House to achieve our goal, I quickly used the opportunity. I approached the Chairman, House Committee on Land and Housing who assisted us and we were eventually compensated.’’

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BUDGET IS AN IMPORTANT INGREDIENT IN THE HOUSE

-HON. OLAYINKA OGUNDIMU

on. Oluyinka Ogundimu, a Management Accountant, erudite Marketer and international Consultant always celebrates his birthday every 7th of December, Hon. Ogundimu started his early education at Ahmed Memorial Primary School, Agege, which he successfully completed. A devoted Christian, he attended Vetland Grammar School, Agege for his secondary education which he completed in 1984. He later proceeded to the Lagos State Polytechnic for his Ordinary National Diploma (OND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) in Business Administration and Management between 1990

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and 1992 He enrolled for his Post Graduate Diploma in Economics (PGD) at the Lagos State University Ojo, and upon graduation in 2006, he proceeded for his Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in Business Administration (MBA) at the same University, which he successfully completed in 2008. Hon. Ogundimu is a member of the Nigeria Institute of Marketing, Associate Member Nigeria Institute of Management and Associate Member, Institute of Chartered Management Accountants. He served as a consultant to many companies before going into Politics at Alimosho Local Government Area. He started his political career

from National Republic Convention, in Ward E. He contested for Councillorship election before his appointment as the Secretary to Local Government Education Authority in Alimosho Local Government Area between 1993 and 1995. He later ventured into Business and Consultancy Service, when he established and became the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of YBI Venture and YBI Davids Nig. Ltd. Lagos, from 1995 to 2010. He came back into Politics in Agege, when he became an active member of Alliance for Democracy (AD) and later, Action Congress (AC) which metamorphosed into Action Congress of

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‘’Budget processing and approval is a very important ingredient in the House, because we must create realistic Budgets to avoid wastages. If we have been able to scrutinize how money is spent to reduce wastage and come up with realistic Budgets, the result we get is performance. ‘’

It is very tasking and challenging. It requires a lot of experience, training and retraining. Have you sponsored any motion or Bill in the House

I have sponsored many motions, but I co- sponsored the Traffic Bill under Transportation, because I am a member of the

Committee on Transportation, Commerce and Industry. It was very tasking, because we travelled round almost the state and met different stakeholders before coming up with the restricted areas for motorbike riders. We agreed and disagreed on some areas, but at the end of the day, the Bill became a success, because almost everybody feels its impact and incidents of motorbike accidents have reduced. What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of

Nigeria (ACN), and later morphed into All Progressives Congress (APC). Hon. Ogundimu has received various commendation and awards for his commitment and dedication to duty, and more importantly, for his selfless service to his father land. He was awarded Certificate of Honour by Agege L.G.E.A, Role Model Award by State Junior High School, Agege and Distinguished Merit Award by OrileAgege L.C.D.A. Community Development Committee (CDC). His other awards include, Merit Award by Agege L.G.A. Community Development Committee (CDC), Merit Award for the Grassroots Sport Development by Golden Picture Communication and Award of Excellence for Youth Development Services by LASU Student Representative Council. Hon. Ogundimu’s love for Football made him to sponsor a Football Competition in Agege Environs called Olugbala Soccer Competition. He is happily married to Abosede Ogundimu, a Banker and blessed with two wonderful kids. How will you describe the Legislative assignment

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democracy

Barely two months that I came into the House of Assembly, there was a flood which really affected the people in my Constituency. I bought foams for them to sleep on and they really appreciated it, as a temporary measure. I also provided wheel chairs and crutches for the physically challenged, because I believe that, if someone is physically challenged, it does not mean that the person must be a beggar. As we all know, the world has become a global village, I also provided Computers to some Primary schools in my Constituency to facilitate their learning. I also supported the governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s free education system at Primary school level by providing writing materials to most Primary schools within my Constituency. I have also facilitated the rehabilitation of some dilapidated schools and construction of some bad roads. I have also facilitated the construction of a Maternity Home and many other developmental projects. Lagos State has been the yardstick for good governance in Nigeria, how has the House of Assembly impacted on good governance in the state

In the Lagos State House of Assembly, we are constantly exposed to training and re-training and the only instrument that we have at our disposal to make impact on the people in Lagos is through law making. Budget processing and approval is a very important ingredient in the House, because we must create realistic Budgets to avoid wastages. If we have been able to scrutinize how money is spent to reduce wastage and come up with realistic Budgets, the result we get is performance. Do you believe that the Legislative arm of government has been given its due recognition for the success story of the Gov. Babatunde Fashola administration

We have not been given our due recognition, because only a few people actually know what we are doing here. It is like, we are at the background. Although,the Governor always says it anywhere he goes that, if not for the Legislature , we will not have been able to achieve this and that. He is always quick to inform the people that, projects are executed because law makers have appropriated funds for such projects. You conduct the plenary session of the House in Yoruba language on Thursdays, has this helped in anyway

Yes, it has really drawn the attention of our people, especially illiterates who have always seen

Thursdays as their day. We have been able to carry them along and we have been getting feedback from them and this shows that we have an audience that is following us on the Television. So,it has helped and I believe that we can still do more. How will you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

As an insider, I will tell you that, he is a great leader that does not care what will take him to really get us trained. He has ensured that both the new and old members are on the same page. If you really have interest in the business of law making, the sky will be too small to be your limit, because you will be exposed to local training and comparative lawmaking system throughout the world. Coordinating 39 people in this House is not an easy job. Sometimes, we have disagreements in the House but he will make sure that he reconciles everybody. Tell us about yourself

My name is Hon. Oluyinka Ogundinmu and I am a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly. I represent Agege Constituency 11. I was born in Agege and had my Primary Education at Ahmed Memorial Primary School and my Secondary Education at Lagos Baptist Secondary School before finishing at Vet -Land Grammar School, Agege. I had my tertiary education at the Lagos State Polytechnic where I studied Business Administration and Lagos State University,(LASU) for my Post Graduate Diploma in Economics as well as my Master in Business Administration in the same University. I worked for a long period, as a Management Consultant for most of the Local Governments before I eventually joined Politics and showed my interest in the House of Assembly about four years ago. This is my first term and I am the Vice Chairman of the Committee of Finance in the Lagos State House of Assembly and I belong to some other Committees. Tell us about your family

I am happily married with children. Will you be back in 2015

It depends on God and my people. If they are interested in what I have done, they will vote for me. But personally, I wish to be back. I am very sure that I will return to the House with what I have done for my people. 144

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COLLABORATION AND COOPERATION OF LEGISLATORS ARE PREREQUISITES FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE IN A STATE -HON. ABIODUN TOBUN

respected indigene of Epe, Lagos State, Hon. Mustain Abiodun Tobunwas obtained his Primary School Certificate in 1976 at St. Theresa Primary School, Epe and later joined Epe Grammar School for his Secondary School in1982. He graduated from Lagos State Polytechnic, Ikorodu where he studied Agric. Economics and Extension Management with Upper Credit division in 1990. He later joined Lagos State University, Ojo for his Master in Business Administration specializing in Human Resources Management and Master’s in Legal Studies (MLS) between 1998 and 2003. Hon. Tobun has worked at the Local Government Service Commission, Igando-Ikotun Local Council Development Area(LCDA) and Alimosho Local Government, Ikotun, rising to the level of Head of Department, Agric., Rural and Social Development between 1991 and 2010. Married with children, he later retired and joined active politics. Since 2011, he has been serving asa a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly and he is also the Chairman, House Committee on Environment.

Hon. Sir, how will you describe the Legislative assignment

It is interesting, challenging and provoking. You need to be up and doing for you to be able to contribute meaningfully to the House and make good laws for the 145

people of Lagos State. What have been your contributions to the House

I have been engaging in meaningful contributions and debates on the floor of the House. As the Chairman, House Committee on Environment, I have a major responsibility and that is to make sure that the MDA’s we supervise perform creditably by ensuring that Lagos State is sanitized. We also perform oversight functions and make sure that the Budget proposal, especially from the Ministry of Environment is properly looked into and that money appropriated is judiciously utilized for the good people of Lagos State. We also move motions, support motions and sponsor Bills when necessary. Have you sponsored or co-sponsored any Bill

Yes, I sponsored the Constituency Engagement Bill and also co-sponsored so many other Bills. The Tobacco Smoking Bill was committed to our Committee on Environment from the second stage to the passage of the Bill and eventual assent by the Governor. I am also the prime mover of the motion on the Dualisation of the Lekki/Epe Expressway (IbejuEpe Axis). What is the difference between a Bill and motion

Bills become laws as soon as all procedures are followed to the latter while motions are to regulate

happenings in the society by drawing the attention of the Executive to it. There are also procedural motions in the Parliament. A Bill passes through many stages, the first reading, second reading and committee stage. At the committee stage, we organize a public hearing and at the report stage, the committee presents its report before the whole House for deliberation and passage. At the third reading, you only dot the i’s and cross the t’s before it is sent to the Governor for assent and it becomes a law. What impact has the Tobacco Bill had on the people

Naturally, people should know that, laws are meant for us and they should accept it without being forced to do it. The carefree attitude of our people by smoking recklessly has been reduced drastically. It is an indication that you cannot smoke where non-smokers are because you cannot use your enjoyment to affect the health of others. In short, it has helped to regulate smoking in our society. What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

Epe Constituency 1 comprises Epe Central and the riverine areas which are delineated into 9 wards. The contributions are in two folds, one is personal and the other is dividends attracted to the Constituency

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from the government. The personal ones are numerous, spreading across, and including the provision of free eye care services. So far, we have screened 5000 patients and provided 1000 free eye glasses to people with eye challenges. We equally carried out free surgeries for 500 patients that are suffering from glaucoma and cataract. I have done three Empowerment programmes and at the first one, I trained people in trade and provided working tools for 250 people and also trained about 220 people. During the second programme and we also provided working tools like Grinding machines, Sewing machines, Computer, Oven, Microwaves, Hairdryer and a lot of equipment. At the third empowerment programme, equipment which includes; Hardboard Engines for Fishermen was given out. I have dug about 12 boreholes powered with generators in various parts of the Constituency. I also distributed Computers and Laptops for about 120 youths and trained them on Computer Application. I also bought some GCE forms and writing materials for the students and equally sponsored some youths by giving them scholarships in form of tuition fees. Some of the roads in Epe are now motorable like, Oba Animashaun, Shade Aiyetoro, Uraka, Kasali Oluwo, Ojude-iga, Tiye road etc. I also influenced the provision of some transformers to communities like Mosalashi area, Tiye community, Ajegunle area, Ebute-afuye etc. The electrification of Oriba community is on-going and I also fenced some schools. The ones that gladden my heart most, are the General Hospital and Amazing Mother and Child Centre. Lagos State has been the yardstick for good governance in Nigeria, how has the House impacted on good governance in Lagos State

Without the cooperation and collaboration of the House of Assembly, there will not be good governance in the state. If we reject Bills and proposals arbitrarily and do not work with the aspirations of the Governor; there is nothing he can do. Therefore, it is collaboration. The annual Budget is an act of the Parliament,it must be passed by the House before the Executive starts spending it. So, we look at it, line by line and also look at the impact of those proposals on the people at large. So, we work together. Do you believe that the Legislative arm has been given its due recognition for

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the success story of the Gov. Babatunde Fashola’s administration

No, of course, the people need to change their opinions and belief that it is only the Executive that is working. Although the Executive arm has come a long way while the Legislative has suffered greater set back over years as a result of military interregnum. If the Legislators refuse to pass the Bills presented to it by the Executive, the law or opinion will die a natural death and that is what we call, ‘Dead on Arrival’. The 40 Honorable members represent the 40 Constituencies in Lagos State and we make sure that, the interest of the people comes first in all that we do. You conduct the house on Thursdays in Yoruba language, has this helped in any way

Yes, it has helped. Those members of the public that do not understand English Language can follow our discussions and deliberations in Yoruba Language and monitor their representatives in the House. We cannot be promoting other people languages and culture while we relegate our own language. So, we

are promoting our language and encouraging our young ones to know it. Parents should also ensure that, their children speak Yoruba language very well. We are not saying they should not learn other languages but our language and culture should be given utmost priority. How will you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

He is excellent and if there is any other adjective that is more than excellent, I will give it to him. He conducts the affairs of the House in an impeccable way and his leadership quality is unmistakable. He has moved the House to an enviable position. Going by the quality of Bills that are passed, robust debates, human and infrastructural development of the Assembly complex, he has done very well. A member of the Parliament in the United Kingdom once told us on the floor of the House that, our Chamber is better than theirs. Such attestations are reserved for visionary leaders like our Speaker. Tell us about yourself

I was born to the Adenowo Tobun Royal family in Epe in the early 60’s and I attended Primary and Secondary schools in Epe. I studied Agric. Economics and Extension Management at the Lagos State Polytechnic and graduated in 1989 with Upper Credit. I had Masters in Business Administration (MBA) from the Lagos State University and also another Masters in Legal Studies, MLS from the same university. I worked briefly as a social worker with Local Government Service Commission and rose to the Head of Department, Agric., Rural and Social Development. I later retired as Deputy Director to join politics and presently, I am a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly.This is my first term and I am the Chairman, Committee on Environment. Tell us about your family

I am married to Alhaja Adenike Tobun and we are blessed with promising children. Will you be back to the House of Assembly in 2015

Let us leave that to God but I intend to come back, if God permits.

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LEGISLATORS ARE NOT DULY RECOGNISED -HON. AJAYI OBASA

ince 2003, Hon. Ajayi Obasa has been active in the business of making laws for Lagosians. Hon. Obasa, who is the chairman, House Committee on Economic Planning and Budget, says he will still be involved in the art of land making post-2015, either in the House of Assembly or National Assembly. How would you describe the Legislative assignment

I look at it as representing the people and combining it with House assignments, make it tough. Since it is a voluntary task I picked, I ensure that I listen to the people and carry out the House assignments effectively.

in my area and died. I moved a motion to fix that canal and it was reconstructed. I also moved a motion concerning the casual workers in some of our companies but it was played down but later modified by one of the ranking officers and I seconded the motion. The beauty of the two motions is that, the canal has been beautified and some casual workers are now fully employed by their companies because of that motion and our insistence that our people should not be maltreated in their own country.

What have been your contributions to the House of Assembly

What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

I have been an active member of the House and always participating in both the sittings of the House and my Committee. I have been involved in several motions but I have one that is dear to my heart. A tragic incident happened around 1999 when the then Treasurer of the party fell into the other side of a canal

My Constituency consists of some parts of Iyana Ipaja down towards Ikeja and Mangoro. We have never had it so nice, until this administration. Right now, we have so many projects that are on-going in the area. As a Legislator, I have organised some Poverty Alleviation programs and also distributed some GCE and JAMB

149

forms. We have Community Development Associations and we have been holding meetings to know where to make inputs in the society. Lagos State has been the yardstick for good governance in Nigeria, how has the House impacted on the good governance in the state

To start with, the Executive needs our approval on Budgets. More importantly, we are one big family and we have been working in harmony with the Governor. Do you believe that the Legislative arm has been given its due recognition for the success story of Gov. Babatunde Fasholaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s administration

No, and I do not think it is the Governorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s problem, since most people do not understand our roles owing to the long term military interregnum which blanked out the Parliament. The Executive has always been around and we are not really recognised much, but I think the media need to project the works and activities of the House. Most times, our contributions are buried and that of the Executive highlighted.

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You conduct the plenary session of the House in Yoruba Language on Thursday, has this helped in anyway

It has and I think it is an additional response to the former question. Let us face it, Lagos is a Yoruba State and it helps when we conduct our sessions in Yoruba. It has also improved our Culture and Tradition, especially when people need to continue appreciating them. How would you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

He is a testimony of his own. For him to be re-elected continuously, I think he has been very effective and remarkable. There has been peace and agreement, despite some small rifts he has been a good Manager. Tell us about yourself

My name is Obasa Ajayi and I represent Agege Constituency 1. I have been in the House since 2003. I attended State Primary School, Oyewole Agege after which I had Secondary education and later went to study Law at the Lagos State University, (LASU). I became a Councillor for Ward E, Agege in 1999 on the platform of Alliance for Democracy. In 2003, I contested for the Lagos House of Assembly with Alliance for Democracy. Currently, I am the Chairman, House Committee on Economic Planning and Budget. Tell us about your family

I have two wives and some children and we live in Agege. Will you be back to the House in 2015

Being a third timer, I think I should be moving on. But to maintain a balance, some people need to stay back and lead the upcoming ones and in lieu of that, I think I will be coming back 150

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‘’I have been involved in several motions but I have one that is dear to my heart. A tragic incident happened around 1999 when the then Treasurer of the party fell into the other side of a canal in my area and died. I moved a motion to fix that canal and it was reconstructed.’’

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GOOD LAWS, GOVERNANCE WILL BE POOR WITHOUT

-HON. SURU AVOSEH

on. Suru Avoseh represents Badagry Constituency and in the Lagos State House of Assembly and also the Chairman. House Committee on Health service. Hon. Avoseh who described the speaker of the House, Rt. Hon Adeyemi Ikuforiji as a focused, wonderful and hardworking man said his best personal project is the free corrective surgery on the children with Cleft Lipped and Palate. Sir how would you describe the Legislative assignment

It is the greatest opportunity one should have and it 153

is something one should experience. We represent our people in all fronts, so that we can give them the benefits of democracy. Also, you are tasked with defending the interests of your people. Moreover, we also have oversight functions. Have you sponsored or co-sponsored any motion or Bill and what impact has such had on the society

I have been part of many motions, including the one regarding the Lagos-Badagry Expressway, which used to be a death trap. I called the attention of the government and other agencies and they have fixed the

road. The major Bill I have sponsored is the Cremation Bill. The impact of the Bill is that it helps in minimising and controlling heaps of unclaimed corpses in our mortuaries. The Bill emanated after submission of fact-finding reports of inspection to mortuaries in Lagos, especially the Isolo Hospital Mortuary. The first team came back with gory news that, the mortuary in Isolo General Hospital and other mortuaries in the state were full with unclaimed corpses. They were not able to finish their assignment

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‘‘We wanted to find a mass burial site but faced stiff opposition from the community. We therefore proposed that cremation was the best way to dispose such unclaimed corpses.’’

before the tenure of the 6th Assembly ended and we took over and reported the same thing. The Ministry of Health was advised to give a mass burial to all the corpses and two weeks later, the mortuaries were filled again with unclaimed corpses. We wanted to find a mass burial site but faced stiff opposition from the community. We therefore proposed that cremation was the best way to dispose such unclaimed corpses. We prepared a Bill to that effect and it became a law. Now, we have Crematorium for the cremation of unclaimed corpses and voluntary cremations. What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

It has been a very great challenge, but thanks to

God, who has made it possible for me to work, because I am from the remotest part of the state. The Ajara-Erekiti-Iragon-Ikoga road that passes through my village in Erekiti has been untouched for years but now, it is under construction. A Bridge of 400 metres length had been constructed remaining a 300 metres length and a 1.1 Km length called AjaraAgelasho-Agbovipe swamp, which is the longest swamp in the state has been approved and the contractors have carried out their own soil test and will soon start construction. The Ajara-Iyafin access road is also undergoing construction but the contractor is very slow. What would have been my greatest joy would have been the approval of OkoAfo-Ilogbo Eremi-Ipara-Pota Road but we have

just got approval for what the Ministry of Infrastructure termed palliative measures of PotaAvia portion of the road and construction is in progress. Approval have also been given to OkoAfoIlogbo Eremi-Joton portion of the same road but we are awaiting the payment for the Contractor to begin work on that portion of the road, though the collapsed swamp at Joton is yet to be approved. I have also been able to facilitate the supply of Transformers to various communities, like Morogbo, Magbon, Okemorosun, Pota, Agadangba, Ikoga-Zebbe, Sunny Field Estate, Muyanrin, Oke Ira and others. I also facilitated the installation of boreholes in a compound in Ilogbo Eremi and Javie village. Classrooms construction at Ikoga Junior 154

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Grammar School, St. Paul's Anglican Primary School and Morogbo Primary School and others were facilitated by me. The best personal project I am carrying out is the Free Corrective Surgery on the children with Cleft Lipped and Palate. I found joy in bringing real life back into these neglected and the most discriminatedagainst people. I am joining hands together with a Non-Governmental Organisation called Smile Train in bringing smiles to this group of people. It is an on-going project that is available to every affected person. Lagos State has been the yardstick for good governance in Nigeria, how has the House impacted on good governance

Without us making good laws, governance will be poor. It is the laws we made that make the good governance you speak about a reality. Do you believe that the Legislative arm has been given its due recognition for the success story of Gov. Babatunde Fasholaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s administration

Most often, the Legislature is seen as an attachment to the government rather than an independent body. Well, I would not say no, but a lot needs to be done, especially when implementations are in progress, we should be praised. If we fail in our duties, then governance will fail. So, whenever the Governor or the Executive is being praised for good governance, the Legislature was the Architect for making the good laws being implemented by the Governor or the Executive. You conduct the plenary session of the House in Yoruba Language, has it helped in anyway

Yes, it has helped us very well. When we passed that law, Lagosians were happy and there was a time when the Appropriation Bill was to be passed into a law and it fell on a Thursday and we had to conduct it in Yoruba. The people love it and other State House of Assembly are beginning to copy us. How would you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

The man, Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Sabit Ikuforiji is a focused, wonderful and hardworking man, who has succeeded in making us one of the best Assemblies in Africa and the world. We hold him in high esteem. Tell us about yourself

I am Hon. Suru Avoseh and I represent Badagry Constituency II and I am the Chairman, House Committee on Health Services. I was born and bred in Erekiti village in Badagry and I am married with children. Tell us about your family.

My wife is Mrs. Maria Avoseh, though I had a wife who is late now, that gave birth to my eldest children who are now in school. Will you be back to the House of Assembly in 2015

Yes, with the help of the Almighty God, my party leadership and my Constituents, I believe that I will come back, come 2015. 155

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‘‘The best personal project I am carrying out is the Free Corrective Surgery on the children with Cleft Lipped and Palate. I found joy in bringing real life back into these neglected and the most discriminated against people.’’

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HON. IKUFORIJI’S RT.

HALLMARK IS HUMANCAPITAL DEVELOPMENT

-HON. MUFUTAU EGBERONGBE

Adewale

Inspector in 1992 and an Internal

Egberongbe was a civil

Auditor in 1994 and was awarded the

servant per excellence before

Best Staff of Eti-Osa Local Government

berthing at the Lagos State House of

Education Authority in1995. He later

Assembly. Born to the Ojomu Royal

became the Education Secretary, Apapa

Family Ajiran (Eti-Osa) and Abdullahi

Local Government in 2005.

on.

Mufutau

Penrumila Family, Idumagbo District,

He got awards for services to

Hon.

humanity from His Majesty ,Oba Tijani

Egberongbe attended Apapa Baptist

Akinloye, Ojomu of Ajiranland and the

Primary School, Apapa; Oriwu College,

former Governor of Lagos State,

Ikorodu and Lagos State University for

Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Isale

Eko,

Lagos

Island,

a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree. He

Hon. Egberongbe’s

political and

was also conferred with a Doctorate

communal activities include, Secretary,

Degree (Hons) from Atlas University

Kofo

(U.S.A) in Public Administration.

Secretary, INEC Monitoring Committee

Abayomi

CDA

2002/2003,

his

of the Action Congress (AC) 2006,

working career as an Accounting

Secretary, Conflict and Resolution

Teacher

High

Committee of the Action Congress

Local

(AC) 2006 and

Hon.

Egberongbe at

School, (L.G.E.A), 157

Nawar-ud-Deen

Ebute

Government

started

Metta,

Education Eti-Osa

Authority a

School

Secretary, Apapa

Leaders Forum Alliance for Democracy (AD) 2000. He is married to Alhaja

Issue 119-168C_Issue 130 B.qxd 17-Feb-15 5:47 PM Page 40

‘’When the motion was first passed, I was against it, because I come from a Constituency where we have people drawn from different ethnic groups and the PDP contestant in the last elections was an Igbo man. If he had won, would he have been forced to speak Yoruba Language in the House?’’

Competition in Apapa, which is the 7th in the series in March, 2014. I dug bore-holes at Ijora Oloye and Waterside (Park Lane, Arakan Barracks and Pleteau Road), established a Government approved Primary School at Nanti Village, a riverine area in Apapa and procured Cable Television (DSTV) and Television sets in some wards of the Local Government. I also ensured that the Wharf Land Bill come to place through lobbying and robust debate in the hallow chambers. I procured exercise book for all schools in Apapa and Iganmu LGA., refurbished the Emergency Response Center for the Security Trust Fund in Area B Police station, Apapa, procured Walkie

Olatanwa Egberongbe nee Aregbe from Ikorodu

Talkie and motorbike to the trust fund and got a

with four children.

donation of half a million naira to the fund from

Hon how would you describe the Legislative assignment

It is conventional, because it has its own terms and age long practice, which must be followed strictly. We also have rules that oversee everything we do. What have been your contributions to the House

As a Legislator, we make laws and I have been part of that team that has been making

Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN). I renovated a block of six toilets at the General Hospital, Apapa and also donated fans, fridges and D.ST.V. cables to the hospital. Lagos State has been the yardstick for good governance in Nigeria, how has Lagos State House of Assembly impacted on good governance in the state

Good laws make for a better society and

laws for the good people of the state.

there is no singular project you can have in the

Have you sponsored or co-sponsored a motion or Bill and what impact has it had in the society

state without our approval. We make the laws upon which infrastructural activities are based.

I have been part of many motions and Bills

So, in a way, the Executive is the front burner

but I recall the motion relocating Tank Farms in

while we are behind the scene. We provide the

Apapa and also indiscriminate parking of Trucks on Bridges in Apapa. The Tank Farms are hazardous and combustible and could burst at the slightest provocation. I was also the Chairman of the committee that passed the Physical Planning Law and the Bill gave birth to three agencies, Planning Permit Authority, Building Permit Agency and Lagos State Urban

template for Private Public Partnership thrive. Do you believe that the Legislative arm of government has been given its due recognition for the success story of the Gov. Babatunde Fashola’s administration

The government is still one family and there is no difference between six and half a dozen. When the Governor does well, the three arms of

Renewal Authority. These agencies help to

government are commended and we cannot

regenerate the slums, approve construction and

begin to dole out credits to only one or two

develop master plans. If you build two or three

sectors. We are collectively responsible. The

story buildings, you must insure the building

people also have a hand in the good governance

and also certify every stage of the building for

of the state and we must also praise them for

safety purposes.

adhering to the laws of the society.

What has been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

You conduct the plenary sessions of the House in Yoruba on Thursdays, has this helped in anyway

To the glory of God, I have been able to put

was first passed, I was against it, because I come

up a compendium of the challenges and

from a Constituency where we have people

problems of my constituency in an album with

drawn from different ethnic groups and the PDP

pictures and forwarded to the affected

contestant in the last elections was an Igbo man.

ministries. I

organized a seminar on the

If he had won, would he have been forced to

precarious security situation in Apapa in 2007,

speak Yoruba language in the House? However,

proffering alternative means of solving crime

the Speaker spoke to me and explained that

through social mechanism in 2007. I have

governance is about the generality of the people

procured motorbikes for the Police to combat

and today, I can see that the Speaker has been

crime, procured wheel barrow, rakes and

vindicated because we are applauded by people,

shovels for the C.D.A to reduce in a symbolic

even from outside the country; who hear about

manner the prevailing flooding in Apapa and

our Yoruba sessions. I would also advise other

also

organized

Poverty

Alleviation

Programme were 250 citizens were identified with yearly in Apapa. The 6th one was held on

It has impacted very well. When the motion

Houses of Assembly to emulate this. How would you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

November 9th, 2013 at Apapa Amusement park.

Honestly without mincing words, he is a

Regarding sports, I have organized a Table-

visionary leader and his hallmark is human

Tennis competition for the Army, Navy, Police

capital development, because he is focused on

and Civilian Unity Cup in 2010 and we have the

training and re-training of members and staff.

second in the series as well as Football

This is due to the fact that, the Legislative arm is 158

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‘’I was also the Chairman of the committee that passed the Physical Planning Law and the Bill gave birth to the three agencies: Planning Permit Authority, Building Permit Agency and Lagos State Urban Renewal Authority.’’

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relatively new, and we have had more of military governments than democratic ones. Of course, the Legislature is never in existence during military regimes. Beyond this, you will also see his legacies, which include this new building, which we moved into from the old Lateef Jakande Block, so also is the state of the heart chamber. The independence of the Legislature and the House Service Commission are all to his credit. Tell us about yourself

I was born to Ojomuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Royal Family Ajiran (Eti-osa) and Abdullahi Penrumila Family, Idumagbo District, Isale Eko, Lagos Island. I attended

Apapa Baptist Primary School, Apapa; Oriwu College, Ikorodu and Lagos State University for B.SC and M.P.A, respectively. I was also conferred with the Doctorate Degree (Hons) from Atlas University (U.S.A) in Public Administration. Tell us about your family

I am married to Alhaja Olatanwa Egberongbe nee Aregbe from Ikorodu and we have four children. Will you come back to the House in 2015

I believe that whatever place you find yourself, you should lend yourself to serve the people. The people will decide after careful evaluations. So, I leave it to my party, my Constituents and leaders. 160

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THE DEMANDS OF OUR

CONSTITUENTS ARE ENORMOUS -HON. DAYO FAFUNMI

ver the years, men have through personal efforts and sacrifices bequeathed to their generation and generation unborn, monuments and edifices of eternal value. One of such men is Hon. Dayo Saka Fafunmi, member, Lagos State House of Assembly representing Ifako Ijaiye, Constituency 1. He was born more than 40 years ago to the family of the great politician of Ifako-Ijaiye, Late Chief Saka. He had his West African Senior School Certificate Examination at Oke-Ira Grammar School, Ogba, Lagos and holds a Bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Degree in Engineering (2nd Class Upper Division) from the University of Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria. While in the university, he was an intellectual per excellence which earned him the University Scholarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Award. As an Honourable member representing Ifako Ijaiye

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‘‘The challenge with the job comes with the unending demands of Constituents who find it difficult to differentiate between the Executive and Legislative functions because of the poor state of economy occasioned by the Federal Government.’’ Constituency 1, Hon. Fafunmi has done so much to impact the lives of the people of the Constituency through personal empowerment programmes and facilitation of government projects. He has been able to facilitate the construction and on-going construction of not less than 10 roads, including the construction of Yaya Abatan and College Road in his Constituency with similar feats recorded in other sectors of the economy like health. As a man with passion for youth empowerment and education, over 1500 youths have benefited from his Free ICT and Fashion Design Institute in a conducive environment. Likewise, he operates two Free School Buses for conveyance of students of Primary and Secondary schools within the local government. This is aside educational support and scholarship to indigents but brilliant students, including admission of students into State tertiary institutions, IT Placement and yearly distribution of Free University Tertiary Matriculation Examination (JAMB) forms to not less than 600 beneficiaries. This laudable effort has earned him a lot of recognitions and awards within and outside his immediate community including: Most Outstanding State Legislator on Youth Empowerment (2013) by City Pride Achievers, Eminent International Gold Award (2013) by Eminent International Group, Outstanding Assembly Man of the Year by Classic African Merit Award and Gold Merit Award by the National Association of Ifako – Ijaiye Students (NAIS), among others. In constant search for knowledge, Hon. Fafunmi has been to so many leadership trainings and programmes, including: Mastering People Management & Team Leadership by the Oxford Management Centre; and Transformation Leadership & Organizational Change Programme by the University of Cambridge in 2014. He was the Chairman, Committee on Works and Infrastructure from 2007 to 2011 and currently, the Chairman on Public Account Committee at the Lagos State House of Assembly as well as member of Committees on Environment, Finance, Budget & Economic Planning as well as Transport & Commerce. Surely, when the epitaph of this generation will be written, Hon. Fafunmi will be remembered as one of the few men who through great sacrifice and unalloyed service to humanity put smiles on the faces of his people. Sir how would you describe the Legislative assignment

Well, I will start by telling you that, it is an assignment that is full of challenges. It has its good sides and then, the very ugly ones. The

good side is in the area of passage of Bills, which is meant to transform the lives of the people. The challenge with the job comes with the unending demands of Constituents who find it difficult to differentiate between the Executive and Legislative functions because of the poor state of economy occasioned by the Federal Government. I will say that, my years in parliament have given me enough experience and exposure because the Lagos parliament is different from any other parliament. This is a parliament that believes in developing human capacities and gladly, I can say that, I have benefited immensely, because I have had cause to be trained outside the shores of this country. Having gone through several trainings, I will say that, it is a very impressive place to be. What have been your contributions to the House

Essentially, the contributions of lawmakers most of the time, are not seen because our jobs come in form of motions and Bills. I was the Chairman of Infrastructure Committee in my first term and I can tell you that, the bulk of the transformation that you are seeing in terms of infrastructure deployment in Lagos, is as a result of the support given to this administration by the committee and the House. Aside that, I cosponsored a bill on consumer protection and we have moved several motions that have made the state a better place. For instance, several pedestrian bridges were constructed because of the motion we moved, when we had too many hit and run cases. We also moved another one that led to reduction of prices in Tejuoso market. Currently, I am the Chairman of Public Account with the Local Government. I look into the accounts of all the 57 Local Governments and Local Council Development Areas, (LCDA). Essentially, the Auditor General looks at the books and comes up with the report which I am expected to critically assess, raise questions and if I am in doubt of anything, I call for experts opinions and possibly visit the site to see things for myself. I always hit them hard when it comes to setting targets because I want them to deliver at least 80 percent performance of their Budget. For me, 30 percent is no performance. Between this Committee and Committee,which is more challenging

the

last

This is more challenging, because I am dealing with 57 LG’s and LCDA’s with different peculiarities and the challenges are quite awesome. I analyse their reports and advise them, where and when necessary. This has had a remarkable impact on the Local Governments, because most of them have improved tremendously. What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

I represent Ifako Ijaiye Constituency 1 and it is around Ogba; Ifako and Iju axis of Lagos. I can tell you that, ever since I became the Honourable member representing Ifako Ijaiye, I have consistently over the years given out free JAMB forms to serious minded individuals in the Constituency. I also noticed a very sharp decline in the number of University graduates that we are producing in my Constituency and also decided to support brilliant and intelligent students by paying their tuition fees in different Universities, including Lagos State University (LASU) and other Federal universities. Away from that, I am running a programme called free bus ride. I have two American schools buses called Saka Bus in my Constituency, which pick children from their various homes as early 162

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6:30am and take them to different schools in the morning and drop them in their various houses in the afternoon. I have been doing this for about two years now, Monday to Friday. I have dug some bole holes in my community which is very close to Iju Water Works but the bulk of my Constituents do not enjoy the water. Our situation is similar to the Niger Delta people who sit on oil and yet do not have access to their resources. I have told the Governor and in fairness, he has approved the reticulation of about 50 kilometres of the water network but it has not gotten to my Constituency. It started from Constituency II and I will continue to lobby till it gets to our turn. Aside water, I have a befitting and functioning Constituency office where I have an Information Communication Technology Centre and currently run five shifts of free ICT programmes there. The purpose is to take the youths off the streets and engage them in constructive purposes. Most of them get paid jobs before finishing their programme, while some end up becoming Graphic Artists. I have trained over 2,500 youths but the current set is about 650. Aside the ICT Centre, I have a Fashion Institute with four instructors teaching the youths sewing and designing. You will be surprised that, University graduates are part of these people, because they want to be entrepreneurs. I have facilitated the construction of a couple of roads in my Constituency, the most obvious one is the College Road at Ogba around Excellence Hotel. I have my Constituency office on that road and its construction started in 2010 when the Governor gave me the approval. I had to meet him, because I had nothing in my Constituency to show for my exemplary work in the House and to the glory of God, he agreed to my demand. I also want to thank the Honourable Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Dr. Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat, a very responsible and responsive technocrat. Lagos State has been the yard stick for good governance in Nigeria, how has the Lagos State House of Assembly impacted on good governance in the state

Well, the bedrock of any meaningful development is the Legislature. This is because the Executive cannot do anything unless it is backed up by enabling laws and that is the importance of the Legislature. A lot of people underplay what we do. They do not even understand what the Legislature is all about We all witnessed what happened during the last few years of former Governor of Ogun State, Gov. Gbenga Daniel when he had challenges with the House and activities were grounded to a halt for almost three years. The recent impeachments across the country will only result in instability;a threat to our democracy. Do you believe that the Legislative arm of government has been given its due recognition for the success story of the Gov. Fashola’s administration

It is a very tough one, but to a large extent, it is better now than what it was. We are also blessed to have a visionary and focused leadership and the Assembly is revered, even outside the country. We have a beautiful edifice now and our hallow Chamber can be compared with that of the National Assembly. It is a plus for the Fashola administration and indeed a blessing to Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji. You conduct the plenary session of the House in Yoruba Language on Thursdays, has this helped in any way

Well, it is intended to reach out to as many people as possible. Governance is not only for the middle class or elite, it is for all and sundry, the downtrodden, especially the market women who are not fortunate enough to be educated. It is difficult to translate Bills or pass the Budget in Yoruba Language but this same Ikuforiji surprised me on the floor one day, when he said he was not going to pass the Budget in any other Language other than Yoruba since it fell on a Thursday. I cannot forget that day and I was just saying in my mind that, ‘God has caught you today, let us see how you will pronounce these big figures in Yoruba.’ Surprisingly, he did! We have also gone through several trainings and these trainings have helped us. How would you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

Do you want me to scale it up to 100 percent? Yes, please do

I will score him above 90 per cent for his performance, because it is not possible for him to have 100 per cent. Frankly speaking, this man has done well, except if we do not want to be fair. He has touched the lives of every one of us in a way and that alone makes me happy. In fact, he alongside, Hon. Bayo Oshinowo brought stability to the House. Tell us about yourself

I was born over 40 years ago. I grew up in Ogba, Ifako Ijaiye and after my Primary and Secondary education, I attended the University of Ilorin for my first Degree. I later bagged a post Graduate Degree in Information Technology and currently, I am studying Law at the University of Lagos. How do you juggle it

It is not so easy my brother, but it is borne out of the flair to build human capacity and advance. I always want to be proactive and address issues and I do not wait for things to happen. I feel that Legal education will afford me more opportunities and it will even enhance my Legislative activities and engagements. It means that, if any issue comes up and we are discussing the Constitution, I will not be speaking like a lay man but someone who has been trained. That is the advantage. Tell us about your family

Well, I am married to Bisi Fafunmi and I have three children. My eldest son is Oyindamola Fafunmi, second son is Kerry Tubosun Fafunmi and my last born is Jadesola Fafunmi. Will you be back in 2015

The ethos of democracy put lot of responsibilities on the electorate, if my people want me, I will be there to represent them and continue from where I stop. I am passionate about developments in my Constituency and I am all out to effect change, set benchmark for effective representation and also lobby for Executive presence in my area.

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RT. HON. ADEYEMI IKUFORIJI

IS GODâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S GIFT TO THE ASSEMBLY

-HON. IPOOLA OMISORE

ne time president of the outdoor Advertising Association of Nigeria, Hon. Ipoola Omisore has served the House memtoriously in different capacities. Notable among these is the Chairmanship of the House Committee on Information, strategy, security and Publicity at the last dispensation in the House. Today, he is still a force to reckon with in the House. Sir how would you describe the Legislative assignment

It is interesting because we are tasked with the responsibility of making good laws for the state, representing our people, performing oversight functions for the government as well as preparing and reviewing the Budget. What have been your contributions to the House

I came here with a background in business because I was already the President, Outdoor Advertising Association of Nigeria. As the Chairman of Information, Strategy, Security and Publicity at the last dispensation in the House of 165

Assembly, I encouraged LTV 8 to join the DSTV in order to improve the scope of the station. I also worked on the Lagos Printing Corporation which was already moribund and if you go there, you would find machines bought by Alhaji Lateef Jakande and Mobolaji Johnson but today, I helped them to acquire new equipment. Radio Lagos is one of the best stations, despite its challenges. The station even diversified into other ventures including, Waterworks and Computer. Also, I pioneered the Freedom of Information Bill in the House. The Community Development Association Law was also partly my brainchild, because we realised that the CDAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s are the closest to the people and today, every Constituency has a CDA which interacts with the people. I have moved motions to create pedestrian Bridges along the Abeokuta Express as you will notice that from Ikeja, there is no other Bridge across the road and that motion has been implemented as several Bridges have now been created. What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they

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‘’He is 11 years younger than me, but I respect him so much. He is a builder and when you can keep 39 other lions together, you must be seriously skilled. For you to run three terms, you must have something special. He is special and the institution has gained fully from him, because he has trained us in every aspect of the law. For me, he is God’s gift to the Assembly.’’

been able to reap the dividends of democracy

My Constituency is semi urban and I facilitated a pedestrian Bridge at Ijaiye Bus-stop and roads like Akinde in Alakuko, Baale Animashaun, Fagbiro, Fola Azeez and others which had issues with floods are now motorable. I have been able to get the government to build a community hall in Temple Power line and a youth sports centre. I have also trained women in tie and dye and they sell their goods abroad. I have trained over 150 youths in the art of Computer Science. I have trained unemployed persons in content creation and also gotten Micro-finance Banks to support them. I have been carrying out pre-WAEC lectures for the past 5 years and I was given a Lover of Education Award. I also established an ICT Centre in Ijaye Ojokoro. Our

Football team came out tops at the MTN Street Soccer Championship in Lagos and they were sent to South Africa and the boys are being groomed for the future. I have donated security tools to the Police in my area. To encourage the youths, I created the One Day Honourable Member and the winner was well received in the House. The winner came out from a series of examinations held at the pre-WAEC lectures. She represented my Constituency for one day and was given my one day salary and allowances. The runners up came along, too. I have also dug some boreholes throughout the Constituency and I handed them over to the people, where the water is sold for next to nothing, just to keep the boreholes working. Lagos State has been the yardstick for good governance

in Nigeria, how has the House impacted on the good governance in the state

We are the catalysts to the development of the state. When the new government came in, Bills were presented to us in huge volumes and it took our alertness to match the pace of the Governor. We have made laws that have made the government to run smoothly. Do you believe the Legislative arm of the government has been given its due recognition for the success story of the Gov. Babatunde Fashola’s administration

Yes, although there can be more. When people hear about the government, they only think about Gov. Fashola but there are two other arms of government, apart from the Executive. We are more recognised outside. You would see the National House of Assembly coming to learn from us, Taraba and even 166

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Uganda Legislators have been here to tap from our experiences. We are one of the best because we have been exposed to a whole lot of seminars and courses. You conduct the plenary session of the House in Yoruba Language on Thursdays, has this helped in anyway

Yes. I am from Ile Ife and I championed it in the House. We noticed that the use of our mother tongue was becoming a dying art and declining. So, when we got the suggestion from an Igbo lecturer in the University of Lagos, (UNILAG), we picked up on the idea and ever since we started, the people who found it difficult then have improved seriously. We have gotten lectures from experts and teachers in Yoruba Language. I am even looking forward to the time that the House will increase the days to three or more, since we represent the people of Lagos who are predominantly Yorubas. How would you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

He is 11 years younger than me, but I respect him so much. He is a builder and when you can keep 39 other lions together, you must be seriously skilled. For you to run three terms, you must have something special. He is special and the institution has gained fully from 167

him, because he has trained us in every aspect of the law. For me, he is Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gift to the Assembly. We just finished a course with some Professors from Cambridge University and that tells you the volume of work he has put in. He is a genius and I wish him the best. Tell us about yourself

My name is Hon. Ipoola Ahmed Omisore and I represent Ifako Constituency 2, which is Ojokoro in Lagos. I am from Ile Ife, Osun State and this is my second term. I am currently, the Chairman of House Services and Special Duties and I am a member of the APC. I am happily married with children. Will you be back in 2015

I have gained enough experience here and sitting down thinking, whether to stay or leave, is like wasting what I have learnt. The more you stay in the Assembly, the better for you. The problem with the government is that, the rate at which Legislators leave in each term is too much. I will like to contest again, since we have the blend of old and young and this is the only Assembly, where no crisis has erupted. I am still willing to come back again in 2015. Hon. Omisore taliking Managing Editor, Ovation, Segun Adebowale

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MY DESIRE IS TO BE VERSED IN THE ART OF LAW MAKING -HON. (MRS.) RAMOTALLAHI AKINLOLA-HASSAN on. (Mrs.) Ramotallahi Olanrewaju Akinlola-Hassan was born to the family of Late Chief and Mrs.Yinusa Adisa Akinlola of Ibeshe town in Oriade Local Council Development Area under Amuwo Odofin Local Government. Energetic Ramotallahi attended U.P.E111 Festac Primary School now 5th Avenue Primary School, Festac and later proceeded to Festac Girls Sea School and later to Awori College, Ojo for her Secondary School education. With her passion for academic excellence, She gained admission into the Lagos State University to study Business Administration and later finished with Bachelor of Science Degree in 2003/2004. In 2010, she obtained a Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Degree in Public Administration from the same University. She is happily married and blessed with children. Hon. (Mrs.) Akinlola Hassan started her illustrious career in the Civil Service, particularly at Amuwo Odofin Local Government as Typist and later as a Clerical Officer at Oriade Local Council Development Area. Before her career in Politics, she worked as Revenue Supervisor under the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) for a certain period of time, which also gave her a welcoming experience as a Tax regulator. Born into Politics, her love and energy for Politics could be traced from what she gathered from her father, Late Chief Yinusa Adisa Akinola better known as Double Chief. Her fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interest in the game paved way for her adventure in Politics. Hon. (Mrs.) Akinlola- Hassan contested under the aegis of Action Congress of Nigeria and won in April 2011 General Election into Lagos State House of Assembly to represent Amuwo-Odofin Constituency II. Since the inauguration on June 04, 2011, Hon. (Mrs) Akinlola-Hassan has attended various courses, seminars and conferences, both locally and internationally.

Madam how will you describe the Legislative assignment

Being a Legislator is a very good job, but very stressful. We make and pass laws which are executed by the Executive arm of the government, headed by His Excellency, Gov. Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN). 169

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‘‘Legislation needs experience and being a first term member of the House who desires the best for her people and the state in general, I will want to be versed in the art of law making and this can only be achieved by coming back to the House to come and be grounded in that art.’’

enjoying the dividends of democracy. Thefirst thing I did was to give two Industrial Ox fans for Iyagbe and Ikare communities. I also gave Ishai community a big Generator set and Roofing slates 50, each for Igbologbo and Ibasa Town Halls. I did a wooden toilet in Ibeshe Local Council Development Area, one at Idogun and one at Agaja. Recently, there was a collapsed bridge between Ibeshe and Ibesa and I built a wooden bridge there as a palliative measure but fortunately, the Executive Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Raji Fashola(SAN) has a contract for the construction of a concrete Bridge between Ibasa and Ibeshe and the Contractor will soon move to site. I also requested for four schools to be built in my Constituency and they have been awarded by His

What have been your contributions to the Lagos State House of Assembly

Excellency, Gov. Babatunde Raji Fashola and they are close to completion stages. They include, Itun-Agun Community Nursery and Primary School, L.A.Nursery and Primary School, Ilase Sea-Beach, L.A Nursery and Primary School, Tomaro and L.A. Okun-Ibeshe Sea-Ibeshe. I have also facilitated the provision of six Transformers to my Constituency. I gave one (each) to Kirikiri, Ijegun-Imore, Ashogun , Abule Oshun, Igbojere and Ibasa. Three months in office, I gave 50 GCE forms to some people in my Constituency and six months in office, I bought 116 Joint Admission Matriculation Board (JAMB)forms to some other ones, also in my Constituency. I have given numerous exercise books to the Primary schools in my Constituency. Recently, I gave five dozens of chairs each to the Wards in my Constituency alongside a Multimedia Public Address

I have been an active member of the House since I joined in 2011 and together with the other members of the House led by Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji, we have been ensuring that laws that would make lives better for Lagosians have either been passed or amended. Have you initiated any Bill

Not yet, but I intend to do so. As a first time member, I am studying the terrain and I am sure you will agree with me that, law making is an on-going process. What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

I have done a lot for my Constituency and I can say without any iota of doubt that, they are still

System as well as 10 dozens of chairs to the Primary Health Centre in my Constituency. Every month, I assist the Local Government Area meeting monetarily. I also assist the women and Wards Chairmen, from time to time. Very soon, we will be giving 50 uniforms to each of the Primary schools in my Constituency. We are also embarking on empowerment programmes within the Constituency and we want to empower the people in the areas of soap making, baking of cake and a host of others. We have already given out forms and we will soon start the programme. Lagos State has been the yardstick for good governance in Nigeria, how has the Lagos State House of Assembly impacted on good governance in the state

Lagos State has always been a reference point in

governance and law making and in many areas. This is because we work together as one big family in the state. During the election, 41 of us were elected including, the Governor. So, we work like a family and one big team and that is why everything is going on smoothly in Lagos State. Do you believe that the Lagos State House of Assembly has been given its due recognition for the success story of the Gov. Babatunde Fashola’s administration in the state

Yes, we have been given our due recognition and the Governor acknowledges this, regularly.I am sure you know that, a tree cannot make a forest and it is imperative on the three arms of government to work harmoniously, so that the populace can enjoy the dividends of democracy to the fullest. You conduct the plenary session of the House in Yoruba Language on Thursdays, has this helped in anyway

Yes, it has really helped, because some of the 170

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Legislators cannot speak Yoruba Language fluently but now they can speak it. In fact, I will commend the leadership of the House for such initiative, because it has helped most of the members to improve on their abilities to speak the Language. I am from Awori and I love speaking my language, because most of the time when you go to the Eastern or Northern part of Nigeria, they speak in their mother tongues first, before conversing in the English Language. I wonder why we (Yoruba) do not like to speak in our mother tongue. I love speaking my Language, because I love it so much and I can speak it very well. How will you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Kuforiji

My boss is a wonderful person, even when you ask his staff members; they will tell you that, he is an amazing man. The Speaker is always interested in exposing the members and the staff members and we have benefited tremendously from this exposure. We have undertaken trainings within and outside the country and these trainings have helped to improve our knowledge of lawmaking and we have also had the advantage of getting exposed to other climes in the world. He has really done well for us and for this, I say, thank you Mr. Speaker. Tell us about yourself

My name is Hon. (Mrs.) Ramotalai Akinlola Hassan, a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, representing Amuwo Odofin Constituency II, which comprises Oriade Local Council Development Area, (LCDA). I attended 5th Avenue Primary School Festac, formerly UPE Primary School Festac School. From there, I went to Festac Secondary School and later to 171

Awori College, Ojo, where I did my West African Examination Council. Thereafter, I went to the Lagos State University and bagged Bachelors of Science (BSc) in Business Administration. Later, I had a Master Degree in Public Administration (MPA)from the same University. I worked in Amuwo Odofin Local Government and moved to Oriade LCDA as a Clerical Officer and later joined the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service. In 2010, I retired to join Politics because my father, Late Alhaji Yinusa AdisaAkinlola, better known as Double Chief was a strong politician and one of the apex leaders in the Badagry division and the state. After his death, I contested and was elected to serve in the Lagos State House of Assembly. I came to the House in 2011 and I am the Vice Chairman, House Committee on Physical Planning and Urban Development as well as Central Business District (CBD). I am also a member of the House Committees on Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation and Job Creation; Works and Infrastructure House Services and Special Duties. I have also served in various Adhoc Committees and I am happily married with children. Will you be back to the

House in 2015

By the grace of God, I am coming back to the House of Assembly. Legislation needs experience and being a first term member of the House who desires the best for her people and the state in general, I will want to be versed in the art of law making and this can only be achieved by coming back to the House to come and be grounded in that art. I desire to sponsor Bills that would benefit people in my Constituency and by extension, Lagosians; because I am passionate about my state. I have achieved so much because of my rapport with the Executive members,but I believe that I can do better than this. So, I will want to come back to the House. Thank you for your time

I am also grateful for the opportunity you have given to me, and for this, I say thank you too.

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HOLDING SESSIONS IN

YORUBA LANGUAGE

IS A BLESSING TO THE HOUSE

-HON. BOLAJI AYINLA on. Bolaji Yusuf Ayinla hails

from

Mushin

Local

Government area of Lagos

State. He had his First School Leaving Certificate in Lagos, after attending Methodist Primary School, Surulere, between 1960 and 1968. He was at Muslim High School, Sagamu, Ogun State between 1975 and 1980, when he sat for his West African Examination Council (WAEC) between 1982 and 1984. He was also at Center for Marketing and Management Studies in London, after qualifying for his Certificate

and

Diploma

Management. He proceeded to London Executive College in 1985 where he acquired another Associate Degree and Advanced Diploma in Marketing. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Management Accountants in Nigeria as well

member of the

Chartered Institute of Marketing in London; Association of Business Executives in London and Institute of Sales and Marketing Management. He started his working career as a Purchasing Officer with Brossette Nigeria Limited, Apapa in 1980. He was Sales Manager at Austin Osita Motors, Western Avenue, Lagos before veering fully into politics. In 2003, he was elected as Honourable Member, Lagos State House

of Assembly

representing

Mushin Constituency II. After a wellserved term of four years in the House, he was elected again for a second term in 2007. He has served as Chairman of the House Services as well as member of Committees on Lands, Environment and Works.

He was elected for the

third term in 2011 and is presently the Chairman, Public Accounts Committee (State).He is happily married with children. Sir how will you describe the Legislative assignment

The major duty of the Legislator is law making and oversight functions on MDAs. 172

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‘’Without the Legislators, the Governor cannot perform. If we do not approve the Bills, he cannot work. We cooperate with him to make everything work effectively. Before the Governor does anything, he presents his Budget to the House and we deliberate on it through the Budget Committee and Finance. Without us, there is no Executive.’’ As a Legislator, we make laws and correct any defect in existing laws, correct the inefficiency or waste in the execution or administration of laws and in the disbursement or administration of funds appropriated. What have been your contributions to the Lagos State House of Assembly

I was once the Chairman of Commerce and Industry. Alongside my committee members, we visited almost all the companies in Lagos to scrutinize

Lagos State has been the yardstick for good governance in Nigeria, how has the Lagos State House of Assembly impacted on the good governance

Without the Legislators, the Governor cannot perform. If we do not approve the Bills, he cannot work. We cooperate with him to make everything work effectively. Before the Governor does anything, he presents his Budget to the House and we deliberate on it through the Budget Committee and Finance. Without us, there is no Executive. Do you believe that the Legislative arm of government has been given its due recognition to the success story of the Gov. Fashola’s administration

It is not the duty of the Legislator to provide social amenities but it is our duty to make laws. As we all know that, the three tiers of government have their different functions. People need to be enlightened about this. And to answer your question, yes, we have been given our due recognition, because the Governor says it everywhere that; his success is as a result of the efficiency of the House. You conduct the plenary session of the House in Yoruba Language on Thursdays, has this helped in any way

how things are done, because most of the expatriates

Yes, it has really helped us. I was not

that come to Lagos exploit our people. I was also the

able to speak fluently in Yoruba, but now, I

Chairman of Local Government Administration

can communicate very well in Yoruba. We do

Committee and we visited all the Local Governments

not have to sell our traditions and culture to

without informing them to ascertain that the money

the British. If you have watched ‘Long walk

allocated to them by the State Government is spent

to Freedom’ which is about Nelson

prudently. As the Chairman, Public Accounts

Mandela’s struggles in South Africa, you will

Committee (State), we check the Auditor General’s

dislike the white men with passion. What

reports to ascertain compliance with the public

our forefathers went through was terrible.

accounts of the state. I make sure that, he gives an

Therefore I really support the Rt. Hon.

account of how the money is spent, in order to avoid

Speaker for the innovation.

fraud.

How will you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Kuforiji

Have you sponsored any Bill since you joined the Lagos State House of Assembly

We have done a joint Bill but I have not single-

He is a fantastic, wonderful and brilliant leader. He is also a good listener. He believes

handedly championed any Bill.

that, there is no age, a person cannot be

What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

educated. That 39 Honourable members

I represent Mushin Constituency II. In my Constituency, I have given scholarships to various

attend regular courses within and outside the country, including the staff members. Tell us about yourself

people to further their education in various schools. I

I was born to the family of Late Alhaji

have done 49 out of the 50 boreholes that I promised

and Alhaja Adebayo Yakubu Ayinla. My

my people. I engaged 50 women who are called the

father hailed from Ilorin in Kwara State and

BYA Sweepers in my Constituency to complement the

my mother is a Lagosian. I attended

personnel of the Lagos State Waste Management

Methodist Primary School in Surulere and

Authority, (LAWMA). I also have BYA Ambassadors

Muslim High School in Sagamu. After my

and BYA Foundation. Under this Foundation, the

education in Sagamu, I worked at Brossette

Constituents had benefited in various vocations with

Nigeria Limited Apapa as a Purchasing

the help of the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Her

Officer before I left there to the United

Excellency, Hon. Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, a

Kingdom to further my education. I studied

Vocational Training Center was established in my

at London Executive College as well as

Constituency and this Center is the largest Vocational

Hasting School of Management and Centre

Centre in Lagos. I must let you know that, many

for Institute and Management in London. I

people have been trained in this Centre and have

also have a Certificate in Association of

become business owners, even employing other

Business Executive and advanced Diploma

youths. I facilitated their training and assisted them at

in Management. I am also a member of the

the end of their programme with the necessary

Chartered Institute of Marketing. My entire

equipment.

courses have revolved around Management

173

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‘’The Vocational Training Centre was established in my Constituency and this Centre is the largest Vocational Centre in Lagos. I must let you know that many people have been trained in this Centre and have become business owners, even employing other youths.’’ and Marketing. I came back from the United

Mushin Constituency II and this is my third

Kingdom around the 80’s. My late father was a

term in the House.

great politician. Our house in Itire was the

Tell us about your family

Secretariat of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN).

I am happily married to Alhaja Titilola

During the Abacha’s regime, I contested for

Oyelade Ayinla and we are blessed with

Mushin Local Government Chairmanship

children.

position but it did not work out for me. In 2003,

Will you be back in 2015

I contested and became a member in the Lagos State House of Assembly. I am presently the Chairman of Public Accounts Committee of the Lagos State House of Assembly. I represent

I have had enough in the House, so I want to move further. We wish you the best of luck

Thank you, my brother.

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THERE IS A NEED FOR LEGISLATIVE RE-ORIENTATION -HON. WAHAB ALAWIYE-KING

on. Wahab Alawiye-King is a descendant of the ShadekoObanikoro Chieftaincy family of Lagos Island. Hon. AlawiyeKing attended Talim-ul-Islamiyyah Ahmadiyah Primary School (now Anwar Islam Primary School) Elegbata, Lagos Island. He attended St. Timothy’s College, Onike-Iwaya, Yaba, Lagos for his Secondary education. He worked with Savannah Bank of Nigeria Limited for five years before proceeding to the United States of America where he bagged an Associate Degree in Liberal Arts, a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance (Financial Economics), Master’s Degree in Economics and another Master’s Degree in Political Science specialising in Urban Policy and Administration- all from Brooklyn College of the City University of New York. He was the Director of Community Relations for the Nigerian-American Muslims Integrated Community (NAMIC) in Brooklyn, USA between 1998 and 2000. Hon. Alawiye-King was employed as a Special Investigator with the New York City (Department of Social Services) for five years before returning to Nigeria. Upon returning to Nigeria, he was an Associate Lecturer at the Lagos State University Ojo, School of Part-

175

Time Studies for four years and later, the General Secretary, PCRC Lion Building Division for many years. In 2007, he was elected a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly to represent Lagos Island Constituency I and re-elected in 2011. He is the Chairman, House Committee on Education, Science and Technology and also a member, House Committee on Physical Planning, Urban Development and Central Business District as well as House Committee on Public Accounts (State). Happily married with children, Hon. Alawiye- King is a member of various professional, social, and religious organizations Sir how would you Legislative assignment

describe

the

It is very interesting because it widens your knowledge and broadens your horizon. In a nutshell, it makes you a well- rounded individual. It makes one to know something about everything. What have been your contributions to the House

We do not take personal credit when it comes to the issue of Legislative assignment. We lobby one another to arrive at an amicable position and we work as a team. When Bills come to the floor of the House, we work together as one to review and pass them. At any level of Legislative

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‘’The political culture in this part of the world does not really help the Legislature. But we are getting there, we are here to work with the Executive to improve the living conditions of the people and we have been doing that on a regular basis.‘’ consideration for any Bill, collaborative effort is required. Being a good team player has assisted me to make robust and meaningful contributions to the development of the Legislature. I have been involved actively in the passage of many motions and Bills into law. But I will mention two notable ones that have to do with Education, Science and Technology, although both are Executive Bills. Firstly, the Lagos State Residents Registration Agency (LASRRA) Bill, whose main aim is to identify and register Lagos State residents for efficient planning and allocation of resources. In other words, the Bill was passed into law to allow government, among other things, determine the overall resources required to formulate and implement policies, projects and programmes, once the number of the people in the state is known. Most importantly, it aids the service delivery strategy of Lagos State. Secondly, the Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board (LASTVEB) Bill, whose objective is to stimulate and encourage vocational and general Technical education, not only as a basis for creating early technological awareness, but also to provide suitable orientation for further learning, entrepreneurship and employment. It is also meant to ensure and collaborate with a wide range of partners and stakeholders to attract additional resources, information and investment so as to improve the quality of technical and vocational education in the State. As we can see, both laws have a tremendous impact on the lives of our people in Lagos. I have done so many things for my constituents. For example, I have facilitated many Road rehabilitation projects into my Constituency. Also, I have assisted in bringing Electricity Transformers into my Constituency. I have organised periodic Empowerment Programmes for my Constituents where various items were distributed. In addition, I have provided various financial and medical assistance to many of my Constituents. I have organised yearly holiday coaching for my Constituents in both Primary and Secondary schools category. I have also facilitated the rehabilitation of Primary, Junior High and Secondary schools in my Constituency. I have organised Computer Skill Acquisition Programmes for the youths in my Constituency. In the area of sports, I have 176

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‘’I believe I can serve in any capacity with the support of my people. However, not coming back to the House of Assembly would mean a waste of resources, energy and time for all the training that I have undergone over the years with the hard earned money of taxpayers.’’

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organised and sponsored Football competitions in my Constituency. I have assisted many Constituents gain employment into the teaching service in the state. I have also assisted in facilitating state funded scholarship awards to deserving Constituents. I sponsored the winner of 2013 Lagos State Individual Debate Competition who is my Constituent and his teacher on a trip to Dubai. Also, I gave out personal scholarship to the winner of 2013 Lagos State Inter School Quranic Recitation Competition who is also my Constituent. I have assisted many qualified students to gain admission into various educational institutions in the state. Lagos State has been the yardstick for good governance in Nigeria, how has the Lagos House of Assembly impacted on good governance in the state

We have been able to create effective laws which have helped the Executive with the implementations of various projects, programmes and policies and these in turn have assisted the state to function efficiently. We believe that, to govern is to make law. Do you believe that the Legislative arm of government has been given its due recognition for the success story of the Gov. Babatunde Fashola’s administration

The political culture in this part of the world does not really help the Legislature. But we are getting there, we are here to work with the Executive to improve the living conditions of the people and we have been doing that on a regular basis. Although, we are not accorded our rightful place in the scheme of things, probably because the Legislature is relatively new, unlike the Judiciary and the Executive which have been in existence, even during the military era. There is a need to reorientate our people on the importance of the

Legislature for the development of a nation. You conduct the plenary session of the House in Yoruba Language on Thursdays, has this helped in anyway

It has helped tremendously. It has also sent good signals to people around the world that, culture is very important. We have all witnessed the effect of technology and civilization on our culture particularly our language, hence the need to stem the tide informed our decision to strengthen our culture through our local language. How would you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

He is a demon and by that, I do not mean evil spirit. He does his work with a lot of zeal and energy. He knows his onions and he is very focused, efficient and determined. He has transformed the Lagos State House of Assembly into a world standard. Members have undergone several local and international training which have not only made us more cultivated but also improved our dealings with the Executive arm. Tell us about yourself

My name is Hon. Wahab Olawale Alawiye-King I was born 50 years ago at Ita Balogun in Olowogbowo area of Lagos Island. (Agbole Alawiye). I am a descendant of Obanikoro Chieftaincy family of Lagos Island. I attended Talim-ul-Islamiyyah Ahmadiyah Primary School (now Anwar Islam Primary School) Elegbata, Lagos Island and later, St. Timothy’s College, Onike-Iwaya, Yaba, Lagos for my Secondary education. I worked with the defunct Savannah Bank of Nigeria Limited for five years, before I moved to the United States of America where I bagged an Associate Degree in Liberal Arts, from Olive-

Harvey College of the City Colleges of Chicago, IIIinois, United States of America, a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance (Financial Economics), Master’s Degree in Economics and another Master’s Degree in Political Science with concentration in Urban Policy and Administration, all from Brooklyn College of the City University of New York, New York, USA. I worked with the City of New York, Department of Social Services, Office of Revenue and Investigation before coming back to Nigeria where I worked with the Lagos State University, LASU, School of Part time Studies (SPTS) as an Associate Lecturer, before going into politics. I vied for the Chairmanship position of the Lagos Island Local Government which I lost. I was the General Secretary of the PCRC (Police Community Relations Committee) Lion Building Division for many years. In 2007, I was elected into the Lagos State House of Assembly to represent Lagos Island Constituency I. In 2011, I was re-elected torepresent Lagos Island Constituency 11. Tell us about your family I am happily married with two beautiful daughters and still expecting more. Will you be coming back to the House in 2015 I believe I can serve in any capacity with the support of my people. However, not coming back to the House of Assembly would mean a waste of resources, energy and time for all the trainings that I have undergone over the years through the tax payers hard earned money. I think I can continue to contributeto the development of Lagos State through my meaningful contributions on the floor of the House, God willing. 178

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OUR CORE RESPONSIBILITIES ARE

MAKING LAWS AND FIGHTING FOR THE YEARNINGS OF THE PEOPLE

-HON. SANAI AGUNBIADE tately, suave and articulate, these three words best describe Hon. Sanai Agunbiade. Hon. Sanai Agunbiade who left a flourishing Legal practice for the Assembly is one of the consistent voices in the House of Assembly.

How would you describe the Legislative assignment

I believe that it is very interesting, tasking but quite unfortunately, it is notproperly understood by the public. I believe this is due to the intervening military era in our polity and we have not learnt much about the functions of the Legislators. People think that we do nothing in the hallowed Chamber but our work goes beyond sitting in the Chamber. As representatives of the people, we must discuss issues that affect them, formulate laws and also perform some oversight functions. A member of the Assembly belongs to not more than three Committees which he is expected to serve diligently. Aside from that, you are expected to be the mouthpiece of the people and also fight for their yearnings, even if it means going to relevant Agencies and Ministries. You must continue to foster positive inter-relationship with members of the Executive to get what your people need. It is therefore unfortunate that, some people are proposing part time Legislature because they do not appreciate the enormity of our job. What have been the challenges

The challenges are basically public perception and lack of understanding on the role of the Legislators. At times,people want you to construct roads for them and they blame you if no action is taken, even though you are busy pushing for it. Whether you advocate or not, the construction of a road is at the prerogative of the Executive and it is considered alongside other demands from other Constituencies. So, the inability of the people to understand the Constitutional responsibility of the Legislator is a problem but the Nigerian mentality bothers on what you give to them,which people term as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Dividends of Democracy.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; This is unlike the infrastructural development which should be paramount to them. Consequently, the financial demands on the Legislator are huge, because our Constituents will want you to take care of even their personal needs. What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

Though, there is no Constituency allowance in the state apart from our stipend and monthly salaries, yet we must give back to our Constituency. I have been submitting an account of Stewardship since 2007,once in two years. At the last count, 650 members of my Constituency have benefited from our partnership with the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. They have acquired skills in different vocations, like soap making, interior decoration and hairdressing and at the end of the program, they were certified by the government and I always give a start-up capital to the best 50 Constituents. I can assure you that not less than 80 of them are currently earning their living through the skills acquired from such programme. I also have a Best Brain Contest for the public school pupils in Primary 5, JSS 2 and SS2 and they are tested in English, Mathematics and General Studies. So far, we have had three editions and the winning school gets a trophy and a cash reward while the Runners-up are also rewarded. All the students in the winning school also get notebooks. Apart from that, the market women in my area are exposed to interest free financial assistance with collaboration from a Bank. They get the loans and I pay the interest. I do this to help them cushion the effect of the interest policy of Banks. I also run a Non- Governmental Organisation called the Onward Movement of Nigeria in my Constituency which develops youths in Politics and also propagate selfdependency, reliance and determinism amongst the youths. We seek to explain that, you can make a living by 179

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using your own talents and resolve. I have 17 wards in my Constituency and I have sunk 10 boreholes in10 wards. I have also facilitated the re-construction and rehabilitation of some Roads and Schools in the Constituency. Ihold interactive sessions with all the Community Development Associations in my Constituency. I have three Local Governments in my area, Ikorodu North, South and Central and I can tell you that, Community Development Councils and Community Development Associations have a harmonious relationship in my Constituency. Apart from regular enlightenment programmes, like we did with the General Manager of LASSRA who came to talk about the importance of registration. Have you sponsored or co-sponsored any Bill or motion in the House and how has it helped the people

I have sponsored not less than 14 motions and cosponsored several motions. In addition, a Bill is currently on the floor addressing the menace of land grabbers in the state and it is called the Property Protection Bill. It has passed two stages and I sponsored it, alongside the Chairman, House Committee on Land, Hon. Bayo Osinowo. The report of the public hearing on the Bill is ready and when it is passed into law, it would criminalize some of the actions of land grabbers who resort to violence to resolve issues. I also moved a motion that sought to change the logo of the state from the Federal emblem to the old insignia of the state. This is because, the founding fathers of the state had a vision which they portrayed in the crest which was used at a time but now

neglected. To accentuate its use, I moved a motion and subsequently, there was a Bill on it. I also raised a motion to create a Market Management Committee in the Mile 2 market to forestall incessant crisis. Since then, there has not been any crisis in the market. Lagos State has been the yardstick for good governance in Nigeria, how has the House of Assemblyimpacted on good governance in the state

For any government to function well and perform several responsibilities, apart from those entrusted on it by the Constitution, there should be enabling laws giving authority and legitimacy to the Executive. These enabling laws must help the Judiciary and Executive arms of government to function effectively. Unless there is an appropriation for any government, no meaningful spending can be done,except the limit approved in the Constitution before each yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s appropriation. So, the House of Assembly passes Appropriation Bill to empower the Executive. Apart from that, the House of Assembly, without compromising its Constitutional borders, has given the Governor some peace to function properly because of the harmonious relationship between both the Executive and Legislature. Being a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Gov. Fashola knows his onions and the House also knows its limits and we do not overstep our Legislative bounds. At the same time, laws are passed to give the Judiciary a wider scope to perform its Constitutional duties. So, I believe that the Legislature is the fulcrum for any government to rest upon peacefully. In view of your assertion, do you believe that the Legislative arm of government has been given its due

recognition for the success story of the Gov. Babatunde Fashola administration

Well, the Governor himself would always praise us at every opportunity and some members of the public also recognize that the collaboration of the Legislature with the Executive is responsible for that success story. But to a larger extent, the Legislature is obscure and most people still believe that the Governor is the entire government, which is the same all over the country. You conduct plenary sessions on Thursday in Yoruba Language, has this helped in anyway

It has helped in raising the consciousness of our society to the notion that a people that forget its culture perishes. One of the reasons we do this, is to remind ourselves that we are in the geographical area of the Yorubas. Also, we have the plenary session in Yoruba to allow the people who do not understand English Language to follow our sessions. Even if they understand, it is a thing of pride to speak our language while transacting the business of the Legislation. Finally, it has also enhanced our own understanding of the Yoruba Language. Do you understand and speak Yoruba Language fluently

I speak it fluently and I make sure my children do the same, without affecting their fluency in English Language. I have pride in my language, I know idioms in the language and in fact, I enjoy speaking it than English Language. I am a proud Yoruba man. How would you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

He has been wonderful and he has exposed us to 180

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‘’I have placed my wig and gown strategically here to remind myself that, I am a Lawyer and after my Legislative days, I would still go back to practice the profession.’’

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constant training within and outside the country. This has improved the Legislative experience of the House. This is my second term and I must say that in the area of human capacity development, he has done very well. How do you relax

I relax with my people and the Ikorodu people are very sociable. We love to throw parties and relax after the hustling and bustling in the state during the week. It is also a way of strengthening family ties, since Ikorodu is an indigenous community. I attend social gathering, listen to philosophical music like Reggae and philosophical songs by Fela Anikulapo Kuti, Saka Laigbade, Ayinla Omowura, Ebenezer Obey and a legend in Ikorodu, Nosiru Atuwon. Tell us about yourself

My name is Hon. Agunbiade Sanai Oyeniran Bolanle, widely known as SOB and I represent Ikorodu Constituency 1 in the Lagos State House of Assembly. I got elected in 2007 and I am in my second term. I attended my Primary school in Ikorodu and later went on to Teacherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s College in Ikorodu and the Lagos State College of Education, Ijanikin,where I was elected Welfare Director of the Students Union, my first political activity. I taught Biology and Chemistry subjects at Ikorodu High School but I was not really comfortable with teaching, so I left teaching to study Law. While I was teaching, I was the Welfare Director of the Nigerian Union of Teachers. I went to Lagos State University where in my final year, I became the President of the

Students Union. I was also the President of Lagos State Indigenes in the Law School. After Law School, I started practicing until 2003, when I had my first bite in democratic governance by aspiring for the House of Assembly but unfortunately I was not chosen by the party. I had the opportunity to work with the then Commissioner of Agriculture, Ashipa Kaole Akinsanya. I was combining my Legal work with that,until I could not do it any longer and had to work with the Commissioner on a full time basis. I formed my law firm, SOB Agunbiade and Co. until 2007 when I won the House elections. I stopped Legal practice and got somebody to manage my firm. Do you miss practicing Law

I do but the solace is that the advocacy you practice in the court can be likened to that in the floor of the House. Law is about using the laws made by Legislators to solve problems with the individuals and the state. While a Lawyer fights for the rights of the people, a Legislator advances the rights of the people. I have placed my wig and gown strategically here to remind myself that, I am a Lawyer and after my Legislative days, I would still go back to practice the profession. Whatever I do today would reflect on me. So, it has been a point of caution, because my profession unlike Legislation,does not expire. Tell us about your family

I am married with children. Will you be back to the House in 2015

Everything is left for God to do and I am sure He is doing the best for us all. 182

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INCLUSION OF

YORUBA LANGUAGE INTO THE HOUSE’S

PLENARY SESSIONS IS A MILESTONE -HON. ABDOULBAQ BALOGUN

progressive-minded young professional, a strong youth advocate and suave entrepreneur, Hon. Abdoulbaq Oladimeji Agboola Balogun started his primary education at Isale Maliki LSMB School and finished at Karuma Primary School, Ilorin between 1980 and 1986. For his post-primary education, he attended Ilorin Grammar School, Ilorin between 1986 and 1992. Omo Alalubarika, as he is fondly called, proceeded to the Federal College of Education (Technical) Akoka -Yaba, Lagos for his National Certificate in Computer Studies and later, The Polytechnic, Ibadan to study Business Administration. He furthered his educational pursuit with a degree in Economics, earned from the Lagos State University (LASU). He obtained a Post Graduate Diploma (PGD) in Marketing from the International Academy of Marketing and Master of Science (MSc) in Global Marketing Practices from Anglia Ruskin University, United Kingdom. He is studying for an MBA in Leadership and Sustainability at the Robert Kennedy College, University of Cumbria, Lake District, United Kingdom. He is a 2009 Graduate of Aspiring Entrepreneurship Programme (AEP) of the Fate Foundation School of Entrepreneurship, Lagos. In August 1997, Hon. Balogun was employed in the Administration and Finance Department of a leading ICT Company based in Lagos -Dataflex Nigeria Limited, where he consistently earned promotions due to his high work rate, professionalism and integrity. He resigned from Dataflex as Ag. Head of Administration and Human Resources in June 2005 to join Dejlad GroupR- a Manufacturing, Services and Investment company as the General Manager in charge of Operations, Strategy and Business Development. He successfully re-engineered the positive turnaround of the company, which led to its diversification of business portfolios, consistent growth, corporate

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branding and reputation and business expansion. He was seconded as Chief Operating Officer to the fledging but potentially viable Lagoon Waters Limited, where he steadily developed and consolidated the Oil and Gas portfolio of the company in strategic partnership with Oando Marketing Limited in 2007. In his socio-political career, Hon. Balogun blazed trails and made many firsts in his known efforts to impact lives positively in his immediate environment, among his peers and the larger society. He was the Secretary of The Elevates, a Students’ Union caucus of The Polytechnic, Ibadan. He was the founding Director of Operations of Lagos Success Movement in 2007-a Pro-Democracy and Good Governance. Hon. Balogun was the visionary founder and National Coordinator of impact-making, non-partisan and socio-cultural organization called, Ilorin Emirate Youth Alliance (ILEYA) Worldwide, for more than a decade. He was the Managing Editor of Emirate Trumpet News Tabloid as well as the pioneering Secretary of Alayabiagba Community Youth Association (ACYA), Ajegunle-Apapa, Lagos from 1998 – 2008. Hon. Balogun is an active initiator and or member of several Youth Advocate Groups, Community Based Organization, Charities and NonGovernmental Organizations which include, Town Hall Meeting Projects-Nigeria, Enough is Enough Nigerians!, Fix Nigeria Initiative, The Legends Club, Complete Football Magazine Klub, NASFAT Islamic Society, Dataflex Cooperative and Thrift Society, Dataflex Sports Team Captain, and globally renowned World Youth Alliance – Nigeria Chapter. He cut his political teeth when he was assigned as a local member of International Election Monitoring Group during the 1993 Transition to Civil Rule Programme; where he picked interest and mobilized the young people in his environment to fight for the

revalidation of the June 12 mandate won by Late Bashorun MKO Abiola as a budding Students’ Unionist then. He was the Secretary of the Youths Wing for Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Gambari 1 Ward, Ilorin East Local Government. Since then, his burning desire and zeal to serve the people, offer proactive beneficial leadership and provide creative solutions to the challenges of everyday living has not diminished in spite of his professional callings and academic pursuits, but rather propelled him to join and participate actively in the political struggles that gave birth to the fourth Republic as a member of Alliance for Democracy in AjeromiIfelodun, Lagos State. He left the comfort zone of the Organized Private Sector in 2010 to contest for a seat in the State Legislature to represent Ajeromi-Ifelodun Constituency II during the April 2011 general elections. With the popular mandate of his people, Hon. Balogun was sworn-in as a Parliamentarian in the Seventh Legislative Assembly of Lagos State House of Assembly on the 4th of June 2011. He is the ViceChairman of House Committee on Agriculture, Cooperatives and Rural Development. He is also an active, versatile and productive member of House Committees on Finance and Environment. He has privately sponsored and co-sponsored Legislative Bills which include, Lagos State Managed Health Care (Insurance Scheme) Agency Bill; Gender and Equality Bill; Lagos State Youth Development Agency Bill and the proposed Lagos SME Bill. He has moved several important and highly impacting motions which led to the Legislative Resolutions of the House, amongst which are, Proliferation of Illegal Abbattoirs and Unwholesome Meat Production in Lagos State, Strengthening Proactive Security Measures in Lagos Stateand

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Regarding Bills, I cosponsored the Gender and Equal Opportunity Bill and sponsored the Lagos State Managed Health Care (Insurance Scheme) Bill. Both Bills have gone through the first reading. On consultation with the Governor, he advised that ‘Insurance’ being on the Exclusive Legislative List be replaced from the Bill, so that it will lie within the power of the state. So, it has been modified and it will be like the Obamacare in United States of America (USA), which seeks to give the public, affordable access to various pre-paid healthcare services.

Immortalizing Late Alhaja (Dr.) Abibat Asabi Mogaji (OFR). He is a Chartered Marketer and member of different professional bodies, including National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria, Institute of Chartered Economists of Nigeria; Certified Marketing Communication Institute of Nigeria and Global Marketing Network, United Kingdom. A sports enthusiast, Hon. Balogun’s hobbies include Traveling, Researching, Reading, Organizing Events and Mentoring Talents. He is happily married to Hajia Kapheelat Folarera Balogun with children. Sir, how would you describe the Legislative assignment

It is very exciting and challenging, because this is one part of the government that had suffered in the hands of the military. However, being here has given me a lot of experience and it has been very interesting. Though, this is my first year in the public service as a Legislator, but with the rating of the media and my people, I believe that I am doing well enough. What have been your contributions to the House

I represent my people, which is the first and foremost task as a Legislator. I have also been a part

of the law making process since 2011 and I have made significant impacts since I have been here. As the Vice Chairman, Rural and Agriculture Committee and member of the Finance and Environment Committees, if you ask around, you would understand that, I am one of the productive members of these committees. Have you co-sponsored or sponsored any motion or Bill and what has been its impact on the society

I have sponsored and co-sponsored several motions. As the Vice Chairman, Agriculture, Cooperatives and Rural Committee, we carry out inspections and on one of our visits to the abattoirs, we realised that there were illegal abattoirs where cows are slaughtered without undergoing the hygienic processes. The title of that motion was – Proliferation of Illegal Abattoirs and Unwholesome Meat Production in Lagos State. After the motion was passed, the House engaged in a Budget re-ordering and a bulk of money was earmarked for the Agriculture Ministry alongside the Lagos State Micro-finance Institution to ensure that the butchers were fused into cooperative organisations to enable them procure Refrigerating Meat Vans for

transportation of meat products to the market. Also, a task force was set up to tackle all illegal abattoirs in the state and the culprits were punished accordingly. This motion changed the entire meat processing chain in the State and it has made the processes neater and healthier. I also led a motion alongside six other members for the State Government to purchase CCTV’s to strengthen security system architecture in the State. These devices are to be installed in garages, markets and public places to monitor activities on daily basis, second-by-second. Also, all residents are to be aggressively appealed to, to get registered by LASRRA, so that special security procedures are put in place for them. The motion was supported overwhelmingly and now, we have a Lagos State Security and Safety Command, serving as main hosts to these Street Cameras, which send in video feeds every second to the monitoring agents. The one that is very dear to my heart which was originally initiated by me until a consultation with the Speaker required that all members of the House be cosponsors of the motion,was titled: “Immortalizing Late Alhaja (Dr.) Abibat Asabi Mogaji, OFR”. The immortalisation would show that, all her efforts were not in vain and that would also encourage those behind her to do better. Regarding Bills, I co- sponsored the Gender and Equal Opportunity Bill and sponsored the Lagos State Managed Health Care (Insurance Scheme) Bill. Both Bills have gone through the first reading. On consultation with the Governor, he advised that ‘Insurance’ being on the Exclusive Legislative List be replaced from the Bill, so that it will lie within the power of the state. So, it has been modified and it will be like the Obamacare in United States of America (USA), which seeks to give the public, affordable access to various pre-paid healthcare services. What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

I represent Ajeromi - Ifelodun Constituency II mainly known as Ajegunle and everyone knows, that we are a bunch of talented people in sports and music. We are aware that not everyone will go to school and we are arranging a talent hunt programme in conjunction with LASSA, Kennis Music and the Ministry of Tourism. It is tagged ‘AJ Groove’ and it spans the whole spectrum of entertainment and scheduled for December 12 every year. Notable musicians who have roots in Ajegunle including, Wizkid, Daddy Showkey,Oritshefemi and some Fuji musicians have signified intentions to partner with us. We also organise an annual ‘AJ Municipal Soccer Challenge’ also known as Alalubarika Cup, which is 184

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named after me and it holds between November and December. We always host a barrage of Football stars. The age limit is 15 years and we are aiming to catch-them-young. We will train the products of the competition with the help of a sports consulting firm, after which they are engaged with a Football club, local or abroad. Education wise, the brilliant indigent students among my people are given scholarships and right now, I have 10 on my payroll. The scheme is running into the second year and some of them are in Secondary and Tertiary Institutions. We also purchase GCE and JAMB forms for the needy ones. In the area of economic empowerment, I deviated from the usual Poverty Alleviation Programme which in the long run is fruitless because the beneficiaries end up selling equipment given to them. Instead, I started a Capacity Building Programme and successful participants are sent to the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) in conjunction with BMN, an education consultancy firm. We have four graduates right now and currently, others are in the University. Once they are done, we buy and give them necessary tools, cutting across various skills like Makeup artistry, Photography, Graphics, Video Editing, Sound Mixing Engineering etc. One of the Graphic artists is currently working in a good company and he is doing very well. I also established a Cooperative Society and injected seed capital into it and it is managed by AB Micro-finance Bank. Some people in my Constituency also added their funds to it and at a slated time, we recycle the funds among various participants and they repay with a three per cent interest which takes care of the official expenses. I remain the main sponsor of this scheme because my fund is in the majority. I took a loan of 3.5 Million Naira for the acquisition of Fishing Boats and other equipment from the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture, which we handed to a group of Fish Farmers in Ajegunle but strategically, the actual fishing is done in Badagry. Proceeds from fishing are shared among the people, the fishermen and the loan scheme. Also, I give out various items during festive periods like Ramadan, Sallah, Easter and New Year. I also sponsor members of my Constituency on holy pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia (Hajj) and Jerusalem every year. All of these programmes are sponsored by me solely since the government has not earmarked funds for such purposes. Lagos State has been a yardstick for good governance in Nigeria, how has the House impacted on good governance in the state

Because of the young democracy we are in now, a lot of people will not appreciate the Legislature, compared to advanced democracies like the United States of America. There is nothing the Executive does, that does not have a solid input of the Legislature. Every policy, programme or project done by the government is backed by the House while the public only sees the final product. Lagos State is doing well, because the House of Assembly is also doing well. We are all qualified people and the least educational certificate you will see here is a Higher National Diploma. If you come to our plenary sessions, you would realise that, we are professionals with the way we argue, debate and review motions and Bills and anything that concerns the people. We all work as one and we all have one goal in mind, which is to make the lives of Lagosians better. In my estimation, we contribute more than 70 percent of the success story of Lagos State. Do you believe that the Legislative arm has been

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‘’As the Vice Chairman, Agriculture, Cooperatives and Rural Committee, we carry out inspections and on one of our visits to the abattoirs, we realised that there were illegal abattoirs where cows are slaughtered without undergoing the hygienic processes.’’ given its due recognition

I would say that, I have mixed feelings about this. The people we work with, that is the Executive and Judiciary appreciate our work and recognise us but most members of the public do not even understand

our roles I believe that we need a thorough reorientation and enlightenment programme for the people. They expect us to tar their roads, pay their school fees and provide electricity, when all these are tasks for the Executive. The people do not rate you by the Bills or motions you pass but by the personal assistance you give them, which is the irony of our democracy. But you cannot blame them, since they do not understand the democratic government works. Asides the people, the Executive and Judiciary appreciate us. Lagos State House of Assembly is the only Assembly in Nigeria that has its own Budget and does not need to go directly to the Governor to

implement anything. This helps us to be independent, unlike some Assemblies in the country who are held to ransom by the whims and caprices of their Governors. You conduct the plenary session of the House in Yoruba Language on Thursdays, has this helped in anyway

It has helped a lot and I believe that, the people should appreciate this gesture. Lagos State is a Yoruba State and for the House to have included the mother tongue of the majority of the people in the state into its plenary sessions, it is indeed a milestone. Some of us have forgotten our Culture and the upcoming generations need to be reminded that, this is our Language and we need to preserve it. The Speaker and indeed, our House of Assembly have been recognised and received a lot of awards from various organisations and institutions who appreciate the inclusion of our language in the House sessions. How would you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

One thing you cannot take away from this man is that, he is the first and only Honourable Speaker to be elected three times through a span of 12 years, which is a record. I advise him to document this achievement, so that, it will forever remain in the hearts of everyone. There is nobody that does not have his or her own flaws and leadership, particularly in our country, is plagued by errors but in terms of institutional building, I would say that, he has tried his best. Tell us about yourself

I am Hon.Abdoulbaq Ladi Balogun, a representative of Ajeromi-Ifelodun Constituency II. I

came from the private sector and this is my first time in the public service and in the House. I grew up in Ajegunle and had my Primary and Secondary education in Kwara State. I got a National Certificate in Computer at the Federal College of Education (Technical) ,Akoka-Yaba and attended The Polytechnic, Ibadan for a National Diploma in Business Administration. I earned my BSc in Economics from Lagos State University, LASU. I have a Post Graduate Diploma in Marketing and MSc in Global Marketing from the Anglia Ruskin University in the United Kingdom. I am currently doing my Master in Business Administration in Sustainability and Leadership in Cumbria University, also in the United Kingdom. I am an Alumnus of the Fate Foundation School of Entrepreneurship. I intend to teach after my public service years. I got to the Assembly in 2011 after some politicking in the University of Jos where I led

the protest “Abiola Must Be President” and that led to my leaving the University. I belong to a host of organisations like, the ‘Enough is Enough Nigeria Group’ that campaigned against impunity and bad leadership, ‘Fix Nigeria Initiative’ and I founded the ‘Lagos Success Movement’ -a pro-democracy and good governance, Non- Governmental Organisation. I was the Secretary of my community-Alayabiagba Community Youth Association, Ajegunle-Apapa, Lagos for almost 10 years and the Secretary of the strongest student’s caucus in the Ibadan Polytechnic in 1999. 186

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GOVERNANCE IS NOT ABOUT COMPETING FOR RECOGNITION -HON. GBOLAHAN YISHAWU

‘’Sometimes, our people want things done right away and you need to explain to them that it does not work that way. For example, I brought the Obalende Transformation Initiative to the House and people are wondering why it is taking some time to get done.’’ on. Gbolahan Yishawu epitomizes the new breed of Legislators in the 7th Assembly in Lagos State. Forever committed to the ideals and progress of his constituency in particular and the State in general. Hon. Yishawu has never mined words about his desire for the progress and development of the average Lagosian. No wonder, he is always working towards ensuring that positive Bills that would make better for the people are passed.

Hon. how will you describe the Legislative assignment

The Legislative arm of government is the hallmark of democracy and the moment you take the Legislative arm out, then you do not have what we call Democracy. Rather, in its place, you have Autocracy. Being the first arm of government, the Legislature is a pivotal arm of government that determines good governance in the state. The Legislative arm communicates the aspirations and expectations of the people. So, it is a very critical assignment that serves as the hallmark of democracy. What would you refer as the challenges of being a Legislator

There are personal, official and social challenges. Personal challenges have made me to do a little more than what I used to do. I also do more of reading, because at any point in time, I am expected to talk intelligently with facts and figures. That means, I have to step-up my game by reading extensively. One is also working with colleagues in the House and getting to know different people. Navigating the Legislative work is another challenge on its own and as per the Constituents, you need to explain the positions of government to them as at when due and also harness their requests to the government. Sometimes, our people want things done right away and you need to explain to them that it does not work that way. For example, I brought the Obalende Transformation Initiative to the House and people are wondering why it is taking some time to get done. We also need to educate the people that, we do not execute projects in the House ordinarily, because that is the purview of the Executive. I am sure this is due to the many years of military rule, but I try to make people understand. In all, I think it is a worthwhile challenge. What have been your contributions to the House of Assembly

Well, for any member of our House, participation and debating on the floor of the House is a contribution. Being present alone is a contribution, because if we do not form a quorum in the House, we cannot sit. I have been able to present four Private Member Bills. Most of the 187

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I hope to be here as long as my people believe that I am still worthy of their representation. For me, it is an opportunity to further serve the people, after all , the days of trying to be a tin god as a leader is gone. The contemporary leader of today is a servant leader and if I get another chance to serve, I intend to do more, because there is a lot to be done. Bills that come here are Executive Bills and those Bills include, the Regulation of Smoking in Public Places which I sponsored personally. The three others are in various stages of reading. While, two are awaiting first reading, the other one (Rape Victim Shield Bill) is in its second reading. What positive impact will these Bills have on the society

The Rape Victim Shield Bill is to shield victims of rape from the public, so that they can come out and avoid stigma in the society and also to enable them prosecute offenders. The essence of the Bill on Smoking is not to stop smoking. Rather, it is to reduce the effect of smoking in public places, because we now know through research that, the effect of smoking on the first person is as potent as the second person who is a passive smoker. More importantly, the Bill states that, smoking should not be done in the presence of the children. These are future leaders who are in their growing stages and any malfunction in their body system can lead to stunted growth. This has been proven in several medical researches. Parents that smoke should avoid smoking within their homes or better still, they could step out to a garden. That is the essence of the law. What have been your contributions to your

189

Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

I represent the good people of Eti Osa Constituency II at the Lagos State House of Assembly and the Constituency comprises of Ikoyi-Obalende Local Council Development Area (LCDA) and some parts of Victoria Island LCDA. The duty of a Legislator is divided into three. They are law making, representation and oversight functions. Due to the peculiarity nature of our democracy, we (Legislators) carry out some Executive duties. In the past three years that I have been in the House, we have provided boreholes within our Constituency to assist communities that do not have water. We have gone as far getting the Water Corporation to supply water to some settlements in my Constituency. We are very serious about training within my Constituency and it is done every year. We engage people in Vocational Training in order to empower them within my Constituency every year. In the first year, we trained over 100 people, in the second year we trained over 150 people and third year, we trained another 150. I started this before I got into office so, the first year was actually 2011, the second was in 2012 and the third was 2013 and this is 2014. Now, we have pushed out funds for people to come for various vocational training which includes; Bead making, Fashion designing, Catering and Hotel management, Aluminium, Hair-dressing, Welding and others. What I did in the past was to provide the best three students all the amenities needed to startoff. I sometimes get them an office or a shop as the case may be. I also gave Laptops, Printers and UPS systems to people that graduated from Computer Science Schools and the people that graduated from Catering and Hotel Management were given Gas cookers and Ovens. Those that majored in Hairdressing got Hair-dryers and Sewing machines were given to Fashion designers. In addition, we organise Health Screening on a yearly basis. Like we say, health is wealth and the greatest resource that any nation possesses is the human resource and we all know that a healthy work force guarantees a good state of health. Unfortunately, the culture of check-up within our community and society seems not to have caught on, because it is not free. In some cases where we can actually treat people, we further provide medical attention. We do basic screening for ailments like Malaria, Typhoid,

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Hypertension, Blood Sugar Levels for Diabetic patients, HIV, Cervical cancer, Breast cancer, Dental and Eye screening. For those that have eye defects, we do give them glasses. In our first two years, we have given out thousands of glasses. We had to postpone the programme this year because, of the Ebola outbreak. Within the space of three years, we have attended to about 5000 people, because the first one was about 2000, the second year was about 3000. Power has been our major challenge in my Constituency. However, we have provided Transformers to major areas within the Constituency. We also supplied 10 transformers to the Barracks where we have a large concentration of our Constituents. The first project I brought to the community, which was my project for 2011/2012, was the Obalende Transformation Initiative. Decency has been restored in Obalende. We are working on the Roundabouts and renovation of Bus Terminals as well. I am very proud of that and the other work projects that we have done. The biggest thing that has happened is the equipment of teachers which the state did and we were able to get people working there. We also helped some of our Constituents to get jobs in some Government agencies. Finally, I created a job site on line and we upload available jobs on line, so that our Constituents can make use of that advantage. Lagos State has been the yardstick for good governance, how has the House of Assembly impacted on that good governance in the state

The first thing we must realize is that, governance is a collective exercise comprising ; the Executive,

Judiciary and Legislative. If you look at the way democracy works, the laws that are passed by the Legislative enable the Executive to function and also the Judiciary. The Legislators also set the policy of the state and the Budget. If we do not agree with the Executive that sectors like Power, Agriculture, Transportation and Health should be the policy thrust of the state, then the state will not be able to do anything. Therefore, we need to be on the same page with the Executive. Do you believe that the Legislative arm of government has been given its due recognition for the success story of Gov. Babatunde Fasholaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s administration

Let me cite the instance of Apple, like any organisation. The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Apple takes the glory, but the truth is that, there is a background staff doing most of the jobs that gives the CEO the accolades. We are the ones that get our hands dirty on the job, the people who put the coal in the steam engine and most of the time, people do not see this but we do not mind. Governance is not about competing for recognition and as long as the Constituents and your colleagues know your value, that is all. We all agree that, the Executive is the captain of the ship and as enlightenment continues, the people will have a deeper understanding of governance. You conduct the plenary sessions of the House in Yoruba Language on Thursdays, has this helped in any way

It is a Constitutional right and it is allowed for us to conduct plenary sessions in our indigenous Language. I think it is important, because as a people, our Culture decides who we are and as Lagosians and

from the South West, this is very important. I think it is a very good thing, because some of us have even forgotten how to speak our Language. We should encourage it and not lose it. We should always be in tune with it and one way to make people proud of it, is by speaking it in the hallowed Chambers of the House of Assembly. How would you rate Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

He is our Speaker and he has been steering the ship of the House of Assembly for over 10 years now. So, all the accolades the House of Assembly has been receiving have been under his stewardship. As a Speaker, out of 100, I would rate him 90 and above. Tell us about yourself

I am Gbolahan Yishawu. I am an Engineer and I have a Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in Computer Science. I am also a PhD student but I had to suspend it due to my political activities. I am married with four kids to Omobolanle Yishawu. I am an easy going person, although, I can be very firm. I value my intergrity and everything rests on it and I know that I have brought my integrity to the table in my political activities. I also know that, I have a lot to offer and I pray I get the opportunity to give back to my state and the country at large. Will you be back in 2015

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LEGISLATIVE ASSIGNMENT IS AN INTERESTING

PROJECT

-HON. RAHEEM KAZEEM

on. Raheem Adewale Kazeem started his academic career at Saint Peters Anglican Primary School, Magbon Alade, Ibeju-Lekki where he obtained his Primary School Leaving Certificate in 1987. He was admitted into Magbon Alade Grammar School in that same year for his Secondary School education. After graduating from high school, Hon. Kazeem proceeded to the Lagos State University, Ojo; where he studied Economics and graduated in 2000. He has worked in different capacities, such as, Personal Assistant to the Secretary,IbejuLekki Local Government , 20022003 (under Dr. Tola Kasali’s administration), Special Adviser to the Executive Chairman, IbejuLekki Local Government between 2004-2007 and Supervisor for Education , IbejuLekki Local Government, 20082011. He is currently a member of Lagos State House of Assembly, representing IbejuLekki Constituency 11. Hon. Kazeem’s political experiences include, Organizing Secretary Ward C2 under Alliance for Democracy (AD), Secretary, Ibeju-Lekki Youths Forum, Secretary, Alliance Youth

Forum Ibeju-lekki Chapter and Action Congress Party Candidate for State House of Assembly (Ibeju Lekki Constituency II) in 2007 general election but was told to step down for Hon. Oliya. Hon. Kazeem is married to Alhaja Modinat Olushola Kazeem and they are blessed with children Sir how will you describe the Legislative assignment

I would describe the Legislative assignment as an interesting project, because we deal with people’s challenges and I have always had a passion for service to the people, even before I got to the House. Prior to coming to the House, many people have been coming to me with their needs and I have always been helping out in one way or the other. I am very happy to be a part of the Honorable members of the Lagos State House of Assembly. Since my election, I have been performing my duties, which include protecting the interests of the people in my Constituency. What have been your contributions to the Lagos State House of Assembly

My contributions to the Lagos State House of Assembly have been enormous. I have moved some motions and co192

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sponsored some Bills. I have also been effective at the Committee level and as the Vice Chairman of the Committee on Housing, we have made some interventions in land issues concerning the people of Lagos State. What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

I have been living with the people in my area, long before I became a Legislator. I grew up there and I know the problems of the people. I usually organize Town Hall meetings every month and I organized a big event in 2012 and distributed some materials that were of benefit to the people. Some of the people were Carpenters, Tailors and Painters and I assisted them with their tools. I also distributed 40 Sewing machines, Hairdressing equipment, Fishing nets and Grinding machines and sponsored about 35 students on Vocational Training Center at Orimedu , Ibeju-Lekki, which is owned by Lagos State Government. Lagos State has been a yardstick for good governance in Nigeria, how has the Lagos State House of Assembly impacted on good governance in the state

The Legislature is the engine room and backbone of every successful government in a democratic society. Without good laws in place, no government

can perform properly. All the achievements of Governor Fashola in Lagos State have been with the help of the Lagos State House of Assembly. Do you think the Lagos State House of Assembly has been given its due recognition for the success story of Gov. Babatunde Fashola’s administration

The Lagos State House of Assembly has been given its due recognition and Gov. Fashola has always appreciated the good work being done in the House. We have also been giving him all the necessary support. You conduct the plenary session of the House in Yoruba Language on Thursdays, has this helped in anyway

It is a good idea, because it helps the people who are not versed in English Language to follow the proceedings of the House. However, I would advise that, we make it a consistent one thing, because we have had cause to set it aside and conduct the business of the House in English Language on such days. How will you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

He is an excellent leader. I met him here as the Speaker of the House and he has performed wonderfully. He has taken the Lagos State House of Assembly to greater heights. In Nigeria today, they refer to us as, ‘The House that leads and others follow.’

This is due to the resilient spirit and efforts of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji. Tell us about yourself

I am Hon. Raheem Adewale Kazeem. I am 39 years old. I hail from Magbon Alade in Ibeju-Lekki. I am married to Alhaja Modinat Kazeem with three children. I attended Magbon Alade Grammar School and later proceeded to the Lagos State University (LASU) where I read Economics. I joined politics in 2000. I have been around politicians since I left the University and I have also held some positions including, Supervisor for Education, Personal Assistant to the then Secretary to the Local Government Prince Bayo Balogun during Dr. Tola Kasali’s administration as the Council Chairman and also served Prince Balogun when he was the Council Chairman. I later became a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly. Will you be back in 2015

I hope and pray so, because it is only God who can determine tomorrow, not human beings. I believe God will answer my prayers. I also believe that, with the support of my good leaders in Ibeju-Lekki including, Dr. Tola Kasali, Prince Balogun, Hon. Yomi Ayeola and the people of my Constituency, I will be back for a second term. 194

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‘‘Prior to coming to the House, many people have been coming to me with their needs and I have always been helping out in one way or the other.’’

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WE NEED TO

FORTIFY

THE PARLIAMENT -HON. OLUSEGUN OLULADE he world is in dire need of great men, men who are worthy of trust and responsibility; men who are diligent and reliable; men whose passion is driven by the ultimate pursuit of good; men who would sacrifice their pleasure for the attainment of progress and the happiness of all and sundry. Though men of these standards are not easy to come by, their thoughts and actions, during moments of critical challenges often help to throw them up from the rear. Such is a vivid description that could best suit the emerging character and personality of Hon. Ganiyu Olusegun Olulade, a quintessential and articulate lawmaker as well as Chairman, House Committee on Information, Strategy, Security and Publicity, Lagos State House of Assembly. An ebullient, promising and highly dynamic young man, Hon. Olulade, fondly referred to as Eleniyan by his teeming admirers and political associates, is a man of the people. He was born in his hometown, Ejinrin, in Ikosi-Ejinrin Local Council Development Area, Epe, Lagos State. An accomplished business man and community leader, Hon. Olulade attended RCM Primary School, Ejinrin for his Primary education. He became the Senior Prefect of the school in his final year, having demonstrated leadership credentials during his formative years as a young, brilliant and an outspoken pupil. In the pursuit of his Secondary education, he proceeded to Lofi Ogunmude Comprehensive College, Ejinrin where he sat for the General Certificate Examination in 1988 and passed with flying colours in virtually all the subjects registered for in the examination. He was a Social Prefect and later Health and Sanitation Prefect of the school. This was a testimony of his reputation for neatness, discipline and exemplary character. Persuaded by the resolve to satisfy his insatiable quest for knowledge and academic excellence, Hon. Olulade proceeded to the Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo where he earned a Bachelor Degree (with honours) in Economics (Education) in the Second Class Upper Division. As an undergraduate, he cut his political teeth from active campus student unionism and indigenous Students Associations. His prominent contributions to the growth and welfare of the student body, coupled with his political maturity and unique sense of judgment, made him to be appointed as a member of the LASU Studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Union Electoral Committee, during the 1998/1999 academic session. Hon. Olulade was the former Secretary-General of the Association of Waste Managers of Nigeria (AWAM), a body committed to ensuring a clean environment in Lagos State as well as the Director of Publicity and Operation of Environmental Support Service. His exemplary leadership qualities and sound moral assiduity formed the very basis for which the good people of his Constituency, Epe Constituency II, Lagos State, have in their own right, chosen and elected him to represent them in the Lagos State House of Assembly in this political dispensation. In November, 2011 in recognition of his Legislative commitment, vibrancy and eloquence, Hon. Olulade was appointed by the leadership of

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I sponsored the motion to immortalize the Legend of Afro beat, Fela Anikulapo Kuti in Lagos State and the motion got an overwhelming adoption. Today, he has been immortalized as a Nigerian icon and hero to be remembered for his struggle, for the advancement of human rights through his chosen career. Also for the records, I was the first Legislator to move a motion in Yoruba Language in the history of Lagos House of Assembly and the motion was premised on the need to make teaching of indigenous languages mandatory in Primary and Secondary schools in Lagos State. The motion was unanimously adopted. the Lagos State House of Assembly as the Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Strategy, Security and Publicity. Passionate about the plight of the unemployed youths and the less privileged, he has not only facilitated the employment of many youths on permanent and temporary basis respectively in some public and private institutions, but also donated some cash gifts, food items and other support materials to the Home of God’s Grace for Widows and Orphans at two different occasions. He has equally influenced the provision of transformers to communities within Ikosi/Ejinrin and Eredo Local Council Development Areas (LCDA). Just recently, in his bid to fulfil part of the promises he made to his Constituents during the electioneering process, Hon. Olulade gave five notebooks each to all students in all the 31 Public Junior and Senior Secondary Schools in Ikosi/Ejinrin and Eredo LCDA’s. As if these were not enough, Hon. Olulade empowered communities through the donation of boreholes to each of the 11 wards in his Constituency, alongside brand new generating sets to power the boreholes for the use of the people. In appreciation of his life transforming programmes and laudable activities in his Constituency, he was given the Outstanding Personality Award for the Year 2011/2012 by the National Association of Care and Voluntary Service Providers. He also received a Special Recognition and Award from Eredo Development Association and the Epe Club, Epe, Lagos State, respectively. A devout Christian and an ardent supporter of Church programmes and projects, Hon. Olulade was a recipient of the Christ Embassy LCC3 Ogba Award in 2011, in recognition of his outstanding Contribution to Church growth and development. At the Lagos Parliament, Hon. Olulade is a member of other House Committees such as the Committees on Works and Infrastructure, Local Government Administration and Chieftaincy Affairs as well as the House Committee on Establishment, Training, Pensions and Public Service. A complete family man and loving husband, he is happily married to his beloved heartthrob, Engr. (Mrs.) Mosunmola Olulade. Sir how will you describe the Legislative assignment

197

Legislators being the voice and symbol of their Constituencies carry out various responsibilities otherwise referred to as Legislative assignments or tasks, including Legislative functions and oversight functions. Since we speak on behalf of the people as their representatives, our primary assignment is to formulate laws, amend, repeal and review them as necessary. Our oversight functions include activities that are not mandatory but fall within the purview of our duties as peoples’ representatives. As one of the arms of government, we are also responsible for checking or moderating the activities of the Executive arm, while we complement them at the same time. Such includes Budget review and approval, approval of extra Budgetary expenses, provision of approval for extraordinary Executive decisions and lots more. All these are in the interest of every law abiding citizen of the State. How have you coped manning the Information Committee with no prior experience

As a Legislator, you have to be versatile in every aspect of the business. You must know a little of everything and that makes you a complete Legislator. You need to know a bit of Science, Education, Sports, Infrastructure, Environment, Law etc. As the spokesperson of the House, one must be interested in the work of other committees, activities, decisions and administration of the House to become sound and effective in delivery. I must tell you these tasks are not easy ones; they are painstaking and rigorous and you must have a passion for information to head the Committee. The Committee has membership though, but you should understand that, as the head; I am responsible and liable for its success or failure. However, as someone who had vast experience in leadership before becoming a lawmaker, my knowledge in public affairs and global issues have helped me a lot in managing the Committee and performing well in the discharge of my responsibilities as the voice of the House. In specifics terms, what will you say you have achieved

I have ensured that, on a weekly basis, Lagos State House of Assembly is in the news for good reasons. I have improved the quality of the official publication of the House – ‘The Lagos Legislators’ of which its present standard is second to none. I have also been able to disseminate information as at when due and also established sound relationship with the media as well as the correspondents that report the House. My office has ensured timely response to all matters concerning the Lagos State House of Assembly, either emanating from the media, general or selected public. Response of the House to public complaints especiallyto the House on rights issues through my office is another landmark achievement that is verifiable. The Civil Society engagements with the House have also improved considerably in my time as Chairman of the House Committee on Information. I think I have done a lot, in terms of information management and dissemination. So, can you give yourself a pat on the back

Definitely, even my colleagues, who have been at the House for three to four terms tell me that they have never enjoyed a robust media coverage and presence like they are witnessing in my time. So, if you are re-elected to the House, will you still want to man the Committee

No (Laughs). There is a need for exploring different areas of responsibilities in service to the House and to the people. Perhaps the position of a Deputy Speaker then

Not at all (Laughs). Why did you say not at all

When we get to that bridge, we will cross it. Talking about Legislation, have you sponsored or cosponsored any motion or Bill in the House, and what impact has this had on the society

I sponsored the motion to immortalize the Legend of Afro beat, Fela Anikulapo Kuti in Lagos State and

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the motion got an overwhelming adoption. Today, he has been immortalized as Nigerian icon and hero to be remembered for his struggle for the advancement of human rights through his chosen career. I also chaired the Committee that worked on Emergency Call Control Bill of Lagos State in 2013. It was an Executive Bill that was committed to my sent and I give God the glory. Also for the records, I was the first Legislator to move a motion in Yoruba Language in the history of Lagos House of Assembly and the motion was premised on the need to make teaching of indigenous languages mandatory in Primary and Secondary schools in Lagos State. The motion was unanimously adopted. What have been your contributions to your Constituency and how have they been able to reap the dividends of democracy

My Constituency, Epe Constituency II, consists of 61 Communities with two Local Council Development Areas (LCDA’s), namely Eredo and Ikosi-Ejinrin. My Constituency also has the highest number of traditional rulers in Lagos State, with 14 First Class and Second Class paramount rulers. I have been able to impact my Constituents in the areas of Education, Sports and Empowerment. Recently, we empowered over 640 artisans and youths, women and the aged in my Constituency. I have done over 13 boreholes in different communities to serve the Constituency and I have given books to Secondary schools students in my Constituency. We have also influenced the government in terms of Housing, Water provision and Road Construction. In fact, more Roads and Housing schemes have been done in my time, much more than before. We have delivered over 14 transformers to different communities within the Constituency. We have also provided free medical services and you are free to cross-check on my website: www.eleniyancares.com. I also ensured that RRS security patrol was stationed in my Constituency to stem security challenges in the Constituency. I also facilitated the MTN Street Soccer in my Constituency, sponsored the Eleniyan Junior Secondary School Football Competition and the best two Students in the Sony Siyakhona Photography Online Competition used during the Brazil 2014 World Cup emerged from my Constituency. Both of them, Marvelous and Hassan came in through the competition that I organized and FIFA Agents came to present prizes and plaques to them in the House of Assembly some days ago. The boys came with their family members and it was a big event in the House. How has the House contributed to the success story of the Gov. Babatunde Fashola’s administration

The House has contributed immensely to the success of the present administration of Governor Fashola (SAN). You know, there cannot be good governance without good laws and good Legislation in a democracy. Whatever happens in the society, programmes and policies that are executed by the Executive, emanate from the Assembly. We approve the Budget which enables the government to implement all programmes in all the sectors including Health, Education, Infrastructure, Transport and others. The beauty of the whole thing is that we are doing it in conjunction with the Executive. It is a collective effort and collective achievement and you cannot separate the House from the success of Governor Fashola’s administration. However, Governor Fashola is a rare gem we are all proud of because he has delivered the best practice in governance and leadership following the legacies established by our overall mentor, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 198

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Based on what you have just said, do you believe that the Legislative arm of Government has been given its due recognition for the success story of Gov. Fasholaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s administration

I do not agree with that assertion. I think, Nigerians, not only Lagosians, have not given due recognition to the Legislative arm of Government and that has really affected the Legislative institution. I think we need to do more to encourage the Legislators, strengthen the Legislature by making it more independent like Lagos State did and also put in place a very solid institution. In more developed countries, lawmakers are more respected for their roles as representatives because people are more concerned about who represent them than who becomes a Governor or even President. The roles of lawmakers are such that determine the future of a people, hence we must see it as such and make our Legislature more honourable than we perceive presently. How can we achieve these

We need to continue to educate our people about the critical nature of the Legislative arm of government and the roles of Legislators. Though, I have started doing this and I dedicated the back page of the note books I gave to Secondary school students to the roles of Legislators. In fact, enlightenment should begin from the Primary School level. People need to know that the roles of Legislators are quite different from that of the Executive. We should always enlighten the public, engage them and make them understand the roles of Legislators. The House conducts plenary sessions on Thursdays in Yoruba Language, has this helped in anyway It has promoted our native language and this is another first for the House. It has promoted the idea 199

behind the mother tongue and if you look around the world, prosperous countries learn with their local languages. That is what we are missing here, because we teach our children to speak English better than our native languages as soon as they begin to speak. Before you know it, a lot of our younger generation cannot even speak their language. But the House has decided that, it is time that we recovered our cultural heritage and to me, there is nothing wrong with that. We must be proud of our native language. How would you rate the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

Just yesterday, somebody was talking about a House of Assembly where the members were beating themselves on air and regarding that, I think we should give kudos to Rt. Hon. Ikuforiji. After all, here is a man who has spent three terms as Speaker and not for a day was a fight recorded. It shows the kind of leadership that he has provided and that is why we are regarded as the best House in the Country. Leading the House that comprises mostly sophisticated and highly skilled professionals is not a joke; more so, leading highly intellectual people is very tasking. I salute him and we can never have it better than he has done. Ikuforiji is a legend with a track record to beat in years to come. Do not forget that, no one has ever led a House of Assembly as the Speaker for three consecutive terms in this country. We(lawmakers) are proud of his exceptional leadership acumen. Why are you called Eleniyan

Eleniyan means a man of the people and choice of the people. It has grown overtime to become an ideology and a belief. It is also about institutionalising good governance and putting smiles on the faces of the people. If you are a man of the people, then surely

the people must be proud of you, and they cannot be proud of you except you are delivering good governance and service for their well-being. Your delivery must also be borne out of passion, love and humanitarian concerns for the people. I did not give myself the name, my people coined it for me and it has stuck. Briefly tell us about yourself

My name is Hon. Olusegun Olulade. I represent Epe Constituency II and I am the Chairman, House Committee on Information, Security, Strategy and Publicity, Lagos State House of Assembly. I was born some 43 years ago and I am married to Engr. (Mrs.) Mosunmola Olulade with two children as fruits of our union. Will you be back in 2015

By the Grace of God, I am coming back. I thank God for the leadership of the House, my party and the Constituency. I thank God also for my people who have reposed their trust in me and for believing in me. When the likes of Mama Doja Otedola would say that, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Segun, no matter what, we will stand by you and vote for you, anytime anyday.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; That is gladdening and I can say that, everyone in the Constituency is clamouring for my return and I do not have any other choice than to return to the House for a better service to my people. The endorsement for my second term bid came from all the strata of the Constituency like the royal fathers, market women, students, youths and professional associations and groups. The call was so overwhelming based on delivery of dividends as the lawmaker representing their Constituency and in whom they are well pleased. God is involved!

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LAGOS HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY

THRIVES ON TRAINING AND CAPACITY BUILDING -THE HOUSE CLERK, ALHAJI OLUSEGUN ABIRU

lhaji Ganiyu Olusegun Abiru was born into the renowned Abiru family of Ikorodu area of Lagos State. Alhaji Abiru began his educational career in 1963 at Muslim ‘A’ Primary School in Ikorodu, Lagos, after which he left for Ago Ijaye Methodist Primary School, Ebute Metta, Lagos to complete his First School Leaving Certificate in 1969. For his Secondary education, he proceeded to the popular Ansar-Ud-Deen High School, Surulere Lagos in 1971 formerly known as Ansar-Ud-deen Secondary Commercial School where he spent two years before taking a transfer to Methodist Boys’ High School, Lagos where he eventually completed his Secondary education in record time and obtained his West African School Certificate. In the same year, he obtained his General Certificate of Education, (GCE). A brilliant and promising young student, in 1977, 21 year old Abiru was admitted to The Polytechnic, Ibadan for his Advanced Level Cambridge Exam (Local) in 1979. Unrelenting in his academic pursuit, in the same year, he again sought admission to the prestigious University of Lagos where he obtained his Bachelor of Arts Degree in History in 1982. He obtained his Master Degree in Personnel Psychology in 2001 at the University of Ado-Ekiti now Ondo State University. A member of the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM) and Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (I.P.M.), Alhaji Abiru was posted to Ransome Kuti Memorial Grammar School Surulere in 1983 for his one year mandatory National Youth Service Corp (NYSC). There, he pioneered the establishment of the Literary and Debating Society of the School. As a Muslim, he also pioneered the establishment of the Muslim Students’ Society of the School. After the completion of his NYSC, he joined the Lagos State Civil Service in 1983 as Higher Executive Officer in the Ministry of Finance. Alhaji Abiru’s career in the Civil Service has been highly eventful and remarkable. As a versatile and dedicated public servant, his career had seen him through various government ministries and carried out many successful state assignments. He was one time the Secretary of Central Licensing Authority and Agricultural Land Holdings Authority, respectively. He had also worked in the Ministries of Finance, Information, Works and Infrastructure, amongst others. He was also the Director, Recruitment and Appeal Directorate at Civil Service Commission after which, he was appointed the Secretary of Ikorodu Local Government. In year 2008, he was posted to the Lagos State House of Assembly where he was the Director of Finance and Administration from 2008 – 2011 and in October, 2011 he was appointed the Clerk of the most prestigious state Legislature in the Federation, the Lagos State House of Assembly. The Clerk has attended several training programmes, seminars and conferences both within and outside of the country. A practising Muslim and an active member of Anwar-Ul-Islam Movement of Nigeria, he is married

with children and grandchildren. As the Clerk of the House, do you double also as the Permanent Secretary

I would say yes and on the other hand, say no. This is because there is nothing like Permanent Secretary in the Parliament. I was appointed through

the instrumentality of law, that is, the Lagos State House of Assembly Service Commission Law. We would want you to enlighten us on the functions of the Clerk in the House of Assembly

Basically, I combine the work of the Parliament with that of administration. I am the Administrative 200

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Head of this Legislative Assembly. In short, I supervise all the administrative and financial needs of the House. I give direction to the Legislative staff members and I am also the Chief Accounting Officer. I give Legislative advice to Honourable members when it comes to issues of Legislations and administration, particularly the day to day running of the House, it rests squarely on my shoulders. You would agree with me that, it is a herculean task managing 40 politicians from different back grounds. However, we thank God that, we are providing the administrative direction as at when due. How would you sum up your experiences in the House in almost three years of being the Clerk

This job has been hectic and challenging. There are some things that ordinarily, you would not think you would come across but when you are dealing with human beings and particularly politicians, it is a different ball game. Politicians have different approach to issues. I go by rules and regulations but sometimes, they can be impatient. Some may not want to go by the rules and regulations. However, I always insist on the procedures and I am glad that they have been understanding. I would be lying if I said that it has been easy but God has been very kind to me and I have been trying to manage the situation. The peace we are enjoying further attests to the understanding and cordiality we share with each other For three years now, what have been the high and low moments of administering the Lagos State House of Assembly

Regarding the high moments, I would want to say that, we have done so much in terms of capacity building. We have exposed our staff members to both 201

foreign and local programmes and we are highly applauded within and outside the country. We are generally regarded as the pace setter and that confers a lot of responsibilities on us and the only way we can sustain that is to continue to expose our staff members to training and re-training. We are lucky to have a Speaker who is very much interested in the capacity building of our Honourable and staff members. We have done so much in that area and I am glad to say that, the enormous amount we are spending on them is rubbing off on our performance. In fact, some Houses of Assembly do come here to learn the rudiments of Legislation and I must say that, even when we go for conferences, within and outside of the country. Lagos State Assembly is known for its pacesetting in record. I cannot say that, there have been low moments but one thing I observed, especially when I came in, was the rivalry among the Legislative Matters, Publications and Legal Directorates. As far as I am concerned, there is no superior Directorate since the Clerk can be chosen from any of the Directorates. All we have are Line officers and Staff officers. Line officers are officers whose duties directly have bearing with the functions and mandate of the House of Assembly, while Staff officers provide support services. I am glad that, we have gone beyond that, because everybody now sees one another as partners in progress. You have served in various MDAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in Lagos State, could you share some of your legacies with us

There was a backlog of confirmation appointment of officers when I got to the Civil Service Commission as a Director. As you are probably aware, confirmation is a pre-requisite to enjoying some perks of the office in the Civil Service and naturally, there were

agitations. Once you are not confirmed, you cannot enjoy housing or car loan and you can be deprived of so many other things. I made some submissions and suggestions to the Commission and with these, we resolved about 75 per cent of such cases. The legacy is still there and it could be confirmed. I also recall my time as the Secretary of Agricultural Land Holdings Authority. It was a period when it was difficult for land owners to release their lands for Agricultural purposes. As young as I was then, I tried my best to get the release of so many agricultural lands for people and I am sure that, some beneficiaries are still farming on that land till today. My administrative experience was also brought to bear when I was the Secretary of Lagos State Public Works Corporation. I also left my imprint in Ikorodu where I served as the Secretary of the Council. My legacies are there for all to see because I renovated the offices of the Legislative arm and also equipped the Local Government with modern office equipment, including installation of Intra Communication gadgets. The record and the achievements are empirically verifiable. My performance then is still a reference point. You have had a dignifying Civil Service career- now a Clerk, what values have stood you in good stead for an excellent career

We are talking about dedication, commitment, hard work, interest and passion for the job. Once all these indices are working together, you will excel. I always tell my officers that, you cannot be a 7:30 to 3:30 officer and excel in your job. It is not possible. You must put in extra hours to study the dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s job and prepare for the next day. Those are the things that

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would separate the boys from the men. You must be objective, apolitical, team player as well as be a leader and not a boss. You must be empathetic to the cause of your officers and above all, you must love your job. I am proud to be a public servant. Do you have any political aspiration after your service

I would leave that for God to guide and direct me. By the time I retire, I would rest for about a year or six months and plan on the next course of action. Who knows, I may become an Imam. What is your impression of Rt. Hon. AdeyemiIkuforiji

Without being invidious, the Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji has left indelible legacies that generations will find incontrovertible and monumental. He has tried his utmost to give everything to the development of the Legislature. If there is anybody in Lagos State, even in Nigeria that has fought frantically for the Legislature to assume its proper position in the running of the government, that person is Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji. He has done so well in terms of fiscal and infrastructural development. This ultramodern Chamber was built during his tenure. He is brilliant, focused and a man of convictions. He is destined for greater things to come. Going round the complex, you would have observed a total transformation of the entire complex from what it used to be. I would not say that, he is indispensable, but it may be difficult for 203

someone else to surpass his achievements. It is my prayer that the next Speaker would be better. Most importantly, this House is one of the most peaceful in the country and it is due to his style of leadership which has endeared him to his colleagues and the generality of staff. I think you can give this to him. How do you unwind

Well, I am a social drinker. When I go to parties, I take a bottle or two, especially if it is cold and I like listening to Juju, Apala and Classical music. A shot of cognac would put me in a right frame of mind. Tell us about your family

I thank God that, I married my sister, my ever charming and beautiful partner, my friend and my eternal love. We started when we were young and living in the same area in Ebute Metta. We have been married for the past 32 years. I am 58 years old now and celebrated my last birthday on August 6th, 2014. We are blessed with four good children and all of them are graduates doing well in their various occupations. It will interest you to know that I am also a grandfather. You actually do not look 58

Well, you can possibly say so and it is to the grace of God and in addition I do things that will not aggravate my stress level. My dear brother, when you have the grace of God, all will surely be well. He is the perfect Being. I really must say that, it has been a pleasure talking to you Sir.

The pleasure is mine.

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LAGOS HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY LAW PASSED FROM 1999 TILL DATE 5T H AS S E MB LY

Local Government Law, 1999

Supplementary Appropriation Law,1999

43.

Supplementary Appropriation Law, 2003

Lagos State (Constituency) Projects Development Law, 1999 (Private

44.

Appropriation Law, 2004

Member)

45.

Lagos State University Teaching Hospital

Management

Board

Regulation of Elections into Local Government Law, 2000

Appropriation Law, 2000

Establishment of Lagos State Planning Commission Law, 2000

Environment Sanitation Law, 2000

47.

Sales Tax (Amendment) Law, 2000

48.

Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) Law, 2004

Establishment of Lagos State Scholarship Board Law, 2000

49.

Road Traffic (Prohibition of Parking at Intersection) Law, 2004

10.

Supplementary Appropriate Law, 2000

50.

Regulation and Control of Cinematography and Similar Exhibition Law,

11.

Transportation of Employees Law, 2000 (Private Member)

12.

Lagos State House of Assembly Self - Accounting Law, 2000 (Private

Law, 2004 46.

Public Transportation (Commuter Buses) Registration and Restriction Law, 2004 Lagos State Blood Transfusion Committee Law, 2004

2004 51.

Member)

Lagos State Motor Vehicle and Motor Vehicle Spare Parts Dealer Registration Law, 2004

13.

Establishment of Lagos State College of Primary Education Law, 2001

52.

Lagos State High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules Law, 2004

14.

Education (Private Secondary Institutions) (Special Provision) Repeal

53.

Lagos State Infrastructure Maintenance and Regulation Law, 2004

Law, 2001

54.

Regulation and Grant of Permit for Sand Dealing and Dredging Operation

15.

Appropriation Law, 2001

16.

Regulations (Approval) Law, 2001

17.

High Court Increase in Fees Law, 2001

18.

High Court (Amendment) Law, 2001

19.

Land Use Charge Law, 2001

20.

Establishment of Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission Law,

Law, 2004 55.

Participation) Development Board Law, 2004 56.

22.

23.

Supplementary Appropriation Law, 2004 (Re-ordering of Priorities of expenditure within Year 2004 Approved Budget)

57.

2001 21.

Lagos State Roads Bridges and Highway Infrastructure (Private Sector

Rent Control and Recovery of Residential Premises (Amendment) Law, 2004

Establishment of Local Government Election Tribunals and Election

58.

Lagos State Lottery (Amendment) Law, 2004

Appeal Tribunal Law, 2001

59.

Lagos State Water Sector Law, 2004

Establishment of Lagos State Waterfront and Tourism Development

60.

Creation of Local Government Areas (Amendment) Law, 2004

Corporation Law, 2001

61.

Civil Engineering and Building Materials Manufacture (Quality Control)

Lagos State Legislative Service Commission Law, 2001 (Private Member)

Law, 2004 62.

Lagos State Waterfront and Tourism Development Corporation

24.

Appropriation Law, 2001

25.

The Local Government Council (Committee) Law, 2002

63.

Administration of Estates (Small Estate Payment Exemption) Law, 2005

26.

The Creation of Local Government Area Law, 2002

64.

Lagos State Urban Regional Planning and Development Law, 2005

27.

The Local Government Administration

(Amendment) Law, 2005

(Amendment)

Law,

65.

2002

Lagos State Health Sector and Hospital Management Board Reform Law, 2005

28.

Establishment of Lagos State Law Review Commission Law, 2002

66.

2005 Appropriation Law

29.

Local Government Council Committee (Amendment) Law, 2003

67.

Lagos State Lottery (Amendment) Law, 2005

30.

Appropriation Law, 2003

68.

Lagos State Post Primary Teaching Service Law, 2005

31.

Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission

69.

Creation of New Local Government Areas (Amendment) Law, 2005

70.

Supplementary Appropriation Law, 2005 (Re-ordering of Priorities of

(Amendment)

Law,

2003 32.

Disabled Persons' Welfare (Enhancement) Law, 2003

33.

State Health Management Information System Law, 2003

34.

Lagos State Joint Local Government Account Committee Law, 2003

35.

Lagos State HIV/AIDS Control Agency Law, 2003

36.

Office of the Public Defender Law, 2003

37.

Citizens' Mediation Centre Law, 2003

38.

Road Traffic Law Cap 172 of Lagos State of Nigeria 1994 Law, 2003

39.

Safety of Workers in Constitution and Allied Industries in Lagos State Law, 2003 (Private Member)

40.

Lagos State Emergency Relief Agency Function of the Agency Law, 2003

expenditure within Year 2005 Approved Budget) 71.

Lagos State Free Universal Basic Education Law, 2005

72.

Lagos State Revenue Administration Law, 2005

73.

Local Government Administration (Amendment) Law, 2005

74.

Partnership Law Cap PI of 2003 (Amendment) Law, 2005

75.

Establishment of Industrial Inspectorate and Monitoring Department Law, 2005

76.

2006 Appropriation Law

77.

Lagos State Infrastructure Maintenance and Regulatory (Amendment) Law, 2006

(Private Member) 41.

Lagos State College Health Technology Law, 2003

42.

Lagos State Sewage Treatment Plant Law, 2003

78.

Lagos State Development and Property Corporation (Amendment) Law, 2006 204

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79.

Lagos State Number Plate Production Authority Law, 2006

80.

Lagos State Structures for Signage and Advertisement Agency Law, 2006

81.

Lagos State Pension Reform Law, 2006

134. Supplementary Appropriation Law, 2008

82.

Supplementary Appropriation Law, 2006

135. Lagos State Waterfront Infrastructural Development Law, 2008

83.

Lagos Waste Management Authority Law, 2007

136. Appropriation Law, 2009

84.

Establishment of the Motor Vehicle Administration Agency Law, 2007

137. Wharf Landing Fee Law, 2009

85.

Lagos State Metropolitan Area Transport Authority Law, 2007

138. Partnership (Amendment) Law, 2009

86.

Appropriation Law, 2007

139. Lagos Court of Arbitration Law, 2009

87.

Local Government Council Committee Law, 2007

140. Lagos State Arbitration Law, 2009

88.

Government and Deputy Governor's Law, 2007

141. Lagos State Model City Development Authority Law, 2009

89.

Lagos State Signage and Advertisement (Amendment) Law, 2007

142. Lagos State Road Traffic (Amendment) Law, 2009

90.

Lagos State Government Education Management System (LAGSEM)

143. Hotel Occupancy and Restaurant Consumption Tax Law, 2009

Law, 2007

144. Lagos State Boundary Committee Law, 2009 Functions) Law, 2007

2008 Budget)

145. Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board Law, 2009

91.

Rent Tribunals (Abolition and Transfer of

92.

Pensions Rights of Lagos State Judicial Officers (Transfer of

146. Magistrates' Court Law, 2009

Responsibility and Administration) Law, 2007

147. Appropriation (Amendment) Law, 2009 (Re-ordering of priorities in Year 2009)

93.

Magistrate Courts (Amendment) Law, 2007

94.

Lagos State Law Reform Commission Law, 2007

148. Lagos State House of Assembly Legislative Service Commission Law, 2009

95.

Person Living with HIV/AIDS Law, 2007

149. Appropriation Law, 2010

96.

Lagos State Multi - Door Court House Law, 2007

150. Urban and Regional Planning Development Law, 2010

97.

Lagos State Citizens' Mediation Centre Law, 2007

151. Seal of Lagos State Government Law, 2010

98.

Lagos State Coroners System Law, 2007

152. Lagos State Special Peoples Law, 2010

99.

Criminal Justice Administration in Lagos State Law, 2007

153. Local Government Levies (Approved List for Collection) Law, 2010

100. Lagos State University Law, 2007

154. Mortgage and Property Law, 2010

101. Lagos State Records and Archives Law, 2007

155. Hotel Licensing (Amendment) Law, 2010

102. Casino and Gaming (Regulatory) Authority Law, 2007

156. Supplementary Appropriation Law, 2010

103. Lagos State Drivers' Institute Law, 2007

157. Appropriation Law, 2011

104. Child's Right Law, 2007

158. Listed Sites (Preservation) Law, 2011

105. Criminal Code and Other Law (Amendment of Penalties and Payment) Law,

159. Lagos State Residents' Registration Agency Law, 2011 160. Lagos State Public Private Partnership Law, 2011

2007 106. Same Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Law, 2007

161. Lagos State Public Finance Management Law, 2011

107. Lagos State Roads (Private Sector Participation) Authority Law, 2007

162. Administration of Criminal Justice (Repeal and Re-enactment) Law, 2011

108. Lagos State School of Health Law, 2007

163. Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (Amendment) Law, 2011

109. Lagos State Estate Agency (Regulatory) Authority Law, 2007

164. Criminal Law of Lagos State Law, 2011

110. Judicial Institution Law, 2007

165. Lagos State Audit Law, 2011

111. Cultism (Prohibition) Law, 2007 (Private Member)

166. Lagos State Safety Commission Law, 2011

112. Lagos State Domestic Violence Law, 2007 (Private Member)

167. Customary Court Law, 2011

6 TH A SSEM BLY 113. Supplementary Appropriation Law, 2007 114. Lagos State Security Trust Law, 2007 115. Supplementary Appropriation Law, (Local Government), 2007 116. Community Development Association Law, 2008 117. Public Road, Setback (Social and Religious Function Prohibition) Removal of Obstruction Law, 2008 118. Lagos State Microfinance Institution Law, 2008 119. Appropriation Law, 2008 120. Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (Amendment) Law, 2008 121. Road Traffic (Amendment) Law, 2008 122. National Inland Waterways Act (Repeal) Law, 2008 123. Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission Law, 2008 124. Supplementary Appropriation (Amendment) Local Government Law, 2008 125. Lagos State Land Registry Electronics Document Management System Law, 2008

205

133. Appropriation (Amendment) Law, 2008 (Re-ordering of Priorities in Year

7T H AS S E MB LY 168. Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency Law, 2011 169. Lagos State Public Procurement Law, 2011 170. Lagos State Tenancy Law, 2011 171. Appropriation (Amendment) Law, 2011 (Re-ordering of Priorities in Year 2011 Budget) 172. Appropriation Law, 2012 173. Lagos State Law Reform Commission (Amendment) Law, 2012 174. High Court (Amendment) Law, 2012 175. Lagos State Road Traffic Law, 2012 176. Lagos State Scholarship Board Law, 2012 177. Lagos State Polytechnic Law, 2012 178. Appropriation (2nd Amendment/Re-ordering) Law, 2012 179. Appropriation Law, 2013 180. Cremation Law, 2013 (Private Member) 181. Lagos State Christian and Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards Law, 2013 182. Ibile Oil and Gas Law, 2013

126. Lagos State Lotteries (Amendment) Law, 2008

183. Appropriation (Amendment) Law, 2013

127. Lagos State Emergency Management Agency Law, 2008

184. Lagos State Public Service Staff Development Centre Law, 2013

128. Lagos State Waterway Authority Law, 2008

185. Supplementary Appropriation Law, 2013

129. Bills of Sale (Amendment) Law, 2008

186. Appropriation Law, 2014

130. Lagos State Bonds, Notes and other Securities Insurance Law, 2008

187. Lagos State Emergency Command and Control Centre, Law, 2014

131. Lagos State Debt Management Office (Establishment, etc) Law, 2008

188. Regulation of Smoking Law, 2014 (Private Member)

132. Local Government Election Tribunal (Amendment) Law, 2008

189. Consumer Protection Agency Law, 2014 (Private Member)

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