By Asuquo Edem
The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly (AKHA) has dismissed suggestions that its cordial relationship with the Executive arm of government has weakened its constitutional oversight responsibilities, insisting that the partnership has instead enhanced governance and accelerated development in the state.
Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Hon. Jerry Otu, stated this while briefing journalists after plenary on Tuesday as he unveiled activities marking the third anniversary of the Seventh Assembly.
According to him, the anniversary celebrations will begin with a Thanksgiving Service on Sunday at Emmanuel Methodist Church, Oron Road, Uyo, where lawmakers, government officials and other stakeholders will gather to appreciate God for His faithfulness and celebrate the Assembly's achievements over the past three years.
Hon. Otu praised the leadership of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, and members of the Assembly for their commitment to people-oriented legislation, effective representation and good governance.
He attributed the Assembly's accomplishments to the cordial and mutually beneficial relationship between the Legislature and the Executive, stressing that such cooperation has never undermined the independence of the House.
"The cooperation and synergy between the Legislature and the Executive have fostered stability, unity and rapid development across Akwa Ibom State. While we maintain the constitutional principle of separation of powers, we have also ensured collaboration for the good of our people," he said.
Presenting the Assembly's legislative scorecard, Hon. Otu disclosed that lawmakers deliberated on 203 motions in three years, reflecting what he described as the House's commitment to addressing issues affecting constituents across the state.
He also revealed that the Assembly considered 113 bills during the period, comprising 44 in the first session, 27 in the second session and 42 in the third session. According to him, while some of the bills have already received gubernatorial assent and are impacting governance and public welfare, others are awaiting the Governor's approval.
The lawmaker maintained that the Assembly has remained focused on delivering on its constitutional mandate of lawmaking, representation and oversight, adding that its legislative interventions have continued to respond to the needs and aspirations of the people.
Chairman of the Third Anniversary Planning Committee and member representing Eket State Constituency, Hon. Nsidibe Akata, said the peaceful atmosphere within the Assembly was a reflection of members' shared commitment to serving the people rather than pursuing personal interests.
He explained that the Thanksgiving Service would provide an opportunity for lawmakers to appreciate God for His guidance while reflecting on the Assembly's journey over the past three years.
According to Hon. Akata, the Seventh Assembly has consistently discharged its constitutional responsibilities through impactful legislation, effective oversight and quality representation.
"These legislative efforts have not only strengthened governance structures but have also improved public service delivery and advanced the welfare of our people. We are proud of what we have achieved together as an Assembly," he said.
Other lawmakers present at the media briefing also reaffirmed the Assembly's commitment to robust oversight, noting that various House Committees have carried out investigations, project inspections and engagements with Ministries, Departments and Agencies to promote transparency, accountability and prudent management of public resources.
The lawmakers maintained that while the Assembly enjoys a healthy working relationship with the Executive, it remains firmly committed to its constitutional responsibility of holding government institutions accountable in the overall interest of Akwa Ibom people.

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