Delta Assembly Marks Three Years With New Laws, Stronger Oversight Push
THE Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, has outlined the achievements of the 8th Assembly as it marked its third anniversary, emphasizing legislative productivity, institutional reforms, and oversight of government projects across the state.
Speaking during a press briefing in Asaba, Guwor said the Assembly had remained focused on its constitutional responsibilities of lawmaking, oversight, representation, and collaboration with other arms of government to advance development in Delta State.
According to him, the Assembly’s record over the past three years reflects a commitment to strengthening governance and supporting policies designed to improve the welfare of residents.
Legislative Output and Key Bills
Providing an account of the House’s activities during its third legislative session, the Speaker disclosed that lawmakers received 11 bills, comprising five executive bills and six private member bills.
He explained that five of the bills had already been passed, with four receiving the assent of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, while another is awaiting final approval.
Among the enacted laws are the Appropriation (Amendment) Bill 2024, the Delta State Anti-Terrorism and Anti-Cultism (Amendment) Bill 2025, the Delta State Appropriation Bill 2026, and the Supplementary Appropriation Bill 2025.
Other significant proposals still under legislative consideration include bills on gaming regulation, landlord-tenant relations, violence against persons, anti-discrimination measures for persons living with HIV/AIDS and hepatitis, cybercrime prohibition, and public health standards.
The Speaker particularly highlighted the Delta State Revenue Service Bill 2026, describing it as a strategic measure aimed at harmonising revenue collection, eliminating multiple taxation, and improving the business environment.
Budget Expansion and Infrastructure Monitoring
Guwor noted that lawmakers demonstrated support for the state’s development agenda by increasing the 2026 budget from the ₦1.664 trillion proposed by the executive to ₦1.729 trillion.
According to him, the adjustment was designed to provide additional resources for critical infrastructure and social development projects.
He said the Assembly had maintained a productive working relationship with the executive arm while preserving legislative independence and respecting the principle of separation of powers.
The collaboration, he argued, has contributed to the implementation of Governor Oborevwori’s M.O.R.E Agenda, which has seen significant investments in roads, bridges, healthcare facilities, and riverine community development.
The Speaker cited major flyover projects in Uvwie, Warri, Ughelli, and Agbor, as well as improved road networks linking rural communities to urban centres.
Strengthening Institutions and Accountability
Beyond lawmaking, the Assembly carried out its constitutional oversight responsibilities through the screening and confirmation of nominees into strategic state institutions.
It also reviewed and approved key audit reports covering state ministries, agencies, DESOPADEC, and local government councils.
A notable reform introduced during the period was the establishment of a Post-Legislative Scrutiny Department in partnership with the Westminster Foundation for Democracy.
The initiative, Guwor explained, will enable lawmakers to assess the effectiveness of laws after passage, monitor implementation, and recommend amendments where necessary.
He noted that Delta became only the second state in Nigeria to establish such a department.
National Recognition and Future Commitments
The Speaker also pointed to growing national recognition for the Delta Assembly, noting that key members of the House now occupy leadership positions in legislative bodies across the country.
He said these developments have enhanced the visibility and influence of the Assembly within Nigeria’s legislative landscape.
Guwor further highlighted improvements in staff welfare, including professional training opportunities and the implementation of the Consolidated Legislative Salary Structure (CONLESS), which has boosted staff morale.
As the Assembly enters its fourth year, he pledged that lawmakers would intensify oversight functions, promote transparency, and continue enacting people-focused laws aimed at fostering peace, prosperity, and sustainable development across Delta State.
