Edo Lawmakers Amend Financial Autonomy Laws Amid Protests

On August 24, 2026, the Edo State House of Assembly amended the financial autonomy laws previously established by former Governor Godwin Obaseki for both the House and the judiciary. This decision was made despite protests from civil society organizations, the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) Benin Branch, the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN), and the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN).

The lawmakers had listed two bills for consideration: “A Bill for a Law to Repeal the Edo State Judiciary Financial Autonomy Law, 2023” and “A Bill for a Law to Repeal the Edo State House of Assembly Funds Management Law, 2023.” Newly elected Speaker Yekini Idaiye clarified that the House was amending rather than repealing the laws, focusing on capital expenditure. The amendments were supported by the Majority Leader Osezua Ojezele and aimed to enhance institutional independence while ensuring due process in financial transactions.

The House passed the bills, which will be sent to the governor for assent.