Kunle Adelabu
The Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo – Olu, has been called upon to withdraw letters of appointment issued to political appointees without the legislative confirmation.
The House presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, issued the directive at the Tuesday’s plenary session. This follows a motion titled, “Need for Government Appointees to appear before the House for Confirmation”.
In a statement on the House Facebook handle, it warned against the growing practice of political appointees assuming office without the constitutionally required confirmation of the House.
Speaker Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa described the trend as a direct challenge to legislative authority, warning that it “tests the powers of the House”.
He held the Head of Service, Mr Bode Agoro, responsible for issuing appointment letters without legislative clearance, and announced that the official will be summoned to explain. Obasa further urged the Governor to withdraw all letters issued to appointees yet to be screened.
Contributing to the debate, Hon. Setonji David, Deputy Chief Whip, cited Sections 126 & 198 of the 1999 Constitution, stressing that no public officer should assume office without legislative screening, warning that such actions undermine separation of powers and weaken accountability.
Hon. Desmond Elliot called the development “an insult to the House,” insisting that no appointee or institution should defy Lagos laws, while Hon. Sa’ad Olumoh noted that some agencies operate without legal frameworks, which erodes due process in a state built on the rule of law.
Hon. Stephen Ogundipe reminded all aspiring public officers that confirmation is not a mere formality, but a safeguard to ensure competence, integrity, and good character.
In his own contribution, Hon. Kehinde Joseph demanded sanctions for repeated constitutional breaches and urged that any funds spent by unconfirmed officers be refunded to government coffers.
Hon. Rasheed Shabi condemned the lack of respect for legislative authority, describing the issuance of appointment letters without confirmation as a direct affront to the Constitution.
After contributions by members of the House condemning the appointment without clearance, the Speaker directed the Clerk of the House, Barr. Olalekan Onafeko, to forward the Assembly’s resolution to the Governor for immediate action.
