There is unrest brewing within the Ogun State House of Assembly as tensions rise over the appointment of a new Clerk. The departure of the former House Clerk, Adedeji Adeyemo, in early March has left a void that has yet to be filled, sparking speculation and concern among both career staffers and political office holders.

Rumors abound that the delay in announcing a successor is part of a larger plan by the government to install a non-legislative staff member as the new Clerk, a move that has raised eyebrows and caused unease among Assembly workers. The role of the Clerk is pivotal, akin to the Head of Service, and traditionally filled by the most senior career staffer within the legislative branch.

In Ogun State, like in many other states across the country, a law was passed during the 8th House of Assembly mandating that the most senior legislative staff member should assume the role of House Clerk at all times. This law, designed to ensure continuity and adherence to established protocols, has been upheld in various states, with Deputy Clerks ascending to the position after screening and confirmation by the House of Assembly Service Commission.

Recent discussions with Assembly staffers have revealed a sense of apprehension and discontent regarding the potential appointment of a non-legislative staff member as the new Clerk. Workers fear that the government may circumvent established procedures and impose its choice, disregarding the law and the input of the Speaker. Calls for adherence to the law and the principles of the House of Assembly Service Commission have been echoed by several legislative staff members, highlighting the importance of upholding established norms and regulations.

A court ruling in 2020 further emphasized the significance of following the law in matters of appointment, promotion, and control over staff within the Assembly. Justice O.A Onafowokan of the Ogun State High Court affirmed the validity of the House of Assembly Service Commission Law 2018, underscoring the authority of the Commission in matters pertaining to staff appointments and management.

Despite the mounting tensions and concerns surrounding the appointment of a new Clerk, key figures within the Assembly, including the Speaker and the Chairman of the House Committee on Communication, have remained tight-lipped on the issue. Efforts to elicit responses or clarification from these officials have been met with silence, leaving many questions unanswered and adding to the uncertainty surrounding the situation.

As the standoff continues and the fate of the Clerk position hangs in the balance, the need for transparency, adherence to the law, and respect for established procedures remains paramount. The outcome of this unfolding saga will not only impact the internal dynamics of the Ogun State House of Assembly but also serve as a test of the institution’s commitment to upholding democratic principles and the rule of law.