The Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Emmanuel Emeruwa, has rejected allegations that the legislature operates under the influence of the executive arm of government, stressing that both institutions maintain a healthy working relationship aimed at advancing the state's development.

Emeruwa made the remarks on Tuesday in Umuahia during events marking the third anniversary of the 8th Abia State House of Assembly.

According to him, the Assembly has intentionally fostered a cordial and cooperative relationship with the executive to promote effective governance and avoid unnecessary conflicts that could hinder progress.

“We have maintained a cordial relationship with the government because any serious disagreement between the two arms would ultimately affect the state negatively,” he said.

“The relationship between the House and the Executive has remained harmonious, and we intend to sustain it. Whenever issues arise, we resolve them peacefully and amicably.

“I do not agree with the claim that the Executive has pocketed the State Assembly. We can have differing views, but such matters are resolved through dialogue and understanding,” the Speaker added.

Reflecting on the accomplishments of the 8th Assembly, Emeruwa said lawmakers had enacted numerous laws covering critical areas such as welfare, criminal justice, politics, and budgetary matters.

“We have passed a significant number of laws touching virtually every aspect of society. From welfare-related legislation to criminal and appropriation laws, we have addressed a wide range of issues affecting the people,” he stated.

He noted that the volume of legislation already passed was substantial enough to shift focus toward implementation.

“There are so many laws already in place that one could even suggest we pause lawmaking and concentrate on implementing what has been enacted. Nearly every sector and area of human life has been impacted by our legislative efforts,” he said.

The Speaker also revealed plans to digitise the operations of the Assembly, although he acknowledged that funding constraints remain a major obstacle to achieving that goal.

On constituency projects, Emeruwa said members of the Assembly had undertaken several projects across the state but emphasized that their primary constitutional responsibility remains lawmaking.

He further expressed satisfaction with the growth of the Labour Party’s representation in the House, noting that the number of its lawmakers had increased from nine to 11.

Commenting on the killing of nursing student Wendy Achumba in Imo State, the Speaker disclosed that members of the Assembly had paid a condolence visit to the victim’s family and expressed confidence that justice would be served.

“Now that the suspects have been arrested, it is the responsibility of the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation. Those found culpable should face the full weight of the law,” he said.

Despite highlighting the Assembly’s achievements over the past three years, Emeruwa admitted that some of its objectives are yet to be fully realised.

“We have not achieved everything we set out to accomplish, but we remain committed to doing more,” he stated.