RismadarVoice Reporters
January 31, 2026
Speaker of Ogun State House of Assembly, Daisi Elemide, has dismissed reports that lawmakers had received payments to secure alternative accommodation ahead of the planned demolition of their quarters at Ibara GRA, Abeokuta, as part of the state government’s urban renewal project.
Elemide said the lawmakers had no objection to the demolition of the 46-year-old quarters, which are to be replaced with modern apartments that would add economic value to the state.
However, he stressed that the government must provide hotel accommodation or alternative residences for the legislators before the demolition.
The Speaker also called for complete autonomy for the legislative arm of government to enhance performance, ensure better delivery of governance dividends.
Elemide praised Governor Dapo Abiodun for approving a constituency project allowance of N150 million for each lawmaker, describing the allocation as unprecedented.
He made the remarks during a briefing on Friday at the Assembly Complex within the Governor’s Office, Abeokuta, to mark his two years in office.
Under his leadership, the Assembly has passed 12 bills, with eight more at various stages of consideration, and over 60 resolutions aimed at improving governance and residents’ living conditions.
Regarding the planned demolition, Elemide said:
“If they choose to demolish the legislative quarters, we are only tenants. Our concern is that for the remaining days of our tenure, we must be provided with hotel accommodation or alternatives, but no payment has been made, we have also not received any notice to vacate. What we have been told is that the present building cannot meet modern standards of aesthetics, functionality, or durability.
The government intends to construct new duplexes or twin duplexes, saving space, adding economic value to the state. A plot of land in that area is valued around N100 million. If the government ensures that the project is cost-effective and beneficial, we may not object.”
He added that lawmakers had been assured the project would be completed before the end of the current administration.
The state government had previously announced in November plans to demolish, then reconstruct the legislative quarters.
Commissioner for Housing, Jamiu Omoniyi explained that the initiative was not extravagant but a necessary investment in public safety and administrative efficiency.
Omoniyi said:
“Failing to act now will burden future administrations with greater financial and safety challenges. This decision is guided by foresight, prudence, and responsible management of public assets.”
He further noted that the project forms part of the Ogun State Urban and Housing Renewal Master Plan, aimed at replacing obsolete infrastructure with durable, sustainable developments.
