The Edo State House of Assembly on Tuesday passed a bill to repeal the State College of Agriculture and Natural Resources Law, 2019.
The new legislation establishes the Edo State College of Agriculture, Science and Technology Bill, 2026, which is expected to expand the institution’s mandate to incorporate science and technology education alongside agriculture.
The bill, sponsored by Hon. Kayce Osawonye representing Uhuowonde constituency, underwent clause-by-clause consideration in the Committee of the Whole before receiving unanimous adoption during plenary.
Following its successful passage, Speaker Blessing Agbebaku directed the Clerk of the House to transmit the bill to Governor Monday Okpebholo for his assent.
In other developments, the Assembly received a formal request from the governor seeking the screening and confirmation of Mr. Martin Anayor as a Commissioner-designate and member of the State Executive Council. The Speaker referred the letter to the House Committee on Rules and Business for necessary review ahead of confirmation.
The House also considered a bill seeking to amend the law extending the retirement age of Magistrates and Presidents of the Customary Court of Edo for the second time. However, lawmakers resolved to defer further deliberation on the bill to a later date.
Additionally, a new bill aimed at establishing a Revenue Harmonisation Account for the state — to improve the collection, management, control, and accounting of all internally generated revenue and public funds — was introduced by the Majority Leader, Hon. Jonathan Ibhamawu. The bill successfully scaled first reading and was slated for second reading at a future sitting.
The Assembly also observed a moment of sympathy for victims of the recent flooding that affected parts of Edo State and several other regions across the country.