Governor Simon Lalong says governors are committed to autonomy for the Legislature and Judiciary.

During a courtesy visit by the Conference of Speakers of State Houses of Assembly, the governor made this known at the Government House Jos, led by its Chairman, Abubakar Suleiman.

Mr Lalong said the autonomy was aimed at strengthening the legislature and enhancing democratic values and assured the speakers of governors’ commitment toward achieving the feat.

He urged the group to engage other parties in their advocacy visit and campaigns, to address the misconception that the approach is for financial aggrandisement for its members rather than facilitating a better support structure to serve the people.

Mr Lalong added that the implementation of the autonomy would require each state to establish its House of Assembly Service Commission, which would handle all administrative functions of the legislature.

He said the commission would provide the proper structure of accountability as obtainable in the civil service commissions and other similar formations.

The governor explained that the implementation of community policing would be effective in handling security challenges and would lead to the establishment of state police when fully implemented.

Earlier in his remarks, Mr Suleiman said members were on an advocacy visit to discuss autonomy and other national matters such as curbing security challenges.

He said the group recognised the strategic position of Lalong as a former speaker, Chairman of the Northern Governors Forum, and a strong member of the Nigerian Governors Forum in advocating toward autonomy.

He assured the governor that the speakers would continue to collaborate with the executive to provide good governance and better living standards for the people.

(NAN)