By Atlantic Reports

The Edo State House of Assembly has received Governor Monday Okpebholo’s 2026 Supplementary Appropriation Bill for consideration and approval.

Speaker Yekini Idaiye read the governor’s covering letter during plenary on Monday in Benin City, saying the proposal would be listed on the Order Paper for consideration at a later date.

The account did not disclose the proposed supplementary budget’s value, funding sources or spending priorities. Its submission begins legislative consideration and does not constitute approval to spend.

At the same sitting, lawmakers referred a bill to establish the Edo State Emergency Management Agency to the Committee on Environment and Sustainability for further scrutiny.

The referral followed a motion by Majority Leader Sunday Ojezele, seconded by Charity Aiguobarueghian, representing Ovia North-East II.

Leading the debate, Ojezele cited Section 14 of the Constitution, which identifies the security and welfare of the people as the primary purpose of government.

He said the bill would provide a legal and operational framework for the agency and its governing council to respond to emergencies, including flooding during the rainy season and environmental challenges associated with prolonged dry weather.

Edosa Richard of Oredo West, Natasha Osawaru of Egor, Donald Okogbe of Akoko-Edo II and Maria Edeko of Esan North-East II supported the proposal.

They said an effective emergency management system was needed to protect lives and property, with legal backing for budgetary provisions and access to relief materials.

The bill remains under legislative consideration. The account did not specify its proposed funding arrangements, response procedures or oversight provisions.

For communities exposed to flooding and other emergencies, the practical value of the proposed framework will depend on timely warnings, coordinated response and accessible relief.

The assembly adjourned until Tuesday, 13 October.

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