In a recent development, the Osun State House of Assembly has repealed the Osun State Anthem, Crest, and Flag Law of 2012. The decision was made during a plenary session on Tuesday and was in compliance with a Federal High Court judgment issued on December 14, 2017.
Speaking on behalf of the Assembly, the Speaker, Adewale Egbedun, highlighted that the repeal was necessary to align with the court’s ruling. However, recognizing that certain aspects of the law may still hold value, the House agreed to incorporate necessary corrections into the new legislation known as the Osun State Anthem, Crest, and Flag Bill 2023. The bill has been sponsored by the Majority Leader.
In essence, the House has nullified a law that had already been invalidated by a competent court, paving the way for the creation of a new law that upholds the principles outlined in the Nigerian constitution, to which the state is bound.
The repeal comes after a legal battle initiated by Mr. Kanmi Ajibola, the current representative of Oriade State Constituency, against the former administration led by Governor Rauf Aregbesola. The legal action challenged the establishment of an anthem, flag, and crest for the state. Additionally, the change of the state’s name from “Osun State, the State of the Living Spring” to “State of Osun, the State of the Virtuous” has also been repealed.
The repeal of the controversial law signifies a step towards conformity with legal judgments and constitutional obligations, ensuring that the state’s symbols align with the broader legal framework.