The Ondo State House of Assembly has passed four bills into law, including legislation establishing the Ondo State University of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Owo.
The bills were passed during plenary at the Assembly Complex in Akure, presided over by the Speaker, Olamide Oladiji.
Presenting the report on the university bill, Chairman of the House Committee on Tertiary Institutions, Chris Ayebusiwa, said Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, would continue to operate, while its existing facilities would be utilised for the take-off of the new university.
He explained that the institution was expected to reduce dependence on foreign research, create employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the state.
The House Leader, Olatunji Oshati, moved the motion for the bill’s third reading, seconded by Moyinolorun Ogunwumiju, before it was passed through a voice vote.
Speaker Oladiji described the development as a major step towards expanding access to quality tertiary education and advancing agricultural development, scientific research and technological innovation.
The Assembly also passed a bill to raise the retirement age and improve remuneration for registrars, deputy registrars, magistrates, state counsel and other judicial officers in the state.
Chairman of the House Committee on Judiciary, Public Petitions, Ethics and Privileges, Stephen Abitogun, said the legislation would help retain experienced personnel in the justice sector and improve the quality of judgments.
Another bill passed was the Ondo State Harmonised Taxes and Levies Law 2025, designed to curb multiple taxation and address loopholes in revenue collection.
The fourth legislation amended the 2026 State Internal Revenue Service Appropriation Law.
The lawmakers later observed a minute’s silence in honour of the late Pa Reuben Fasoranti, acknowledging his contributions to Ondo State and Nigeria.
The House subsequently announced a recess from October 27 to December 3, 2026.
