Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, the deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, has hinted that the lower chamber is presently considering a bill to reserve seats for women in National Assembly.
This was reveal in Owerri, Imo State, Friday night, while delivering his goodwill message at the 2nd Women of Divine Destiny Initiative (WODDI) Inspiring Women Summit (WIWS 2024) with the theme “Illuminating the Power of an Inspired Woman.”
Dr. Nkechi Rochas Okorocha, the wife of former Imo State Governor, Senator Rochas Okorocha is the founder of WODDI, a non-profit organization that aims at empowering women and helping them achieve their dreams in life.
Titled “Seat Reservation Bill,” the piece of legislation recently introduced in parliament is sponsored by Kalu with the company of his colleagues.
In a statement signed in Abuja by Levinus Nwabughiogu, the Chief Press Secretary to the deputy speaker, essentially, the bill seeks the cancellation of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to finally secure special seats for women in the legislature.
Benjamin Kalu buttress that the bill, when passed into law, will assist the aim of women within the political landscape.
The deputy speaker stated: “We must acknowledge, however, that in a society striving for equitable development, addressing fundamental issues like gender equality and inclusiveness is imperative. In Nigeria, where women and girls constitute 49.32% of our population, representation in institutions and governance needs urgent attention.
“Presently, the House of Representatives is considering a bill to improve the representation of women in our legislative institutions, sponsored by myself and other colleagues of mine.” He said.
