SENATE PASSES GENDER EQUALITY BILL FOR SECOND READING

A bill meant to eliminate all forms of discrimination against women and persons with disabilities was passed for second reading by the senate at today’s plenary

 

The bill sponsored by Senator Abiodun Olujimi since the 8th assembly was initially rejected by some lawmakers on the ground of its variance with cultural beliefs and Islamic religion.

However, it was after series of delibrations agreed that the concerns raised should be taken out so that it could be considered and passed.

Leading a debate on the bill titled “Gender and Equality Opportunities”, its sponsor argued that it will create a conducive atmosphere for women and persons with disabilities.

According to her the bill which seeks to implement section 42 of the constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria will ensure equality of opportunities for everybody.

“You will find this bill beneficial for the clear and constructive ways the bill seeks to address several forms of issues bedevilling men and women in their constituencies in issues of land ownership, inheritance, education, employment and the rising tide of sexual and gender-based violence in private and public spaces of institutions of learning.

“The bill further consolidates senate’s courageous passage of the bill on sexual violence in higher institutions in Nigeria, assuring girls, women and men of protection from abuse and exploitation in our schools.”

Contributing to the debate, deputy chief whip of the senate, Senator Sabi Abdullahi said that the sponsor of the bill did not highlight the areas that have been modified in the legislation.

He argued that it is necessary to highlight those areas so that it could be passed for third reading.

Also, the senator representing Taraba central, Senator Yusuf Yusuf said the title of the bill should reflect “equity” and not “equality”.

It was thereafter put to vote by the deputy senate president, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege and passed for second reading.