Senator Nwoko Drives State Creation, Electoral Reform in Senate Bill Submissions
KANO/Nigeria: Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North in the National Assembly, revealed on Saturday that he has tabled six crucial bills for consideration in the Senate. The announcement was made via a post on X (formerly Twitter), following his arrival in Kano for a three-day retreat of the Senate Committee on the review of the 1999 Constitution.
Expressing his excitement about the constitutional review process, Senator Nwoko described it as a long-overdue development. He noted that he was honoured to be selected as one of the few Senators, from the 109 across the country, to serve on this important committee.
“It’s a critical task, and it’s something I’ve been looking forward to, especially as I have submitted six bills for recommendation to the Senate,” Nwoko said.
Among the bills he submitted is a proposal to amend the Nigerian Constitution to create Anioma State. The bill seeks to address long-standing demands for the establishment of this new state and ensure equitable governance for the people of Delta North.
Another bill focuses on establishing the National Talent, Rehabilitation, and Integration Agency, aimed at harnessing and nurturing talent across the country.
Senator Nwoko also introduced a bill to amend the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007, to prohibit the discriminatory use of foreign currencies for remuneration. This move is intended to protect workers from wage disparities based on currency use.
In addition, he proposed changes to the Electoral Act, 2022, advocating for the issuance of permanent voter cards at the point of registration, a move that would simplify and enhance the electoral process.
One of his more innovative proposals includes a bill to mandate first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and automated external defibrillator (AED) training in homes, schools, institutions, and offices. The bill also calls for the adoption of the Good Samaritan Laws, which would provide legal protection to bystanders who assist in emergencies.
Senator Nwoko’s final bill seeks to amend the 1999 Constitution to allow Nigerians living abroad to vote in national elections, a move that could significantly expand the electorate.
Gloria Okolugbo, the Chief Communicator for Senator Nwoko, commented on the importance of the retreat in Kano, emphasising that it offers hope for the people of Anioma. She highlighted that the committee is composed of experienced Senators, including former governors, and has a broad representation from across Nigeria.
“Anioma state creation is one of the bills at the forefront of the discussion, and it has already become a key issue in the ongoing deliberations,” Okolugbo said.
The Senate Special Committee, chaired by the Deputy Senate President, is tasked with handling the constitutional review process, which is seen as pivotal to addressing several long-standing issues in the country, including state creation and electoral reforms.
