Delta State Child Rights Bill Passes Second Reading, Moves Oversight to New Ministry

Delta State Child Rights amendment bill, 2024, has passed second reading, with several lawmakers supporting the bill.

On Wednesday, September 11, 2024, during a plenary session led by Rt. Honourable Emomotimi Guwor, the House reviewed an amendment to the Delta State Child Rights amendment bill, 2024.

The session was spearheaded by Hon. Marilyn Okowa-Daramola, who has been instrumental in advocating for this legislative change.

Hon. Marilyn Okowa-Daramola, representing Ika North East Constituency, led the debate on the second reading of the Delta State Child Rights Amendment Bill, 2024. She emphasized that the amendment was essential due to various factors affecting its effective implementation.

Hon. Marilyn explained that the proposed amendment revises 12 sections of the existing law. Significantly, it would transfer the responsibility for implementing the law from the Ministry of Education to the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development Services.

During the debate, Hon. Marilyn highlighted specific sections of the bill, notably sections 10 and 113, urging fellow legislators to support the swift passage of the amendment. She stressed the importance of updating the law to reflect contemporary needs.

Several lawmakers voiced their support for the bill, including Deputy Speaker Rt Hon Arthur Akpowovwo, Deputy Majority Leader Hon. Festus Okoh, and Chief Whip Hon. Perkins Umukoro, among others. They praised the amendment for its relevance and timeliness, affirming the necessity of adapting the Child Rights Law to current societal realities.

The bill received unanimous backing through a voice vote, leading Speaker Emomotimi Guwor to refer it to the House Committee on Housing, Women Affairs, and Humanitarian Support Services. The committee is tasked with further examination and is expected to report back by October 3, 2024.

In addition, the House screened and confirmed two nominees for the position of Secretary to Local Government Councils. Mr. Aluge-Obia Kainji from Ika North East and Mr. John Ewenede from Ughelli South were asked to return for additional screening due to issues with their CVs. The Speaker congratulated the confirmed nominees and encouraged them to fulfill their duties effectively.