Delta State House of Assembly Advances Bill on Film Regulation

The Delta State House of Assembly has advanced the Delta State Film and Video Censor’s Board Bill, 2024 to the next stage of consideration after it passed the second reading on the floor of the House.

During Wednesday’s plenary session, presided over by Speaker Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, lawmakers scrutinized the bill and debated its merits.

Majority Leader, Hon. Emeka Nwaobi moved the motion for the bill’s second reading, which was supported by Hon. Marilyn Okowa-Daramola, representing Ika North East.

The majority leader argued that the bill, when enacted, would regulate the entire film production process in Delta State.

The Majority Leader Stated that the bill, comprising 8 parts and 41 clauses, addresses key areas such as the establishment, composition, functions, and powers of the Board, as well as the appointment of staff and conditions of service.

Lawmakers, including Hon. Perkins Umukoro, Festus Okoh, Ferguson Onwo, and Augustine Uroye, expressed support for the bill, noting that it would provide a necessary regulatory framework for film, video, and cinematography activities in the State.

They also expressed optimism that the bill’s passage would create job opportunities for young people in the State and safeguard investments by potential investors.

The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, referred the bill to the House Committee on Arts, Culture, and Tourism for further consideration, following a unanimous voice vote.