This followed a motion moved at
plenary, on Tuesday, under Matters of Urgent Public Importance by Mr Ikenna
Ofodeme, member representing Ekwusigo constituency and Majority Leader.
Ofodeme, while making his
submission, said that many lives had been lost as a result of accidents on
waterways due to passengers and operators of boats not using life jackets.
He said that the absence of
regulations compelling use of life jackets posed a significant risk to the
lives of passengers and operators of transportation on waterways
“Section 14 (2) (b) of the 1999
Constitution stipulates that the protection of life and property remain the
primary purpose of government.
“The safety of citizens
utilising water transportation is of paramount importance too.
“Therefore, adequate provisions
and distribution of certified life jackets be made to all maritime businesses
with strict enforcement mechanisms to ensure proper usage by passengers and
operators alike.
“There should also be public
awareness to educate citizens on the importance of wearing life jackets during
water transportation and the potential consequences of non-compliance,” he
said.
Supporting the motion, Mr
Golden Iloh, representing Ihiala Constituency II, said that such regulations
would prevent accidents, minimising casualties, and fostering a culture of
responsible water travel.
Also contributing to the debate, Mr Noble Igwe, representing Ogbaru Constituency l, said the motion was apt to save lives of residents and maritime business operators alike.
The Speaker of the House, Dr
Somtochukwu Udeze, said the safety of lives and property of the citizenry was
paramount to the government.
“The state Assembly calls on
the state Governor to direct the Commissioner for Transportation and other
relevant agencies to compel the compulsory use of life jackets on all waterways
in the state to ensure safety of lives,” he said.
HERALDVIEWS reports that the
development is coming barely one month after about five persons including
renowned Nollywood actor, Paul Odonwodo, popularly called Junior Pope; Abigail
Frederick; Precious Oforum; and Joseph Anointing lost their lives in Anam
River, Anambra State.
Post a Comment