By Ajibola Olaide, JKNMedia Reporter
RIVERS STATE Governor Siminalayi Fubara has urged the National Assembly Joint Committee on Electoral Matters to prioritize amendments that enhance the electoral process for the benefit of society.
He emphasized that legislation should not target or benefit specific individuals.
Fubara made this appeal while hosting the committee, led by Chairman Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli and co-Chair Hon Adebayo Balogun, at Government House in Port Harcourt on Thursday.
He stressed the importance of creating laws that would be fair and applicable to all, including lawmakers themselves in the future.
The governor highlighted Nigeria’s current political climate, where citizens are more engaged in the political process than ever before.
He urged the lawmakers to be sensitive to the increased political awareness and involvement among the population.
Fubara pointed out the significant role of women and youths in elections, noting that their participation is crucial.
He also discussed the challenges of conducting elections in riverine areas like Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta, and Ondo states, where access is difficult and security risks are high.
He commended the committee for their efforts to engage with the public and address these challenges.
The governor expressed confidence that their work would lead to amendments that protect voters in difficult terrains and encourage greater participation from women.
Fubara assured the committee that Rivers State would be among the first to implement their recommendations once they are made public.
He also urged the committee members to share positive insights about Rivers State upon their return.
Committee’s Zonal Engagements
In response, Senator Alli explained that the committee is working on the second phase of their zonal engagements to discuss proposed amendments to the Electoral Act, 2022.
He acknowledged that while the 2022 Electoral Act is robust, it has flaws that need to be addressed based on observations from the 2023 elections.
Senator Alli emphasized the importance of public involvement in the lawmaking process to build confidence in the electoral system.
He highlighted the unique challenges faced in the South-South region due to its difficult terrain and expressed the committee’s commitment to addressing these issues through legislative amendments.
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