From Ndubuisi Orji, Abuja
Members of the House of Representatives were sharply divided on Tuesday over a bill seeking to create special parliamentary seats for women in the national and state Houses of Assembly.
The bill, sponsored by the Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, was eventually passed for second reading after an extensive debate.
Before the bill’s approval for second reading, Patrick Umoh, in his contribution, opposed the proposed legislation, saying it would contradict the constitution.
Similarly, Billy Osawaru cautioned the proponents to consider the law’s implementation rather than seeking favourable television appearances.
However, Chike Okafor appealed to lawmakers to pass the bill out of respect for the presiding Deputy Speaker.
“The chief sponsor is presiding. Let us respect that fact,” Okafor appealed.
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