By Isaac Eranga
A bill to promote the economic welfare and justice of Edo Women has been presented to Edo State House of Assembly.
The draft bill which was put together and validated by representatives of Edo state government ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs), civil society organizations, women groups, traditional rulers and the media, was under the auspices of Echoes of Women in Africa Initiatives (ECOWA).
The organization is working in collaboration with Women for Fairness and Equity Organization ( WEFON) with support from Urgent Action Fund-Africa.
Presenting the bill to the Deputy Speaker of the Edo legislative house, Mrs Maria Edeko, Esq., in presence of the Chairman, House Committee on Health, Hon. Bright A. Iyamu, the convener and founder of ECOWA, Dr. Louisa Eikhomun-Agbonkhese, said the essence of the visit was part of a follow-up of activity to submit the Women Economic Justice Bill to the Edo State House of Assembly for consideration.
She said the bill was initially submitted to the 7th Assembly in 2022.
“The relevance of the bill is to improve lives, bridge the inequality gap, and empower the vulnerable women in the state by proffering a legal frame work that will greatly influence behavioural change and strengthen the society positively.”
She appreciated the Deputy Speaker on her giant strides achieved in the fight against gender based violence and her active support for women.
After accepting the bill, Hon. Maria Edeko assured of her commitment to go through the bill and then pass it over to the Ministry of Social Development and Gender Issues so as to have their buy-in.
She advised that the bill be made an Executive Bill by allowing the Ministry of Social Development and Gender Issues to present it as a State bill, saying it will draw the attention of the First lady of the State, Dr (Mrs.) Betsy Obaseki. This to her, will enhance swift consideration in the House.
She expressed her concern and perception about the patriarchal nature of the society which is mostly a stumbling block in attaining equality in the society.
“So, if the bill comes in as an Executive Bill, nothing will hinder it from not being signed into law. I’m here to help facilitate the process”, she said.
There was presentation of a picture portrait to Mrs Maria Edeko to congratulate her on her victory at the polls.
