ANAMBRA ASSEMBLY INSISTS ON USE OF LIFE JACKETS FOR MARITIME MOVEMENTS

REPORTER: UCHE NDEKE

The Anambra State House of Assembly has passed a resolution calling on the Executive arm of government to insist on the compulsory use of life jackets on all waterways in the state to safeguard the safety of travelers.

This followed a motion sponsored by the Majority Leader of the House, Mr. Ikenna Ofodeme, representing Ekwusigo Constituency.

The lawmakers in their resolutions also called for adequate provisions to be made for the distribution of certified life jackets to all maritime businesses with strict enforcement mechanisms to ensure proper usage by passengers and operators alike.

According to Mr. Ofodeme, section 14, subsection two, clause (b) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) stipulates that the protection of life and property remains the primary purpose of government, hence the need for government to place priority on maritime transportation which is of paramount importance.

Mr. Ofodeme stated that the absence of compulsory regulations regarding the use of life jackets posed a significant risk to the life of passengers and operators, as many lives lost as a result of accidents on waterways were mostly due to the lack of life jackets.

He stated the urgent need to safeguard schools and businesses located around riverline areas of the state, stressing that the implementation of extant measure like the provision of life jackets would help to safeguard all those operating along the water lines.

The lawmaker therefore called for public awareness and campaigns to be initiated to educate citizens on the importance of wearing jackets during water transportation and the potential consequences of not adhering to the safety rules.

Supporting the motion, the member representing Ihiala Constituency II, Mr. Golden Iloh; his Anaocha Constituency II counterpart, Mr. Ejike Okechukwu; and the member representing Ogbaru Constituency One, Mr. Noble Igwe, described the motion as apt and life saving for the well being of residents of the state as well as business operators in the area.

The Speaker of the House, Mr. Somtochukwu Udeze, who presided over the plenary, read out the resolution and it was unanimously approved by the lawmakers through a voice vote.

EDITED BY CHUKWUBUIKE MADU