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Reps to Investigate FCT Social Protection Programmes, Rehabilitation Centre
- By Gloria Ikibah
The House of Representatives has resolved to probe the Federal Capital Territory Administration’s (FCTA) social protection programmes and state of the rehabilitation centre in Bwari Area Council.
This resolution was sequel to the adoption of a motion on the “Need to Investigate the Abuja Rehabilitation Centre and the Social Protection Programmes of the FCT,” by Rep. Bashiru Dawodu, representing Oshodi-Isolo Federal Constituency of Lagos State.
Debating the motion, Rep. Dawodu recalled the October 22, 2024 launch of a campaign by the FCTA aimed at curbing street begging in Abuja. The initiative was designed to enhance the city’s image and improve security.
He noted that many street beggars in the FCT are people living with disabilities. Other factors driving street begging include poverty, unemployment, internal displacement, the Almajiri system, and cultural practices.
The lawmaker further stated that campaigns against begging in Abuja have been ongoing since 2003. These efforts, involving arrests and repatriation, have largely failed to produce lasting results.
“The approach has failed to provide a lasting solution, as the beggars often return, sometimes relocating to new areas,” he explained.
He raised concerns about the lack of adequate rehabilitation facilities, emphasizing that the only centre in Bwari is underfunded and barely functional.
“The absence of effective long-term interventions such as rehabilitation programs, monthly survival allowances, feeding for Almajiris, and resettlement for internally displaced persons will only entrench street begging as a persistent social problem,” he added.
The House consequently directed its Committee on Disabilities to investigate the operations of the Bwari rehabilitation centre and assess the FCTA’s social protection programmes.
The committee has four weeks to report back with recommendations for legislative action.
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has stepped in to call for immediate action in the case of Segun Olowookere, an indigene who was sentenced to death for stealing a fowl.
Recall Segun’s mother, Folashade Olowookere, emotionally shared the story of her son, who is currently imprisoned, during an interview on Nollywood actress Biola Adebayo’s YouTube podcast. The video gained significant attention, including from Governor Adeleke.
Naijablitznews reports this was contained in a statement from the Governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Adeleke directed a swift investigation and ordered that steps be taken for a potential pardon in Segun’s case. The Governor further instructed the Attorney General to ensure Segun is considered for the prerogative of mercy before the year ends.
The statement read, “I have reviewed the case and acknowledge the importance of the separation of powers in our democracy. In this instance, I have instructed the Commissioner for Justice to begin the process of granting mercy to this young man.
“Osun is a state of justice and fairness. We must uphold the protection of lives and ensure equity.
“I want to assure the public that this matter is receiving my personal attention, and we are acting with urgency as a responsible government.”
The Delta State House of Assembly, on Tuesday, recalled two of its members that were suspended in November over alleged gross misconduct.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the recall was announced during plenary in Asaba by the Speaker, Mr Dennis Guwor.
Recall that the Assembly had on November 6 suspended Mr Dafe Chukudi (PDP-Ukwuani) for 14 legislative days over alleged gross misconduct, while Mr Oboro Preyor (PDP-Bomadi) was also suspended for 14 legislative days for the same offense on November 12.
“Dear colleagues, following the allegation of gross misconduct against our suspended members and subsequently, a committee on investigation headed by the Deputy Speaker, Mr Arthur Akpowowo, was set up.
“The committee has commenced investigation. However, the 14 days that they were suspended has elapsed. And by the confidence you all reposed in me as the Speaker of the state House of Assembly, and now that the 14 days of their suspension has elapsed, there is need to recall Mr Dafe Chukudi and Mr Oboro Preyor to resume their duties as members going forward.
“The suspended members are hereby recalled pending on the outcome of their investigative committee.”
Meanwhile, the Deputy Speaker, Mr Arthur Akpowowo, expressed joy over the recall of the lawmakers, saying, “I am very happy that we have lifted their suspension.
“The Speaker has recalled them so that they can celebrate the Christmas with joy and even enter the New Year with some relief of happiness. For me, this is a party gift for me even though I’m not affected.”
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