Senate passes ‘Gender and Equality Bill’ for second reading

The Senate, on Wednesday, passed the Gender Bill for second reading.

The bill aims to eliminate every form of discrimination against women and people living with disabilities.

The sponsor of the bill, Senator Biodun Olujimi representing Ekiti South noted that if the bill is signed into law, it will motivate women to aspire and reach their full potential.

Olujimi, in 2021 was asked to withdraw the legislation after some of her colleagues raised arguments it is against their socio-cultural and religious beliefs.

The ‘Gender and Equality Opportunities Bill', according to Olujimi will ensure the equality of opportunities for every person.

“The bill seeks to implement section 42 of the constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria. It also seeks to eliminate all forms of discrimination against women,” she said.

“It will ensure the equality of opportunities for every person.

“You will find this bill beneficial for the clear and constructive ways the bill seeks to address several forms of issues bedevilling men and women in their constituencies in issues of land ownership, inheritance, education, employment and the rising tide of sexual and gender-based violence in private and public spaces of institutions of learning.

“The bill further consolidates senate's courageous passage of the bill on sexual violence in higher institutions in Nigeria, assuring girls, women and men of protection from abuse and exploitation in our schools,” she said.

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