The Senate, on Wednesday, passed the Gender Bill for a second reading, a move aimed at eradicating all forms of discrimination against women and individuals with disabilities. The bill, titled the ‘Gender and Equality Opportunities Bill,’ is championed by Senator Biodun Olujimi, representing Ekiti South.
Senator Olujimi emphasized that the enactment of this bill into law would serve to inspire women to aspire and achieve their full potential. It seeks to establish equality of opportunities for all individuals. It’s worth noting that in 2021, Senator Olujimi faced requests to withdraw the legislation due to opposition from some colleagues who cited concerns rooted in socio-cultural and religious beliefs.
“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 the 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.
