13
Sep
Sep
YOUTH QUOTA IN PARLIAMENT BILL GAINS PROMINENT SUPPORT FROM PROF. MIKE OZEKHOME SAN
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CapitalTimesNews / 3 months
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- 2 min read
Prominent Nigerian jurist and human rights activist, Professor Mike Ozekhome, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, has thrown his weight behind the Youth Quota in Parliament Bill, advocating for fair representation of young Nigerians in legislative bodies. Ozekhome hosted the bill’s advocacy team in his Abuja chambers, expressing strong support for youth rights to decision-making roles. “How old was Jesus Christ when he changed the face of the world, how old was Mohammed Ali when he changed boxing history, how old was Pele of Brazil when he changed football history,” Ozekhome queried, citing examples like Yakubu Gowon, Murtala Mohammed and King Diete Spiff who achieved prominence in their youth. “The energy, creativity and gravitas of the youth can never be undermined if a nation must develop,” he stated. Ozekhome emphasized Nigeria’s youthful demographic – with over 80% of the population aged 30 and below, and a median age of 18 – arguing representation would curb social issues. “If the youth knows he will have an opportunity to win an election… why will he engage in banditry and kidnapping? If young women know they can be represented… why should they do prostitution?” he said. The Youth Quota in Parliament Bill proposes one-third of National and State Assembly seats for young people aged 25-40, including men, women and persons with disabilities. Ozekhome pledged engagement with Senate President, Speaker and stakeholders to accelerate the bill’s passage when presented in October. “The youth, marginalized group, the disabled… are my constituency… Aluta Continua, Victoria Ascerta,” he declared.
