The Imo State House of Assembly (IMHA) has passed the 2023 Appropriation Bill to the tune of N458,731,029,167 to the service of the Government of Imo State, reports ITREALMS.
This appropriation, ITREALMS gathered, excludes the consolidated Revenue Fund Charges of N15, 743, 247, 101, hence a total budget of N474, 468, 286, 257.
The bill was passed after the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Amara Iwuanyanwu, who presided over the plenary at the absence of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Barr Anthony Emeka Nduka, had called on the Majority Leader, Hon. Kanayo Onyemaechi, member, representing Owerri West State Constituency to introduce the bill to be read the second time.
Having listened to detailed debate on the the bill by members, he reverted to Committee of the Whole where the bill was considered. Clause by clause.
The bill was finally read the third time and passed.
The deputy speaker, who had earlier thanked the honourable members for their commitment at ensuring a speedy passage of the bill and for attending the Budget Presentation the previous day, directed the clerk to produce a clean copy for Governor's assent.
Also, House of Assembly Bill (HAB) number 111, was introduced by the Chief Whip, Hon. Chigozie Nwaneri, member representing Oru East State Constituency on same day, December 22, 2022 and entitled "A bill for a Law to Establish Imo State Council of Elders."
Speaking on the bill, Hon. Nwaneri said that it came at the most appropriate time, and when passed into law, will help to create a council of knowledgeable individuals who will advise the governments on various issues. Stressing that the Council, which will work as advisory body, will be of immense benefit to the government.
Speaking, Rt. Hon Uju Onwudiwe of Njaba, Hon Paschal Okolie of Orlu, Hon Anyandike Nwosu of Ezinnihite Mbaise, Hon. Uche Ogbuaggu of Ikeduru and Hon Ezerioha of Oru West, were unanimous in extolling the importance of the bill.
They said that the creation of the Imo State Council of Elders will enable those who have excelled in their different endeavours to contribute meaningfully to the development of the state in their later age.
At the Committee of the Whole, when the bill was examined clause by clause, there was argument about wether 60 years which was a criteria for being member of the council should be extended to 65, or not.
After listening to careful arguments for and against, Mr Speaker, ruled that 60 years stands, while ex-officio members may be below the age benchmark.
The bill was read the third time and passed. The clerk was also asked to produce a clean copy for assent.
Rt. Honourable Amara Iwuanyanwu, the Deputy Speaker, who presided over the sitting, wished the members happy Christmas while not forgetting to wish those vying for various political positions in the forthcoming election success in their endeavours. The House was adjourned till 28 Feb, 2023.
By Ifeanyi Onyekachi/Editor
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ReplyDeleteWow, that's great news! I'm glad to see that the Imo Assembly is taking proactive steps to ensure financial stability for the state in the coming year.
ReplyDeletethe establishment of the Imo State Council of Elders is a commendable initiative. This council can play a vital role in advising the government on issues affecting the community, promoting peace, and ensuring that the voices of the elders are heard in governance.
ReplyDelete