. Mourns Ekpekurede, Arhaghwore
By Oye Chukwujekwu,
Asaba
The Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Monday Igbuya, has promised to protect women’s rights through legislative reforms.
He made promise after assessing
the strides made towards the attainment of gender equality in the country.
In a statement in Asaba to mark International Women’s Day, Igbuya praised the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for improving the status of women in the country.
“Delta State is a better place for women and girls. We have more women in the legislative arm and decision making bodies. We are committed to the full empowerment of women in the state,” he said.
Igbuya acknowledged the barriers militating against gender equality in the country, urging women to be bold for change.
The speaker also highlighted the critical role of women in the development process, saying gender parity can be achieved through equal access to education, security from all forms of violence and discrimination, transformation of societal attitudes and harmful practices against women and the girl-child and ensuring that women have access to the tools of opportunity”
Besides, he identified full role in the communities’ decision making-processes, access to economic resources and focusing on women’s health and legal properties as solutions for bridging the gap between men and women.
He called on policymakers in the country to develop projects that directly target women and girls and take a much stronger stand against sexual exploitation and the trafficking of women and girls.
The presiding officer of the Delta State House of Assembly also urged the private sector to invest in girls’ education.
“On this occasion of International Women’s Day, I extend warm greetings and good wishes to the women of Delta State,” he stated.
The International Women’s Day is a day set aside to celebrate women’s achievements and campaign for gender equality.
Meanwhile, the speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Monday Igbuya, on Tuesday mourned the passing of Mrs. Esther Arhaghwore.
Igbuya, in statement, described Arhaghwore as a powerful force.
“Mrs. Esther Arhaghwore was particularly caring, sociable and religious.
“My thoughts and condolences go to Senator Ighoyota Amori, family and friends at this difficult time” he said.
Similarly, the speaker has described Pa Stephen Omonatierien Ekpekurede as an amazing father, mentor and a leader.
“Pa Stephen Omonatierien Ekpekurede demonstrated an unwavering commitment to education and family values, championing these causes throughout his life.
“As a strong advocate for better education, Ekpekurede will surely be missed.” The speaker also mourned the death of Mrs. Irene Ekwutosi Ugbebor, describing her as a woman of many parts.
In a condolence message to the family, Igbuya described Mrs. Ugbebor as a caring mother and a pillar of support.
“Mrs. Ugbebor was a woman of many parts but one fact summarizes it all; humility and truth.
“Mrs. Ugbebor lived a life of love and of commitment to the ideals of service to God and humanity” he added.
