12 out of 15 senators from the South-east zone sponsored 61 bills demonstrating the least legislative activity in the first year
The 61 bills sponsored by south-east senators accounted for 13 per cent of the 475 bills processed in the senate from June 2023 to May 2024. 54 of these bills are awaiting second reading, reflecting limited movement within the legislative process. So far, only 1 bill has successfully passed the second reading, 5 are in committees, and 1 has been adversely affected.
The sectoral focus of these legislative proposals by the 12 senators included education, food, and social security, welfare for media personnel, health, agriculture, ecology, environment and climate change, petroleum, media, gender inclusion, maritime affairs, private sector governance, social welfare, commerce, industry, and investment.
The three senators without bills from the zone are: Victor Umeh (LP, Anambra Central), Ani Okorie (APC, Ebonyi South), and Kelvin Chizoba (LP, Enugu East). The senator with the highest number of bills is Orji Kalu (APC, Abia North) with 12 sponsored.
The slow legislative activity reflects broader challenges in addressing the region’s critical needs. With 54 bills still awaiting a second reading and minimal movement on others, development in the region will be hampered by delays in passing crucial legislation. More proactive legislative efforts is needed to tackle the pressing challenges in the South East. The lawmakers from this region need to ensure all hands are on deck to bring development to the region.
10th NASS Report Card: Read up on the performance of other senators and members of House and other specialized categories here
