By Omolara Adasofunjo
Stakeholders at the public hearing on the Ogun State Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Commission Bill have unanimously backed the proposed law, saying it will strengthen social justice, ensure equitable representation, and protect vulnerable groups across sectors.
Representatives of various organisations said the bill would institutionalize fair practices and widen protection mechanisms for marginalized individuals and communities.
They urged closer collaboration between the executive and legislature to secure early gubernatorial assent and recommended that global DEI obligations cited in the bill be clearly outlined.
Declaring the forum open, the Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, OGHA, Mr Oludaisi Elemide, said the bill was introduced to promote public orientation, equity, and inclusion for peaceful coexistence.
The bill’s sponsor and Deputy Speaker, Mrs Bolanle Ajayi, said it would entrench fairness, enhance representation, and prohibit discrimination in all spheres.
Also speaking, the Ogun State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Adijat Adeleye, said the DEI bill remains a priority for both arms of government, noting ongoing efforts to ensure state facilities comply with accessibility standards.
Earlier, the Chairman of the House Committee on Women Affairs and Chief Whip, Mrs Omolola Bakare, said the commission would create a structured platform for marginalized groups to participate in governance, economic development, and social life.
Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle
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