Power Transition Bill scales through second reading in A’Ibom

The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has passed the Executive Power Transition Bill through its second reading.

Titled “A Bill for a law to provide for the orderly transfer of Executive Power in Akwa Ibom State and for other Matters Connected therewith”, the bill marks a significant legislative step towards institutionalizing a peaceful and orderly transfer of executive power between democratically elected administrations.

Sponsored by the member representing Ibiono Ibom State constituency, Hon. Moses Essien, the Bill seeks to provide a comprehensive legal framework to govern transitions at the conclusion of a governor’s tenure, thereby addressing potential administrative and political challenges that often arise during such periods.

Leading the debate during plenary, Hon. Essien explained that the legislation was designed to ensure continuity, administrative stability, and peace in the governance structure of the state.

The Bill which is poised to become a landmark legislation would set a precedent for orderly transfer of power and deepen democratic governance in Akwa Ibom State.

“This Bill, when passed into law, will provide a legal framework that guides the transfer of executive authority and ensures a peaceful and orderly process,” Essien maintained,

He added “It will equip both the outgoing and incoming administrations with procedural clarity, ultimately promoting good governance.”

According to the lawmaker, the Bill is structured into four parts with 15 sections and also outlines provisions for the transfer of power, particularly the offices of Governor and Deputy Governor, in a manner that safeguards public interest and state security.

Essien, who chairs the House Committees on Health, Nutrition and Food Security, stressed that any key element of the Bill, as contained in Part 2, Section 2, is the requirement for the outgoing governor to constitute a Governorship Transition Committee within seven days of the declaration of election results.

The committee is to be chaired by the Secretary to the State Government and will include the Chief of Staff, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, the Commissioner for Finance, the Head of Service, and other officials deemed necessary for effective coordination.

A forward-looking clause in the Bill also mandates incumbent governors to ensure the completion of major projects initiated by their predecessors, emphasizing continuity in developmental efforts for the benefit of the people of Akwa Ibom State, thereby reducing cases of abandoned project in the state.

The motion for the second reading of the Bill, which was widely commended by members, was moved by Hon. Lawrence Udoide, member representing Ini State constituency, and seconded by the House Majority Leader, Hon. Otobong Bob, representing NsitUbium state constituency, who lauded the Bill as “apt and simple,” noting its potential to provide a seamless framework for executive transitions.

In his ruling, the Speaker of the House, Elder UdemeOtong, committed the Bill to the House Committee on Inter-governmental and Political Matters. He directed the committee to conduct a public hearing and submit its report to the House within one month.

Source:- Punch