Reps begin hearing on bill to guarantee social, civil rights of elderly citizens

The house of representatives has called for improved care, privileges, and protection of the economic and civil rights of older persons in the country.

Tajudeen Abbas, the speaker, made the call on Wednesday at the opening of a public hearing organised by the house committee on women affairs and social development in Abuja.

The hearing was on a bill seeking to provide for health and economic relief, protection of social and civil rights, and related matters affecting older persons.

Abbas, represented by Bello Kumo, chief whip of the house, said lawmakers would undertake legislative interventions that guarantee privileges and protect the rights of older persons in Nigeria.

He said section 42 of the constitution guarantees the inalienable rights of every citizen and prohibits discrimination based on gender, but does not address the injustices older persons face.

He said the fundamental objectives and directive principles of state policy in chapter two of the constitution require government to ensure citizens’ welfare but are not enforceable.

The speaker lamented that existing policies and legal frameworks for the protection of older persons are fragmented, incomplete, and largely unenforceable.

He noted that the house would enact progressive legislation to birth social welfare programmes for the benefit of older citizens.

Kafilat Ogbara, chair of the committee, said the panel would ensure that the voices of older citizens are heard and empowered.

She assured stakeholders that the committee would help put in place laws that serve as a safety net for older Nigerians.

Binta Bello, director-general of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), represented by Nnamdi Obi, a director in the agency, said there was a need to strengthen existing laws on the care of older citizens.

She said the enactment of another law could create overlaps in the roles of ministries, departments, and agencies.

Stakeholders, including the National Human Rights Commission and the National Pension Commission, supported the passage of the bill with modifications.

Ogbara added that the panel would properly scrutinise all submissions to produce an effective and friendly law for older persons.