Why we passed anti-kidnapping bill – Delta lawmaker

By FESTUS AHON, Ughelli

MEMBER representing Isoko South Constituency 1 in the Delta State House of Assembly, Mr Okiemute Essien, has reaffirmed his commitment towards improving the lives of people of his constituency through articulate programmes and projects that would better their lives.

Essien, who stated this during his maiden town hall meeting with his constituents in fulfillment of his electioneering campaign promises to the people, said the meeting has provided a platform for him to interact with his people.

Addressing the people during the meeting, which attracted leaders of political parties, traditional chiefs, community leaders, professional bodies, women and youth group as well as religious ministers held at the Oleh Civic Centre, Oleh, the lawmaker said he has been able to articulate, on issues affecting his constituency as a lawmaker.

Noting that the House recently passed a Bill on Anti-Kidnapping and Terrorism which he co-sponsored to check the prevalent rate of kidnapping in the state, Essien maintained that development could only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and security hence the need to ensure that peace prevails in all parts of the state.

On his empowerment programme, he said: “I have so far distributed 28 vehicles of different brands, 180 motorcycle, and also given out various sums of money including N100,000 each to 92 persons, N50,000 each to136 persons among others.”

He said the gesture was to enable the beneficiaries boost their businesses and other ventures, adding that “more persons will benefit in the second phase as my empowerment programmes cuts across political party lines.”