The Anambra House of Assembly approved a motion on Tuesday requiring life jacket use on state waterways.
The majority leader and member representing the Ekwusigo constituency, Mr. Ikenna Ofodeme, made a resolution under the topic of Matters of Urgent Public Importance during Tuesday’s plenary session.
In his defense, Ofodeme stated that a great number of people had perished in canal incidents as a result of boat operators and passengers not wearing life jackets. He claimed that there were laws prohibiting the use of life jackets, which put the lives of boaters and passengers at serious risk.
“Section 14 (2) (b) of the 1999 Constitution stipulates that the protection of life and property remain the primary purpose of government.
“The safety of citizens utilising water transportation is of paramount importance too.
“Therefore, adequate provisions and distribution of certified life jackets be made to all maritime businesses with strict enforcement mechanisms to ensure proper usage by passengers and operators alike.
“There should also be public awareness to educate citizens on the importance of wearing life jackets during water transportation and the potential consequences of non-compliance,”he said.
Supporting the motion, Mr Golden Iloh, representing Ihiala Constituency II, said that such regulations would prevent accidents, minimising casualties, and fostering a culture of responsible water travel.
Mr. Noble Igwe, a participant in the debate who represents Ogbaru Constituency I, also stated that the move was appropriate to preserve the lives of both locals and maritime business owners. The safety of citizens’ lives and property is a top priority for the government, according to Speaker of the House Dr. Somtochukwu Udeze.
“The state Assembly calls on the state Governor to direct the Commissioner for Transportation and other relevant agencies to compel lthe compulsory use of life jackets on all waterways in the state to ensure safety of lives,” he said.
Collaboration between government agencies, boat operators, commuters, and regulatory authorities is necessary for the effective execution of the mandatory life jacket policy. In order to assure compliance, it is necessary to provide high-quality, certified life jackets, conduct routine inspections of boats, and launch public awareness programs emphasizing the value of wearing life jackets when on board.
Furthermore, the assembly’s decision emphasizes how crucial it is to conduct ongoing monitoring and assessment in order to determine the policy’s impact and handle any new issues that may arise. To improve the efficacy of initiatives meant to protect lives on Anambra’s waterways and adjust to changing conditions, it is imperative that safety protocols and laws be reviewed on a regular basis.
The decision by the Anambra State House of Assembly to mandate life jacket use is a big step in the right direction for raising the bar for water transportation safety. The assembly emphasizes the value of regulatory interventions in maintaining public safety and sets an example for proactive governance by placing a high priority on life protection and pushing for preventive measures. As the implementation moves forward, coordinated actions from all parties involved will be essential to attaining the goal of safer and more secure waterways for all Anambra State citizens and tourists.