*Debates FOI and water Bills
From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The Kwara State House of Assembly, has taken new steps to address issues affecting public safety and governance by advancing bills on cultism, access to information, and water resource management.
At its plenary on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, presided over by Speaker Yakubu Danladi Salihu, the House held the first readings of two key legislative proposals and the second reading of an amendment to the law prohibiting secret cults and societies.
One of the major highlights was the debate on the Secret Cults and Secret Societies (Prohibition) (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which aims to introduce stiffer penalties for cult-related offences in the state.
Leading the debate, Hon. Ganiyu Folabi Salahu (Omupo), expressed concern over the continued rise in cult activities despite existing laws.
“This menace is spreading like wildfire. We must take decisive action through harsher punishments to discourage these dangerous activities and protect our youths,” he said.
Other members, including Hon. Maryam Aladi (Ilorin South), Hon. Rukayat Shittu (Owode/Onire), and Hon. Mohammed Salihu (Okuta/Yashikira), also voiced their support for stronger legislative measures to tackle cultism.
Following the debate, the amendment bill passed its second reading and was referred to the House Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Judiciary for further legislative work.
In the same sitting, the Freedom of Information (FOI) Bill, 2025 and the Water User Association Bill, 2025 scaled first reading. Sponsored by Hon. Magaji Abdulkadir (Ilorin Central), the FOI Bill seeks to enhance public access to government records and safeguard whistleblowers.
Hon. Saba Yisa Gideon (Edu), who seconded the motion, said the bill was essential for promoting transparency and accountability at all levels of governance.
Also receiving first reading was the Water User Association Bill, transmitted by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq. The proposed legislation aims to regulate water use at the community level and ensure sustainable water resource management across the state. It has been referred to the House Committee on Business and Rules for further consideration.
