The Rivers State House of Assembly has concluded arrangement to empower its members through what it calls ‘red carpet reception for old and serving legislators from 1979 till date.
In a speech at a corporate parley to raise funds for the event coming up in September, 2012 the speaker, Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Otelemaba Amachree said the programme was to honour hardwork and excellence in legislative business for past and serving members who have distinguished themselves since October 1979 when the First Assembly was proclaimed.
The Speaker who described the legislature as the most critical component in any democracy, regretted that the legislators are the most uncelebrated of the three arms of government, hence the need to encourage themselves through the red carpet program.
Rt. Hon. Amachree assured the public that as the most representative of the people, the House will continue to set standards for the betterment of the society.
He recalled that the Rivers State House of Assembly has been adjudged the most peaceful state Assembly in the country and promised that the 7th Assembly under his watch will sustain the tempo.
The speaker urged corporate bodies in the state to partner and support the Assembly in its quest to empower its members.
In his remarks at the event, the House Committee Chairman on Information and member representing Akuku-Toru 1 constituency in the Assembly, Hon. Onari Brown dispelled insinuations that asking corporate bodies to donate funds for the proposed red carpet event amounts to the legislature being beggarly.
According to him, asking corporate bodies to support Assembly programme provides an opportunity for the companies to be blessed.
He emphasized the fact that such donations do not amount to bribe, stressing that the House will always discharge its statutory duties of lawmaking and over-sighting.
Hon. Brown assured the companies that their donations will be judiciously utilized and reiterated the fact that the red carpet program is to recognize former and present lawmakers who have distinguished themselves in the course of their duties.
Responding, the governor of rivers State, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Amaechi who was represented by his Deputy, Engr. Tele Ikuru said he disagreed with the claim that the legislature is disadvantaged. He assured the lawmakers that the executive will continue to partner with the legislature for the interest of the state.
He admitted that the fear of every public office holder is what happens to him when he leaves office, pointing out that it is better to recognize legends when they are still alive, which the red carpet program stands to achieve.
The governor thanked the Speaker for packaging the programme and assured him of the full support of the executive.
The programme will apart from the award feature stakeholders’ forum, football matches and praise carnival. ###
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