A bill seeking to create a Federal Capital Territory (FCT) House of Assembly has successfully passed its first reading at the National Assembly.
The proposed legislation aims to provide a legislative body for the FCT, granting residents greater autonomy in governance and decision-making. If passed, it will allow lawmakers elected within the FCT to make laws on local matters, similar to state Houses of Assembly across Nigeria.
Background and Significance
Currently, the National Assembly legislates for the FCT, unlike other states that have their own state assemblies to handle local governance. The proposed FCT House of Assembly seeks to bridge this gap by ensuring residents have direct representation in legislative processes that impact them.
Supporters argue that the bill will enhance democracy, improve governance, and decentralize decision-making within the FCT. It will also enable the enactment of laws tailored specifically to the territory’s needs, rather than relying solely on federal lawmakers.
Legislative Process and Next Steps
The bill must pass second and third readings, committee reviews, and public hearings before becoming law. The second reading will involve detailed debates on its implications, benefits, and possible amendments.
Some lawmakers have raised concerns about its constitutional implications, particularly regarding whether the FCT should be granted a legislative structure similar to a state.
As the bill progresses, political analysts and stakeholders will closely watch how it aligns with Nigeria’s constitutional framework and its impact on governance in Abuja.
