SWDC bill: Bamidele praises South-West lawmakers’ role

The Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, has detailed the efforts by federal lawmakers from South-West states to lobby their counterparts from other geo-political zones for the passage of the Bill establishing the South West Development Commission.

Bamidele also highlighted that lawmakers from the southwest under the APC have been a formidable force, playing a critical role in driving progress and ensuring stability within the National Assembly.

He spoke at the 2024 South-west Assembly of the All Progressives Congress, APC held at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos on Saturday.

The lawmaker explained how the South-West Caucus worked with federal lawmakers from other geo-political zones to secure majority support for the passage of the South West Development Commission Bill, 2024 at the upper chamber
Bamidele said, “We are now awaiting concurrence from the House of Representatives before transmitting it to the President for assent. We recognise that our success is not limited to members of the APC alone. Our colleagues from other political parties have been just as committed to the success of our region.

“This bill, and many others, reminds us that when it comes to the development of our people, there is no room for division. We must continue to work together to achieve more.

“We have stood firmly with the leadership of the National Assembly, especially when plots were being hatched to bring the leadership to disrepute.
“The South West Caucus remains a stabilising force in the Senate. Our zone has also received fair recognition in the leadership of the Senate.”

The lawmaker added that he was “honoured to serve as the Senate Leader, while in the House of Representatives, we occupy the Chief Whip’s seat and other high-ranking positions.

“This extends to key committee leadership roles, which further amplifies our influence in national decision-making.

“We gave expeditious attention to the screening of the President’s nominees for various political positions, demonstrating our collective desire for the quick implementation of his transformative policies. We will continue to support his reforms as he steers the country towards prosperity and stability.”

On September 26, the South West Senators Caucus expressed happiness over the passage of the South West Development Commission Bill during the Senate session on Thursday, September 26, 2024.

In a statement issued by the Caucus Secretary, Senator Afolabi Salisu (APC, Ogun Central), the group said the bill was the result of a joint effort by all Senators from the South West.