Even as the members of the Imo State House of Assembly have commenced procedures for another look at the controversial Law No 12 of 2012 which sparked off anti-abortion propaganda, the Speaker, Rt Hon Ben Uwajumogu has insisted that the state legislature never okayed Abortion Law in the state.
Speaking while receiving in audience a pro-gender group, Federation of International Women Lawyer FIDA who came on courtesy visit, the Speaker noted that no Abortion Law was passed by the present House Members adding that the abortion stigma was a political creation propagated by the opposition in the stato.
According to Uwajumogu who said that the House passed a Bill to protect women rights, noted that there will be open debate for the public hearing that may be telecast live for all participants.
He acknowledged the views of the visiting women group, stating that contrary to insinuations, the state legislative arm is always geared towards churning out populist laws and people-oriented motions. He however enjoined the women to be present during the public hearing during the amendment to convince the populace about their position on the law during the amendment.
In their earlier address by the leader Haruwa Evelyn Shekaru who came with nine women and a man, Dr Ikedi Ohale, the FIDA requested the House not to repeal any section of the law as agitations against the law by Imolites were borne out of ignorance since those campaigning against the legislation do not know what women go through in pregnant.
The women group regretted that those kicking against the law do not have interest of women who undergo medical and psychological stress arising from unwanted pregnancies.
While commending the State Assembly for the bold steps, the FIDA enjoined the Speaker and Members of the House to be steadfast in championing women liberation.
Meanwhile, amendment process has reached committee stage with Hon Ikenna heading a seven-man committee for the next stage.
