The draconian NASS accreditation guidelines has drawn a lot of reactions from a lot of people notably, the Senate President who came out to condemn the action in all its entirety. Against this backdrop, I caught up with Hon. Garba Datti Muhammad, member representing Sabon gari Federal Constituency in Kaduna state to know his thoughts on the issue.
Honourable Datti said, “I don’t know all the details, but i do know that for journalist who are genuine, there is no course for alarm. Bearing in mind that Journalists are the ones that cover all the legislative activities in the National Assembly.
Agreed that there is a large influx of people in Nass and there is every need to do a proper screening to verify their authenticity but it will grossly be unfair to give stringent accreditation requirements to the journalist covering Nass activities.
On the issue of Speaker of the house of reps,”Remember that on Sunday, the Kaduna state house of reps caucus, came out to endorse Hon Femi Gbajabiamila and being the person the party has endorsed, I believe that he is the best choice and we are strongly behind him.
We are also appealing to our fellow APC members to see reason and support the party’s candidate. Speaking on the bill he sponsored (a bill banning the illicit and unlawful killing of donkeys) which got the support of UN and donkey sanctuary, and scheduled for a public hearing, the lawmaker expressed happiness especially, considering the fact that the bill has passed second reading. He expressed optimism and hope of having the bill signed into law.
“Having been categorised by U.N as the most efficient and sustainable means of transportation to the marginalised people of the world. Over Six hundred million people are dependent on donkeys for their means of livelihood and Nigeria is part of those country with high percentage of people that use donkey.
“Sadly, the population of donkeys are depleting because of the influx of China’s demand for donkeys hide.
“Of course, if the bill is passed into law, it will save the donkey population and save the rural people who doesn’t have a voice.”, he concluded.
Author Profile
