Speaker Decries Failure To Adhere To Safety Standards

Speaker of the House of Representives, Dr Tajudeen Abbas has expressed concern regarding the failure of some public and private institutions to adhere to safety standards and regulations.

He made the remark during the inauguration of the 10th House Committee on Safety Standards and Regulations and the formal launch of its Strategic Document.

The Speaker who was represented by the Deputy Speaker Benjamin Okezie Kalu, emphasized the fundamental right of citizens to a safe work environment, devoid of hazards, which is enshrined in global declarations of human rights.

Despite this, he noted the challenge Nigeria faces in translating this right into reality, citing the difficulty in identifying, eliminating, and controlling hazards effectively.

Dr. Abbas, lamented the continued occurrence of catastrophic events such as fatal motor accidents, explosions, boat mishaps, accidental discharges, and market fires across the country, resulting in loss of lives and property.

He attributed these incidents primarily to the disregard for existing safety standards and regulations by various entities.

While acknowledging the efforts of government, institutions, NGOs, and safety advocates, Speaker Abbas urged both public and private institutions to fulfill their responsibility in ensuring the safety of citizens and controlling risks associated with their operations.

He commended the pragmatic strategic plan developed by the Committee and assured them of the House Leadership’s support in addressing challenges faced by relevant sectors.

The Chairman of the House Committee on Safety Standards and Regulations, Sulaiman Abubakar Gumi, pledged to harness the committee’s human resources to guarantee the safety of all Nigerians through legislative measures.

He emphasized the committee’s commitment to leveraging legislative tools to achieve its primary goal of ensuring the safety of citizens.

By Oduyemi Odumade, Edited By Grace Namiji