The member representing Oyi/Ayamelum Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, Hon. Maureen Gwacham, has addressed a video clip circulating online, while reaffirming her commitment to transparency and accountability.
The viral video, which trended earlier this April, showed what many have described as legislative inattentiveness and a lack of situational awareness on the part of the lawmaker.
The federal lawmaker was asked in the video by the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, to second a motion moved by Hon. Muktar Tolani Shagaya, seeking the ‘Urgent Need to Provide Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in Government Institutions and Public Buildings Across Nigeria to Prevent Avoidable Loss of Life.’
The lawmaker had stood up and seconded the motion.
Unfortunately, when the speaker asked her what motion she seconded, she said she was not aware, because she had just arrived on the floor of the Chambers.
The viral video sparked criticism from various stakeholders, especially in her constituency, as it circulated on social media platforms, with many calling for her recall.
But, in a statement on Wednesday, Hon. Gwacham explained that she was ‘momentarily caught off guard’ during plenary, noting she was just coming into the legislative chambers when she was beckoned on to second the motion.
“I was just settling into my seat when Mr. Speaker beckoned on me to second the motion moved by Hon. Muktar Tolani Shagaya, an equally cerebral legislator with a reputation for moving credible motions.
“The motion in question seeks the ‘Urgent Need to Provide Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in Government Institutions and Public Buildings Across Nigeria to Prevent Avoidable Loss of Life.’
“Hon. Shagaya moved the motion, which calls for improved emergency medical response infrastructure in public spaces nationwide,” she noted.
Gwacham thanked constituents who reached out with concern and restated her legislative focus.
According to her, “the focus remains on delivering for the people of Oyi/Ayamelum, and I appreciate the continued confidence they have reposed in me.“
