The Delta State House of Assembly (DSHA) is considering a bill which makes it an offence to term anybody with gunshot wounds as a criminal.
Leading debates on the merits of the bill at plenary presided by the deputy speaker, Ochor Ochor, the member representing Ughelli North 1 constituency, Hon Charles Onyiyere, with 15 others, said the proposed law was purely aimed at saving lives.
While saying that there was the need for first aid attention and other necessary assistance to victims and then proper investigation, he stated that the proposed law also provides that anyone who assists the victim should not be embarrassed or punished.
Onyiyere explained that the bill sought to make it mandatory for hospitals to receive and treat victims of gunshot wounds without questioning or asking for initial deposits and report to the nearest police station after commencing treatment.
In their contributions to the merits of the bill, deputy majority leader, Hon. Oboro Preyor; deputy chief whip, Solomon lghrakpata; member representing Ika North East, Anthony Elekeokwuri and Aniocha South, Austin Chikezie, described the proposed law as apt, timely and in line with constitutional provisions.
The bill enjoyed unanimous support of the lawmakers.
The deputy speaker subsequently referred it to the House Committee on Rules, Business and Judicial matters for further legislative actions. The bill has passed through second reading on the floor of the Assembly.
