The ninth National Assembly kicked off proceedings yesterday amid a reminder that unemployment remains a key challenge in the country.
An army of job seekers in the hundreds stormed the premises hoping to be employed as legislative aides by new members of the House of Representatives.
Some were former support staff of members who lost their seats in the 2019 general elections, others were new people anxious to try their luck.
The job hunters, who were mostly women stood in groups, waiting to present their curricula vitae to the lawmakers after plenary.
As the legislators walked into the lobby, they rushed towards them explaining why they were the most suited for the positions.
Also, deliberations at the lower chamber presided over by Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila quickly echoed the worrisome narrative on insecurity across the country. The lawmakers had earlier considered two matters of national importance moved by Ajibola Muraina and Benjamin Kalu before dissolving into an executive session at about 12:30 p.m. to discuss the allocation of offices, furniture and allowances.
While adopting the motion, the lawmakers urged Inspector General of Police Mohammed Adamu and other security agencies to deploy more personnel to combat criminal activities in Oyo State. They also enjoined the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide assistance to victims of violent attacks and kidnappings in the state.