By Dansu Peter
Hon. Sesi Whingan embarked on his journey to the National Assembly with a grand vision encompassing people-centric legislation, empowerment of women and youth, enhanced social services, job creation, educational advancement, and tourism development, among other goals.
The first 100 days in office often serve as a litmus test for political officeholders since the return of democracy in Nigeria in 1999. Hon. Sesi's accomplishments during this period are commendable, especially considering his youth and newcomer status in the green chamber.
One of the primary responsibilities of a lawmaker is to provide oversight and check the actions of the executive branch. Chapter One, Section Four of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria empowers the House of Representatives to make laws for the peace, order, and good governance of the Federation. Hon. Whingan has unequivocally demonstrated his readiness and competence in this regard. In his first 100 days as an MHR, he played an integral role in an ad hoc committee tasked with holding the executive accountable and ensuring adherence to the rule of law. Notably, as a member of the committee investigating crude oil theft in Nigeria, Sesi's insightful contributions have unearthed numerous anomalies in this vital sector of the Nigerian economy.
In a surprising turn of events and as a testament to his competence, Hon. Sesi Whingan has earned the position of Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Upstream), a prestigious committee position rarely bestowed upon a freshman legislator.
As a prominent voice among young legislators in the National Assembly, Sesi played a pivotal role in the approval of government palliatives and measures to mitigate the impact of subsidy removal.
With a display of intelligence, charisma, eloquence, and a strong commitment to legislative duties, Hon. Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan has sponsored no less than twelve bills, all of which have successfully passed their first reading on the floor of the 10th National Assembly. These bills cover a range of critical issues, including constitutional amendments, child pornography prevention, agriculture, trade unions, and more.
The bills are listed below for ease of reference:
Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alterations) Bill, 2023 (HB. 210). First Reading.
Explosives Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.331)— First Reading.
Internet Child Pornography Prevention Bill (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB."332)- First Reading.
Palm Oil Development Bill (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.333) - First Reading.
Agriculture (Control of Importation) Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.334)- First Reading
Trade Union Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.335)"—First Reading.
Chartered Institute of Financial and Investment Analysts of Nigeria Bill (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.336) First Reading.
National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.337)— First Reading.
Cancer Registry Bill (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.338)— First Reading.
Estate Surveyor and Valuers Registration, etc. (Amendment) Bill, 2023 HB.339)— First Reading.
Environmental Health Bill (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.340) First Reading.
Oil and Gas Investment & Free Zone Bill (Repeal and Enact) Bill, 2023 (HB.341)- First Reading.
Sesi Whingan is a young and astute lawmaker who understands the importance of collaboration with relevant government entities, ministries, agencies, and parastatals to fulfil his political promises and manifestos for his constituents. He has diligently shuttled between Abuja and Lagos, forging meaningful relationships, including a productive partnership with Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, to address pressing issues in the Badagry Federal Constituency.
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| Hon. Sesi Whingan during a visit to Lagos State University, Ojo, Lagos. |
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| Hon. Sesi Whingan during a private visit to the Minister of Federal Capital City, Abuja, His Excellency, former Governor Nyesom Wike |
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| Gift items donated by Hon. Sesi Whingan at 2023 Teacher's Annual Award for outstanding teachers in Badagry Federal Constituency |
Additionally, Sesi has established robust relationships with government agencies, which are expected to yield positive outcomes, especially in terms of job opportunities, project execution, and educational access for the youth in his constituency. These agencies include the Federal Character Commission, Abuja; Lagos State University; Lagos State University of Education; and the Federal Ministry of Works, among others.
Sesi Whingan's swift response to emergencies has further endeared him to his constituents. He personally visited and comforted those affected by flooding, promising government intervention and relief. He has also generously assisted critically ill individuals with paying medical expenses, particularly indigents in need of urgent help.
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| Hon. Sesi Whingan recently with entourage at one flooding ravaged area in his constituency |
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| Hon. Sesi Whingan recently with entourage at one flooding ravaged area in his constituency |
Over the last 100 days in office, Sesi has expanded his social services, empowering many and offering scholarships to underprivileged students to support their education. His establishment of a National Identification Number registration centre at a critical time has been repositioned and upgraded for improved service delivery to the public.
In Sesi Whingan, the people of Badagry see a representation that surpasses their expectations. Despite being the youngest occupant of this prestigious seat in Badagry and Lagos State, he is already poised to elevate the standards of Badagry politics in the years to come.
Dansu Peter is a Journalist, Editor, Political Analyst and Publisher of News Proof
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