Oyo Assembly Proposes Bill on Unintended Pregnancies

The Oyo State House of Assembly, led by Hon. Rilwan Gbadamosi, is soliciting stakeholder input on a proposed bill aimed at addressing unintended pregnancies and unsafe abortions, which are significant public health concerns affecting families and communities in the state.

The bill, set for consideration in 2025, seeks to establish a framework for prevention, education, counseling, and support services while ensuring regulatory oversight. Saminu emphasized the challenges young girls and women face due to unintended pregnancies, which disrupt their education and future aspirations.

The public hearing attracted 70 stakeholder groups, including professional bodies, religious organizations, and civil society groups. Dr.

Akintund Ayind, from the Oyo State Ministry of Health, called for amendments to strengthen the bill and align it with national guidelines. The proposed legislation aims to provide comprehensive sexual education and safeguard measures for vulnerable individuals, while also addressing the need for adequate funding to support survivors of sexual violence.