EXTRA: Masks make it difficult for Gbaja to recognise colleagues at plenary

Femi Gbajabiamila, speaker of the house of representatives, says wearing face masks has made it “very difficult” to recognise fellow lawmakers in the green chamber, some of whom had their faces entirely covered.

Gbajabiamila jokingly expressed frustration at identifying fellow lawmakers less than one hour into Tuesday’s plenary session.

The green chamber resumed sitting after their five weeks recess, with each of them wearing face masks at the session.

During the debate on the unexplained deaths in Kano, Gbajabiamila was heard on at least two occasions trying to confirm the identity of lawmakers who wanted to contribute to the discussion.

“When I say there is a problem with all these face masks,” the speaker jokingly said to the amusement of colleagues.

“It is very difficult to recognise who is who. Somebody said by their caps, we shall know them.”

‘THOSE IN NEED MUST RECEIVE PALLIATIVES’

Earlier in his address, Gbajabiamila said “many people” have not benefitted from the palliatives meant to cushion the effect of the coronavirus lockdown.

“It is necessary that we act to ensure that as many people as need help, are reached,” he said, adding: “We must also ensure that the distribution of interventions across the country is inclusive and equitable.”

He said the pandemic has shown the need for urgent reforms in various sectors of the economy, and that the lower legislative chamber is ready to intervene where necessary.

“There are no longer any sacred cows, protected spaces or classes,” the speaker added. 

“Every area of our national health policy, economic policy, tax policy, education policy and security architecture are now on the table for reform.

“We must turn this moment of profound crisis into an opportunity to make the hard choices we have too long deferred but can now no longer avoid if we are to survive as a nation.”