The Anambra State House of Assembly has passed a bill aimed at prohibiting all forms of discrimination against persons living with HIV and AIDS, while ensuring their right to care, support, and protection within the state.
The legislation, titled A Bill for a Law to Eliminate Discrimination and Protect the Rights of Persons Living with and Affected by HIV and AIDS in Anambra State, was passed following a detailed review by the House Committee on Health, chaired by Hon. Tony Moubike.
During Thursday’s plenary session, presided over by Speaker Somtochukwu Udeze, lawmakers dissolved into the Committee of the Whole to make amendments and offer recommendations before the bill was formally adopted and returned to plenary for final passage.
Sponsoring the bill, Hon. Noble Igwe, representing Ogbaru Constituency 1, said the legislation seeks to uphold the dignity, rights, and equal treatment of people living with or affected by HIV/AIDS in the state.
“This bill is designed to eliminate stigma and discrimination based on HIV status. It will ensure that individuals are not denied opportunities or forced out of employment as long as they remain medically fit to work,” Igwe said.
He further explained that the law balances individual rights with social responsibilities and is in line with the provisions of Chapter IV of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which guarantees the fundamental human rights of all citizens.
Speaker Udeze commended the Committee on Health and fellow legislators for their diligence and commitment to advancing public health and social justice.
“This is a progressive step toward protecting vulnerable citizens and promoting inclusive governance,” he said before conducting a voice vote that secured the bill’s passage.
The Assembly adjourned sitting until Thursday, June 26, for further legislative business.