Rep Oyekunle closes applications for one-day representative programme

Lawmaker representing Ibadan North Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle (DON), has formally closed applications for the One-Day Representative Programme, an initiative designed to give constituents practical exposure to legislative duties and the workings of the National Assembly.

The application window, which opened a month ago, was targeted at eligible indigenes of Ibadan North Federal Constituency who are above 25 years of age and registered voters in the constituency.

According to a statement made available to newsmen by the lawmaker’s Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Akinwale Bodija, the closure of applications marked the beginning of the screening and selection stage of the programme.

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Bodija said the initiative was conceived to promote civic awareness and provide constituents with a practical understanding of the responsibilities of an elected representative.

He said the overall winner of the programme would receive a cash prize of N1 million, while the first and second runners-up would receive N500,000 and N250,000, respectively.

He added that the winner would also enjoy a fully sponsored trip to the National Assembly Complex in Abuja, where the participant would have the opportunity to witness legislative proceedings and occupy the lawmaker’s office for one day.

According to him, “The One-Day Representative Programme is designed to give our constituents more than just theoretical knowledge of representation. We want them to have a practical understanding of how the National Assembly works and what it means to represent a constituency.”

Bodija further said the initiative was aimed at encouraging greater citizen participation in democratic processes and helping constituents understand the duties and responsibilities attached to elective office.

He stated, “Beyond the cash prizes, the programme is about civic engagement and exposure. The overall winner will have the opportunity to visit the National Assembly, observe proceedings firsthand and experience the legislative environment.”

He explained that the programme would also provide young and interested constituents with an opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge of the legislative process.

He said the successful candidate would be able to observe how bills and motions are handled, as well as gain insight into the day-to-day responsibilities of a federal lawmaker.

Bodija said the next phase would involve the screening and evaluation of applications, after which shortlisted candidates would be contacted and further arrangements announced.

He urged applicants and members of the constituency to await official information on the subsequent stages of the programme.

He said, “We appreciate all those who participated in the application process. The closure of applications now allows us to move to the screening and selection stage. Details concerning the shortlisted applicants and the next phase will be communicated through official channels.”

The formal closure of the application period therefore marks the commencement of the evaluation process, with organisers expected to proceed with the selection of participants ahead of the programme’s next stage.