The bill aimed at setting up the South South Development Commission has been suspended by the senate.
Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, who represents Cross River south, sponsored the bill. Senator Benson Agadaga, who represents Bayelsa east, presided over the discussion in Ekpenyong’s absence.
Agadaga mentioned that the proposed bill aims to create a commission dedicated to addressing the challenges faced by the geopolitical zone
He said, “To address socio-economic issues, climate change, environmental degradation, ecological challenges occasioned by oil exploration in the region, among others,”
“The south-south geopolitical zone comprises the following states: Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Edo and Rivers state.”
Senator Adamu Aliero, who represents Kebbi Central, pointed out that the bill is redundant as the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) already addresses the same objectives outlined in the legislation.
He said, “I see it as a duplication and overlapping functions. It would have been better if he came with an amendment to the Niger Delta Development Commission,” Aliero said.
“This is against parliamentary practice. It will make us look like a laughing stock.
“I reject the presentation of this bill.”
Subsequently, the bill was temporarily set aside for further review following a verbal vote led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
