Reps set April date for passage of PIB

Chinazor Megbolu |

The House of Representatives has slated April 2021 for the passage of Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB).

Speaking at a public hearing organised by an ad hoc committee on the PIB on Wednesday, the Speaker, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, noted that passing the legislation in April 2021 is a commitment the house has agreed on.

He pointed out that the house is working towards passing it within a short period of time, adding the bill will receive the “thoroughness” it deserves.

“We intend to pass this bill by April. That is the commitment we have made. Some may consider it a tall order.

“We will do it without compromising the thoroughness [of the bill]”.

Recall the Senate President, Hon. Ahmad Lawan last Monday at a public hearing, said the Senate is looking at passing the legislation by April or May.

According to him; “we are looking at each member of the national assembly to consider and pass the bill by the first quarter April or May.

“This is a responsibility that is entirely for the legislature. It requires full participation by the entire stakeholders.

“We believe we have been working together and that shouldn’t be a major challenge so that it doesn’t appear that only the national assembly can work and pass the bill.

“We will do that on the condition that the major stakeholders play their part including the organised private sector. We will pass this bill not any kind without ensuring that it is a bill that satisfies many conditions”