Senate Suspends Debate on Bill Seeking to Establish South-South Development Commission

The Nigerian Senate has suspended a bill seeking to establish the South-South Development Commission (SSDC), following a majority vote against it.

The bill, sponsored by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, aimed to establish a commission to address infrastructural development, environmental issues, and socio-economic challenges in the South-south region.

The bill was scheduled for second reading but was met with opposition from senators who argued that it would duplicate the functions of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

Senators Adamu Aliero and Abdul Ningi suggested that the bill should be stepped down or amended to avoid duplication.

After a voice vote, Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced that the bill would be suspended for further consideration.

This development comes after the House recently passed bills establishing development commissions for other regions, including the North-east, South-east, North-west, and North Central.

The South-south region, comprising six states and 125 local government areas, has been seeking a dedicated development commission to address its unique challenges.