The Senate has resumed discussions on a bill aimed at establishing the South-South Development Commission, which had been suspended in July.
The bill was initially halted after a majority of senators voted against it during a voice vote. However, in a new development, lawmakers invoked the phrase “What is good for the goose is good for the gander” on Thursday, advocating for its reconsideration. They argued that every region is fundamentally entitled to its own commission.
Sponsored by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, who represents Cross River South, the bill faced significant opposition from lawmakers three months ago. They contended that it would duplicate the functions of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), which already addresses the objectives outlined in the proposed legislation.
So far, nearly ten senators have recognized the benefits of the commission, asserting that it will focus on development rather than resources, unlike the NDDC.
However, some lawmakers, including Senator Karimi from Kogi West, have argued that Kogi State, which is also an oil-producing region, should be included in the NDDC.
The Deputy Senate President suggested renaming the NDDC to incorporate other oil-producing states like Bauchi and Kogi.
The bill has passed its second reading and has been referred to the committee on special duties, with a request to report back within one week.