Reps reject motion for removal of fuel subsidy
Representatives have rejected a motion seeking the removal of fuel subsidy regime by the incoming Gen. Muhammadu Buhari administration, saying that it would amount to anti-people policies.
The motion sponsored by Rep Sunday Karimi, entitled: “The recurring crisis of fuel subsidy” was killed by the lawmakers.
The Rep sought the motion as a “permanent solution” to the lingering nationwide fuel scarcity while urging the Buhari administration to “muster the necessary political will” to end the fuel subsidy regime.
“As we speak, PMS sells in most places at the rate of N120 and N150 depending on where it is available which is against the official pump price of N87,” Karimi said.
The motion found support from the Deputy House Leader, Hon. Leo Ogor, saying the regime had become a drain in the country's economy and urged that government redirect fuel subsidy votes to other priority areas.
Ogor (Delta/PDP) said, “How long will we continue to spend money we don't have? How long will we allow oil marketers to hold us to ransome? When will our refineries work? The money that we spend on fuel subsidy can be channelled to other crucial areas.”
But Rep Osai Nicolas Osai (Delta/PDP) opposed the motion, saying the motion's timing was wrong and belated as the outstanding subsidy payment causing the fuel scarcity had been dealt with on Monday at a meeting between the finance minister and oil marketers.
“I disagree with this motion, because it is coming very late and standing on a very weak premise. The issue involved has to do with subsidy payment.
“The Minister of Finance and marketers were in a meeting which ended yesterday (Monday) and that matter has been resolved. So the House would be wasting resources and energy in trying to dabble into this matter.”
The presiding Deputy Speaker, Emeka Ihedioha, put the motion in voice vote and the lawmakers the knocked down the motion.
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