Fuel subsidy: Jonathan seeks Senate’s approval of additional N161.6bn

President Goodluck Jonathan has requested the Senate's approval of  N161.6 billion  as fuel subsidy under a  supplementary budget for 2012.

The request was contained  in a letter  he sent to the Senate and  read by Senate President  David Mark on Tuesday.

Jonathan said that the supplementary budget was to accommodate the outstanding arrears resulting from the forensic audit exercise of the fuel subsidy scheme.

He added that it was also  to ensure steady supply of petroleum products during the festive season.

“As at now, the sum of N880.2 billion has been paid out leaving a balance of N7.7 billion.

“ Jonathan also forwarded a request for the confirmation of  some members of the Federal Civil Service Commission,” the letter  said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the  nominees are Dr Ngozi Etolue (Anambra), Mr Hope Ikiriko (Rivers), Prof. Aminu Sheidu (Kogi), Mr Emmanuel Ihedioha (Abia) and Mr Joseph Akande (Osun).