The Nigerian Senate witnessed a minor uproar during its session on Thursday as members deliberated over the funding source for regional development commissions, a key component of the newly established Ministry of Regional Development by President Bola Tinubu.
The discussion was part of the clause-by-clause consideration of the South-South Development Commission Establishment Bill 2024.
Controversy arose when the Senate Committee on Special Duties recommended that 15 percent of statutory allocations accruing to member states in each of the geopolitical zones be channelled towards funding the commissions.
This proposal sparked concerns among some senators, including Yahaya Abdullahi, who requested further clarification on the matter.
Senator Abdullahi expressed apprehension that such a move might lead to potential litigation, with state governments possibly challenging the Federal Government over what they could perceive as unauthorized deductions from their statutory allocations.
Despite these concerns, after extensive explanations were provided on the floor of the Senate, the contentious section was eventually put to a voice vote and approved.
This decision paves the way for regional development commissions to receive a portion of the statutory allocations for developmental projects within their respective zones, aiming to boost regional growth and equality.
Additionally, the Senate made a significant amendment by striking out specific provisions in section 23 of the establishment bills, which would have granted operational immunity to the boards and executives of these commissions.
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