The Nigerian Senate has urged oil marketers in the country to rescind its decision to embark on a nationwide strike due to unpaid subsidy arrears amounting to one trillion naira.
Galaxy’s Godfrey Eshiemoghie reports that this is the resolution of the Senate following a motion by Senator Kabiru Marafa on the floor of the Red Chamber, Thursday where he expressed concerns that the threat if left unattended may throw the country to yet another round of fuel crises.
With a looming strike by petrol marketers as the seven-day ultimatum draws to a close, the subsidy issue is a major talking point.
The subsidy arrears has grown from 429billion to one trillion Naira, and the payment has remained pending despite the Federal Executive Council’s approval.
Senator Kabiru Marafa expressed worry over the situation and the ripple effect of the threat by petroleum marketers.
While speaking on the motion, a cross-section of lawmakers, including the Senate Majority Leader, Ahmed Lawan alleged full-scale sabotage, owing to the delayed payment despite govt’s approval.
In their contribution to the controversial debate, Senators Barnabas Gemade and Emmanuel Paulker noted that the buck now rests on the table of the Executive with regards to addressing the petrol subsidy matter.
Ruling on the motion, the Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu urged the Federal Government to meet the demands of the petrol marketers.
The Senate also resolved to direct all agencies concerned to ensure immediate payment of the subsidy arrears as approved by the Federal Executive Council and the National Assembly.
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