South Saharan Social Development Organization (SSSDO) has lauded the leadership of Enugu State House of Assembly for stepping down the controversial Gubernatorial Life Pension Bill.
Executive Director of the organization, Dr Stanley Ilechukwu who made this known in a statement issued in Enugu on Thursday said the group was happy with the suspension of the bill but urged the Assembly to pass the State Water Sector Law which has lingered on the floor of the house.
“We would like to thank the Enugu State House of Assembly under the leadership of the Speaker, Chief Edward Ubosi, for meeting with the peaceful protesters who came to the house to demand the termination of the Gubernatorial Life Pensions Bill on the 16th of March, 2021.
“The concerns of the public were duly addressed, and the process for deliberations on the bill was explained to the youths as part of an ongoing process which would still factor in their opinions.
“Equally we appreciate the willingness of the house to collaborate with citizens on the legislative process. We would welcome such cooperation on the issue of water scarcity within Enugu State, and we appeal that the Water Sector Bill pending at the house receives special attention from the representatives for passage as soon as possible.
“The Water Sector Bill is key in providing long-term solutions to water issues in the state, and though it has passed first reading on the floor of the house, it is worrisome that seemingly no further action has been taken despite the state governor declaring a state of emergency in the Enugu Water And Sanitation Hygiene (WASH) sector in 2020.
“Therefore, we implore the honourable members to treat the Water Sector Bill as a matter of first priority, for possible passage into law within three months. The urgency of this issue cannot be overstated, and it would afford us all the opportunity to congratulate and appreciate our legislators for their tireless service to Enugu State.
“We look forward to inclusive dialogues and collaboration on the two Bills, and reiterate the words of the Speaker in encouraging the people and youths of Enugu to participate fully in the process”.