The Nigerian Senate has decisively rejected a proposed law aimed at establishing a National Ethnic and Reconciliation Commission (NERC). The bill, which sought to address ethnic conflicts and promote national unity, was voted down during its second reading on Thursday, November 28, 2024.
Why Senators Opposed the Bill
The legislative proposal, sponsored by Senator Anthony Ani of the All Progressives Congress (APC), representing Ebonyi South, had previously passed its first reading. However, it faced significant opposition during the second reading. Senator Eyinnaya Abaribe of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), representing Abia South, was the first to raise an objection. He highlighted a critical issue with the bill's proposed acronym, NERC, which is identical to the existing Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission.
"The Senate cannot pass laws establishing two separate commissions with the same acronym," Abaribe stated, pointing out the legal and administrative confusion this would cause.
Substantive and Financial Objections
Further criticism came from Senator Adams Oshiomhole (APC, Edo North), who challenged the very concept of a "National Ethnic" commission. He argued that Nigeria does not have a single ethnic group, making the title and focus of the bill inappropriate. Oshiomhole also raised a crucial financial concern, cautioning that establishing such a commission would place an additional financial burden on the federal government at a time when it is struggling to meet its existing obligations.
Leadership's Final Verdict
The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, delivered the final blow to the bill's prospects. He declared that Nigeria does not need such legislation, suggesting that some senators who initially supported it did so out of sentiment rather than practical consideration. "Some of you supporting it are doing so on sentiment. Even from the tone of it, the bill doesn't stand for anything," Akpabio remarked.
Following his comments, Akpabio called for a voice vote. The response from the chamber was an overwhelming and resounding "Nay", effectively terminating the legislative process for the proposed National Ethnic and Reconciliation Commission and putting an end to the debate.
