“Buhari must give assent on Peace Corps Bill or be vetoed” – Nigerian Lawmakers
The Senate has asked President Buhari to reconsider his position on the Peace Corps Bill.
Buhari, last week, refused to give assent on the bill, terming it unnecessary and a financial liability.
During the plenary today, however, the lawmakers, led by a Point of Order raised by Senator Dino Melaye, requested that the bill be revisited.
Dino asked that Buhari be vetoed if he refuses to rescind his rejection of the bill.
Dino told the house: “The same thing happened when the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps was to be established; there was also the same complaint that there was no money and all of that.
“But today, we can see the advantages of the civil defence and how they have helped in safeguarding government infrastructure.
“About $5.5bn was borrowed from euro bond; what part of it will the youths of this country benefit from?
“About $1bn is to be spent on security and how does this affect the youth of this country.
“Without fear or favour, the Peoples Democratic Party, in 16 years, borrowed N6tn and this government in three years, has borrowed N11tn but there is no specific programme that will empower the youth.
“Also, N500bn was earmarked for the social investment programme of the Federal Government, but we have not seen any impact.
“If the Peace Corps is given an opportunity to exist, thousands will be employed and this will help to fight unemployment in this country.
“We may need to write Mr. President to review his position; if not, we have the power on behalf of the Nigerian youths who voted us to veto him so that people will become the ultimate beneficiaries of this bill.
“The youth of this country must be given priority and they must be respected,’’ Melaye said.
