By our reporter| The Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) has joined the growing voice of those opposed to the controversial infectious bill as they have the national assembly to suspend legislation on the matter.
The bill which prescribes, among other provisions, compulsory vaccination of citizens against infectious diseases has been wideky criticised over possible violation of human rights.
The governors position was made public in a communique after a virtual meeting of the governors on Wednesday, chaired by governor Kayode Fayemi.
The NGF asked the lawmakers to step down the bill to give room for consultations with stakeholders.
They also constituted a three-member committee to engage the leadership of the national assembly on the bill.
The communique read, “Following an update from the Governor of Sokoto State and Vice Chairman of the NGF, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, on the proposed Control of Infectious Diseases Bill, 2020 introduced by the House of Representatives, Governors raised concern with the lack of consultation with State governments who are at the forefront of the epidemic.”
“The Forum resolved that the Bill should be stepped down until an appropriate consultative process is held, including a public hearing to gather public opinion and concerns.
“In the light of this, the Forum established a Committee comprising the Governors of Katsina, Sokoto, and Plateau to lead a consultative meeting with the leadership of the National Assembly on the proposed Control of Infectious Diseases Bill, 2020.
“The NGF Secretariat was also mandated to comprehensively review the Bill and its implication on States.”
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