‘New Law Can Be Reviewed’ – Presidency Defends Buhari Signing Of PIB

The Presidency on Tuesday stated that the Petroleum Industry Bill signed into law by President Muhammadu Buhari can be reviewed as it is not “cast in stone.”

Naija News recalls that stakeholders and the south-south governors forum had kicked against the PIB which recommends three per cent for oil-bearing communities.

Despite massive opposition, President Buhari, on Monday, signed the bill into law.

Defending the president’s action in an interview with PUNCH, the Senior Special Assistant to Buhari on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, said the new law was still open to amendments.

While describing the law as the making of all Nigerians, Shehu asked those against the signing to follow the right channels to effect the right changes.

He said, “The law is the making of all Nigerians and not the President alone. It is not cast in stone; it can be changed.

“As we move forward, there can even be more aspects of the law that recommend themselves to review.

“Nothing in that law is cast in stone. On a need basis, the law can be revised and if need be, amended.

“Even the constitution of the Republic is today undergoing a review. Let us give peace a chance and work through the democratic process to get what we want.”

He stated that Buhari was being responsive to the yearnings of Nigerians by signing the law which has many positive value for the country.

“The President is not being insensitive. Instead, he is being responsive to the yearning of the majority of Nigerians,” he stated.

He added, “The law contains so much positive value for the industry and the country. These good things should not be held hostage by contentious issues.

“Let us focus on the positives. We need not wait any longer. Let us make progress.”