Pandemonium marred the ongoing public hearing on Thursday organised by the House of Representatives on the Petroleum Industry Bill as members of the host communities engage in physical combat.
The fight broke out when the Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas was called to the podium to make a presentation.
One of the Itsekiri leaders stood up to speak but was opposed by other members of host communities present and a fight ensued leading to a rowdy session.
Security agents at the hall including police and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) officers had to break up the fight, prompting the house ad-hoc committee on PIB to allow each host community to speak.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila had earlier on Wednesday assured that the Reps will protect Nigeria’s interest and ensure quick passage.
He said although the PIB has been in the National Assembly for decades without much success, the ninth Assembly would ensure that it passes it into law.
The Speaker expressed optimism about the process adopted by the House to engage all relevant stakeholders and noted that he was confident that the Ad-hoc Committee on PIB headed by Chief Whip, Mohammed Tahir Monguno, would do a thorough job.
