Two different bills under the Plateau State House of Assembly standing Committee on Health have received the nod of experts for passage in Plateau State.
The public hearing was held at De Bridge Hotel and Suites, in Jos on Friday where stakeholders made their submissions in support of the bills with observations on some clauses and recommendations to the committee for onward ratification before final passage.
The first bills is “A bill for a law to provide for the establishment of Plateau State Blood Service Commission, to coordinate, regulate and ensure the provision of quality blood and blood products and for related matters 2024.”
The second bill is “A bill for a law to prohibit the production, sale and consumption of illicit Drinks and banned substance and the establishment of cognitive behaviour Therapeutic Centers in Plateau State and for matters related,2024.”
In his submission, Plateau State Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General, Barr. Philemon Daffi welcomed the two bills and said the Ministry is fully in support of them for the good of the state hence, their quality contributions to give the bills better perspective.
He suggested that the committee should define the word “illicit Drinks” to include details that will make it easier for judges to deliver judgement on an offender. He also wants the bill to among other things state the court that can try the offenders.
Plateau State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cletus Shukkur who was represented by the Director, Medical Services in the ministry, Dr. Stephen Bishmang said the ministry is completely in support of the bills, however, they submitted the need for a thorough review of the bills to identify some inappropriate or discriminatory clauses, particularly in the provision related to substance abuses.
He added that conflicting clauses and ambiguous language must also be rectify to ensure clarity.
Other critical stakeholders who made submissions at the public hearing includes Plateau State Aid Control Agency, PLACA, Nigeria Medical Association, NMA, Primary Health Care Development Agency, Pharmaceutical Association of Nigeria, Plateau State College of Health Pankshin among others.
Chairman of the House Committee on Health and the sponsor of the bills, Hon. Nanbol Listick appreciated the contributions of the stakeholders and noted that all their submissions will be look into by the Committee and harmonize their points, except those are prejudice to existing laws.
He also appreciated his colleagues, especially members of the Committee for their commitment in ensuring better and quality representation of the citizens.
In a vote of thanks, a member of the Committee and member representing Jos North West, Hon. Mark Naah appreciated all the stakeholders for their participation and prayed God for the bills to see the light of the day.