The Bayelsa State House of Assembly has passed for second reading a bill that seeks to provide legal framework for the regulation, reticulation and distribution of potable water in the State.
A member representing Yenagoa Constituency Two, Ebiowou Koku-Obiyai is the sponsor of the bill which also seeks to repeal and reenact the existing but now moribund Bayelsa State Water Corporation Law.
The issue of potable water supply in Bayelsa State is much like the scenario painted in the classical poem, The Ancient Mariner, ” Water, Water Every where but not a drop to drink”.
In his lead debate, Koku-Obiyai said the bill has become imperative to effectively tackle the problem, using the instrumentality of legislation.
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In their contributions, State lawmakers welcomed the proposed law which they said will ensure people in rural communities have access to safe potable water.
They argued further that the bill when passed into law will also open up space for economic development.
The bill was referred to the House Committee on Water Resources by Speaker, Abraham Ingobere for detailed review and to be reported back in two weeks.
( Editor, Omor Bazuaye)
