WorldStage Newsonline– Amb. Dickson Akoh, the Commandant of Nigeria Peace Corps (NPC) has reacted to the rejection of the NPC by the House of Representatives, saying it’s not the bill that suffered a temporary setback via the rejection, rather it is the overriding process initiated by the lower House
Speaking on Monday at a press briefing in Abuja, Akoh said, “Therefore, without any fear of contradiction, let me say it loud and clear that the Nigeria Peace Corps Establishment Bill is not dead as widely publicized, but still alive and on course.
“We have it on good authority of a deliberate gang-up against the Bill and its good intentions were highly misrepresented by those who have access to Mr President. Perhaps it’s on account of this that Mr President withheld his assent to the Bill, citing funding and security concerns.”
Amb. Akoh noted that the core mandate of the NPC is to develop, empower and provide gainful employment for the youth, to facilitate peace, volunteerism community services, neighbourhood watch, nation building and others.
He lamented the unfortunate setback suffered by the NPC bill, saying it did not amounted to the end of the road for the Peace Corps of Nigeria.
He said it will continue to function as a legal entity, saying, the organisation is registered in Corporate Affairs Commission under its companies and Allies Matters Act, Part C of 1990.
He said, “PCN remains on course and focused in our commitment to nation building and services to the society.
“The never say-die spirit of the corps shall overcome this temporary setback, as we are diligently consulting and engaging necessary stakeholders to resolve this politically motivated challenge facing the organisation.”
He noted that the bill still stands validly passed and may still be assented to by any president, including “our incumbent President Muhammadu Buhari.”
However, he appealed to NPC members nationwide to remain peaceful in accordance with their calling and the distinct orientation they were subjected to that is anchored on selflessness, strict discipline and patriotism
