Fuel Subsidy: Jonathan Requests Senate’s Approval Of N161.6bn

President Goodluck Jonathan has requested the Senate’s approval of ?N161.6 billion ?as fuel subsidy under a ?supplementary budget for 2012.

The request was contained? in a letter ?he sent to the senate and ?read by Senate President ?David Mark on Tuesday.

Jonathan said that the supplementary budget was to accommodate the outstanding arrears resulting from the forensic audit exercise of the fuel subsidy scheme.

He added that it was also ?to ensure steady supply of petroleum products during the festive season.

“As at now, the sum of N880.2 billion has been paid out leaving a balance of N7.7 billion.

“ Jonathan also forwarded a request for the confirmation of ?some members of the Federal Civil Service Commission,''?the letter ?said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the ?nominees are Dr Ngozi Etolue (Anambra), Mr Hope Ikiriko (Rivers), Prof. Aminu Sheidu (Kogi), Mr Emmanuel Ihedioha (Abia) and Mr Joseph Akande (Osun).(NAN)