Senior Advocate of Nigeria and former Chairman of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria, Dr. Muiz Banire, has said the aspect of the proposed ‘Control of-Infectious Diseases Bill 2020’ which focuses on forced vaccination impinges on citizen’s liberty and freedom.
He described the proposed bill as “draconian and unconstitutional.”
He noted that the legislation affects every Nigerian, irrespective of religious inclination, tribe or political affiliation.
“What is expected of them [lawmakers] was to subject it to a stakeholder hearing and let people have their various inputs.
“It is meaningless for you to pass a law that will be honoured in breach than in obedience. And which could be challenged eventually,” he said.
The three-term Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment insists that the aspect that seems to focus on forced vaccination impinges on citizen’s liberty and freedom, adding, “It could even include the issue of life because the person might say, ‘If I take it, I will die.”
Banire warned that there are so many complications, which most likely will arise from the bill.
“Most of the actions must be vetted and determined by an independent board or body.
“In the barest minimum, there must be a health board that must do the necessary evaluation,” he warned.
He noted that for the purpose of forfeiture or destruction of a property seen as posing a hazard to public health, there must be a court order.
“That aspect belongs to the judiciary,” he said.
“Even the area of disclosing of sources and information is totally unconstitutional.
“They need to approach the court to get the necessary order. Without it, they can’t act, because it is unconstitutional,” he declared.
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