The Nigerian Senate has stepped down debate on the Petroleum Industry Bill following lateness in providing copies of the document on the proposed reforms.

The Chairman Senate Committee on Petroleum Upstream, Senator Donald Alasoadura, had set out to outline the content of the bill but had to stop few minutes into the exercise as lawmakers said they were not in possession of copies of the bill.

Senate President Bukola Saraki expressed surprise at the lawmakers’ complaints and suggested that the bill be stood down until members get the document.

The bill was subsequently stood down to the next legislative day.

The Senate had earlier in April begun the process of considering the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB).

Previous assemblies were unable to pass the controversial bill but Senate President Bukola Saraki has assured Nigerians that passing the PIB was one of the major priorities of the Eight Assembly. (Channels TV)

•Photo shows Senate Chamber.