By Divine Sam
The Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has firmly rejected President Bola Tinubu’s decision to abolish the Ministry of Niger Delta. In a communique following a meeting in Port Harcourt, PANDEF expressed deep concern over the dissolution, emphasizing the ministry’s role in addressing the unique challenges of the Niger Delta, including environmental issues and its economic significance to the nation.
Led by elder statesman Pa Edwin Clark, the forum criticized the lack of consultation with key stakeholders prior to the decision. PANDEF urged the federal government to engage in further discussions regarding the ministry’s functions, especially in light of initiatives aimed at increasing oil production.
While welcoming the proposed South-South Commission to complement existing federal agencies, PANDEF insisted that the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) should better reflect its intended roles and membership. Additionally, the forum called on state governments to effectively utilize revenue from the 13% derivation fund for critical infrastructure projects, including the East-West Highway and improvements to the region’s seaports.
The assembly also urged the federal government to address urgent infrastructure needs by repairing roads, completing the East-West Highway, initiating the Calabar-Lagos railway project, and establishing a maritime mass transit system for the riverine areas. This comes as a bill to create the South South Development Commission recently advanced in the Senate.