PANDEF rejects restructuring of Niger delta Ministry

The Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has strongly opposed President Bola Tinubu’s decision to dissolve the Ministry of Niger Delta. In a communique issued after a meeting in Port Harcourt, the Forum expressed serious concern about the ministry’s removal, highlighting its role in addressing the unique challenges faced by the Niger Delta, including environmental damage and its significance to the national economy.

Led by elder statesman Pa Edwin Clark, PANDEF criticized the lack of consultation with key stakeholders regarding the decision. They urged the federal government to engage in further discussions to address critical concerns, especially as it aims to boost oil production.

While welcoming the proposed South-South Commission to complement existing federal agencies, PANDEF insisted that the name of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) should accurately reflect its functions and membership.

Additionally, the assembly called on state governments to effectively utilize revenues from the 13% derivation for essential projects, such as improving roads, including the East-West Highway, and enhancing operations at the region’s seven seaports.

To address these issues, PANDEF urged the federal government to repair failing roads, complete the East-West Highway, initiate the Calabar-Lagos railway project, and establish a maritime mass transit system for the riverine areas. This comes as a bill to create the South-South Development Commission (SSDC) recently passed its second reading in the Senate, sponsored by Senator Ekpeyong Asuquo from Cross River South.