South-South leader and former Federal Commissioner for Information, Chief Edwin Clark, has strongly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s decision to scrap the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, warning that the people of the region will not stand by and allow this move.
In a passionate statement, the respected elder statesman expressed deep concern over the federal government’s plans to divert resources meant for the Niger Delta to other regions.
Speaking from Abuja, Chief Clark argued that the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs was established by the late President Umaru Yar’Adua with a clear mandate: to develop the oil-rich region, ensure lasting peace, and address pipeline vandalism.
“There is no justification for scrapping this ministry,” Clark said. “Yar’Adua created it to address the security challenges in the Niger Delta and focus on the development of the area.”
The leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) accused the federal government of abandoning the region’s development, stating that even critical projects like the East-West Road, which was under the Niger Delta Ministry, have been handed back to the Ministry of Works.
Clark warned that the decision could reignite tensions in the region, as the government seems to lack a clear plan for the future of the Niger Delta.
Read also: Eno approves N80,000 as minimum wage for Akwa Ibom workers
Clark also referenced the 2014 National Conference, where it was agreed that the revenue allocation to the Niger Delta should be increased to 18%, but that this agreement had not been implemented. “The government is failing to deliver on its promises to the region, and now they want to use the funds from South-South to develop other regions,” he stated.
As tensions rise, Clark emphasized that the federal government must consult with the leaders of the Niger Delta and South-South regions to address the growing concerns. He warned that scrapping the ministry without a solid replacement plan would lead to further alienation of the region’s people, who feel their resources are being misused.
“The government should not operate as a one-man show,” Clark declared. “In a democracy, it’s for the people, by the people. We will not allow the funds meant for the Niger Delta to be diverted for other development commissions without a fight.”
President Tinubu’s decision to scrap the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, alongside the Ministry of Sports Development, was announced following a Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting. The move has sparked widespread reactions, particularly from regional leaders like Chief Clark, who are demanding transparency and a clear plan for the future of the region.
