Reps seek to block renaming of Niger Delta Ministry amid controversy

On Thursday, the House of Representatives decided to postpone a motion that sought to urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reconsider his recent decision to rename the Ministry of Niger Delta Development to the Ministry of Regional Development.

This pause comes in light of Speaker Abbas Tajudeen’s announcement that President Tinubu has expressed a willingness to engage with the South-South Development Commission Bill, which aims to address critical concerns in the Niger Delta.

The motion’s sponsor, Oboku Oforji, a member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) from Bayelsa, underscored the importance of the Ministry of Niger Delta Development, which was established to facilitate and coordinate development efforts, promote peace, and enhance the security of the Niger Delta region.

He lauded the legacy of late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, highlighting how his administration initiated dialogue with regional stakeholders and militants, ultimately leading to the Amnesty Program that has fostered relative peace in the area.

Oforji expressed his apprehension regarding President Tinubu’s decision, noting the recent surge of tension in the oil-rich region following the announcement on October 24, 2024.

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“This is not a good omen for a region that has contributed immensely to our country’s economic development,” he stated.

He further emphasized the historical neglect faced by the region, citing persistent issues such as oil spills, inadequate arable land, and insufficient social amenities that have often led to militancy.

In defense of the ministry’s renaming, House Leader Julius Ihonvbere of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Edo argued that the conversion of the ministry will not diminish the development opportunities for the Niger Delta.

Instead, he asserted that it would expand the ministry’s focus to include other regions, thereby broadening its impact.

Speaker Tajudeen reassured members that President Tinubu is receptive to the South-South Development Commission Bill, indicating a commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by the Niger Delta region.

This development suggests a potential avenue for constructive engagement and resolution of the concerns raised by representatives from the area.