News
Delta Host Communities Demand Accountability for N1.3 Trillion 13% Oil Derivation Funds, Call on EFCC to Investigate Mismanagement
By Francis Sadhere, Delta
A Delta State-born environmental rights activist and development advocate, Comrade Mulade Sheriff, has issued a strong appeal to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), demanding transparency and accountability over the alleged mismanagement of N1.3 trillion in 13% oil derivation funds meant for the development of host communities in Delta State.
Comrade Sheriff, who previously served as Chairman of the oil-rich Kokodiagbene Community in the Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South-West Local Government Area, urged the EFCC Chairman, Mr. Olanipekun Olukoyede, to investigate the whereabouts and utilization of the funds without political bias or compromise.
In a public statement, Sheriff, who also chairs the Association of Host Communities, emphasized the growing concerns among Delta residents and host communities regarding the alleged diversion, misapplication, and misappropriation of the derivation funds intended to improve living conditions and infrastructure in oil-producing regions.
“We strongly believe that the recent political defection of former Delta State Governor, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), must not be used as a shield against justice and accountability,” he stated.
Sheriff warned against any move to sweep the allegations under the carpet, saying such action would set a dangerous precedent that could undermine Nigeria’s anti-corruption drive and hinder the nation’s socio-economic development.
“It would be disastrous if political realignment becomes a get-out-of-jail-free card for those accused of corruption. That would destroy not just the future of host communities but also the integrity of the Nigerian political and governance system,” he lamented.
He called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the EFCC to demonstrate their commitment to fighting corruption, assuring Nigerians that the anti-graft agency has not lost its purpose in the face of political developments.
“Nigerians and the international community are watching. We must not allow political interests to compromise our values and destroy our nation’s developmental aspirations,” Sheriff added.
The call for accountability comes amid growing agitation among oil-producing communities in the Niger Delta over neglect and underdevelopment, despite the significant oil revenue generated from the region. Community leaders and civil society groups have intensified demands for justice and equitable development.
The EFCC is yet to respond publicly to the allegations or provide an update on any ongoing investigations related to the oil derivation funds.
A Delta State-born environmental rights activist and development advocate, Comrade Mulade Sheriff, has issued a strong appeal to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), demanding transparency and accountability over the alleged mismanagement of N1.3 trillion in 13% oil derivation funds meant for the development of host communities in Delta State.
Comrade Sheriff, who previously served as Chairman of the oil-rich Kokodiagbene Community in the Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South-West Local Government Area, urged the EFCC Chairman, Mr. Olanipekun Olukoyede, to investigate the whereabouts and utilization of the funds without political bias or compromise.
In a public statement, Sheriff, who also chairs the Association of Host Communities, emphasized the growing concerns among Delta residents and host communities regarding the alleged diversion, misapplication, and misappropriation of the derivation funds intended to improve living conditions and infrastructure in oil-producing regions.
“We strongly believe that the recent political defection of former Delta State Governor, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), must not be used as a shield against justice and accountability,” he stated.
Sheriff warned against any move to sweep the allegations under the carpet, saying such action would set a dangerous precedent that could undermine Nigeria’s anti-corruption drive and hinder the nation’s socio-economic development.
“It would be disastrous if political realignment becomes a get-out-of-jail-free card for those accused of corruption. That would destroy not just the future of host communities but also the integrity of the Nigerian political and governance system,” he lamented.
He called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the EFCC to demonstrate their commitment to fighting corruption, assuring Nigerians that the anti-graft agency has not lost its purpose in the face of political developments.
“Nigerians and the international community are watching. We must not allow political interests to compromise our values and destroy our nation’s developmental aspirations,” Sheriff added.
The call for accountability comes amid growing agitation among oil-producing communities in the Niger Delta over neglect and underdevelopment, despite the significant oil revenue generated from the region. Community leaders and civil society groups have intensified demands for justice and equitable development.
The EFCC is yet to respond publicly to the allegations or provide an update on any ongoing investigations related to the oil derivation funds.
