CSOs seek change in Niger-Delta’s approach to regional issues

The Abuja Ethnic Youth Coalition for Peace (AEYCP) and other civil society groups in the Niger-Delta have advocated for a fundamental shift in how matters concerning the region are addressed. The civil societies urged stakeholders in oil-producing communities (HostComs) to reconsider the habitual convening of meetings in Abuja, specially the type of meetings that bear […]

The Abuja Ethnic Youth Coalition for Peace (AEYCP) and other civil society groups in the Niger-Delta have advocated for a fundamental shift in how matters concerning the region are addressed.

The civil societies urged stakeholders in oil-producing communities (HostComs) to reconsider the habitual convening of meetings in Abuja, specially the type of meetings that bear no direct relevance to the indigenous people of the nation’s capital.

The National President of the AEYCP, Shekwonugaza Yakubu, said this during a protest at the headquarters of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Council (NUPRC) in Abuja.

Yakubu hailed the sacrifices of those advocating for an inclusive Niger Delta and also commended the signing of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), saying it is a legislative stride towards prosperity.

He urged the NUPRC CEO, Gbenga Komolafe to reconsider convening meetings in Abuja and opt for the commission’s fully operational facility in Warri, Delta State.

“Our assembly here today is underscored by a pressing need for reformation in how Niger-Delta regional matters are addressed. We call upon all stakeholders in the Niger Delta, particularly those from oil-producing communities, to reconsider the habitual convening in Abuja for meetings that bear no direct relevance to the indigenous people of Abuja.

“This practice not only incurs unnecessary costs but also distances the decision-making process from the very people it affects.

“We urge the Chief Executive Officer of the NUPRC, Mr Gbenga Komolafe, to further the government’s admirable efforts in cost-cutting and plugging financial leakages by refraining from hosting such meetings in Abuja. The NUPRC has a fully operational facility in Warri, Delta State, which should serve as the primary venue for these critical discussions,” he said.