Chief Edwin Clark condemns President Bola Tinubu's decision to abolish the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, asserting that the people of the Niger Delta will not accept this move. Clark calls for clarity from the government regarding its plans for regional development and funding allocation.
Former Federal Commissioner for Information and prominent South-South leader, Chief Edwin Clark, has voiced strong opposition to President Bola Tinubu's recent decision to disband the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs. Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Clark asserted that the people of the Niger Delta will not accept this move.
He criticized the government's intentions, claiming it plans to redirect funds from the South-South region to other development commissions, which could harm the ongoing progress in the area. Clark pointed out that the ministry was originally established by late President Umaru Yar’Adua to address the unique challenges facing the Niger Delta, including security and economic development.
The leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum emphasized the importance of the ministry's focus on regional issues and expressed concern over the lack of a comprehensive plan for its dissolution. He highlighted the need for the federal government to engage with Niger Delta leaders to ensure that the region's interests are protected.
Clark urged the government to clarify its strategy regarding regional development and funding. He noted that previous agreements aimed at increasing financial support for the Niger Delta have not been implemented, raising fears that essential resources may be diverted away from the region. He concluded by insisting that the government must remain accountable to the people it serves.
