The Association for the Promotion of Peace and Development in Itsekiri Oil and Gas Communities (APPDIOGCOM), a prominent group advocating for Niger Delta interests, has urged President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly to ensure the direct payment of the 13% derivation fund to oil and gas producing communities in the Niger Delta.
In a statement, the group’s leader, Princess Grace Fregene, referenced a recent open letter by the Itsekiri Leaders of Thought (ILOT). The letter highlighted the perceived injustice in the allocation of the 13% fund, which has long been a source of contention for oil-producing communities.
Fregene emphasized that ILOT’s outcry supports APPDIOGCOM’s consistent calls for past administrations to address the mismanagement of the derivation fund. She noted that the communities directly affected by oil and gas exploration activities have not seen sufficient development or relief from the funds intended for their benefit.
Citing the Constitution, APPDIOGCOM pointed out that Section 162(2) of the Nigerian Constitution mandates the direct allocation of the derivation fund to host communities, rather than through state governments or other intermediaries. Furthermore, they stressed that the fund falls under the Exclusive Legislative List, meaning state governments have no authority to control its disbursement.
The group expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s commitment to constitutional governance, urging him to correct this long standing issue by ensuring the funds reach the host communities directly. They believe this step will uphold justice and foster the sustainable development of affected regions.