The House of Representatives has decided to step down a motion that urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reverse his recent decision to transform the Ministry of Niger Delta Development into the Ministry of Regional Development.
The motion, introduced by Representative Oboku Oforji of Bayelsa, argued that the ministry’s change could alter the intended focus on the Niger Delta region’s development.
The motion was halted, however, after Speaker Abbas Tajudeen informed the House about his recent discussions with President Tinubu.
Speaker Tajudeen shared that the President expressed openness to working with the House on a proposed South-South Development Commission Bill, which aims to address the Niger Delta region’s unique needs.
“In light of the information,” Speaker Tajudeen explained, “and because the issues within the Motion have already been overtaken by other events, the mover of the motion should allow the House to step down the motion.” Tajudeen’s statement indicated that the House leadership believes alternative measures are now in place to handle development issues for the Niger Delta.
House Leader Julius Ihonvbere also spoke on the motion, acknowledging the importance of the issues raised. Ihonvbere, however, argued that rebranding the ministry would not harm the Niger Delta’s interests but instead expand its mission to address developmental needs in other regions.
“The conversion of the Niger Delta Development Ministry to that of the Ministry of Regional Development will not in any way deny the Niger Delta region of its due development,” Ihonvbere stated.
Oforji, while introducing the motion, highlighted the origins of the Niger Delta Ministry. Created in 2008 by former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, the ministry was designed to address long-standing issues in the Niger Delta, including peace, unity, and development.
Oforji recalled that the ministry’s formation aimed to promote policies to enhance the region’s infrastructure, social services, and environmental protection while coordinating efforts with local communities and stakeholders.
Oforji further emphasized the historical significance of the ministry, recalling President Yar’Adua’s efforts to address deep-rooted grievances in the region. “It was in the short term of late President Yar’Adua’s leadership from Katsina State that dialogue was initiated with major stakeholders in the region and militants culminating in the Amnesty Program,” he stated, pointing out how these actions reduced tensions and fostered stability in the area.
However, Oforji expressed concerns about the recent ministry change, noting heightened anxiety in the region. “On the 24th of October 2024, the oil-rich region witnessed palpable tension following the announcement of the scrapping of the ministry of Niger Delta Development, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he noted, voicing the frustrations of those who feel that the region deserves continued focused attention.
