By Goodluck Ikiebe
Traditional rulers in Delta State have requested the Minister of Niger Delta Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, to promptly facilitate a meeting with President Bola Tinubu to address issues in the region.
The Monarchs made the demand at the palace of the Chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, His Majesty, Major General Felix Mujakperuo (rtd), the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, during the Minister’s working visit to the State.
Expressing their frustration, they stated, “We have been trying to see Mr. President to no avail. We have written letters, but received no response. We entrust you with this letter to deliver to Mr. President. As stakeholders in this region, we, in the Niger Delta, urgently request a meeting with him to address the challenges we face”.
“We want you to arrange a meeting for us, the traditional rulers in the Niger Delta, with Mr. President. If we can endure all the difficulties in the region, our children may not be able to bear them, that’s the truth.”
The traditional rulers expressed profound concern about the deplorable state of roads throughout the Niger Delta region. The Orodje highlighted the challenges in reaching neighboring cities like Benin and Port Harcourt due to poor road conditions.
He said, “It’s a painful reality that makes it seem as if the Niger Delta people are not considered part of this country.”
They lamented the lack of action despite significant funds allocated for road construction in the past, which has resulted in severe consequences, including an increase in kidnapping incidents within the State.
They also voiced disappointment in the treatment of the region, which they assert is a significant contributor to the nation’s resources but often receives inadequate attention and support. The environmental impact, with soot turning rooftops black instead of the expected red, was also mentioned.
In their plea, they requested arrangements be made for traditional rulers from the region to meet with Mr. President, emphasizing the urgency of the situation and the need for direct communication between the President and the people.
Concerns about the actions of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) were raised, including a forensic audit that has not yielded results and dissatisfaction with the appointment of a sole administrator by the previous administration.
The traditional rulers emphasized the importance of Mr. President being accessible to all Nigerians and called for fairness and equal treatment in the country. They indicated that when they meet with the President, they will advocate for the return of the East-West Road to the Ministry of Niger Delta Development.
Engr Momoh promised to deliver their plea to the President and thanked them for the support to the Tinubu’s administration.
