The Bolowei (Traditional Prime Minister) of Gbaramatu Kingdom and renowned Niger Delta elder statesman, Chief Dr. Wellington O. Okirika (CON), has commended Senator Ned Munir Nwoko for his bold stance on the proper implementation of the 13% derivation fund, describing the Delta North Senator as a true patriot and fearless advocate of equity for the oil-producing region.
Chief Okirika, also known as “Mr. 13% Derivation Fund” due to his long-standing activism for host communities, expressed his appreciation during a visit to Senator Nwoko, which included engagements both at the senator’s residence and office.
In a statement issued after the meeting, the elder statesman, who is the founding Executive Chairman of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) and a founding father of the Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas (HOSCON), said his confidence in Senator Nwoko’s leadership prompted him to take the 30-year injustice allegedly perpetuated by some governors in the region directly to the lawmaker.
“You proved to me that you are a true leader by your actions towards the deliberate act of unpatriotism done against the people of the Niger Delta region,” Okirika said.
He described Senator Nwoko as “one of the best leaders in Nigeria who hates oppression and is very vocal,” expressing optimism that the senator’s intervention will mark a turning point in the legal and legislative redress of what he termed a long-standing economic injustice to the host communities.
According to Chief Okirika, communities in Delta Central and Delta South senatorial zones are closely following Senator Nwoko’s activities at the National Assembly and are impressed by his dedication and unique commitment to issues of national and regional significance.
In his message, the people of Gbaramatu Kingdom, home to Government Ekpemupolo (a.k.a. Tompolo), a well-known figure in the struggle for resource justice, also sent their warm greetings to Senator Ned Nwoko.
“We believe the governors will hear from you shortly and the Niger Delta region will never forget you as you take the motion for an act to urgently commence the legal implementation of the 13% derivation fund to reflect the legislative compliance of Section 162(2), which mandates the Federal Government to pay the 13% directly to host communities,” Chief Okirika said.
