- Dr. Garus Gololo calls on President Tinubu to ensure direct payment of the 13% derivative fund to host communities
- Gololo suggests establishing an independent committee for transparent fund disbursement and fair project implementation in oil-affected communities
Dr. Garus Gololo, a development expert, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure the direct payment of the 13 percent derivative fund to host communities rather than through state governors. Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Gololo emphasized that addressing this issue is crucial in alleviating the persistent agitations by host communities.
He stated, “It is high time President Tinubu directed the Minister of Finance and Justice to ensure that the host communities receive these funds, as stipulated in the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) signed by former President Muhammadu Buhari.”
Gololo highlighted the current challenge where governors handle these funds, and the host communities in the Niger Delta region scarcely benefit. He pointed out that even when local government autonomy was granted, governors challenged it in court. Gololo asserted that this practice needs to cease.
Proposing a solution, he suggested that the federal government could establish an independent committee, separate from the host communities, to monitor the disbursement and implementation of key projects in these communities. This approach aims to ensure transparency and fair distribution of funds, addressing the longstanding issues faced by communities affected by oil exploration.
Tinubu Urges Governors-Elect to Prioritize People’s Welfare Over Partisan Interests
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on the triumphant governors-elect from the November 11 governorship elections in Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi states to prioritize the common good of the people over partisan interests. In a statement released by his spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, Tinubu congratulated Governors Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, Douye Diri of Bayelsa State, and Usman Ododo of Kogi State on their victories.
Tinubu emphasized the importance of fostering a harmonious and inclusive political landscape, urging the elected governors to transcend party lines for the well-being of their states’ citizens. The president commended the electorate for their active participation, citing it as a testament to the resilience of democratic institutions and the power of the people in shaping the nation’s political trajectory.
Highlighting that the election outcomes reflected the people’s wishes, Tinubu underscored the significance of voters rewarding competence, transparency, and good governance. While celebrating the victories, he also stressed the need for a sustained commitment to efforts to enhance the credibility of future elections and further sanitise the electoral system.