A wave of public outcry is mounting in Delta State as host communities, led by prominent environmental and development advocate Comrade Mulade Sheriff, are calling on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to provide a transparent update on the alleged mismanagement of ₦1.3 trillion in 13% oil derivation funds earmarked for the development of oil-producing areas in the state.
Comrade Sheriff, former chairman of the oil-rich Kokodiagbene Community in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South-West LGA, has urged EFCC Chairman Mr. Ola Olukoyede to handle the investigation without compromise or political interference, emphasizing that justice must not be sacrificed for partisan gain.
“We strongly believe that the recent defection of former Delta State Governor Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) must not be used as a bargaining chip to suppress justice or shield him from accountability,” Sheriff stated.
Speaking in his capacity as Chairman of the Association of Host Communities, Sheriff cautioned that any attempt to abandon investigations because of political realignment would set a dangerous precedent for governance, accountability, and the anti-corruption war in Nigeria.
“The idea that corruption charges could be dropped simply because a high-profile politician joins the ruling party is a betrayal of public trust and a threat to Nigeria’s democratic and developmental future,” he warned.
Sheriff further called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to demonstrate its commitment to fighting corruption, tackling insecurity, reducing poverty, and restoring public confidence in government institutions.
“The world is watching. We cannot afford a scenario where political loyalty is rewarded with immunity from prosecution. That would be tantamount to endorsing corruption and abandoning the Nigerian people,” he added.
The activist’s statement comes as public frustration grows over the lack of visible impact from the substantial 13% oil derivation funds, which were meant to uplift the socio-economic conditions of host communities devastated by decades of oil exploitation and environmental degradation.
We the People of Delta State strongly stand by you in the quest for a holistic investigation surrounding the alleged N1.3 trillion mismanagement or loot.