Ijaw Women Write Tinubu, Demand Transparency in 13% Derivation Fund Management

•Seek direct payment to host communities

By Osaro Michael, Benin

The Ijaw Women Rights’ Protection Forum has issued a statement calling on president Bola Ahmed Tinubu for transparency and accountability in the management of the 13% derivation fund.

In a statement signed by its national president, Comrade Hilda Amogha, the forum expressed concern over the neglect and underdevelopment of oil-producing communities despite the continuous inflow of revenue.

The forum noted that state governors currently receive and control the funds, but the host communities, who are the rightful beneficiaries, continue to suffer. “Basic infrastructure, healthcare, education, and environmental remediation remain grossly inadequate, while the people bear the burden of pollution and economic hardship,” the statement read.

The forum is demanding direct payment of the 13% derivation funds to host communities, an independent probe into the use of the funds, and public disclosure of allocations and expenditures. They also want community participation in decision-making and monitoring.

Comrade Amogha emphasized that the marginalization of host communities is unacceptable and called for immediate reforms to ensure justice, equity, and sustainable development. “The suffering of the people must end,” she said.

The forum, however urged the government to address the long-standing issue of resource management in the Niger Delta region.