Group Urges Tinubu to Address 13% Derivation Fund Issues

The South South Niger Delta Civil Society Forum has addressed an open letter to President Bola Tinubu, expressing concerns over the unconstitutional handling of the 13% derivation fund in Nigeria. The letter, coordinated by Ezekiel Kagbala, warns that the current practices undermine the supremacy of the 1999 Constitution and shortchange oil-producing communities in the Niger Delta.

The forum argues that the management of the derivation fund by state governors lacks constitutional authority and violates Section 162(2) of the 1999 Constitution, which mandates that at least 13% of revenue from natural resources be allocated to the states. They appeal for the establishment of a 13% derivation fund board and a presidential monitoring committee to ensure transparency and compliance with the law.

The forum emphasizes the need for immediate action to rectify these anomalies, citing historical precedents and the importance of adhering to constitutional principles for justice and accountability in the management of oil revenues.