Press Release
PRESS RELEASE: The PIA and Solid Minerals Act – The Legislative Disparity and Discrimination Against the Niger Delta People
Being a Press Briefing by Prof Benjamin Okaba President, Ijaw National Congress (INC) Global on September 6, 2025, at the International Wing of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, Nigeria, on Arrival from A 4-Day Working Visit to the Republic of Ghana.
The Ijaw National Congress (INC), the apex socio-cultural body of the Ijaw Nation, under my leadership as President, is compelled to address the Nigerian public and the international community on the grave and systematic injustices codified into law against the people of the Niger Delta. Our focus is the stark and discriminatory disparity between the governance of the oil and gas sector, as contained in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, and the solid minerals sector, governed by the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act 2007.
A comparative analysis reveals not a simple difference in administrative approach, but a deliberate and calculated legislative framework designed to militarize, plunder, and marginalize the Niger Delta while affording other regions a gentler, more equitable regime for their resources. This is a classic case of two Nigerias operating under two sets of rules.
1. The Fundamental Inequity in Community Benefits and Ownership
The most egregious disparity lies in the treatment of host communities.
· The Niger Delta Experience (PIA): The PIA offers a paltry 3% of annual operational expenditure from oil companies for host communities, a figure we rejected as insulting given the decades of monumental environmental devastation and socio-economic neglect. Furthermore, this contribution is not from profit but from operational cost, and it is mandated to be managed through a Trust Fund, effectively sidelining elected state governments and traditional institutions, reducing them to “siddon lookers” in the words of Bayelsa State’s Deputy Governor. Crucially, the Act imposes a collective punishment clause, holding entire communities financially liable for vandalism of oil assets, a provision that is unjust, unconstitutional, and inflammatory.
· The Solid Minerals Regime: In stark contrast, the Mining Act mandates that operators conclude a Community Development Agreement (CDA) with their hosts, addressing scholarships, employment, infrastructure, and enterprise development. There is no collective punishment clause. Most tellingly, while the PIA reinforces the total federal ownership of oil, the Mining Act, though also declaring federal ownership, has historically tolerated artisanal and small-scale mining by individuals and cooperatives across northern and western states, allowing them to benefit directly from their resources without military intervention . This operational laxity grants a de facto economic participation that is ruthlessly denied to the people of the Niger Delta.
2. The Environmental and Remediation Double Standard
The approach to environmental protection and remediation further highlights the bias.
· In the Niger Delta: Despite the PIA’s provisions against gas flaring, it includes a dangerous loophole allowing the Minister to permit it, rendering the prohibition weak. The environmental degradation from decades of oil spills and gas flaring has been catastrophic, destroying livelihoods and poisoning our ecosystem. Yet, there has never been a comprehensive environmental clean-up funded by the federal government or operators, with the much-publicized Ogoni cleanup being haphazard at best.
· In the Solid Minerals Sector: The Mining Act explicitly requires license holders to minimize environmental impact and rehabilitate mined land to its natural or predetermined state . While enforcement is a challenge, the legal obligation is clear and unequivocal, lacking the ministerial loopholes present in the PIA.
3. Security and Militarization: An Occupied Territory vs. Business as Usual
This is the most chilling aspect of the disparity.
*The Niger Delta: Our region is effectively under military occupation. The government has deployed the Joint Task Force (JTF) Operation Restore Hope since 2002 to secure oil infrastructure and prevent local refining. This militarization turns our communities into war zones, with our people subjected to human rights abuses, all to protect oil assets while denying us the benefits from them.
*The Solid Minerals Sector: There is no JTF in mining states. Despite widespread illegal mining, the federal government only announced plans for mining marshals as recently as March 2024, and even that has not been fully activated. This represents a deliberate non-militarization of the solid minerals sector, allowing for a more permissive environment that stands in stark contrast to the repression in the Niger Delta.
4. The Grand Larceny of Resource Allocation: 3% vs. 30%
The PIA commits the ultimate act of resource injustice by allocating a meager 3% of OPEX to host communities who bear 100% of the burden, while allocating a whopping 30% of NNPC Ltd.’s profit to explore for oil in so-called “frontier basins”. These basins are predominantly located in the North. This means that the wealth generated from the Niger Delta’s suffering is being used to subsidize the search for oil in other regions, with no guarantee of success. This is not national development; it is state-sponsored resource colonialism.
Table: Summary of Legislative Disparacies Against the Niger Delta
POLICY AREA
1. Niger Delta (Petroleum Industry Act)
2. Solid Minerals Region (Mining Act)
3. Implied Status of the Niger Delta
HOST COMMUNITY BENEFITS
1. 3% of Operetor’s Annual OPEX (Operational Expenditure)
2. Community Development Agreements (CDA)
3. A cost center to be managed
ENVIRONMENTAL REMEDIATION
1. Weak penalties, ministerial loopholes, no comprehensive cleanup
2. Clear legal obligation for rehabilitation
3. A sacrifice zone
SECURITY APPROACH
1. Militarize (Joint Task Force)
2. Non-militarized (Planned Marshals)
3. An occupied territory
RESOURCE CONTROL
1. Absolute federal control, no local participation
2. De facto tolerance of local mining
3. A conquered territory
REVENUE ALLOCATION
1. Wealth diverted to Frontier Basin (30%)
2. Benefits Largely retained within region
3. A colony to be exploited
Conclusion and Demand
The evidence is irrefutable. The PIA and the Mining Act, when read side-by-side, reveal a Nigeria that operates a two-tiered system of resource justice. For the rest of Nigeria, there is a pretension of cooperation and benefit-sharing. For the Niger Delta, there is only extraction, militarization, and legislative neglect.
We, therefore, demand the following:
1. Immediate Legislative Harmonization: The National Assembly must initiate an amendment to the PIA to bring its community benefit provisions, environmental obligations, and ownership principles in line with the more equitable standards of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act. This includes, as a minimum, a review of the 3% and 30% allocations.
2. Demilitarization of the Niger Delta: The Federal Government must immediately withdraw the Joint Task Force from the Niger Delta and adopt a civil and regulated security approach, consistent with the approach in the solid minerals sectors.
3. True Federalism and Resource Control: The long-term solution to this perennial crisis is a return to the practice of true federalism and derivation-based resource control, as practiced in the First Republic, where regions managed their resources for their development.
The Niger Delta is not a colony of Nigeria. We can no longer accept laws that treat our people and our environment as sacrificial lambs for national unity. Enough is enough.
Signed:
Professor Benjamin Okaba
President, Ijaw National Congress (INC) Global
Press Release
STATEMENT BY PANDEF RECONCILIATION COMMITTEE ON RIVERS STATE HEADED BY CHIEF GODWIN KANU AGABI, SAN, CON AT INAUGURATION ON 12TH JANUARY, 2026
IduwiniVoice
It is our privilege to serve on this Committee. For this privilege we are grateful to God and to His Excellency, Ambassador Godknows Igali, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of PANDEF and the other respected members of the Board of Trustees. I single out for particular mention His Royal Majesty, King Alfred Papapraye Diete Spiff, the former Governor of Rivers State and the Amayanabo of Twon Brass in Bayelsa State. He is a man whose commitment to the South-South and the nation as a whole has never been in doubt. He goes down in history as the first governor of Rivers State when that state included Bayelsa State. It is the sacrifices of men like him that bequeathed the States of the South-South to the people of that area. The duty of respect that we owe to a man like that demands that we take his intervention seriously.
We are appointed to explore ways of bringing the escalating political crisis in Rivers State to an end. This crisis has persisted for too long. If it continues any further, it will call into question the commitment of the parties involved to the interest of the people of Rivers State and of the nation that is compelled to share in the pains and anxieties of that State.
We cannot afford to stand by and do nothing or pass by on the other side as Rivers state, a state whose talents and resources have blessed and continue to bless the nation struggles with issues of political power. Let the parties involved not be as the Clam and the Oyster which left their abode in the depths of the sea and came to the sea shore to fight. They went on fighting even when they saw the fisherman coming. The fisherman picked them up, took them home and made a nice fine meal of Clam and Oyster. May it not be with Rivers State as it was with the Clam and the Oyster.
We trust that the Lord will touch the hearts of those to whom we address our appeal for peace and reconciliation. It is our firm conviction that this matter can be resolved amicably. That conviction is rooted in the fact that the parties to this dispute are one people who began as one. They played significant roles in assisting one another to the various offices that they hold now. If they have now offended one another, they must be humble enough to apologize and to forgive. It is in forgiving that true greatness can be found.
The resolution of this matter is something that the parties can handle themselves without the intervention of third parties. They must be willing to go the extra mile with one another, to turn the other cheek and to pray for one another. Let them not dismiss this as weak or sentimental as we often do when the name of the Lord is mentioned in politics or economics. The misconception that God has no place in our politics has harmed and continues to harm the nation. Whether we are governors or ministers or legislators, whoever we are, it is to God that we owe our appointments and promotions. Whether we are servants or slaves it is the Lord that we serve. And it is to him that we shall, in the end, render account. We urge the parties to proceed with caution. We urge them to make allowance for error. We appeal to them to proceed with a prayer for forgiveness just in case they may be wrong.
The Minister, His Excellency, Nyesom Wike, is my friend. He is my benefactor. He is a man I love. He is a man I respect. I bear witness to his courage and patriotism. The work he did as Governor of Rivers State and the work he is doing as Minister of the FCT have since immortalized him. The mighty hand of God is upon him. That great Hand demands that he should lead this reconciliation. I say the same thing about His Excellency Governor Fubara. I happen to have been a member of the team that defended the petition that arose from his election as governor. That is my bond with him. I trust him to respect that bond.
In a nation as diverse as ours, discordant voices will be heard from time to time. In the midst of those discordant voices, the President can be trusted to recognize the clear ring of truth when he hears it. That is the whole essence of the Presidential system in vesting the President with all executive power which he is trusted to exercise in order to calm the nation down.
We have great respect for the members of the House of Assembly of Rivers State and we have no doubt whatsoever that their motives are genuine and patriotic. We pray for a change of heart on their part. It is in forgiving the Governor whatever wrongs he has committed that they will demonstrate their restraint, their public spirit and their maturity.
This Committee is not appointed to sit in judgment over the parties. We have no competence to do so. Our duty is to appeal to the parties to be reconciled with one to another, and we now do so. We appeal to the parties to embrace reconciliation. We urge them, we beg them, we appeal to them. Sacrifices are called for. Make them and let there be peace.
Press Release
PRESS RELEASE: ADC Rivers State Women Call for Stronger Political Inclusion at 2025 Diaspora Strategic Women Convergence
Rivers State, Nigeria — Women leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Rivers State Chapter, have called for increased political inclusion, unity, and strategic participation of women in governance following their participation in the ADC Diaspora National Leader and Zonal Coordinators Strategic Women Convergence 2025.
The convergence, held under the theme “Women in Politics: Equality and Rights – Rise to the Challenge,” brought together women leaders across Nigeria and the diaspora to deliberate on gender equality, political rights, and women’s leadership in democratic governance.
Arising from the engagement, the ADC Rivers State Women announced the convening of a State and Local Government Area (LGA) Women’s Appraisal Meeting, particularly for members who participated in the convergence via the Zoom platform. The meeting aims to consolidate lessons learned, align strategies, and strengthen women’s political structures at the grassroots level.
Participants were inspired by strategic and motivational addresses delivered by distinguished women leaders, including Hon. Bose Rahila Adamu, Deputy Chairman/Woman Leader; Hon. Naomi Lasara Abel, MNIPR, National Woman Leader of ADC; Hon. Amb. Abiodun Omolara Williams, Deputy National Coordinator (Diaspora); Prof. Elizabeth Ogboli Nwasor; Ms. Franca Hamza Ogagbor of ADC America; Madam Lillian Modu, Secretary-General of ADC Diaspora (Americas); Amb. (Mrs.) Hannatu Gagara, Chairperson, ADC Plateau State; Mabel Oboh, Assistant Publicity Secretary, ADC South-South Zone; Barr. Mrs. Eremi G. Oruebo, State Legal Adviser, ADC Bayelsa State; and Hon. Helen Ataisi Clifford, ADC Rivers State Deputy Publicity Secretary.
In a communiqué issued at the end of the convergence, the women emphasized key resolutions, including the need for women to take proactive leadership roles, reject symbolic political participation, strengthen unity across party structures, build capacity and political resilience, break the culture of fear and silence, and institutionalize mentorship among women in politics.
The women reaffirmed their belief that sustainable national development cannot be achieved without the full and fair representation of women in leadership and decision-making processes. They stressed that women’s participation in politics leads to more inclusive policies, stronger governance, and societal transformation.
The ADC Rivers State Women also expressed appreciation to male leaders within the party who continue to support gender inclusion and women’s political empowerment. Special recognition was given to Hon. (Dr.) Kenneth C. Gbandi, Chairman of ADC Diaspora Network; H.E. Solomon Dalung, Coordinator (Diaspora), ADC; Prof. Elizabeth Ogboli Nwasor; Dr. Benjamin Chukwu (MBBCh, FMCS – Nig.); and Chief Peter Mozie, Chairman, ADC-DN America.
The convergence was moderated by Chief Amb. Tuklan and Macgodwin Iweajunwa, whose professionalism contributed to the success of the engagement.
Speaking on behalf of the Rivers State Women, Rt. Hon. Engr. Irene Kaladappa Jumbo, ADC Rivers State Woman Leader, stated that “the future of Nigerian politics must be inclusive, fearless, and driven by competent women who are prepared to lead with vision, courage, and integrity.”
Signed:
Rt. Hon. Engr. Irene Kaladappa Jumbo
ADC Rivers State Woman Leader
Hon. Helen Ataisi Clifford
ADC Rivers State Deputy Publicity Secretary
Mrs. Ogbonna Phoebe
ADC LGA Women Leader Coordinator, Rivers State
Hon. Joy Nwokoma
ADC LGA Women Coordinating Secretary
Press Release
World Press Conference by the Ijaw Publishers Forum on the Activities of the Presidential Amnesty Programme under Dr. Dennis Burutu Otuaro.
Gentlemen of the Press,
The Ijaw Publishers Forum (IPF) is a collective of professional media practitioners dedicated to upholding truth, balance, and fairness in our reporting.
We are not a tool in anyone’s hands — our allegiance is to the truth, the people, and the progress of the Niger Delta. As journalists of conscience, we commend and defend good leadership wherever it is found, especially among Ijaw sons and daughters who have distinguished themselves in service.
Our mission is simple: to speak without fear or favour, to highlight performance where it exists, and to challenge wrongdoing when it appears.
Therefore, when we lend our voice in support of any public office holder, it is not out of sentiment, politics, or personal gain, but out of an objective recognition of results, integrity, and purposeful leadership.
In this spirit, we gather today for this World Press Conference to present the true picture of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) under the capable leadership of Dr. Dennis Burutu Otuaro — a man whose administration has revived confidence, restored focus, and repositioned the programme for the genuine empowerment of Niger Deltans.
Having said that, we, the conglomerate of Ijaw media organisations, hereby express our strong support for the leadership of High Chief Dr. Dennis Burutu Otuaro (Ph.D.) as Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP).
His tenure, since his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on 14 March 2024, has already demonstrated clarity of purpose, measurable achievements, and dedication to service.
Key Achievements & Commitments
Academic and Leadership Credentials:
Dr. Otuaro entered office with strong academic credentials. He holds a Ph.D. in Comparative Politics and Development Studies, an M.Sc. in Public Administration, and a B.Sc. in Education.
Beyond Stipends — Real Empowerment: Under his leadership, PAP has moved beyond mere stipend payments to ex-agitators and launched broader human capital development interventions.
Human-Focused Leadership:
The Administrator emphasised “giving the programme a human face… developed for the people of the Niger Delta for a better future.”
Expanded Scholarship Scheme:
PAP has deployed over 140 scholars overseas (notably to the UK and South Africa) as part of its expanded scholarship programme.
Inclusive Stakeholder Participation: He has consistently called for stakeholder inclusion, including women’s participation in the peace process for the Niger Delta.
Commitment to Peace and Development: He has reaffirmed the programme’s mandate of promoting sustainable peace, security, and development in the Niger Delta region.
Strategic Repositioning of PAP:
These are not symbolic gestures alone — they reflect a strategic repositioning of PAP to deliver tangible value, particularly through education, vocational training, and stakeholder engagement for communities long impacted by militancy, environmental degradation, and underdevelopment.
Our Position
We maintain that Dr. Otuaro’s stewardship has placed the Presidential Amnesty Programme on firmer footing in terms of transparency, accountability, and performance.
It is in the interest of the Niger Delta people and Nigeria as a whole that the programme should not be derailed by those who prefer the status quo or view reform as a threat to entrenched interests.
Genuine criticism and oversight are welcome — but what we are witnessing in certain quarters are attempts to undermine a capable, reform-minded leader through misdirection, misinformation, and vested-interest campaigns.
For example, credible reports indicate that attacks on the Administrator have increased simply because he “refused to open the coffers of the Amnesty Programme to certain groups of individuals.”
Call to Action.
We therefore call upon:
PAP delegates, beneficiaries, and Niger Delta community stakeholders to continue supporting Dr. Otuaro and his reform agenda. Unity behind reform-minded leadership is indispensable.
Media houses, civil society organisations, and youth groups to offer constructive feedback rather than destructive opposition. Let debates be about ideas and outcomes, not personalities.
Critics of Dr. Otuaro’s leadership to substantiate their allegations transparently and through proper channels, rather than behind the cover of gossip, clandestine campaigns, or destabilising tactics.
All arms of government — federal, state, and local — to give PAP the institutional backing it needs to fulfil its mandate. The region deserves no less.
Conclusion
We assert that the future of the Niger Delta and the wellbeing of its people will not be served by retreating into old patterns. For the Presidential Amnesty Programme to deliver on its promise of reintegration, empowerment, and development, it must be allowed to evolve under capable stewardship.
Dr. Dennis Burutu Otuaro has demonstrated the aptitude, commitment, and vision required for this task. We pledge our continued support for his success — and we urge others to abandon partisan posturing and join in the collective work of transforming the Niger Delta for the better.
God bless Ijaw Publishers Forum
God bless Niger Delta
God bless
Signed,
Comrade Ozobo Austin
- President, Ijaw Publishere Forum
- November 6, 2025