Hostcom Sets 21-Day Deadline For Delta Government To Act On 13% Derivation Fund

Sylvester Idowu reporting from Warri

Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas (HOSTCOM), Delta State Chapter, has issued a 21-day protest notice to the Delta State Government, expressing their discontent with the alleged neglect in the management of the 13 percent derivation fund.

The group, acting as an intermediary between the oil and gas bearing communities and the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), is deeply concerned and frustrated with the deteriorating operational condition of DESOPADEC. They blame the Delta State Government’s nonchalant attitude and constant complaints of insufficient funds.

HOSTCOM claims that they have made several attempts to demand their rightful share of the 13% oil derivation funds, which amounts to billions, managed by DESOPADEC on behalf of HOSTCOM. However, they have not seen any significant developments or fair distribution of funds from the interventionist agency and the Delta State Government.

In a statement issued by the chairman of HOSTCOM, Enujeke Ndidi Sunday, on behalf of the leadership, they warned that they can no longer tolerate the neglect from the state government over the 13 percent derivation, which rightfully belongs to the oil and gas bearing communities of HOSTCOM. They believe that it is a mistake to allow DESOPADEC to neglect HOSTCOM, as it defeats the purpose of the establishment of the interventionist agency.

The group highlighted several critical issues, including the lack of funding and the government’s indifferent attitude towards HOSTCOM’s plight. They accuse the Delta State Government of being unresponsive to their demands, with no plausible explanation from the governor’s office.

The 21-day protest notice serves as an urgent call for the Delta State Government to take immediate and decisive action to address the neglect and abandonment of HOSTCOM. They state that they will not accept the excuse of a lack of funds, as guaranteed by Section 40 of the Constitution of Nigeria.

If their demands are not met after the expiration of the ultimatum, HOSTCOM is prepared to hold a planned peaceful protest to amplify their grievances and discontent over the years. They believe that the state of affairs in HOSTCOM goes against the principles of democracy.

Among their grievances, HOSTCOM demands the release of five buses and intervention from the Delta State Government to ensure timely allocation of yearly subventions. They also request immediate attention to be given to the issue of 13 percent derivation accountability, emphasizing the right of HOSTCOM to know how the disbursements are being handled.

The group further urges the financing and activation of the abandoned HOSTCOM ICT Training Centre, aiming to strengthen and enhance capacity building among the youth. Additionally, they request to be co-managers of 50 percent of the 13 percent derivation fund, as established by law, considering DESOPADEC is a government interventionist agency.

HOSTCOM stresses the importance of accountability by DESOPADEC to ensure that concrete developmental projects are executed properly. They believe this accountability is crucial for the successful implementation of projects that meet the specified requirements.