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NICHOLAS UWERUNONYE

The Head of the Association of Urhobo Mayoral Family Crown (AUMFC) and business mogul, His Excellency Eshanekpe Israel, popularly known as Aokpodoro, has called on the Chairman of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), John Nanni, and the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, to render account of their stewardship in the management of the Commission to the people of Delta State.

Akpodoro, in a statement issued to journalists in Abuja on Monday, wondered why a supposed intervention agency such as DESOPADEC is often perceived as lacking transparency.

He said Deltans are curious to know the current status of their agency, especially as attention has shifted from the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to the state-owned body.

According to him, billions of naira allocated to the Commission from the 13% derivation fund need to be properly accounted for.

He therefore challenged Governor Oborevwori and the management of DESOPADEC to openly render accounts to the people of Delta State.

“It is important we know what came into the purse in terms of budgetary allocations to the Commission yearly and how such funds were expended within the oil-producing communities,” Akpodoro stated.

“Deltans are becoming more aware and are now asking questions to prevent mismanagement.”

Akpodoro, who described himself as a supporter of Governor Oborevwori’s administration, noted that the governor’s reputation for good governance should encourage openness.

“This is why he should clearly explain to Deltans how DESOPADEC has fared under his two-year administration,” he added.

“The health of the Commission should be known by those for whom it was established, so that we can confidently stand with this government.”

He stated that the Commission’s management, including the Chairman, Chief John Nanni, the Managing Director, Chief Festus Ochonogor, the Executive Director, Finance, Hon. Koma, and the Executive Director, Projects, Dr. Ebenezer Okorodudu, under the leadership of Governor Oborevwori, owe the people of the oil-rich state a duty of accountability and transparency.

“I call on the management of the Commission and the governor to make public the financial and operational status of DESOPADEC,” he said.

“Deltans must be kept informed about how resources meant for development are being used.”

Akpodoro further urged Deltans not to shy away from holding their leaders accountable when necessary.

He stressed that democratic power lies in the people and that it is the responsibility of citizens to ask questions.

“The treasury of Delta State belongs to all Deltans but is held in trust by those in government,” he noted.

“This anti-corruption crusade will endure, and we will mobilise Deltans to demand answers if necessary.”

“The governor owes an explanation as to how our wealth is being managed,” the Mayor stated.