Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has condemned the rejection of proposed tax reform bills by northern governors and traditional rulers, emphasising the detrimental impact this decision could have on the Niger Delta region.

The apex socio-cultural group voiced its deep frustrations over the treatment of the Niger Delta by successive Nigerian governments, particularly in light of the northern leaders’ call for their representatives in the National Assembly to oppose amendments to the Value Added Tax (VAT) distribution that would benefit oil-producing states based on derivation.

Speaking exclusively to our correspondent, spokesperson for PANDEF, Chief Dr Obiuwevbi Christopher Ominimini, condemned the nation’s lack of accountability for the environmental degradation and impoverishment of Niger Delta communities due to oil and gas exploitation.

“Our people can no longer fish or farm because the ecosystem has been ruined,” said Chief Ominimini.

“We have nothing to show for the billions extracted from our land. The Niger Delta, despite its wealth of resources, remains the poorest region in Nigeria. This is economic injustice,” Chief Ominimini, who became the national publicity secretary of the forum last Thursday, declared.

The chief noted that while Niger Deltans have limited access to their own resources, citizens from other regions freely exploit gold and other minerals for personal gain.

“Gold miners in other states enrich themselves, while we’re barred from accessing our oil. This disparity is unacceptable,” he asserted.

Chief Ominimini questioned the government’s transparency regarding oil and gas revenues, suggesting that the supposed 13% derivation fund is a mere illusion.

“What we actually receive is less than 8%,” he claimed. “The rest is misappropriated, and those in power aren’t held accountable for what they take from our land.”

He further raised concerns about ongoing gas flaring, describing its impact on the health and well-being of local communities.

“Every day, we suffer the hazards of gas flaring. The government’s inaction on this matter is nothing short of wickedness towards the Niger Delta people,” he declared.

Chief Ominimini pointed to the dominance of non-indigenous executives in the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) as evidence of systemic exclusion.

“How many traditional rulers from the Niger Delta hold oil blocks?” he asked. “The answer is few to none, while traditional rulers from other regions hold multiple. They ignore our suffering, as it has no impact on their lives.”

In closing, Chief Ominimini called for a fundamental reform of the value-added tax (VAT) distribution system.

“Proceeds from VAT should be shared based on contribution,” he urged. “States that generate more should receive more. Fairness demands it.” (Nigerian Tribune)