The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has appealed to the United States government to support programmes that would enhance peace and security in the Niger Delta to facilitate sustainable development in the oil-rich region.
The NDDC Managing Director, Mr Nsima Ekere, made the appeal when a delegation from the United States Consulate in Lagos, led by the US Consul-General, John Bray paid him a courtesy visit at the Commission’s Headquarters in Port Harcourt.
A statement signed by the Director, Corporate Affairs, Ibitoye Abosede, last Tuesday, emphasised the need for an enduring peace in the Niger Delta region, adding that security was critical for development and growth.
According to him, “It is noteworthy that you are coming at the onset of our political season. We expect some assistance from the US government. We have specific concerns in the Niger Delta, especially during an election period like this, principally in the area of security.”
“The US government can use its influence to prevail on our politicians to allow democracy to thrive in Nigeria. If politicians can be made to play by the rules, it will help in the process of maintaining peace and security during and after the elections,” Ekere added.
Ekere lamented that “a lot of the youths because of the challenges of unemployment and poverty, lend themselves to be used by politicians as thugs.”
He remarked: “Most times what makes the political process explosive and dangerous is the attitude of some sit- tight- office holders who do not believe that the political process should be a referendum by the people on their performance in office.
“The reason the constitution allows us to have a chance to conduct elections every four years is so that those that did well could be considered to continue, while those that did not perform well should be kicked out. They should be honest enough to allow that process to evolve so that the citizens can have their say in the governance system.”