Yabagi Sani, the National Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), voiced concerns over the appointment of a Minister of State for Petroleum Resources specifically from the oil-rich Niger Delta region, describing it as an “inappropriate signal.”
During an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily breakfast show, Sani emphasized that designating the ministerial role to a specific state could foster a sense of entitlement among the Niger Delta populace.
President Bola Tinubu recently unveiled 45 ministerial designations along with their portfolios. Notably, Heineken Lokpobiri, hailing from Bayelsa, was chosen as the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources. Curiously, no details were provided about the responsibilities of the Minister of Petroleum Resources.
(Photo Credit : Channels Television)
This omission drew parallels to a pattern observed during the past administration of ex-President Muhammadu Buhari. At that time, Timipre Sylva, a former governor of Bayelsa State, was appointed as Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, while the Ministry of Petroleum Resources remained under the President’s direct control.
Speaking about the ministerial portfolios, the IPAC chair stated, “Regrettably, this sector (Niger Delta) has been somewhat pigeonholed, suggesting that appointments to this ministry should originate solely from the Niger Delta.”
Sani expressed concerns that this approach could inadvertently emphasize efficiency over other important factors, fostering a misplaced sense of entitlement.
Proposing an alternative perspective, he suggested, “Why not consider assigning the Federal Capital Territory or another important ministry to a native of the North Central region? If we must highlight a significant ministry, let’s do it without making undue noise.”
Raising concerns about the rampant theft of crude oil, Sani inquired, “How should we tackle the issue of crude oil theft?” He pointed out that evidence so far has implicated individuals from that region in the systematic pilferage of crude oil.
Sani emphasized the need for a thorough investigation of the petroleum industry from both a professional and national interest standpoint.
He underscored the substantial and pivotal role that falls upon the President in relation to the Ministry of Petroleum.
Sani expressed apprehension about the potential challenges in ensuring accountability and effectiveness in curbing crude oil theft if the ministry were exclusively under presidential control.
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