The Ndokwa Neku Union (NNU) Advisory Assembly has urged the Delta State and Federal Governments to urgently address what it described as “longstanding welfare, infrastructure, and economic justice issues” affecting the Ndokwa Nation.
Speaking at a press briefing after a high-level meeting held on behalf of the Ndokwa people in Kwale, the NNU President General, Comrade Amechi Asuguni, said Ndokwa nation has not been given her ‘rightful benefits’ in some areas.
He outlined several key resolutions aimed at boosting socio-economic development and ensuring the region receives its fair share of state and national resources.
Push for DESOPADEC Law Review
The Union demanded immediate review of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) law, noting that the legislation was enacted over two decades ago when Ndokwa land hosted only one oil company; Nigeria Agip Oil Company, now Oando.
Asuguni emphasized that the number of operating oil companies in Ndokwa nation has risen to eight, yet the allocation formula still grants Ndokwa only 9% of benefits.
“This is an aberration and a direct cheat on our people. We are appealing to His Excellency, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, to support the bill for the review of the DESOPADEC law to reflect the actual oil quantum produced in Ndokwa Nation.
“This is about justice for our people. We believe our dear governor will give us this opportunity to derive our right, because the DESOPADEC law was made to compensate oil-producing communities.
Electricity Supply and IPP Step-Down
The NNU also renewed its long-standing call for improved electricity access, highlighting the contradiction of hosting the Independent Power Plant (IPP) which produces over 800 megawatts for the national grid while Ndokwa communities remain in darkness.
“The call for power step-down is no longer a hidden agitation in Ndokwa nation. We are saying on behalf of the people that government should not wait for agitation that leads to protest,” the union stated.
The group recalled that the Delta State Government, through the Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, had promised to reconnect Ndokwa to the national grid within one month, but the deadline has already passed.
While appreciating the recent reconnection of Ogume Kingdom, the NNU insisted that power supply must be extended to Utagbe-Ogbe, Ashaka, and other communities.
“We call on the state government to support Ndokwa’s quest for light up because as Ndokwa nation is experiencing darkness, the effect will start with the state government,” he added.
The union also appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Ministry of Power to step down electricity from the IPP for local use, arguing that underutilized generated power is a waste of economic potential.
“Light Up Ndokwa is not theory. Light Up Ndokwa is referring to darkness in the area. We are well informed that what is being generated is underutilized. Therefore, it is very sufficient to accommodate Ndokwa nation.”
“Water is Life” Project
In response to the lack of access to safe drinking water in many Ndokwa communities, the NNU has launched its Water is Life initiative.
The program aims to deliver boreholes across Ndokwa East, Ndokwa West, and Ukwuani Local Government Areas in partnership with local governments, lawmakers, local government chairmen and relevant state ministries.
“It is unacceptable that in 2025, some of our people still drink from streams and rivers. We will push for the execution of this project before the end of the year.”
Healthcare Outreach
The NNU announced plans for a medical outreach program targeting the elderly, children, and residents of remote communities with limited healthcare access.
“Some people have money but no access to care, while others have access but no money. We must bridge that gap,” the union explained, calling for cooperation from both the state government and development partners.
Education and Teacher Deployment
The union raised concerns over absenteeism among public school teachers posted to Ndokwa land, alleging that some live in Asaba while still drawing salaries.
It called on the government to prioritize the deployment of indigenous teachers and closely monitor school performance.
Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences
Addressing rumours that the teaching hospital meant to serve the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences in Ndokwa might be relocated, the NNU described such a move as “unproductive” and “a disservice to the purpose of bringing the university to the area.”
It urged the state government, political leaders, and stakeholders to rally behind the university’s full operational takeoff.
Security and Host Community Unity
On security, the NNU advocated for strengthening local vigilante groups to improve community safety and urged oil host communities to work closely with the union for better negotiation outcomes.
The Union reaffirmed its determination to pursue equitable development and a fair share of benefits from Ndokwa’s oil and gas resources, adding that it is about the dignity, progress, and future of our people.
