Governor Umaru Bago of Niger State has issued a stern demand for a 13% derivation fund from oil revenue and threatened to shut down the Kainji Dam and other national power infrastructure if the federal government does not accede to this request. The governor’s ultimatum comes as he seeks compensation for the state’s contributions to the nation’s power supply and resources.
Governor Bago’s strong stance was made clear during a meeting with the federal commissioner of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons, Tijani Aliyu, in Minna. He insisted that the 13% derivation fund, which is currently enjoyed by oil-producing states, must also be extended to Niger State.
“We demand compensation for our people. Everything, every resource that comes from Niger state, must be compensated,” Governor Bago emphasized. He underscored the challenges faced by the state due to water flowing from the Niger River to the Delta region, resulting in the displacement of Niger State residents.
In his determination to secure the compensation, the governor issued an ultimatum to the federal government. He threatened to take the matter to the Supreme Court unless Niger State is granted a 13% derivation fund for the water supplied to the Delta region. He also demanded a substantial sum of N1 trillion in the next three months for the hydrocarbon exchange.
Governor Bago argued that Niger State had contributed significantly to the nation’s power generation through the operation of the Kainji Dam and other hydro dams. He insisted that the state should be duly compensated for this vital contribution to the nation.
Furthermore, the governor extended his demand for compensation to the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation. He contended that these entities should also make payments to Niger State for their utilization of the state’s resources.
Governor Bago emphasized that Niger State’s demand for compensation is not an empty threat but a serious commitment to securing the state’s rightful share. He asserted that every kobo (Nigerian currency) due to Niger State would be collected and that the state would no longer accept neglect or marginalization.
“We are not going to be marginalized again; our waters, our lands, our borders are strengths for us and not weaknesses,” the governor declared, underscoring the determination to ensure that the federal government meets their demands.
Governor Bago concluded by stating, “We demand compensation for our people. Everything, every resource that comes from Niger State, must be compensated. We will not tolerate this anymore. Our people have done enough for Nigeria.”
