Legislators Engage In Heated Debate Over Proposal To Incorporate Anambra Into NDDC

Legislators Engage In Heated Debate Over Proposal To Incorporate Anambra Into NDDC....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

A legislative session in the Senate turned heated as Senators clashed over a bill proposing Anambra State’s membership in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). Senator Tony Nwoye of Anambra North introduced the bill, seeking to amend the NDDC Act, but it faced resistance and did not progress beyond the second reading.

Senator Nwoye argued that Anambra meets the criteria as an oil-producing state, backed by the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission’s approval of 14 oil wells attribution to the state. He emphasized that Anambra began receiving 13% mineral derivation revenue from November 2021.

Chaos ensued when Senate President Godswill Akpabio suggested either withdrawing the bill for consultations or subjecting it to a voice vote. Akpabio raised concerns about including Anambra, highlighting that it is not part of the geographical Niger Delta region, which could set a precedent for other non-Niger Delta oil-producing states.

The debate intensified with Akpabio arguing that Anambra already benefits from the 13% derivation and host community funds under the Petroleum Industry Act. He proposed considering states like Kogi, which recently became an oil-producing state, in any amendment.

Senator Nwoye, however, stood firm, asserting that the geographic similarity of oil wells in Anambra to those in Rivers State justified Anambra’s inclusion in the NDDC. The disagreement among Senators reflects the complexity of the proposed amendment and the broader implications for the NDDC’s composition.

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