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Sheriff Mulade says Ijaw communities receive no significant people-oriented projects despite huge resource contributions.
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Activist urges Ijaw leaders to speak out, lobby and demand equitable development from government.
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Warns poor infrastructure in Ijaw areas could weaken economic growth and electoral support in the region.
A Niger Delta activist and development advocate, Sheriff Mulade, has expressed concern over what he described as the absence of significant and people-oriented development projects in Ijaw communities of Delta State despite the region’s huge contribution to the state’s resources.
Mulade, who is the National Coordinator of the Centre for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ), made the remarks while reacting to reports of newly approved infrastructure projects across the state.
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According to him, many Ijaw areas have continued to suffer from poor infrastructure and limited social amenities even though the region contributes substantially to the state’s economic resources.
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He stressed that the situation has continued to slow economic growth in the riverine communities and could negatively affect political support from the area if urgent steps are not taken to address the imbalance.
Mulade called on Ijaw political leaders, traditional rulers and stakeholders to rise to the responsibility of advocating for their people by engaging the government and demanding fair distribution of development projects.
He said leaders from the region must demonstrate courage by speaking up, lobbying relevant authorities and ensuring that the contribution of the Ijaw nation to the state’s revenue is reflected in tangible development within their communities.
The activist warned that continued neglect of the region in terms of infrastructural development could further weaken economic activities and deepen dissatisfaction among residents.
Mulade therefore urged authorities to prioritise development in Ijaw-dominated communities in order to promote inclusive growth, strengthen unity and ensure balanced development across Delta State.
He said, “We have not seen significant people-oriented and impactful projects in the Ijaw areas despite the enormous resources our region contributes to the state and the nation.
“Ijaw leaders must summon the courage to speak up, lobby, and firmly demand the development our communities deserve. The level of our resource contribution should be reflected in visible progress in our land.
“The persistent lack of basic infrastructure and social amenities across many Ijaw communities is not only slowing economic growth but also affecting our political strength and electoral prospects.”
