An evangelist, Dr. Bannerman Embiowei, has called on the governors of the nine Niger Delta states to prioritise accountability and better governance, accusing them of being responsible for the region’s underdevelopment despite its resources.
In a statement in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, Embiowei criticised states’ leaders for failing to prioritise the welfare of the people, highlighting Bayelsa’s alarming poverty levels and lack of basic infrastructure as example.
He said: “Bayelsa State, despite receiving substantial revenue, has been declared the second poorest state in the federation. There are no good internal roads, no functional markets and no pipe-borne water. Instead, water is sold by private vendors.
“Yet, the government is investing billions in a new stadium and a secretariat just as the governor prepares to leave office”.
He argued that the funds could have been better utilised for large-scale agricultural projects or industries to boost employment and state revenue.
The cleric also condemned the lack of corporate presence of oil companies in the region, stating that their refusal to establish operational offices in Bayelsa deprives the state of critical tax revenue.
He commended Niger Delta activist, Comrade Joseph Evah, for his unwavering commitment to the region’s progress, calling for more voices like his in the fight for a better Niger Delta.
He urged residents to prioritise the collective good over personal gains, emphasising that real change would come only through political consciousness and active participation.
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