ABUJA/Nigeria: The Bolowei of Gbaramatu Kingdom and revered Niger Delta elder statesman, Chief (Dr.) Wellington O. Okirika (CON), has hailed Senator Ned Munir Nwoko for his bold advocacy on the proper implementation of the 13% derivation fund, describing the Delta North senator as a fearless patriot fighting for justice in the oil-rich region.
Okirika, famously known as “Mr. 13% Derivation Fund” for his decades-long activism, made the commendation during a visit to Senator Nwoko at his residence and office, where he praised the lawmaker for championing the cause of host communities long shortchanged by past administrations.
“You have proven to be a true leader by standing up against the deliberate injustice done to the people of the Niger Delta,” Okirika stated. He lauded Nwoko’s resolve to ensure that the 13% derivation fund is paid directly to host communities in line with Section 162(2) of the Constitution, a move he described as a game-changer in the struggle for resource equity.
Chief Okirika, founding Executive Chairman of DESOPADEC and a pioneer of HOSCON, said communities across Delta Central and South are closely following Nwoko’s actions in the National Assembly and see in him “one of Nigeria’s finest leaders—fearless, vocal, and committed to justice.”
He also conveyed greetings from the people of Gbaramatu Kingdom, including Tompolo, expressing hope that Nwoko’s motion for direct payment to host communities would soon be heard, signaling a new era of economic justice and legislative compliance in the Niger Delta.
