By Okiemute Okpomor Ijaw people in Delta State have kicked against Federal Government alleged plan to convert the Navy College in Ibusa , Oshimili North Local Government Area to a Navy Maritime University to the disadvantage of the one in Okerenkoko, Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South West Local Government Area just as they called on Senator Ifeanyi Okowa to urgently wade into the matter..
The people insisted that the only path to enduring peace and stability in the region was the commencement of construction works in the Nigerian Maritime University and other Federal Government projects which have been abandoned for no obvious reason.
They argued that if the plan was allowed to see the light of the day; it would hinder the takeoff of the controversial Nigerian Maritime University at Okerenkoko in Warri South West Council of the state.
A prominent community leader, Com.Sheriff Mulade, chairman, Kokodiagbene Community who spoke on behalf of Gbaramatu communities expressed dismay that the State and Federal Government were
‘’systematically and politically trying to block the commencement of academic activities’’ at the Okerenkoko specialized varsity.
While accusing successive administrations of being bias against the developmental needs of the Ijaw communities, he urged President Muhammadu Buhari to toe a different line and ensure that ‘’the area
that is laying the proverbial golden eggs is developed to give a sense of belonging to the people.”
Comrade Mulade however, refuted media reports that Ijaw leaders were openly and discreetly backing the rampaging Niger Delta Avengers, the group behind the bombings of oil and gas facilities in the region.
According Com. Mulade, ‘’It has come to our notice that some interests are working with the Nigerian Navy to change the Navy Secondary School in Ibusa in Delta North, to a Navy Maritime University. The essence is to block the Nigerian Maritime University in Okerenkoko. We perceive that a lot of people are working against the realization of the university.. All the sectors in Nigeria are benefiting from the oil money. And Gbaramatu Kingdom is bringing so much to the national purse. The question is why is the project being blocked? Does it mean that the Ijaw territory cannot host a Federal project or institution?
He added, “The Ijaws have not been treated fairly by successive administrations. Therefore, we are calling on President Muhammadu Buhari to commence the construction of the maritime university and set the date for the commencement of academic session. ’This is the only way to restore a lasting peace and security in the Niger Delta region.
The people request development to make them have a sense of belonging.”
