Today, 19th February, 2025, the House of Representatives, following a motion moved by Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi, resolved to urge the Federal Government to include Ndokwa/Ukwuani Federal Constituency in the Presidential Amnesty Program. The motion, which was successfully passed, highlighted the long-standing exclusion of the constituency despite its significant contribution to Nigeria’s oil production.
Hon. Ezechi, in his motion, noted that the Amnesty Program was established to address grievances and reintegrate ex-militants from the Niger Delta into society. However, Ndokwa/Ukwuani, which consists of Ndokwa East, Ndokwa West, and Ukwuani Local Government Areas, has remained excluded, despite hosting multinational oil companies such as Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC), Sterling Exploration and Energy Production Company (SEEPCO), Midwestern Oil & Gas Ltd, Oando PLC, and Energia Oil & Gas Ltd, among others.
He expressed concerns that this exclusion has fueled growing frustration among the people, increasing the risk of social and economic instability. Hon. Ezechi warned that the lack of federal intervention has contributed to youth restiveness, economic hardship, and security challenges in the region. He argued that including Ndokwa/Ukwuani in the Amnesty Program would promote peace, equity, and sustainable development.
Following deliberations, the House resolved to:
- Urge the Ministry of Regional Development Affairs to prioritize developmental projects and vocational training programs in Ndokwa/Ukwuani to create sustainable livelihoods and reduce youth restiveness.
- Call on the Federal Government to immediately include Ndokwa/Ukwuani Federal Constituency in the Amnesty Program to address the grievances of affected youths and ensure equitable treatment.
- Urge the Presidential Amnesty Office to conduct a thorough assessment of the situation in Ndokwa/Ukwuani to facilitate its inclusion.
- Mandate the Committees on Regional Development and Host Communities to engage with community leaders, youth groups, and other stakeholders in Ndokwa/Ukwuani to ensure a smooth and effective integration into the Amnesty Program.
The passage of this motion marks a critical step in addressing the longstanding marginalization of Ndokwa/Ukwuani and ensuring that its people benefit from federal initiatives aimed at promoting peace and development in the Niger Delta region.
