IBB Recommends Marshal Plan for N/Delta
From Chuks Okocha in Abuja, 08.16.2008
Former Military President, General Ibrahim Babangida, under whose administration the agitation for the development of the Niger Delta and a greater stake in the nation’s oil wealth first started in 1991, yesterday in Abuja said only the adoption of a Marshal Plan by the Federal Government can put an end to the on going crisis in the Niger Delta.
Babangida who spoke during the 60th birthday lecture held for former governor of Rivers State, Dr. Peter Odili said any further delay in addressing the Niger Delta problems would be too costly for the nation.
The former president, whose speech was delivered by Dr. Amadu Abubakar, said: “I believe that the solution to the problems of the Niger Delta should be sustained massive development based on a Marshal Plan.
“It is crucial that we respond proactively, promptly and honestly to the Niger Delta situation, before it is too late.”
He also appealed to all stakeholders to be sincere about the rapprochement and pursue the route of dialogue in the interest of all in the Niger Delta.
“Such development would reclaim the land, open up the hinterland, clean up the environment, empower the people, physically develop the rural areas, and enhance the quality of lives of its peoples.
“We all feel bad and worried about the widespread environmental degradation and are particularly concerned about its impact in the Niger Delta. We even feel worse about the neglect that led to the current crisis,” Babangida said.
The former military president also described the rule of law posture of President Umaru Yar’Adua as the foundation for equity and justice.
He made a comparative analysis of Nigeria today with the colonial days and said, “All is not lost. I was brought up to look at the brighter side of life. Therefore, I never see empty glasses. In the immensity of the challenges facing our dear country, what I see is a bright future. I see opportunities to give our people a better country.
“The economic successes of China and India came after many years of toil and sweat. The task of nation building is an arduous task with a life long struggle.”
Babangida urged Dr. Odili to use his years in politics to ensure a united Nigeria, as his forefathers shed blood to keep the country united.
In his response, Odili commended the rule of law policy of Yar’Adua, describing it as a foundation for equality and justice.
“For President Yar’Adua to make the rule of law the corner stone of his administration, this government is on the path of destiny. We join the army of those praying for this administration to succeed.
“Any dance step that begins with a good step is bound to survive. Yar’Adua’s dance step is good and would survive.”
A galaxy of politicians attended the birthday lecture, including the governors of Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo and Niger. The senate president, David Mark and the deputy senate president, Ike Ekweremadu were also in attendance.
The former chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Peoples democratic Party (PDP), Chief Anthony Anenih, the PDP BOT secretary and former governor of Nasarawa state, Alhaji Abdullahi Adamu, Minister of Special Duties, Godson Orubebe who represented President Yar’Adua, were also in attendance.
