Youth activists in the Niger Delta are calling for official scrutiny of a major power sector deal. They want anti-corruption agencies to investigate the acquisition of Geregu Power Plc.
The Niger Delta Youth Congress made the demand in a statement released Thursday. Israel Uwejeyan, the group's national coordinator, signed the statement.
NDYC wants large-scale investments involving former or serving public officials examined thoroughly. They argue transparency is vital to maintain investor confidence and public trust.
The group specifically referenced reports linking a former Zamfara governor and sitting senator to the power company deal. According to NDYC, the transaction has attracted widespread public attention.
Concerns centre on how the acquisition was financed and its ownership structure. The youth group says such deals require high-level regulatory oversight and disclosure.
NDYC also raised alarm over alleged illegal mining in Zamfara State. The group called for lawful investigations to establish the facts behind these allegations.
The organisation is urging six key agencies to act immediately. These include the EFCC, ICPC, DSS, NFIU, Code of Conduct Bureau, and mining regulators.
NDYC wants a coordinated review of financial transparency and ownership details. Corporate relationships and legal compliance should also be examined, the group noted.
A two-week deadline has been set for these agencies to begin work. NDYC said it's finalising petitions to submit to authorities.
If concrete action doesn't materialise within that timeframe, NDYC won't back down. The group threatened to pursue legal options and seek judicial intervention.
According to NDYC, its push is about strengthening accountability, not targeting individuals. Credible investigations would clarify public concerns and restore confidence in governance, they argued.
"Recent reports concerning the acquisition of a controlling stake in Geregu Power Plc through MA'AM Energy Limited, reportedly associated with Senator Yari and members of his family, have raised significant public interest," NDYC stated.
Questions have emerged about financing sources for the deal. Public records and asset declarations don't appear to align with such wealth accumulation, observers note.
NDYC emphasised that when politically exposed persons amass significant wealth, transparency becomes a public concern. The group wants citizens to know where the money came from.
Private sector investments remain vital for economic growth, NDYC acknowledged. However, deals involving public servants demand heightened scrutiny and oversight.
The youth congress stressed that allegations alone shouldn't constitute proof of wrongdoing. Proper investigations must establish facts through lawful processes.
This latest move reflects growing pressure from Niger Delta stakeholders. They're demanding accountability from both government and the private sector.
