Guwor Speaks On Challenges Before Him As Chairman House Committee On DESOPADEC

The Chairman, Delta State House of Assembly Committee on Delta State Oil Producing Area Development Commission, DESOPADEC, Hon Emomotimi Guwor has stressed the need for sustained peace and stability in oil producing communities across the state.

Speaking on the task before his Committee, Hon Guwor who represents Warri South West in the House, said the State House of Assembly will continue to encourage efforts by the state government to mitigate the challenges faced by impacted communities of oil exploration and exploitation.

The Lawmaker stated that DESOPADEC as an interventionist agency and a key parastatal of the state government has the mandate to alleviate the sufferings of the people of oil and gas producing communities in the state.

Hon Guwor noted that his Committee in carrying out its oversight function will ensure that the Commission remains focused and never deviate from the mandate of its creation.

He said the bottom-top approach introduced by the new board to generate projects by holding town hall meetings was commendable, stressing that DESOPADEC remains a tool to delivering the dividends of democracy to the people.

The Lawmaker who emphasized the need for prudent management of funds accruing to DESOPADEC, said he is in a familiar terrain having come from oil producing communities as well as a pioneer staff of DESOPADEC and Special Assistant to a one time Commissioner on the board of the Commission.

Hon Guwor explained that he is a part and parcel of the pains of the oil bearing communities and pointed out that project priority was a key area to be addressed.

He said his Committee will closely monitor the budgeting process of the commission, implementations and performances, aimed at ensuring equity in the various ethnic nationalities of oil and gas production in the state among others.

The Lawmaker expressed optimism that the new board whose members he said are persons that understands the workings of the government of Delta State, would collaborate effectively with the Committee to reposition DESOPADEC for better performance.

Hon Emomotimi Guwor encouraged all stakeholders to be patient with members of the new board, stating that very soon they will come out with their budget which is expected to be grassroots driven.

He further stressed that sustainable peace in oil bearing communities across the state was key in actualizing government commitment to returning Delta State to number one position in oil production among comity of oil producing states.

The Lawmaker enjoined all to always channel their grievances properly when the need arose and to avoid any form of rancor and to remain agents of peace and positive change.