The Delta State chapter of the Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas has voiced its support for former governor Dr Ifeanyi Okowa amidst allegations of diverting half of the 13% derivation fund designated for the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission.

Last week, representatives of oil and gas producing communities in Delta State staged a protest at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in Abuja, claiming misappropriation of over N1 trillion in oil derivation funds during Okowa’s tenure.

However, Delta HOSTCOM has released a statement denouncing the allegations as politically motivated and a deliberate attempt to tarnish Okowa’s reputation.

They assert that the oil derivation funds were utilized judiciously by the previous administration, and they urge Ijaw elder statesman Edwin Clark not to be swayed by these political maneuvers.

Delta HOSTCOM calls on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to continue the infrastructural development initiatives for the benefit of residents in the riverine areas of Delta State.