The Egbira Voice Worldwide has strongly condemned what it describes as the longstanding political and economic marginalization of the Egbira people, despite their significant contributions to Nigeria’s development.
In a world press release, the group highlighted the historical role of Egbira leaders in shaping Nigeria’s independence and governance while lamenting the neglect of their communities in federal appointments and developmental projects.
A key issue raised is the controversy surrounding the siting of five Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) stations in Ajaokuta, Kogi State. The group accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of orchestrating a political vendetta against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, by removing her as Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Local Content after she played a pivotal role in facilitating the LNG project.
According to Egbira Voice Worldwide, opposition to the Ajaokuta LNG project—primarily from Niger Delta interests—is unjustified. The group argued that Nigeria’s historical revenue-sharing model shows that resources from the North once financed oil exploration in the South, reinforcing the legitimacy of the project’s location.
The statement warned that any attempt to relocate the LNG stations would be met with strong resistance, stressing that the project is a national initiative that should not be subjected to regional politics.
The group called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene by ensuring the LNG stations remain in Ajaokuta, reaffirming the federal government’s commitment to reviving the Ajaokuta Steel Company, and revisiting plans for an oil refinery in Kogi State.
Egbira Voice Worldwide insisted that Ajaokuta’s strategic location makes it ideal for industrial development, emphasizing the project’s potential to create jobs, boost revenue, and drive Nigeria’s economic transformation.
In conclusion, the group expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s economic reforms and urged him to address their concerns to promote national unity and economic justice.