By Samuel Oyadongha
Yenagoa—Bayelsa State delegates to the just concluded National Conference, weekend, called on the governors, members of the National Assembly and other interest groups across the six geo-political zones to ensure the implementation of recommendations of the conference, including the 18 per cent derivation fund, insisting that oil producing states would not go for anything less.

Presenting a copy of the recommendations to Governor Seriake Dickson at Government House, Yenagoa, leader of the group, Professor Lawrence Ekpebu, said over 60 recommendations were made, noting that for the efforts of the delegates not to be in vain, there was need for the political leadership to see that they were fully implemented.

“At the initial stage, we were agitating for 100% derivation fund, noting that before Independence, it was 100%, after Independence, it went down to 50%, and 1.5% before it later came up to 13%. However, after a heated debate, we are able to get 18% which is not even enough. All we are asking for is the implementation of this 18% derivation fund, not less,” he said.

To achieve this goal, we need the support of well meaning Nigerians, including Mr. President, members of the National Assembly and other interest groups.”

Responding, Governor Dickson commended the state representatives, admitting that the task was herculean.

He said: “I have an idea of the obstacles and challenges that, you face and I have to say you did us proud. I like to use this opportunity of receiving your report to also thank Mr. President for taking this bold step in conveying this long awaited conference. There are tough decisions that can only be taken by tough and decisive leaders. The conference has provided all those who believe in the possibilities of our country an opportunity to remake Nigeria and for all those who believe in this new Nigeria.

“The time has come for us to give Mr. President more support so that we can have the opportunity to implement the recommendations that all our people have agreed unanimously at the conference.

“I call for your support particularly, at the time that we are preparing for elections. I call on all well meaning Nigerians to promote an egalitarian Nigeria, a Nigeria that is free, a Nigeria where all are equal, a Nigeria where non is superior to the other to continue to give Mr. President an opportunity so, that he will have an opportunity to implement the unanimous recommendations from the people of Nigeria.”