Minna: The Coalition of Niger state support groups has endorsed the state government’s legal action against the Attorney-General of the Federation over the exclusion of Niger State from the 13% derivation fund. Mr. Muhammadu Dagaci, the President General of the Community Association for Grassroots Transformation (CAGRAT), disclosed this in a statement.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Niger State government has taken the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice to the Supreme Court, seeking inclusion in the 13% derivation meant for states contributing to national revenue. Lead counsel Mohammed Ndarani, SAN, filed an originating summons for the interpretation of section 232 (1) and (2) of the Nigerian constitution. The case focuses on the federal government’s failure to include Niger State among the beneficiaries of the 13% derivation, particularly concerning revenue from hydroelectric power dams contributing to the national grid since 1968.
Dagaci stated the coalition’s support arises from Niger’s significant contribution to national development through power generation, without compensation from the federal government. He pointed out that the exclusion violates Section 162(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which mandates revenue allocation based on derivation principles. Inclusion in the derivation fund would provide Niger State with vital resources to improve infrastructure, living standards, and economic growth.
The coalition comprises various organizations, including CAGRAT, BIDA Forum, Agaie Emirate Consultative Forum, AZA Development Association, Nupe Development Forum, Edati People’s Foundation, Kutigi Youth Association, and Coalition of Niger North Youth Forum, among others. They advocate for the Supreme Court to interpret the constitution to establish Niger as a resource-producing state, thus qualifying for the 13% derivation fund.
Dagaci emphasized the need for the apex court to grant Niger State’s request, asserting that recognition of the state’s contributions is a matter of justice and fairness. The coalition anticipates a favorable judgment that will benefit the state and promote equitable resource distribution in Nigeria.
The News Agency of Nigeria recalls that the attorney-general was brought before the Supreme Court because of his role in advising the president on legal matters, yet failing to ensure equitable resource distribution. The suit highlights Niger State’s challenges, including frequent flooding and property destruction, exacerbated by federal exploitation of its resources without adequate compensation for the state’s populace.