The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, has faulted Senator Seriake Dickson’s Democracy Day remarks, describing them as a disappointing and inaccurate portrayal of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s role in Nigeria’s democratic journey and his commitment to resolving political tensions in the Niger Delta.
In a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media and Communications, Nneamaka Okafor, Lokpobiri expressed dismay that Senator Dickson, himself a Niger Deltan, chose a day meant to honour the country’s democratic progress to launch what he called a “misguided attack” on a President who has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to democracy and regional development.
Lokpobiri said: “It is disheartening that on a day set aside to celebrate Nigeria’s hard-earned democracy, a fellow Niger Deltan chooses to downplay the tireless efforts of a President who has done more for our region in just one year than many did in decades.”
Lokpobiri also defended Tinubu’s stewardship of the Niger Delta under the Renewed Hope agenda, stating that the region has seen unprecedented attention and tangible developmental efforts within the administration’s first year.
He called on political leaders to prioritize the region’s stability and development over divisive rhetoric, urging Senator Dickson to offer constructive contributions rather than politically charged criticism.
According to the minister, Tinubu is not a stranger to the democratic struggle. In 1992, at a time when silence could have bought comfort, he chose resistance. He fought for the soul of Nigeria’s democracy, sacrificing personal freedom, enduring exile, and standing firm against tyranny. His sacrifices form part of the foundation upon which today’s democratic institutions rest. Questioning his democratic credentials, therefore, is both revisionist and unbecoming of any serious statesman.
Lokpobiri also recounted that under the #RenewedHope agenda, the Niger Delta is already witnessing a bold era of transformation. President Tinubu has matched words with action in delivering long-overdue progress to the region.
“Some of these transformative strides include: The activation of the Host Community Development Trusts, ensuring oil-producing communities are now direct beneficiaries of the wealth generated from their land, the accelerated cleanup of Ogoni Land, which is progressing faster than ever, backed by renewed commitment and funding, the establishment of the Federal University of Environment and Technology (FUET), Ogoni, marking a new era of educational and environmental empowerment, major infrastructure investments, including the reconstruction of critical sections of the East-West Road and other federal roads in the region, appointment of qualified Niger Delta indigenes to key positions, a clear signal of inclusive governance, the historic Presidential pardon and national recognition of the Ogoni 9, reaffirming President Tinubu’s commitment to justice, reconciliation, and national healing, stabilisation of security and reduction in pipeline vandalism, leading to increased oil output and investor confidence in the region.
Senator Lokpobiri further noted, “It is uncharitable for Senator Dickson to ignore these visible gains and attempt to distract from the President’s developmental agenda. He should know, more than most, the state of the Niger Delta before this administration took over. Today, our region is more peaceful, more empowered, and more hopeful.”
“Indeed, the political issues in Rivers State, though sensitive, should not be weaponized to cast aspersions on the President’s integrity. Nigeria is governed by laws, and the Tinubu administration has consistently respected constitutional order, choosing dialogue and legality over imposition.
“While Senator Dickson has every right to express his opinion, it is imperative he does so with statesmanship and context.”
As Senator Lokpobiri emphasised, “The Niger Delta needs unity and collaboration, not political grandstanding. We should stand by a President who has stood by us.”
“Rather than politicizing progress, Senator Dickson should lend his experience and influence to support the national renewal project led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“History will favour those who build, not those who tear down.”
