The Movement for Sustainable Development of Igala-Bassa Nation (MOSDIBN) has challenged to the federal government to come clean in its perceived partisan approach to issues surrounding the disputed oil deposits between the people of Ibaji communities in Kogi State and those of Anambra State in the interest of development and peaceful co-existence.
The group gave the advise in a communique issued yesterday in Lokoja at the end of the meeting of its National Council, Zonal Coordinator and Unit Heads.
It noted that at several fora the Federal Government was alleged to have named Anambra as an oil producing State when the oil wells are seated in communities in Ibaji land.
Continuing, it stated that without the oil wells the Orient oil would not build its refinery in Aguleri in Anambra State.
The communique which was jointly signed by its National Chairman, Comrade Daniel Salifu and Secretary, Ekele Sunday Okeme said teeming youths in the state stand the chance of being gainfully employed if the issues are resolved and exploration activities commence in the area.
The group noted that it plans to establish 1,500 capacity multi purpose vocational training center in four locations in Igala/Bassa land is part of effort to empower unemployed youths in the state .
According to the group, the centre will be fully equipped with needed facilities the youth would use in acquiring skills in the areas of tailoring/fashion design, computer training, weaving, art and craft, welding and fabrications, amongst others.
The communique called on both the federal and Kogi State governments to support the agricultural potential in Igala land especially in the areas of cashew nut and palm oil production.
It particularly called for revamping of the Acharu Palm Oil Mill at Egume, Aloma Oil Palm Project in Ofu LGA and the Sanitary Warehouse at Idah LGA, amongst others.
