The African Democratic Congress ADC has criticised the Federal Government FG and the Akwa Ibom State Government over the lingering dispute concerning ownership and control of certain oil wells in the Niger Delta region.
The party, in a statement issued by its national publicity secretary, described the controversy as a reflection of deeper structural problems in Nigeria’s resource management framework. ADC argued that repeated disputes between states and the federal authorities over oil assets expose weaknesses in revenue allocation mechanisms and constitutional clarity.
At the centre of the disagreement are oil producing boundaries affecting revenue derivation between Akwa Ibom and neighbouring states. The Federal Government, through relevant regulatory bodies, has reportedly made determinations that some stakeholders consider unfavourable. ADC maintained that transparency must guide all decisions affecting oil producing communities.
The party accused the Federal Government of failing to provide clear communication regarding the legal and technical basis for the decisions taken. It warned that unresolved tensions over oil wells could escalate political friction and undermine stability in the Niger Delta, a region historically sensitive to issues of resource control.
ADC further urged all parties to seek judicial interpretation where necessary rather than politicising the matter. According to the party, resource disputes should be resolved through constitutional mechanisms and evidence based assessments conducted by neutral institutions.
Akwa Ibom State officials have insisted that the state’s entitlements must be protected, stressing that oil revenue remains critical to funding infrastructure and social services. Observers note that derivation revenue significantly contributes to state budgets in oil producing areas.
The dispute also revives broader conversations about fiscal federalism. Analysts argue that until Nigeria reforms its revenue sharing model, such conflicts may persist. ADC called for dialogue among the Federal Government, state governments and host communities to prevent further escalation.
The party concluded by urging restraint and commitment to due process, warning that politicising oil ownership issues could affect investor confidence in Nigeria’s petroleum sector.
