By Ikenwa Charity
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has strongly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s decision to establish a Disaster Relief Fund, citing duplication of efforts and potential mismanagement.
According to HURIWA, the existing Ecological Fund, established in 1981, is specifically designed to address environmental issues such as flooding, making the new fund unnecessary.
HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, emphasized that the Ecological Fund constitutes 1% of the Federation Account and is managed by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
Onwubiko argued that instead of creating new funds, the government should focus on proper management and effective disbursement of existing ones.
HURIWA alleged that politicians have historically diverted funds from the Ecological Fund for personal use, including campaign financing.
The organization warned that establishing new funds would only increase the risk of mismanagement and corruption.
In contrast, HURIWA praised the Borno State Government for setting up a 32-member committee to oversee relief funds for victims of the Maiduguri floods.
The committee includes members from government and non-governmental organizations, ensuring transparency in aid distribution.
While acknowledging the government’s efforts to provide immediate relief, HURIWA stressed the need for long-term solutions to prevent future disasters.
The organization criticized the government’s failure to address recurring flooding caused by Cameroon’s Lagdo Dam releases and called for:
– Construction of buffer dams and reservoirs
– Maintenance of existing dams
– De-silting of dams and expansion of river tributaries
– Stronger accountability mechanisms
HURIWA urged the Federal Government to reconsider establishing the Disaster Relief Fund and instead focus on properly managing the Ecological Fund.
The organization demanded institutional reforms and accountability to ensure funds serve their intended purposes.
As the debate continues, one thing is clear: Nigeria’s disaster relief efforts require transparency, accountability, and effective management to truly benefit those in need.
