Zungeru dam: FG spends N1.5b on compensation, says DG
The Federal Government has so far expended over N1.5 billion for the compensation of the affected communities of the ongoing construction of Hydro Power Dam at Zungeru in Niger State.
The Director General of Niger State, Hydro Development Areas Commission (HYPADEC), Mohammed Samaila Mambo disclosed this during an interview with journalists recently in Minna, Niger state capital.
He, however applauded the bold step taken by the government,through the Federal Ministry of Power to undertake the project.
He added that 32 out of 35 immediate communities affected had been compensated with various sums of money, but said that 98 communities to be affected by the construction of the dam who were involved in the program, will also be addressed.
Mambo reiterated the commitment of the current administration of the governor of the state, Abubakar Sani Bello to ensure that the people and communities affected were adequately compensated.
He stressed that the payment of the compensation will be determined by the quantity of farm produce on their farmlands; and that payment will be done in three different categories, which include: farm produce and economic trees, areas of water coverage; houses, social amenities, etc.
While he applauded the determination of the Federal Government to bring development to the people, he said that compensation for the communities was done within one year, compared to the past when they had serious challenges due to lack of fair treatment for the people, thereby leading to protests.
The DG emphasized the need to carry the affected communities along, noting that the new committee set up by the state governor used every community’s representatives who knew every individual within their domain to avoid dealing with the wrong persons.
He, however appreciated the efforts of the National Assembly for passing the HYPADEC Bill into law, especially the National Assembly lawmakers from the state, hence, measures had been put in place to curb risks, especially on the annual loss of farm produce to flood.
He, further acknowledged to have received three petitions, but said they were not genuine after investigations; just as all court and legal cases had been dropped, hence, the new committee has assured that it would pay adequate compensation to the affected people and communities accordingly. He said this has reduced protests and agitation experienced in the past.
Mambo said that based on the initial HYPADEC Bill signed into law, five states involved were, Kebbi, Kwara, Kogi, Plateau with the headquarters in Niger State, saying that land had been allocated for its permanent site, while the temporary its office is fully renovated for take- off, despite challenges being faced, inadequate funding.
Saka Bolaji, Minna
