The call for RISOPADEC has renewed debate over how Rivers State can direct more development towards communities affected by oil and gas activities.
The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, through its National Spokesman, Comr. Victor Ibaningo, has called for the establishment of the Rivers State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission.
The proposed RISOPADEC would focus on development needs in oil-producing and riverine communities across the state.
Supporters of the proposal say such a commission could create a dedicated structure for tackling infrastructure gaps and other challenges facing affected communities.
These challenges include poor access to potable water, healthcare, education and skills development. They also include environmental concerns linked to oil and gas activities.
However, establishing a commission alone would not guarantee development. Its success would depend on clear funding arrangements, transparent management and measurable results.
Community participation would also be important. Residents should have a role in identifying projects and monitoring how funds are used.
The proposal also raises a wider question about public revenue. Beyond the amount of money Rivers State receives from its natural resources, residents want to see how such resources translate into roads, schools, healthcare and economic opportunities.
Calls for RISOPADEC are not new. Oil-producing communities and other stakeholders have previously urged Rivers authorities to establish a dedicated development commission for affected communities.
For Angel Lawson, governorship candidate of the Action Democratic Party, the proposal deserves serious consideration as part of the wider discussion about development in Rivers State.
The focus, he said, should remain on accountability, community participation and measurable development outcomes.
The debate over RISOPADEC therefore goes beyond creating another government institution. It centres on whether oil-producing communities can see greater and more measurable benefits from the resources extracted from their areas.
