The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has expressed concern over President Bola Tinubu’s plan to create a Disaster Relief Fund, citing it as an unnecessary duplication of the existing Ecological Fund. HURIWA emphasized that the Ecological Fund, established under the Federation Account Act of 1981, is already designed to address environmental challenges like flooding. The group criticized the move as wasteful and vulnerable to mismanagement, urging the Federal Government to focus on effective management of the Ecological Fund instead of introducing new funds.
Following the announcement at a recent Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, Finance Minister Wale Edun explained that the Disaster Relief Fund would be geared toward tackling climate change-related disasters, such as the recent floods in Borno State. However, HURIWA countered that the Ecological Fund—comprising 1% of the Federation Account and managed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF)—is already equipped to handle such issues.
HURIWA accused the government of a hasty and potentially redundant approach, claiming politicians have a history of diverting Ecological Fund resources for personal use. The group highlighted that creating a new fund could open further avenues for corruption. It recommended the government focus on building transparency and accountability mechanisms for the Ecological Fund.
Despite this criticism, HURIWA praised the Borno State Government’s formation of a 32-member committee to oversee relief funds for flood victims in Maiduguri. Governor Babagana Zulum’s inclusion of anti-corruption agencies such as the EFCC and ICPC demonstrates a commitment to transparency. HURIWA suggested further inclusion of community leaders and civil society groups to enhance trust and ensure the effective distribution of aid.
The organization also urged the Federal Government to adopt long-term solutions, such as constructing buffer dams and reservoirs to prevent future flooding caused by water releases from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon. HURIWA called for better maintenance of existing dams and stronger accountability for funds allocated to ecological projects, suggesting life imprisonment for those found guilty of misappropriation.
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In conclusion, HURIWA advised the government to reconsider its Disaster Relief Fund plan and prioritize the proper management of the Ecological Fund to prevent mismanagement and ensure effective disaster relief.
