The National Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission, N-HYPPADEC, has rejected allegations by the Coalition of Shiroro Associations, COSA, that it failed to implement the Kuta Rescue Village project in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, describing the accusation as inaccurate and deceptive.
In a statement released on Thursday by its Head of Press and Public Affairs, Nura Tanko Wakili, the Commission said the project was completed, fully funded and officially inaugurated on June 30, 2022, through a partnership with New Approach.
N-HYPPADEC explained that the facility was designed as a temporary settlement for residents displaced by repeated flooding and insecurity, particularly bandit attacks affecting Shiroro and surrounding communities.
The Commission said the rescue village was provided with key facilities, including solar electricity, accommodation units, sanitation facilities, clean water supply, security arrangements and other amenities aimed at ensuring a comfortable environment for displaced persons.
According to the statement, the project was inaugurated by the then Secretary to the Niger State Government, Alhaji Ibrahim Matane, representing former Governor Abubakar Sani Bello, with government officials, traditional leaders, community representatives, security personnel and journalists in attendance.
However, N-HYPPADEC stated that the facility was vandalised shortly after its commissioning, alleging that criminals stole equipment and valuables worth millions of naira, thereby preventing the intended beneficiaries from making use of the project.
The Commission said despite the setback and financial challenges, it has remained committed to providing lasting solutions through other resettlement projects, including ongoing housing developments in Layi and Galadima Kogo communities in Shiroro LGA and Injita in Munya LGA of Niger State.
N-HYPPADEC accused COSA of attempting to distort facts and discredit its efforts, maintaining that records of the Kuta Rescue Village project, including its execution and commissioning, are publicly available.
“It is surprising that a group claiming to speak for the people of Shiroro would deny the existence of a project that was publicly commissioned and widely reported. Such actions are misleading and suggest an attempt by its sponsors to manipulate public opinion for political reasons,” the statement added.
The Commission further said it had released photographs from the official commissioning ceremony as evidence to challenge what it described as false claims being circulated about the project.
It urged the public to disregard the allegations, describing them as an attempt to blackmail and distract the agency from its developmental responsibilities across hydroelectric power-producing communities.
N-HYPPADEC reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability and inclusive development, adding that it would continue to focus on delivering projects despite criticisms from what it called “purveyors of misinformation and agents of distraction.”