The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has vehemently denied reports circulating on social media that suggest a rift between its Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike. In a statement issued on Monday, the NDDC referred to the news as misleading and intended to cause confusion.
The statement, signed by the Commission's spokesperson, Seledi Thompson-Wakama, called the report titled “Uproar in NDDC as Ogbuku, Wike Fight Dirty” an unfounded fabrication. According to the NDDC, the circulating rumors are part of an ongoing smear campaign to destabilize the Commission and disrupt its development efforts in the Niger Delta region.
In the statement, Thompson-Wakama emphasized that the relationship between Dr. Ogbuku and Minister Wike remains cordial and professional. He further clarified that the two men, alongside other key stakeholders in the Niger Delta, have consistently worked together to ensure the successful implementation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s development agenda for the region.
The NDDC spokesperson also pointed out that the false reports suggest a divisive struggle for power within the Commission, especially concerning the position of Managing Director. Thompson-Wakama categorically rejected this notion, labeling it as a deliberate attempt by certain individuals to sow discord between the NDDC leadership and the FCT Minister. He further mentioned that some of the mischief-makers have also tried to involve other influential figures, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, to create a false crisis narrative.
In addition to the baseless claims about a feud between Ogbuku and Wike, the statement also refuted rumors that Chief James Ibori, a prominent figure in the region, was attempting to replace the current Chairman of the NDDC Board, Mr. Chiedu Ebie. Thompson-Wakama urged the public to ignore such stories, stating that these are part of an orchestrated effort to distract the Commission from its mission to drive development in the Niger Delta.
While the NDDC is busy implementing innovative policies to improve its services, Thompson-Wakama expressed concern that certain groups, driven by personal interests, are spreading these false narratives to divert attention from the Commission's progress. He pointed out that at a time when the NDDC is focused on delivering impactful projects, it is disheartening that some individuals seem intent on destabilizing the organization.
The statement went on to highlight that the tenure of the current NDDC Board, which started on August 29, 2023, is firmly secured for a four-year term. According to the NDDC Establishment Act, members of the Board, including the Managing Director, are appointed for a four-year term with the possibility of reappointment for another term, which is the case for Dr. Ogbuku. Thompson-Wakama stressed that there is no reason to question the tenure of the Board, especially given the ongoing successful execution of numerous projects that have been well-received by the people of the Niger Delta.
The NDDC has been working tirelessly to enhance the transparency and efficiency of its operations. As part of its efforts to improve governance, the Commission has been using technology to streamline its processes and engage with stakeholders more proactively. Several key projects, which are set to be commissioned in the coming weeks, will further demonstrate the positive impact of the current leadership.
Thompson-Wakama also made it clear that the development of the Niger Delta region depends on a stable and functional NDDC. The frequent changes in leadership that have plagued the Commission in the past have been detrimental to its progress, and the NDDC is now committed to breaking that cycle. He appealed to all well-meaning individuals to stand with the Commission and support its efforts to move the region forward, rather than allowing the actions of a few to derail its mission.
The statement concluded with a reassurance to the people of the Niger Delta that the NDDC Board and management remain focused on advancing the region’s development. The Commission is determined to stay true to its mandate and will not be distracted by the efforts of those who seek to take the region backwards. The Board, under the leadership of Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, is fully committed to fulfilling the vision set forth by President Tinubu and working in the best interests of the Niger Delta.
