A group of ex-agitators from the Niger Delta region disagreed with another self-styled group that called for the removal of the current management committee of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), led by Dr. Samuel Ogbuku. The group that disagreed with the call believes that the ultimatum given to the current NDDC management to vacate their positions or face consequences was merely a distraction.
The Coalition of Ex-agitators of Niger Delta had issued a statement threatening to shut down the NDDC if the current management did not step down within five days. They accused the Dr. Ogbuku-led management of ignoring a directive from President Bola Tinubu to dissolve the boards of all federal government agencies and parastatals.
However, the Authentic Niger Delta ex-agitators, represented by HRH Henry Binidodogha, Olotu Wanemi, and Tonye Bobo, released a statement in Port Harcourt saying that the threat by the other group was misleading. They consider themselves the genuine leaders of all ex-agitators and find it absurd that impostors would issue threats to create divisions among the people of the Niger Delta region.
The ex-agitators who support the current NDDC management condemned the call for their removal. They expressed satisfaction with Dr. Ogbuku’s leadership and distanced themselves from any group or individuals holding contrary views.
The group believes that the frequent changes of leadership in the NDDC hinder the development of the region and suspects that powerful individuals who previously benefited from corruption are behind the threats. They urged Niger Delta stakeholders to ignore those trying to disrupt the system, as they are likely sponsored to cause chaos for personal gain.
The authentic ex-agitators emphasized that they have embraced peaceful engagement since Dr. Ogbuku’s leadership began, and they appreciate the progress made under his management. They reminded everyone that the threat to shut down NDDC operations is no longer acceptable and that they support Dr. Ogbuku’s continued leadership until a new board is constituted.
The group calls on Niger Delta stakeholders not to destabilize the progress being made in the region and to support the development efforts led by Dr. Samuel Ogbuku’s management team for the welfare of the people.
Source: PUNCH
