By Ebi Kesiena
The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has firmly denied allegations that it is diverting funds meant for contractors to finance the Edo State Governorship Campaign of the All Progressive Congress (APC).
This was contained in a statement signed by Seledi Thompson-Wakama, NDDC Director of Corporate Affairs, on Monday.
The statement noted that the claims, which have been circulating online, are entirely baseless and originate from undisclosed sources.
The commission emphasized that it does not sponsor political parties or candidates contesting in any election. “Our mandate,” the statement stressed, “is to fast-track the development of the Niger Delta region.”
The commission explained that under the leadership of Chairman Chiedu Ebie and Managing Director Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, the NDDC is more committed than ever to its guiding principle of “Making a Difference” in the lives of the people of the Niger Delta.
The commission urged the public to disregard the false stories propagated by what it described as “mischief-makers” attempting to undermine the commission’s ongoing innovations.
In a move to enhance transparency and accountability, the NDDC noted that it has engaged KPMG, a globally recognized business consultancy, to review and strengthen its corporate governance systems, adding that this partnership has been instrumental in establishing a new institutional culture based on sound ethics and good governance.
The statement further mentioned that the commission recently held a meeting with the NDDC Advisory Committee, which includes governors from the nine Niger Delta states, to discuss and monitor the activities of the commission. This meeting is part of the NDDC’s broader efforts to collaborate with stakeholders and development partners to achieve a socially stable, economically prosperous, ecologically regenerative, and politically peaceful Niger Delta region.
Furthermore, the NDDC assured its stakeholders and the public that it remains focused on its mission and will not be distracted by unfounded accusations.
The commission reiterated its commitment to working with all stakeholders to drive the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
