The Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh has dismissed calls for the removal of the Managing Director (MD) of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, maintaining that the position is not vacant.
Speaking during the inauguration of the boards of South East Development Commission and the North West Development Commission, Momoh clarified that the current NDDC board was appointed in line with the provisions of the law and has a four-year tenure, which is still ongoing.
The minister addressed concerns raised by some groups, particularly from the South-South and Niger Delta region, who have been demanding the removal of the NDDC board.
He questioned the basis for such demands considering that the board was legally constituted while stressing that the board remains unless directed otherwise by President Bola Tinubu.
“I have received several complaints and protests from different parts of the country, particularly the South-South and the Niger Delta region, asking for the board of the NDDC to be dissolved. I ask, why must the board go? They were appointed based on the Act, which specifies a four-year tenure. If the President chooses, he can reappoint them at the end of their term,” Momoh said.
He further explained that under the NDDC Act, the MD is entitled to complete the designated term, and only the President has the authority to make changes.
Referring to the appointment of the current MD, he noted that President Tinubu renewed the appointment for another four-year term on October 25, 2023.
“For those clamouring for a replacement, they should take their concerns to Mr. President, who is the only person with the authority to make that decision. As of now, the President has not given any directive for a change,” the minister added.
Drawing parallels with the North East Development Commission, Momoh pointed out that the leadership of the agency was similarly reappointed, urging critics to refrain from spreading confusion.
He appealed to the people of the Niger Delta to support the NDDC’s ongoing efforts to develop the region. “Since this management team came in, they have been doing a lot. Let us give peace a chance and allow them to continue their work,” he said.
The NDDC, established to drive infrastructural and economic development in the Niger Delta, has often faced political pressures and leadership disputes.
However, Momoh’s statement reaffirms that the agency’s leadership remains intact, with its mandate continuing under the current administration.