Ijaw Youth Council Defends NDDC, Warns Against Unfounded Protests

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Central Zone, has cautioned the Coalition of Niger Delta Civil Society Organizations (CNDCSOs) and the Niger Delta Ex-agitators’ Forum against their planned protest targeting the leadership of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). The group described the coalition’s allegations as baseless and unreflective of the positive strides made under the current NDDC administration, while also acknowledging the historical challenges confronting communities in the region.

In a statement signed by its Information Officer, Comrade Ginah Ikio, the IYC dismissed claims of financial misconduct, political favoritism, and mismanagement leveled by the coalition. Ikio maintained that under the leadership of Chief Samuel Ogbuku, the NDDC has upheld equity and transparency, ensuring fair access to projects and job opportunities across all nine member states. He stressed that Ogbuku’s administration has been crucial to maintaining peace and driving progress in the Niger Delta through infrastructure, education, and sustainable economic initiatives.

The IYC further expressed solidarity with Ogbuku, urging groups in the region to embrace collaboration rather than divisive rhetoric. It emphasized that genuine dialogue and partnership would yield better outcomes than protests that could strain relations between Niger Delta communities and the federal government.

Calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to disregard what it described as unfounded and politically motivated claims by “non-existent” coalitions, the IYC expressed confidence in Ogbuku’s leadership. The group appealed for sustained federal support to enable the NDDC to fulfill its mandate and deliver long-term transformation across the Niger Delta.