- Safiu Kehinde
A coalition of groups, under the aegis of ‘We Are Stronger Together Movement’, has condemned the call by aggrieved groups for the sack of the current leadership of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
The Movement said on Monday in Yenagoa that rather than the sack of the current management, all Niger Delta groups should close ranks in interest of all.
It would be recalled that two groups, Coalition of Niger Delta Civil Society Organizations (CNDCSO) and the Niger Delta Ex-Agitators’ Forum, had urged the public to protest against the NDDC on Nov 25.
The groups said that there had been no development of the Niger Delta region since the current management assumed office many months ago.
In reaction, the movement expressed their disappointment with the groups calling for the dismissal of the NDDC management.
“The Movement is deeply concerned that such actions, not only hinder progress, but undermines the positive efforts and strides made by the current NDDC leadership.
“It is disheartening that, rather than support NDDC’s developmental policies and the open-door engagements demonstrated by its leadership, certain individuals and groups have continued to engage in smear campaigns.
”These actions, aimed at undermining those in positions for political gains, are counterproductive and damaging not only to the individuals involved but to the region as a whole,” the Movement claimed.
Joshua Benjamin, Vice Chairman of Amalgamation of Ethnic Nationalities in the Niger Delta and a prominent member of the Movement, said that rather than call for protest, a constructive engagement would have been better.
Another member of the Movement, Opubo Ibieneye, President, League of Niger Delta Professionals, opined that constant calls for sack of NDDC management, not only jeopardize the significant achievements of the leadership but that of the Federal Government.
The Movement urged all stakeholders in the Niger Delta to abandon divisive and counterproductive tactics in favour of open dialogue, collaboration, and unity.
“True development in the region can only be achieved if we adopt a constructive and inclusive approach in addressing the challenges we face,” the Movement said .
The movement supported the appointment of Chief Chiedu Ebie because his appointment aligned with the provisions of the NDDC Act, which mandated that the Chairman of the NDDC shall be appointed from an oil-producing Area.