Group urges Buhari to disband interim committee of NDDC

A civil society organisation under the aegis of Niger Delta Movement for Peace & Justice (NDMPJ) has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to dissolve the interim management committee of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

National Coordinator of the group, Comrade Etifit Nkereuwem, on Wednesday in Uyo, pleaded with the leadership of the National Assembly to withhold the 2020 budget of the NDDC until the committee is disbanded.

The statement reads in part: “Niger Delta Movement for Peace and Justice is formed to articulate and defend the fundamental, environmental and democratic rights of the oppressed, and marginalized people of the Niger Delta region.

“Following the recent and worrisome developments in the NDDC, we believe that the interim management committee of the commission has failed to achieve its objectives and therefore, should be dissolved.

“We urge the National Assembly not to recognize the interim management committee henceforth because it is illegal, undemocratic and unacceptable. 

“The National Asssmbly should withhold the NDDC 2020 budget until Mr. President dissolves the interim management committee.

“And the National Assembly should liaise with President Buhari to ensure the immediate inauguration of these substantive governing board of the NDDC that has been screened and confirmed last year by the Senate.

“We appeal to the National Assembly as a democratic institution to carry out this national assignment with diligence and transparency, without fear or favour and in line with the laid down laws and procedures.”

He expressed hope that the leadership of the National Assembly would expedite action over the investigation of alleged misappropriation of funds in the commission.

He also commended stakeholders and elders of the region, particularly the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) for supporting the National Assembly to carry out the probe in the interest of the region and nation in general.

“PANDEF as the umbrella regional body and the voice of the Niger Delta people under the able leadership of our respected leader, patriot and nationalist, Air Commodore Idongesit Nkanga (rtd) deserves commendation and support of our people.

“We hereby appeal to our people to join hands with PANDEF and other stakeholders to ensure the repostitioning of the NDDC to enable it achieve its mandate.

“We equally solicit the support of all the stakeholders to the National Assembly as they embark on this matter of urgent public importance,” he said.