Proposed "Samuel Ogbuku/Chiedu Ebie Must Go" Protest: Urhobo Cultural Eye Watch Backs Coalition of Niger Delta Civil Society Organizations (CNDCSOs)

In a bold and historic declaration, the Urhobo Cultural Eye Watch, under the leadership of Comrade Eboh Francis Oghenewevde, National Coordinator, has announced its unwavering support for the Coalition of Niger Delta Civil Society Organizations (CNDCSOs) in their call for a peaceful protest to demand the immediate removal of Dr. Samuel Ogbuku and Chiedu Ebie from their respective positions as Managing Director and Chairman of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

This solidarity comes on the heels of rising frustrations across the Niger Delta region over allegations of corruption, nepotism, and political favoritism that have plagued the leadership of the NDDC. The Urhobo Cultural Eye Watch has unequivocally stated its intention to mobilize for the proposed protest, emphasizing that the NDDC belongs to every state in the Niger Delta region and is not the exclusive property of Bayelsa State or any singular ethnic group.

A Call for Equity in the Niger Delta

The Urhobo Cultural Eye Watch has stressed that all ethnic groups in the Niger Delta—including the Urhobo, Ika, Isoko, Itsekiri, Edo, and Ondo—have equal rights in the affairs of the NDDC. In a statement released by Comrade Oghenewevde, the group declared, "The NDDC is not the birthright of the so-called Ijaws in Bayelsa State. It is a regional body meant to serve all Niger Delta communities equally and transparently."

The group strongly criticized the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Central Zone for its attempts to discredit the Coalition of Niger Delta Civil Society Organizations (CNDCSOs). Referring to the CNDCSOs as a "faceless group," the IYC's rhetoric was described as a desperate attempt to distract from the legitimate grievances of the Niger Delta people.

Condemnation of Dr. Samuel Ogbuku and Chiedu Ebie

The Urhobo Cultural Eye Watch did not hold back in its condemnation of the current NDDC leadership. The group accused Dr. Samuel Ogbuku of financial impropriety and political favoritism, branding his leadership as expired and marred by nepotism and cronyism. Similarly, the appointment of Chiedu Ebie as Chairman of the NDDC Board was described as illegal and unrepresentative of the true interests of the Niger Delta people.

“Dr. Samuel Ogbuku’s tenure has expired, and his administration has failed to meet the expectations of the people it was meant to serve. The so-called ‘positive developments’ touted by his supporters are illusions that fail to address the harsh realities faced by Niger Delta communities daily,” the group stated.

Adding to the controversy, the Urhobo Cultural Eye Watch revealed that Dr. Samuel Ogbuku had allegedly funded the IYC Central Zone to organize a counter-protest on January 17, 2025, as a desperate bid to suppress dissent and cling to power.

Solidarity with the CNDCSOs and Call for Action

Standing firmly with the CNDCSOs, the Urhobo Cultural Eye Watch reaffirmed its support for the proposed peaceful protest, emphasizing the need for accountability, transparency, and genuine representation in the NDDC. The group expressed its frustration over years of corruption and mismanagement that have hindered the development of the Niger Delta.

Urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take immediate action, Comrade Oghenewevde stated, “We are calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to replace Dr. Samuel Ogbuku as the Managing Director of the NDDC and Chiedu Ebie as the illegal chairman of the board. It is imperative that we have leadership that genuinely represents the interests of the Niger Delta people and upholds the principles of transparency and accountability.”

A United Niger Delta for Justice and Fairness

The Urhobo Cultural Eye Watch dismissed the IYC Central Zone’s calls for unity as superficial, pointing out that true unity can only be achieved when justice and fairness are prioritized. The group reiterated its commitment to holding leaders accountable and ensuring that the Niger Delta region receives the development and representation it deserves.

“The Niger Delta will not be swayed by misleading narratives or political maneuvering. The commitment to transparency, justice, and genuine representation for our people remains unshakable,” the statement read.

The Urhobo Cultural Eye Watch concluded by affirming its readiness to protest and its determination to see a brighter future for the Niger Delta region, one free from corruption and mismanagement.

Long Live the Niger Delta!

Long Live the Urhobo Cultural Eye Watch!

Long Live the CNDCSOs!

Signed:

Comrade Eboh Francis Oghenewevde

National Coordinator, Urhobo Cultural Eye Watch