REBUTTAL: Chief Michael Johnny’s Accusations Against NDDC Unfounded

As a concerned Niger Deltan, a youth leader and a contractor to the NDDC, I am compelled to respond to the baseless accusations made by High Chief Michael Johnny against the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and its leadership. It is essential to set the record straight and highlight the significant strides made by the current administration under Dr. Samuel Ogbuku.

Contrary to Chief Johnny’s claims, the NDDC has made remarkable progress in financial management, project implementation, and transparency. Here are some achievements:

1. _2020 Budget Implementation_: 93% budget performance, with ₦122.84 billion expended, demonstrating fiscal responsibility and commitment to development.

2. _Project Financing_: 1,557 projects funded, totalling ₦158.69 billion, transforming our communities and improving lives.

3. _Transparency and Accountability_: Introduction of the Open Treasury Portal, ensuring real-time financial tracking and unprecedented transparency.

4. _Partnership and Collaboration_: Secured $10 million World Bank funding, fostering international partnerships and boosting regional development.

5. _Capacity Building_: Trained 1,200 staff on financial management and project implementation, enhancing institutional capacity and efficiency.

6. _Community Engagement_: Conducted 24 town hall meetings, ensuring inclusive decision-making and community participation.

7. _Audit and Compliance_: Received a clean audit report, affirming NDDC’s commitment to accountability and good governance.

These achievements are a testament to NDDC’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and sustainable development.

I categorically reject and condemn the fabricated claims against NDDC by the Agadiwei of Gbaramatu Kingdom, Chief Michael Johnny, who is also an APC chieftain in Delta State. His malicious claims of kickbacks and mismanagement are misleading and detrimental to our region’s progress. We won’t stand idly by while individuals tarnish NDDC’s reputation and hinder development efforts.

Let us focus on constructive engagement and collaboration to ensure the Niger Delta region reaches its full potential. Support progressive leadership and discourage mischievous attempts to undermine sustainable and achieveable reform initiatives.

I urge the Federal Government, EFCC, ICPC, and security agencies to:

– Disregard Chief Johnny’s unfounded claims
– Allow NDDC to continue its developmental efforts
– Investigate Chief Johnny’s motives and intentions

Warning to mischief-makers: Cease destructive actions and the “bring-him-down” syndrome, which only hinders our region’s progress.

Signed,

Mr. Nathaniel Michael Goodnews
Youth Leader & NDDC Contractor.