The Chairman of the Anti-Corruption and Integrity Forum, and publisher of Integrity Watchdog Magazine, Comrade Prince Kpokpogri, has dismissed reports alleging that the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, was arrested over a supposed plot to topple President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government.
Kpokpogri, in a strongly worded statement, described the viral report as “fake, speculative, and the handiwork of fifth columnists,” urging Nigerians to disregard it entirely.
Speaking as a concerned citizen, Kpokpogri lamented the growing culture of misinformation in the country, warning against the spread of unverified stories. “When has being interrogated amounted to being arrested in a sane society?” he queried. “When has it become a crime to answer questions as a friend to a suspect under investigation?”
He further wondered who might be afraid of Samuel Ogbuku ahead of the next Bayelsa State governorship election, even when the NDDC boss has not declared any political ambition.
According to Kpokpogri, Ogbuku’s close relationship with former Governor Timipre Sylva does not in any way link him to the alleged coup plot. He stressed that it is within the rights of security agencies to question individuals connected to an investigation, but such inquiries should not be misconstrued as an arrest.
“Let it be known that I am not speaking as a media aide or friend to Samuel Ogbuku,” Kpokpogri clarified. “I speak as a concerned Nigerian who is alarmed by the reckless peddling of falsehood aimed at tarnishing the image of one of the most patriotic and transparent administrators the Niger Delta has ever produced.”
He praised Ogbuku’s leadership at the NDDC, describing him as “the best thing that has happened to the Niger Delta in recent times,” citing his inclusiveness, transparency, and even distribution of development projects.
“Since the inception of the NDDC, no Managing Director has carried everyone along like Samuel Ogbuku,” he asserted. “He has proven that integrity and accountability can thrive in public office.”
On the alleged ₦45 billion traced to Timipre Sylva’s account, Kpokpogri explained that the payment was for a legitimate contract handled by Sylva as a contractor to the Commission.
“If the Punch report is accurate, then Sylva was simply paid for executing the Shoreline Protection Project for the NDDC,” he clarified. “The payment was duly authorized by the Management Board, not by Ogbuku personally. The Commission is not run by one man.”
Kpokpogri called on the media to uphold professionalism and verify information before publication, warning that sensational and false reports could damage reputations and destabilize national institutions.
He concluded by reaffirming his faith in Dr. Ogbuku’s integrity and performance, urging Nigerians to support him in driving sustainable development in the Niger Delta rather than being swayed by political mischief-makers.
