Ex-Niger Delta Agitators Demand Transparent Appointments to South-South Commission

The Forum of Ex-Agitators from Nigeria’s Niger Delta has called for thorough vetting of individuals slated to lead the newly inaugurated South-South Development Commission (SSDC), emphasizing that only candidates with proven integrity should be considered.

This appeal follows President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent signing of legislation establishing both the South-South and South-West Development Commissions, thereby completing the rollout of five new Regional Development Commissions (RDCs) across the country……….READ MORE

The SSDC is designed to address the developmental aspirations of six key oil-producing states: Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, and Rivers.

Speaking at a press briefing in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State Chairman of the Ex-Agitators Forum, Ambassador Paulinus Alban, hailed the commission’s creation as a significant stride toward resolving the long-standing neglect of the region. He noted that if well managed, the SSDC could become a catalyst for unity and progress.

Alban praised President Tinubu and the National Assembly for their political will, but warned that any attempt to corrupt or hijack the commission would be fiercely opposed by the forum.

He reiterated the group’s longstanding advocacy for fairness, justice, and inclusion of southern voices in national affairs, describing the SSDC’s establishment as a pivotal moment in the pursuit of these ideals.

In a separate statement, Ambassador Alfred Etuk, the forum’s spokesperson, stressed that only transparent, accountable, and trustworthy individuals should be appointed to oversee the SSDC’s operations. He called for the selection of leaders with impeccable track records, warning that the forum would actively expose any form of corruption.

Etuk pointed to the leadership of Samuel Ogbuku at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) as an exemplary model, emphasizing the importance of strong, ethical leadership.

He noted that the SSDC has the potential to drive economic growth and job creation throughout the South-South, but only if those at the helm are held to the highest standards.

Etuk concluded with a strong declaration: “We are committed to upholding transparency and accountability in the SSDC. Any individual who intends to misuse or exploit the commission’s resources will be met with firm resistance. This is not a mere warning — it is a declaration of our resolve.”