Coup plotting : NDDC MD’s associate denies allegations of involvement

An associate of the Managing Director of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Samuel Ogbuku, has denied his involvement in a purported coup plot.

The associate dismissed his alleged involvement, describing the rumour as the handiwork of haters.

A report emerged on Tuesday that the Nigerian military detained Dr Samuel Ogbuku, Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), over alleged involvement in a failed plot to overthrow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The report quoted sources within military intelligence to have revealed that Ogbuku allegedly transferred a substantial sum of money to former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, who is suspected of financing the purported coup. Investigators are examining whether the funds were intended to support an attempt to remove the president from office.

The report said, “The MD transferred a huge sum of money to Sylva. Investigators are working on the theory that the fund transfer was connected to the coup. He is presently answering questions about what the money was meant for.”

However, according to the close associate of Ogbuku, the claims are “wicked and malicious,” designed to undermine his achievements and destabilise the commission.

The associate suggests that Ogbuku’s success in bringing peace and development to the Niger Delta region has threatened certain political interests in Bayelsa State.

“These individuals are desperate to discredit Ogbuku’s achievements and are using false narratives to achieve their goals,” the associate said.

Under Ogbuku’s leadership, the NDDC has made significant strides in addressing infrastructure challenges and managing regional expectations.

His commitment to aligning the commission’s responsibilities with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda has yielded notable results.

“Ogbuku is committed to his work and has the full support of the President,” the associate emphasised.

He stated that: “These baseless allegations will not deter him from delivering on his mandate.”

“The NDDC remains focused on its mission to develop the Niger Delta region.

“As the commission delivers on its core mandates and the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President to the people of the region, it will refuse to be dragged into unnecessary controversies by those who do not mean well for the Commission, the Managing Director and the nation,” he said.