As the Edo State governorship election approaches, serious allegations have emerged claiming that the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has diverted significant resources to back the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo.
According to credible sources within the NDDC, an estimated N10 billion and 18 trailer loads of rice—one for each local government area in Edo State—have been funneled into Okpebholo’s campaign.
Senior officials within the NDDC, particularly those from Edo State, have expressed outrage over what they describe as a gross misuse of funds intended for critical infrastructure projects, including much-needed repairs to federal roads in the state.
These officials argue that the diversion of resources not only undermines the commission’s mission but also betrays the trust of the people who depend on these development initiatives.
“Instead of addressing the urgent need to fix the dilapidated federal roads that are causing significant hardship to our people, the NDDC’s management is more focused on securing political power for the APC,” lamented a senior official who spoke on the condition of anonymity due to fears of retribution.
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The poor condition of federal roads in Edo State has been a longstanding issue, contributing to frequent accidents, transportation delays, and economic stagnation in various parts of the state.
The NDDC, which was established to tackle developmental challenges in the Niger Delta, has been criticized for its failure to deliver on its promises to improve infrastructure.
“What we are witnessing is a complete abdication of responsibility. Funds earmarked for road repairs are being diverted to an election campaign, leaving our roads in a deplorable state,” another disgruntled NDDC official remarked.
The NDDC’s involvement in politics is not new, but the scale of the alleged financial support for the APC’s candidate has raised significant concern. The commission, which has a mandate to foster development in the Niger Delta, is now being accused of becoming a political tool, particularly during election periods.
A political analyst in Benin commented on social media, stating, “It’s disheartening to see the NDDC, an agency created to uplift the Niger Delta, being used as a political weapon. The N10 billion and 18 trailers of rice could have been better utilized in providing essential services and infrastructure in Edo State.”
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The revelations have sparked widespread outrage among civil society groups and residents of Edo State, leading to calls for an independent investigation into the NDDC’s finances. There is growing demand for accountability in how public funds are being utilized.
“It is unacceptable that funds meant for development are being diverted to finance political campaigns. We are calling on anti-corruption agencies to investigate this matter and hold those responsible accountable,” Osas Izuwa, a concerned citizen, wrote on social media.
He added, “We cannot allow our future to be mortgaged for political gains. It’s time for the people to stand up and demand better.”