The Network for Grassroots Development (NGD) has recently affirmed that, according to the Niger Delta Development Commission’s (NDDC) founding legislation, it is Edo State’s turn to appoint the Commission’s Managing Director.
This statement comes as a rebuttal to claims made by the Niger Delta Rescue Movement (NDRM), which suggested that Edo and Ondo States were ineligible for this position.
Ukato Thomas, the Co-Administrator of NGD, has emphasized that the NDDC Act’s provisions clearly support Edo State’s eligibility. He highlighted Section 12(1) of the Act, dismissing the opposing argument as baseless and misinformed.
Thomas further suggested that the NDRM’s stance might be influenced by external interests, possibly from a neighboring state.
Thomas concluded by calling for unity and mutual respect among Niger Delta communities, warning that without these values, the region risks internal discord and the subsequent external blame for its challenges.