PDP Demands Minister's Resignation Amid Alleged NDDC Fraud

Strategic Insights -

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has asked the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Godswill Akpabio, to step aside for investigation amid allegations of massive stealing, manipulation of budget processes, and victimization of innocent Nigerians at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). The party claims that the allegations by the former Managing Director of NDDC, Joy Nunieh, have exposed the stinking corruption and criminal racketeering that pervade the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration led by President Muhammadu Buhari. The PDP also accused the Buhari Presidency and the APC of complicity in the alleged fraud, pointing out that their silence and inaction indicate that treasury looting and cover-up for corrupt persons are normal official statecraft and manifesto of the APC and the Buhari administration.

Key Takeaways:

  • The PDP has asked Minister Godswill Akpabio to step aside for investigation over allegations of massive stealing, manipulation of budget processes, and victimization of innocent Nigerians at the NDDC.
  • Former NDDC Managing Director, Joy Nunieh, made allegations of massive stealing, manipulation of budget processes, victimization, and fetish practices by corrupt officials, allegedly spearheaded by Minister Akpabio.
  • The PDP claims that the allegations have exposed the stinking corruption and criminal racketeering that pervade the APC administration led by President Muhammadu Buhari.
  • The party accused the Buhari Presidency and the APC of complicity in the alleged fraud, pointing out that their silence and inaction indicate that treasury looting and cover-up for corrupt persons are normal official statecraft and manifesto of the APC and the Buhari administration.
  • The PDP cited several allegations of corruption and mismanagement at the NDDC, including allegation of N4 billion NDDC fund being allegedly frittered on hazy procurement deals, and N5.5 billion COVID-19 scandal.
  • The party charged the Buhari Presidency to speak out on the issue, take steps to investigate and prosecute those involved, and for Senator Akpabio to submit himself for investigation.

Statistics:

  • N4 billion NDDC fund allegedly frittered on hazy procurement deals.
  • N5.5 billion COVID-19 scandal involving alleged wastage of N1.045 billion in supposedly spent on supply of kits and palliatives to Nigerians in nine states.

Sources:

  • Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) statement by its spokesman, Kola Ologbondiyan.
  • News report citing allegations by former NDDC Managing Director, Joy Nunieh.
  • News report citing PDP's demand for Minister Akpabio's resignation.