Niger Delta stakeholders demand forensic audit of NDDC finances and projects over alleged links to Timipre Sylva and calls for investigation into contract management

Stakeholders under the Niger Delta Integrity and Democracy Network (NDIDN) have called for a forensic investigation into the finances and projects of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), citing alleged political and financial connections involving former Bayelsa State Governor Timipre Sylva.

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NDDC forensic audit Timipre Sylva link call was made in a statement signed by NDIDN National Coordinator, Comrade Francis Edafe, who raised concerns over alleged influence networks within the commission’s leadership.

The group alleged that the current NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has close political ties to Sylva, including claims that he previously served as his Chief of Staff during his tenure as governor.

NDIDN further alleged that family and political connections linked to Sylva may have influenced appointments within the commission, raising questions about governance and accountability.

The stakeholders also questioned the performance of the NDDC, arguing that despite significant funding, many Niger Delta communities continue to face environmental degradation, abandoned projects, and unemployment.

They called for a comprehensive forensic audit of all contracts, financial transactions, and ongoing projects handled by the commission.

The group urged agencies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) to investigate alleged financial irregularities tied to NDDC operations.

NDIDN also appealed to President Bola Tinubu to ensure accountability and strengthen oversight of the intervention agency.

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It vowed to continue advocacy until concrete action is taken to address what it described as governance and transparency concerns within the commission.