NDDC MD, Ogbuku Distances Self From Reports Linking Governor Diri To Rumours of His Arrest

The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr Samuel Ogbuku has dissociated himself from a recent report in the Media attributing his rumoured arrest to the Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri.

In a statement on Friday, October 31, 2025 signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Dr Willie Etim, the NDDC boss condemned in very strong terms the news report attributed to a former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

According to the statement, the news report had it that the said former APC stalwart had insinuated a rift between Dr Ogbuku and the Governor, and therefore cautioned that “there is no rivalry in the APC Family in Bayelsa State”.

“It is also important to clarify that any comments or opinions expressed by anyone on political matters in Bayelsa State should be regarded strictly as their personal views and not as a representation of the views or position of Dr Ogbuku.”

“The attempt to link the governor to political controversies or rumours of arrest is both misleading, mischievous and unnecessary.”

“We want to use this medium to express our sincere apology for any embarrassment the publications may have caused the Governor and call on all party faithful to exercise restraint in public commentary, especially when such remarks could mislead the public or misrepresent facts.”

Controversy had trailed the NDDC Managing Director since the news of the alleged failed coup plot emerged with reports alleging that he was a co-sponsor, an allegation he had since debunked.