The Incident and Apology
The controversy arose during a Senate session when Hon. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the representative of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, made remarks that the NDDC described as “unacceptable and regrettable, given the circumstances and the occasion for such uncomplimentary remarks.” The incident reportedly stemmed from a disagreement over seating arrangements in the Senate, leading to an exchange that the NDDC deemed unwarranted and unbecoming.
In its press statement, the NDDC expressed deep regret for the comments made by the Governor’s representative, Hon. Reuben Izeze, Commissioner of Works and Urban Highways, who was present during the session. “While the Senate is handling its internal affairs, we believe the subject of discussion on such an auspicious occasion should not have been the target of the Governor’s remarks, which were unwarranted and unbecoming,” the statement read.
The NDDC extended its “unreserved apologies” to Senate President Akpabio for any offense or embarrassment caused to him and the Senate, which he presides over. The commission emphasized its commitment to partnering with the National Assembly, particularly under Akpabio’s leadership, to ensure the rapid development of the Niger Delta region.
Commitment to Development and the Renewed Hope Agenda
The press statement also highlighted the NDDC’s ongoing efforts to align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes infrastructure development and economic prosperity across Nigeria. As part of these efforts, the NDDC recently commissioned two major projects in the region.
On February 22, 2025, the commission launched the reconstruction of the 9.5km stretch connecting Eku-Abakpa-Oblaruokunmu Road, reducing travel time between Benin and Eku-Abakpa-Oblaruokunmu in Edo State to less than 35 minutes. On the same day, the NDDC also initiated the reconstruction of the Abraka-Agbor Road. Both projects are described as critical components of the Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at improving connectivity, boosting economic activities, and enhancing the quality of life for residents of the Niger Delta.
The NDDC expressed gratitude to Senate President Akpabio and the National Assembly for their role in ensuring that funds were appropriated to support these initiatives. “We remain grateful to the National Assembly, and the Senate in particular, for its support and commitment to developing the Niger Delta,” the statement noted.
Strengthening Partnership with the Senate
The commission reiterated its dedication to transparency, accountability, and collaboration with the Senate and other stakeholders to drive sustainable development in the region. It acknowledged the Senate’s approval of the NDDC’s 2024 budget of N1.911 trillion, which has enabled the commission to expedite the passage of critical infrastructure and services to benefit the region’s people.
“We are aware that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan disagreed with your Excellency over a seating arrangement in the Senate, which led to an unfortunate incident that the Senate is handling as its internal affairs,” the statement continued. “The Board and Management apologise for the uncouth comments and any embarrassment it may have caused your Excellency and the Senate, which you preside over.”
Looking Ahead
The NDDC assured the Senate President and the public of its continued focus on delivering legacy projects that will transform the Niger Delta into a beacon of progress and unity. The commission plans to engage further with the National Assembly in the coming weeks to provide updates on its progress and outline priorities for 2025.
The press statement was jointly signed by Mr. Chiedu Ebie, Chairman of the NDDC Governing Board, and Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Managing Director/CEO, with additional endorsement from Uche Uzoebo, Director of Corporate Affairs. The statement concluded with a call for continued partnership and mutual respect between the NDDC and the Senate to achieve shared development goals.
This apology and reaffirmation of commitment come at a time when the NDDC is under scrutiny to deliver on its mandate, amid high expectations from both the federal government and the people of the Niger Delta. The incident, while unfortunate, appears to have strengthened the commission’s resolve to maintain open lines of communication and uphold professionalism in its interactions with key stakeholders.
