Chairman of the Anti-Corruption and Integrity Forum and publisher of Integrity Watchdog Magazine, Comrade Prince Kpokpogri, has dismissed reports claiming that the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, was arrested over an alleged failed plot to topple President Bola Tinubu’s government.
Kpokpogri described the claims as “fake news, speculative and the handiwork of fifth columnists,” urging Nigerians to ignore the reports and refrain from spreading unverified information.
In a statement, he expressed concern over the rising trend of false narratives circulating without verification.
“When has being interrogated amounted to being arrested in a sane environment?” he asked. “When has it become a crime to answer questions as a friend to someone being investigated?”
He questioned the motives behind the rumour, alleging that certain political interests may be targeting Ogbuku ahead of the next Bayelsa governorship election.
Kpokpogri maintained that Ogbuku’s association with former Bayelsa Governor Timipre Sylva, who has been linked in circulating rumours – does not implicate the NDDC chief in any alleged coup plot.
While acknowledging that security agencies have the right to question associates of individuals under investigation, he insisted this should not be misconstrued as an arrest or wrongdoing on Ogbuku’s part.
“I am not speaking as a media aide or friend to Samuel Ogbuku,” he stated. “My concern is the reckless peddling of falsehood and attempts to malign one of the most patriotic Nigerians and the most effective NDDC Managing Director we have had.”
Kpokpogri praised Ogbuku’s leadership of the NDDC, saying he has demonstrated integrity, transparency and inclusive development.
Addressing the separate allegation of N45 billion traced to Sylva, he said the former minister was paid as a contractor to the NDDC, like others working for the Commission.
“What anyone does with money paid for contracts is their responsibility,” he said, adding that payments follow management procedures, not the discretion of one individual.
Kpokpogri urged the public to resist attempts to weaponize rumours to tarnish reputations, especially in politically sensitive times.
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