The attention of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has just been drawn to a spurious, unfounded and irresponsible news story making the rounds online, entitled: “N21.9 billion Akwa Ibom NDDC Office Fund Disappears, Project Abandoned,” written by a faceless mischievous and dubious character.
The fictitious news items alleged, among many issues, that the foundation stone of the project was laid two years ago, and that reptiles had taken over the site.
The online story was made of actionable and criminal lie that the Managing Director/CEO of the Commission, Mr. Nsima Ekere, had allegedly “diverted” the funds for his governorship election in Akwa Ibom State.
The Commission added: “While it is not in our practice to dignify irresponsible and fraudulent journalism, we believe strongly that it is important to set the facts straight so that the public will know the truth and understand that in this day of politicking, people who sit in otherwise noble and responsible positions, are being compelled by desperate politicians to demonise their opponents by resorting to blackmail, lies, dubious moves, shenanigans and questionable tactics to deceive the people and divert their attention from their own failings.”
It restated that the NDDC was a responsible and responsive organisation, under a Governing Board peopled by very responsible Nigerians, with clear protocols for the administration and implementation of projects and programmes.
