Stakeholders under the aegis of Niger Delta Integrity and Democracy Network, NDIDN, have called for a forensic probe of the finances and projects of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, over the management’s links to to former Bayelsa Governor Timipre Sylva.

Sylva is said to be involved in the alleged coup plot against President Bola Tinubu’s government.

He is named as the seventh defendant, “still at large,” in a 13-count treason and terrorism charge filed by the Federal Government against the alleged plotters.

NDIDN, in a statement signed by Comrade Francis Edafe, its National Coordinator, noted that the management of the NDDC has deep ties to the former governor. According to the group, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, NDDC Managing Director, is a well-known political loyalist of Timipre Sylva and reportedly served as his Chief of Staff during his governorship.

“It was this godfather relationship that secured his appointment to head the NDDC,” the statement said, adding the brother of Sylva’s wife is believed to be serving as Personal Assistant to Ogbuku.

“This is not a loose association — it is a tight family and patronage network embedded right at the top of the NDDC.

“Such infiltration raises serious questions about whose interests are being protected: the suffering people of the Niger Delta or a network linked to anti-government activities,” Edafe said, noting that the NDDC has not lived up to its responsibilities.

It noted that despite huge sums at the disposal of the commission, oil producing communities continue to endure environmental pollution, abandoned projects, and youth unemployment.

The statement further highlighted allegations of financial ties between NDDC contracts and the alleged coup financing.

It pointed to reports that agencies such as the NFIU and EFCC traced suspicious large sums, including claims of up to ₦45 billion in NDDC-related funds to the plot.

Even as the NDDC management has denied the claims, NDIDN stressed the need for a forensic audit to get to the root of the matter.

“A comprehensive forensic audit of all contracts, projects, and financial transactions must be launched without delay by the EFCC and security agencies.

“All influences traceable to the Sylva network within the NDDC should be thoroughly investigated and purged,” the statement added.

The stakeholders urged traditional rulers, youth groups, elders, and stakeholders across the Niger Delta to support this call.

“The NDDC belongs to the people, not to any godfather’s proxy. President Tinubu must act decisively to sanitise this vital institution and demonstrate zero tolerance for compromised leadership,” Edafe added.

NDIDN vowed to sustain public advocacy and explore all lawful avenues until concrete action is taken to protect public resources and strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.