By Emeka Amaefula
*NDDC MD/CEO SAM OGBUKU BREAKS SILENCE: “GOVERNOR DIRI HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH MY PURPORTED ARREST”*
In a firm move to set the record straight and calm waves of speculation across Bayelsa’s political landscape, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Chief (Dr.) Samuel Ogbuku, has denied media reports linking his alleged arrest to the Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri.
*Ogbuku Condemns ‘Mischievous and False’ Report*
According to a press statement issued on Friday, October 31, 2025, and signed by Dr. Willie Etim, Special Assistant on Media to the NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Ogbuku described the trending report as “false, misleading, mischievous, and unnecessary.”
The statement was in response to a publication attributed to a former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), which suggested a political rift between Ogbuku and Governor Diri — a claim the NDDC boss firmly dismissed. “There is no rivalry within the APC family in Bayelsa State,” the statement emphasized, urging the public to disregard such divisive narratives designed to create disunity.
‘Opinions Expressed Are Personal, Not Mine’ — Ogbuku
Dr. Ogbuku, noted for his calm and conciliatory leadership style, cautioned that any political comments made by individuals in Bayelsa State should be regarded strictly as personal opinions, not as expressions of his own views or position.
He further disassociated himself from any attempt to drag Governor Diri’s name into political controversies or unfounded reports of arrest, warning that such stories were crafted to mislead the public and fuel unnecessary tension.
*Apology to Governor Diri Over False Publication*
In a display of humility and political maturity, Dr. Ogbuku extended an unreserved apology to Governor Diri for any embarrassment or inconvenience caused by the false report. “We use this medium to express our sincere apology to His Excellency, Governor Douye Diri, and to caution our party members and supporters to exercise restraint in public commentary — especially when such remarks could mislead the public or misrepresent facts,” the statement concluded.
A Call for Unity and Responsible Leadership
With this clarification, Dr. Ogbuku has effectively dispelled rumours surrounding his purported arrest and reaffirmed his commitment to unity, collaboration, and integrity within Bayelsa’s political environment.
His message serves as a reminder that leadership in the Niger Delta requires focus and cooperation — not distractions from misinformation or politically motivated speculation.