Omiete Joseph
The National Executives of the Niger Delta Student Union Government has dismissed any plan to protest against the management of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
National President, Niger Delta Student Union Government, Scott Ogunseri who said it was the handiwork of imposters, said the proposed protest is not unauthorised by the body
Speaking while addressing journalists yesterday in Port Harcourt, the students group said they have no intention of embarking on any protest against the agency for any reason.
Ogunseri said the projects and programs under the current NDDC management have benefited students and pledged to always foster peace, unity, and growth in the region, not igniting crisis.
He called for the arrest of anyone planning such protest under the guise of the student’s body, saying, “We condemn such calls and advise our members, International Oil Companies, parastatals, and ministries to disregard any information from these impostors.”
Ogunseri appreciated President Bola Tinubu for appointing Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, “a one-time Student Leader and Senior Comrade, as the MD of NDDC. This appointment is a testament to renewed hope, as Dr. Ogbuku understands the challenges faced by youth and students”.
He however, called on the Commission to consider approval for Niger Delta Students’ Union Bursary Approval, internship opportunities for students and expansion of the NDDC overseas scholarship to accommodate more beneficiaries among others.
Similarly, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Zone B said those planning such protests against NDDC are neither representing the zone nor legitimate leaders of the body and describe them as impostors.
Coordinator of NANS, Zone B, Isaac Ogieva stated, “The leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students, Zone B wishes to dissociate itself from any planned protest against the NDDC, purportedly organized by the illegitimate and rogue leader of the NIDSUG.
“The National Association of Nigerian students’ is the umbrella body of Nigerian students both at home and in the diaspora, which serves as a rapid response organ for the day to day running of students’ activities.
“On this note, we unequivocally state that NANS Zone B is not involved in any such planned protest and has not authorized any individual or group to represent it in this regard.”
While noting that they are a law-abiding and responsible organization, he said they remains steadfast and committed to promoting the welfare and interests of Nigerian students through peaceful and constructive means.
“We urge all students and the general public to disregard any information or propaganda suggesting that NANS Zone B is involved in any planned protest to NDDC,” he said.
The NANS Zone B Coordinator lauded Dr Ogbuku and the NDDC management for their support in providing solar light, award of foreign scholarships and the construction of hostels and classrooms across the various higher institutions of learning in our region.