The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has firmly dismissed speculations about his alleged ambition to contest the 2028 Bayelsa State governorship election, reiterating his loyalty to President Bola Tinubu and emphasizing that his sole political priority is the President’s re-election in 2027.
Ogbuku made the clarification during a world press conference on Monday in Asaba, Delta State, held as part of the events marking the NDDC’s 25th anniversary celebration.
Addressing widespread rumours, Ogbuku stated unequivocally that he had not informed anyone of any intention to run for governor and urged those fueling such speculations to redirect their efforts toward supporting President Tinubu’s second-term bid.
“I want to say clearly that I have never told anybody I’m contesting any election. The assignment given to me by Mr. President is to serve as the Managing Director and CEO of NDDC, and that’s where my full concentration lies,” Ogbuku said.
He continued, “If there is any election I’m interested in right now, it is that of Mr. President’s re-election. For those suggesting that I may run if the President doesn’t win — how can I even run if he doesn’t succeed? His victory is essential for all of us.”
Ogbuku appealed to political actors and supporters in Bayelsa who have been mounting campaign billboards and pushing speculative narratives, urging them to channel their energy into ensuring Tinubu’s victory in 2027.
“I ask them to convert that energy into campaigning for Mr. President. We need to give him the mandate again so he can continue the work of national transformation. As for me, my loyalty remains unwavering, and my duty is to ensure that I deliver on the job I’ve been entrusted with — to bring sustainable development to the Niger Delta region,” he added.
Ogbuku reaffirmed that his current focus is on achieving the NDDC’s mandate under the guidance and vision of President Tinubu, noting that delivering real progress to the region is his primary contribution to the administration’s success.
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