PORT HARCOURT/Nigeria: Mr. Chiedu Ebie, the Chairman of the Governing Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), has warmly welcomed a ruling by the Federal High Court in Abuja that upheld his appointment, describing it as well-considered, intelligently delivered, and sound in its reasoning.
In a judgement issued by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik on Thursday, the court dismissed a lawsuit brought forth by oil-producing communities in Bayelsa and Delta States against President Bola Tinubu concerning Ebie’s appointment.
The plaintiffs’ claims were rendered moot, as Justice Abdulmalik ruled that they had failed to file their action within the three-month period mandated by law following the President’s appointment.
“By this ruling, the judiciary has reaffirmed that justice is indeed served in the Temple of Justice,” Ebie remarked, expressing his satisfaction that the decision has dispelled any ambiguities or misrepresentations regarding the NDDC Act’s provisions for appointments.
In a press release issued by his Media Assistant, Jerome Utomi, Ebie described the judgement as a significant milestone and commended President Tinubu for his foresight in adhering to legal protocols during public appointments. He dedicated the legal triumph to God Almighty and to all well-meaning Niger Deltans, extending an invitation to critical stakeholders to collaborate with the NDDC governing board and management in building upon the region’s significant advancements in infrastructure and socio-economic development.
“This judgement is not only remarkable but will also further motivate my commitment to leadership, enabling me to make meaningful contributions to the region’s growth. I congratulate all Niger Deltans on this verdict,” he stated.
Ebie emphasised the urgent need for comprehensive and sustainable development in the Niger Delta, urging stakeholders to set aside divisions and unite in support of the current governing board and management. Since its inauguration nearly 11 months ago, the leadership has fostered an atmosphere of unprecedented peace and harmony within the Commission, he noted.
“Given the level of peace and unity that prevails among the governing board and management, I am confident that we will continue to excel and achieve new heights in delivering quality services to the region and its people,” he added.
He further called upon all Niger Deltans to reject distractions, particularly frivolous lawsuits that could impede the Commission’s progress, instead advocating for commitment and constructive values essential for fostering peace and unity, as well as promoting innovation to advance the region’s development.
