KWALE/Nigeria: A coalition of Ndokwa youth groups under the aegis of Concerned Ndokwa Youths in Nigeria has called for the immediate resignation of the Managing Director of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Mr. Suv Festus Ochonogor, over what they described as gross underperformance and failure to deliver meaningful projects to Ndokwa land.
In a statement signed by Engr. Jerry Ogwu, Convener of Concerned Ndokwa Youths and President of the Ndokwa National Youths Congress, alongside other leaders of the movement, the youths said the tenure of Mr. Ochonogor has been “a wasted opportunity for Ndokwa people” despite the commission’s mandate to drive development in oil-producing communities.
“It is disheartening and regrettable that since his assumption of office, Mr. Ochonogor has failed to deliver meaningful developmental projects to Ndokwa land. His tenure has been marked by gross underperformance, wasted opportunities, and neglect of the Ndokwa nation,” the statement read.
The group listed several reasons for their demand, including lack of political will and leadership capacity, failure to execute infrastructure projects, absence of economic empowerment programmes, neglect of youth employment, and zero investment in human capital development such as training and scholarships.
“The role of Managing Director of DESOPADEC is not ceremonial. It is a strategic position meant to channel resources and development into oil-producing communities. Sadly, under Mr. Ochonogor’s leadership, the Ndokwa nation has been left behind,” the statement added.
The youths further dismissed what they termed “policy excuses” from the commission, insisting that the Managing Director, as chief executive, must take responsibility for poor performance rather than shift blame.
Appealing directly to Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the group urged him to act urgently by replacing Mr. Ochonogor with a more competent, visionary, and development-oriented Ndokwa son or daughter who could restore dignity and progress to the people.
“This is not a political witch-hunt; it is a righteous call for justice, accountability, and results. The Ndokwa nation must not continue to suffer due to the incompetence of one individual. Ndokwa land deserves better,” the statement said.
The petition, jointly endorsed by leaders of both the Ndokwa National Youths Congress and #NdokwaProject2027, was copied to prominent Ndokwa leaders, including the President-General of the Ndokwa Neku Union, traditional and political leaders, members of the National Assembly, Delta State commissioners, and other stakeholders.
Concluding their demand, the youths declared: “Suv Festus Ochonogor has failed. He must step aside.”
