The Movement For Democracy, led by coordinator Osaze Samuel, has criticized reports of the alleged misuse of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) funds to support the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign in the upcoming Edo governorship election.
The group expressed concern over claims that resources intended for the Niger Delta’s development, including trailer loads of rice, were being diverted to fund partisan activities.
In its statement, the Movement called the alleged actions an “egregious misuse of public resources” and urged Edo citizens to reject any attempt to influence their votes through material inducements.
The group stressed the importance of ensuring that public funds are used to address the region’s development challenges rather than financing political ambitions.
The Movement For Democracy also appealed to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and anti-corruption agencies to investigate the situation and ensure a fair election.
Part of the statement read: “It is deeply concerning that funds allocated for the development of the Niger Delta, a region still grappling with critical infrastructure and socio-economic challenges, are allegedly being funnelled into the APC’s election campaign.
“The NDDC was created to address the needs of the Niger Delta people, not to bankroll political ambitions.
“We are urging the people of Edo State to collect anything the APC offers, be it rice or other materials, but to reject them at the polls.
“Your vote is your voice, and we must not allow it to be silenced by those who exploit public funds for personal gain.
“The NDDC should focus on improving the lives of the people of the Niger Delta, not diverting resources to support political campaigns.
“Edo State deserves leaders who will prioritize the needs of the people, not those who manipulate public resources for electoral success.
“We call on all Edo people to vote wisely and reject any form of manipulation.
“The future of our state depends on the choices we make now. Let us choose leaders who will serve the people, not those who serve themselves.”
In a related development, the Edo South Business Forum has berated Senator Monday Okpebholo, the APC governorship candidate, after he vowed to continue the legacy of former governor Adams Oshiomhole if elected as state governor.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the forum described Oshiomhole’s tenure as “the worst in the history of Edo State.”
The forum accused Oshiomhole, who is now the senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, of leading without empathy, promoting thuggery, and failing to attract any meaningful investment to the state.
