The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has responded to recent media reports regarding allegations of unpaid salaries to security workers employed by the commission. In a press statement issued on August 23, 2023, the NDDC clarified its stance on the matter, refuting claims of owed salaries and emphasizing its commitment to transparency and accountability.
The commission addressed reports of security workers threatening a peaceful protest over the alleged non-payment of their monthly salaries. According to the NDDC, such reports are unfounded and not reflective of the actual situation. The NDDC further clarified that it engages Security Companies to hire and manage security guards responsible for safeguarding its various offices and facilities.
Contrary to allegations of unpaid salaries for six months, the NDDC affirmed that the Security companies responsible for the Delta and Rivers state offices have been paid up to July as of August 22, 2023. The commission emphasized that there is no basis for security workers to be owed arrears of salaries, as stipulated in the contracts signed with the security service providers. These contracts reportedly include a clause requiring the service providers to have the capacity to pay their staff for at least two months in the event of any delay from the Commission.
The NDDC also addressed concerns that monies allocated for the payment of security workers’ salaries were diverted to other business ventures. The commission denied such allegations, urging the security workers to disregard misinformation in the media and be assured of the accuracy of the payment process.
In line with its zero-tolerance policy for corrupt practices, the NDDC invited members of the public to come forward with evidence of any corrupt practices. The commission pledged to take prompt action on any reported cases.
The statement emphasized that the threat of a protest at the Commission’s offices is no longer valid, as genuine stakeholders in the Niger Delta region have embraced peaceful engagements since the Dr. Samuel Ogbuku-led management team assumed leadership.
The NDDC highlighted the achievements of the new management team, including laying the foundation for rapid economic development in the region and establishing a sustainable governance structure for effective operations. The commission reiterated its commitment to accountability and transparency and assured stakeholders and the public of its resolve to bring positive change to the Niger Delta region.
