An online news outfit has lashed out on Sahara Reporters, for their publication against the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Development Commission ( NDDC) labelling them as ” A Dustbin of falsehood “. Statement released by the news outfit reads :
“The attention of the Niger Delta Progress Reporters has been drawn to the false and malicious report by Sahara Reporters alleging that the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) spent ₦5 billion on the 50th birthday celebration of its Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku.
We categorically state that this allegation is false, baseless, and mischievous. The NDDC has already clarified that no Commission funds were used for the celebration. The events were fully sponsored by Dr. Ogbuku’s friends, family members, associates, and well-wishers.
It is therefore regrettable that Sahara Reporters, once regarded as a credible investigative platform, has descended into what can best be described as a dustbin of falsehood. Instead of facts, it thrives on speculation, faceless “sources,” and sensationalism.
Declining Credibility of Sahara Reporters
In its report, Sahara Reporters could not produce a single document, record, or verifiable evidence linking NDDC funds to the birthday events. Its reliance on unsubstantiated gossip is further proof that it is fast losing credibility as a media organization.
NDDC’s Visible Legacy Projects
While Sahara Reporters peddles lies, the NDDC under Dr. Ogbuku continues to deliver tangible results. Among projects nearing completion and scheduled for commissioning next month are:
The Kaa-Ataba Bridge in Rivers State – a 1.2 km bridge linking Andoni and Kana LGAs, opening access to Bonny Island.
Specialist Hospitals in Ikom (Cross River) and Port Harcourt (Rivers State) – to boost advanced healthcare delivery.
The road linking Rivers State and Abia, including the Ikaa Bridge in Akwa Ibom – a 30 km road and bridge network strengthening regional commerce.
These and many other projects show that the Commission is focused on development, not frivolities.
A Call for Responsible Journalism
The Niger Delta deserves accurate reporting, not falsehoods designed to undermine progress. Sahara Reporters’ decision to ignore facts and circulate fabrications is a disservice to the public.
We therefore urge the general public to treat Sahara Reporters’ publications with caution. Until it can back its stories with verifiable evidence, its reports should be regarded as cheap propaganda.
Conclusion
Dr. Ogbuku’s leadership is being defined not by Sahara Reporters’ false headlines, but by bridges, hospitals, roads, and human development projects that Niger Deltans can see and benefit from.
Sahara Reporters has chosen the path of falsehood. The Niger Delta chooses the path of progress.”
~ Published by Niger Delta Progress Reporters
Dave Ikiedei Asei
September 25, 2025
