The Lokpobiri Family and Ekeremor Youths Progressive Forum, EYPF, have faulted allegations of ethnic bias levelled against the management of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, NCDMB, led by Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, the Executive Secretary.
In separate statements, they said the allegations are baseless and malicious claims aimed at undermining the progress of the NCDMB and sowing seed of discord in the Niger Delta.
They equally issued a seven-day ultimatum to Jonathan Lokpobiri, President of the Ijaw Youth Council, IYC, to resign from the position over recent statements he issued against the leadership of the NCDMB.
In a statement signed by Allen Lokpobiri, the Family said the IYC President’s allegations have not only tarnished the reputation of a respected leader but also threatened the unity and peace of the Ekeremor community and the broader Niger Delta.
The Lokpobiri Family said the IYC leader’s actions demonstrate a clear disregard for the collective interests of the Ijaw people and undermine the progress achieved through inclusive leadership.
They warned that failure to resign would attract further consequences, including potential banishment from Ekeremor.
“We are appalled by the reckless and unfounded accusations levelled against Engr. Ogbe, a leader who has consistently worked for the progress of the Niger Delta.
“Jonathan Lokpobiri’s actions not only misrepresent the collective aspirations of our people but also threaten the unity and peace we have worked hard to maintain in Ekeremor.
“We demand his immediate resignation, retraction of these false claims and an apology. Failure to do so would attract severe consequences, including banishment from our community,” the statement said.
The family further emphasised their unwavering support for Ogbe, highlighting his inclusive leadership at the NCDMB.
“Engr. Ogbe’s tenure has brought significant development to the Niger Delta, with equitable opportunities for all ethnic groups, including the Ijaw.
“We will not tolerate attempts to smear his reputation with baseless allegations for selfish motives. The Lokpobiri Family stands firmly behind Engr. Ogbe and calls on all well-meaning Nigerians to support his efforts to advance local content development and foster unity across our region,” the statement added.
In the same vein, the Ekeremor Youths Progressive Forum, EYPF, dissociated itself from the Jonathan Lokpobiri-led IYC and its activities, rejecting their call for President Bola Tinubu to sack Ogbe.
In a statement signed by Comrade John Godman, the group faulted claims that Ogbe favoured his Itsekiri kinsmen in capacity-building initiatives while marginalising other ethnic groups, particularly the Ijaw.
According to EYPF, Ogbe has rather demonstrated exemplary leadership and inclusivity in advancing the NCDMB’s mandate.
“Engr. Ogbe has fostered equitable representation and development for all communities, including the Ijaw, through capacity-building programs, training, and job opportunities.
“We categorically refute the assertion that Engr. Ogbe has avoided critical youth engagement or favoured one ethnic group over others.
“His track record shows a commitment to transparent and inclusive stakeholder engagement, with tangible results in human capacity development and economic empowerment across the region.
“The claim of a ten-month communication barrier with the IYC is a misrepresentation, as Engr. Ogbe has maintained open channels for dialogue with youth groups and stakeholders, a fact that can be verified by many community leaders in the Niger Delta.
“The NCDMB has consistently upheld the principles of fairness, equity, and federal character, ensuring that all communities, including the Ijaw, benefit from its programs,” the EYPF said.
The group highlighted Ogbe’s contributions to local content development, job creation, and sustainable growth, emphasising his commitment to fairness, equity, and federal character.
They called on Nigerians, particularly Niger Delta youths, to support the Executive Secretary’s efforts to advance the region’s development through the NCDMB.
“We commend Engr. Ogbe for his transformative leadership at NCDMB, which has strengthened local content policies, created job opportunities, and driven sustainable development in the Niger Delta.
“His integrity, competence, and dedication to the collective aspirations of all communities in the region are undeniable. We call on all Nigerians, particularly the youth of the Niger Delta, to support Engr. Ogbe’s visionary leadership to ensure continued progress and prosperity for our region,” the statement added.
Lokpobiri clan, Ekeremor youths back NCDMB boss, demand resignation of IYC President
