Niger Delta Youths Threaten Protests Over Regional Neglect

Youths in the South-South region, under the Unemployed Youths Association of Nigeria (UYAN), have accused the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) of neglecting the escalating poverty and challenges faced by their communities.

In a statement, the group expressed deep dissatisfaction over the rising poverty levels among youth in the area, calling for immediate intervention from President Bola Tinubu and other key stakeholders in governance. They threatened to hold peace marches in Abuja and Port Harcourt to demand the removal of NDDC Managing Director Mr. Sam Ogbuku if their concerns are not addressed. The organization argues that the NDDC has failed to tackle the pressing issues affecting the region, leading to widespread discontent among the youth.

Coordinators from various states, including Blessing Okosun (Cross River), Fayoje Gbenga (Delta), Akpakip Okon (Akwa Ibom), Osaruchi Omeiha (Rivers), Honesty Asemota (Edo), and Comrade Peter Ochuko (South-South regional coordinator), voiced their concerns about the leadership of the NDDC and the need for restructuring within the commission.

“The kind of restructuring we propose must involve the devolution of powers from the center to component units,” the statement reads “The exclusive list has concentrated too many powers with little responsibility on citizens. It is time to decongest this list, starting with the leadership of the NDDC, which is long overdue for change.”

The call for restructuring reflects growing frustration among youth regarding ongoing neglect and poverty in the Niger Delta.