October 31, (THEWILL) – The Federal High Court, Abuja, has dismissed a suit challenging the appointment of Chiedu Ebie, as Chairman of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
The suit, filed by oil-producing communities in Bayelsa and Delta State, had argued that Ebie was not qualified to head the Board of the NDDC since he was not from the oil-producing area with the highest quantum of oil production.
They, therefore, prayed the court to nullify his appointment as chairman of the NDDC by President Bola Tinubu.
Delivering judgement, Justice Joyce Abdulmalki held that by the provisions of section 24(2) of the NDDC Act, the plaintiffs lack the locus standi to Institute the suit.
For emphasis, Section 24(2) of the NDDC Act, reads: “Notwithstanding anything contained in any other law or enactment, no suit shall lie against any member of the Board, the Managing Director, or any other officer or employee of the Commission for any act done in pursuance or execution of this Act or any other law or enactment, or of any public duty or authority or in respect of any alleged neglect or default in the execution of this Act or such law or enactment, duty or authority, shall lie or be instituted in any court.”
Consequently, the court dismissed the suit in its entirety.
Meanwhile, Ebie has dedicated the legal victory to God Almighty and all Niger Deltans of goodwill.
In a statement issued by Jerome Utomi, his Media Assistant, Ebie called on Niger Deltans to shun all forms of distractions capable of distracting the Commission from its focus to ensure infrastructural and socio-economic development of the region.
“The judgement is remarkable and will further spur my dedication in leadership to make invaluable contributions to the development of the region and I congratulate all Niger Deltans on the verdict.
“Looking at the level of peace and harmony that has existed among members of the governing board and management, I am confident that we will continue to excel and reach new heights of excellent quality service delivery to the region and its people.
“I call on all Niger Deltans to shun all forms of distractions through frivolous litigations that distract the Commission’s governing board and management and, in its place, imbibe the virtues of commitment and other positive attributes needed for fostering peace and unity, promoting innovation for impactful strides for advancing development of the region.”
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
