The Movement For Democracy, a pro-democracy group, has condemned the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) over allegations that it diverted funds and resources to support the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship campaign ahead of the Edo State election.
In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its coordinator, Osaze Samuel, the group criticized the NDDC for reportedly supplying trailer loads of rice and misappropriating public funds intended for the development of the Niger Delta to finance partisan political activities.
The group described these actions as an “egregious misuse of public resources” and called on the people of Edo State to resist such practices.
“It is deeply concerning that funds allocated for the development of the Niger Delta, a region still grappling with critical infrastructure and socio-economic challenges, are allegedly being funneled into the APC’s election campaign,” the statement read.
“The NDDC was created to address the needs of the Niger Delta people, not to bankroll political ambitions,” the group added.
The Movement For Democracy urged Edo citizens to reject what it described as “attempts to buy their votes” with public resources, encouraging voters to accept any distributed materials but to express their will at the ballot box.
“We are urging the people of Edo State to collect anything the APC offers, be it rice or other materials, but to reject them at the polls,” the statement continued.
“Your vote is your voice, and we must not allow it to be silenced by those who exploit public funds for personal gain,” it added.
The Movement For Democracy also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to closely monitor the situation to ensure the upcoming election remains free from financial inducements and electoral malpractice.
Additionally, they urged anti-corruption agencies to investigate the alleged diversion of funds and bring those responsible to justice.
“We call on all Edo people to vote wisely and reject any form of manipulation. The future of our state depends on the choices we make now. Let us choose leaders who will serve the people, not those who serve themselves,” the statement concluded
