Port Harcourt, Rivers State – October 30, 2025 – Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), has forcefully denied viral rumors claiming he was arrested for an alleged plot to finance a coup against President Bola Tinubu's administration.
The reports, which spread on Wednesday, alleged that Ogbuku transferred N20 billion from NDDC contracts to former Bayelsa State Governor, Chief Timipre Sylva.
Public Appearance Contradicts Rumors
Contrary to the arrest claims, Ogbuku appeared live on national television on Thursday, addressing an agricultural stakeholders' meeting in Port Harcourt. He used the platform to advocate for the Niger Delta to shift from oil dependency to sustainable farming.
"Agriculture has the capacity to transform the Niger Delta’s economy and create new opportunities for growth and employment," Ogbuku stated, demonstrating he was not in custody. The high-profile event was attended by commissioners and directors from across the South-South region.
Source of the Controversy
The controversy began with media reports citing military intelligence sources. These reports alleged Ogbuku's involvement in diverting funds from a N54 billion shoreline protection contract. Investigators from agencies including the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) are said to be tracing over N45 billion in suspicious NDDC transactions potentially linked to a foiled coup plot.
A specific allegation centers on a N20 billion transfer to Timipre Sylva, for whom Ogbuku previously served as Chief of Staff in Bayelsa State. The speculation intensified after Sylva's Abuja residence was raided on October 26.
Strong Denials from Ogbuku and Allies
Ogbuku dismissed the reports as false. "I'm not aware of such," he told reporters, pointing to his public appearance as proof of his freedom.
His allies echoed this sentiment:
· APC chieftain Yekini Nabena labeled the reports "fabricated" and "politically motivated," designed to undermine Ogbuku's work.
· Delta APC stalwart Chief Ebi Kpokpogri called it "fake news" and the "handiwork of fifth columnists."
· An unnamed associate affirmed Ogbuku's commitment to his mandate, stating the NDDC remains focused on its mission.
Timipre Sylva has also denied any involvement in a coup plot.
Broader Context
This incident places the NDDC, an agency with a history of corruption probes, back under public scrutiny. It also occurs amid a climate of political rumors in Nigeria, following similar unfounded stories about other high-profile government officials.
As investigations reportedly continue, Dr. Ogbuku has returned to his official duties, leaving the public to discern fact from fiction.
Source: Warri Voice Editorial Team, based on multiple Nigerian media reports from October 29-30, 2025.