There are growing indications that a coordinated smear campaign is being orchestrated against the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, as political maneuvering intensifies ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Reliable sources suggest that certain paid political agents have been deployed to tarnish Dr. Ogbuku’s reputation in a calculated effort to undermine his growing influence and credibility. The ultimate goal of this malicious campaign, according to insiders, is to portray Ogbuku as disloyal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and to strain his relationship with former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, his respected kinsman.
At the center of these unfounded allegations is the claim that Dr. Ogbuku is engaged in covert political dealings with former President Jonathan to support his supposed presidential ambition in 2027. These claims, widely circulated on social media and certain online platforms, are being described by those familiar with the situation as nothing more than baseless fabrications designed to create political friction.
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One of the narratives being pushed by these political detractors is that Dr. Ogbuku allegedly acquired a high-value property in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, which they claim was purchased on behalf of the NDDC for use as a state office. The building, said to be located in a prime area of the Bayelsa capital, is being falsely linked to former President Jonathan. The insinuation is that the property was acquired to channel funds into a secret campaign effort for a potential Jonathan presidential bid—an allegation that has not been substantiated by any credible evidence.
In addition, the blackmail campaign has reportedly included fabricated stories of secret meetings between Dr. Ogbuku and several influential Bayelsa political figures. Among those named in these alleged nocturnal gatherings are former President Jonathan, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, and Chief Timipre Sylva. The purported purpose of these meetings is to strategize for a 2027 political alliance aimed at positioning Jonathan for a return to Aso Rock.
Observers have noted that these rumors appear to be politically motivated and are aimed at creating discord within the ranks of the ruling political establishment. Dr. Ogbuku, who has been widely commended for his leadership at the NDDC and his commitment to the development of the Niger Delta, has not publicly responded to the allegations. However, close associates describe the claims as “laughable distractions” and attempts to derail ongoing development projects and initiatives being championed by the Commission under his watch.
Analysts warn that as the 2027 elections draw closer, such smear campaigns and misinformation tactics may become more frequent, especially targeting influential figures perceived as rising political assets.
For now, Nigerians are urged to remain discerning and cautious in consuming unverified political narratives, particularly those designed to sow seeds of mistrust and division within the country’s leadership.
