Here’s what you need to know:
- Senator Natasha is suing Senate President Akpabio for alleged defamation.
- NDDA is asking her to drop the lawsuit and respect the Niger Delta region.
- The group praises Akpabio as a defender of the Niger Delta.
- The heart of the matter? A reshuffling of Senate committee leadership.
Why is NDDA Getting Involved?
The NDDA, a group focused on the development of the Niger Delta region, is not happy with Senator Natasha’s actions. They believe her lawsuit against Akpabio is disrespectful, especially considering her ties to the region through marriage. They are basically saying, “Don’t bite the hand that feeds you!”
The Lawsuit: What’s the Fuss About?
Senator Natasha is seeking a whopping N100 billion in damages, plus N300 million to cover her legal expenses. Ouch! This all stems from what she claims is defamation by Akpabio and one of his aides. The case is currently filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
NDDA’s Take: Akpabio is a Hero!
Iteveh Nur’ Ekpokpobe, the convener of NDDA, held a press conference in Abuja to voice the group’s support for Akpabio. He lauded Akpabio’s leadership and even called him the “Defender of the Niger Delta.” Strong words! The NDDA seems to think Akpabio is doing a great job bringing resources and opportunities to the region.
Committee Chaos: The Root of the Problem
The NDDA points to a recent reshuffle of Senate committee leadership as the real reason behind the conflict. Senator Natasha was removed as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content, and Senator Joel Onowakpo Thomas from Delta State was appointed in her place. This move, according to NDDA, is what sparked the controversy.
Think of it like this: Senator Natasha had a powerful position that allowed her to influence the oil and gas sector (a major industry in the Niger Delta). Losing that position, and seeing it go to someone from the region, is what seems to have triggered her lawsuit.
Flashback: NDDA’s Earlier Concerns
Back in August 2023, the NDDA raised concerns about the lack of representation from Delta State in Senate committee chairmanships. They noted that out of 74 committees, Delta State didn’t get a single chairman position. They understood that these appointments were up to the Senate President, but they still voiced their disappointment.
The Bigger Picture: Niger Delta’s Importance
The NDDA is emphasizing the importance of the Niger Delta region to Nigeria’s economy. They believe that the Chairman of the Local Content Committee should be someone from the region who understands its needs and can advocate for its interests. They see Akpabio’s actions as protecting the Niger Delta’s stake in the oil and gas industry.
So, What’s Next?
Will Senator Natasha heed the NDDA’s call and drop her lawsuit? Will Akpabio respond to the NDDA’s support? This political drama is far from over. Stay tuned!