The Executive Chairman
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)
Abuja, Nigeria.
PETITION FOR INVESTIGATION INTO ALLEGED DIVERSION, PARTISAN DISTRIBUTION AND POSSIBLE MISAPPLICATION OF NDDC EMPOWERMENT PROGRAMME ITEMS MEANT FOR INDIGENES OF CROSS RIVER STATE
Dear Sir,
I write as a concerned citizen and indigene of Cross River State to respectfully call on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC to investigate the circumstances surrounding the recent Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC empowerment programme involving the distribution of minibuses, tricycles, and skill acquisition opportunities allegedly meant for beneficiaries across the entirety of Cross River State.
Available public information, including internal memoranda and public announcements credited to the NDDC, indicated that the programme was designed for “Indigenes of Cross River State.” The programme reportedly involved:
1. Skill Acquisition and Capacity Enhancement Programme for 500 indigenes of Cross River State; and
2. Distribution of 150 tricycles (Keke Napep) and 200 mini buses for empowerment purposes.
However, there are widespread concerns and allegations among stakeholders and citizens that the implementation and distribution process may have been concentrated predominantly within Cross River South Senatorial District to the exclusion or severe disadvantage of citizens from Cross River Central and Cross River North Senatorial Districts.
These concerns have generated public outrage, especially among youths and community leaders from the other senatorial districts who believe that a federal intervention programme intended for all Cross River indigenes ought to be distributed equitably, transparently, and without political bias.
In light of the above, I respectfully request that the EFCC investigate the following:
Whether the empowerment items and opportunities allocated by the NDDC for Cross River State were distributed in accordance with approved guidelines and beneficiary lists;
Whether public assets meant for the collective benefit of Cross River State indigenes were diverted, politically cornered, or allocated disproportionately to one senatorial district;
Whether there was abuse of office, favoritism, conflict of interest, or political patronage in the selection of beneficiaries;
Whether due procurement, documentation, and accountability procedures were followed in the acquisition and distribution of the buses and tricycles;
Whether any public officers or politically exposed persons improperly influenced the process for personal or political advantage.
This petition is not intended to declare any individual guilty of wrongdoing but rather to request a transparent and independent investigation in the public interest so as to preserve confidence in federal intervention programmes and ensure fairness, accountability, and equity among all citizens of Cross River State.
I strongly believe that if the allegations are found to be unfounded, such an investigation would clear the names of those involved. Conversely, if any wrongdoing is established, appropriate sanctions should be applied in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The youths and citizens of Cross River Central and Cross River North deserve equal access to opportunities and empowerment initiatives funded with public resources.
I trust in the EFCC’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the fight against corruption.
Thank you for your anticipated action.
Yours faithfully,
Snr. Comr. Emaluji Michael Sunday
OCHOCHI 001
