Abana-Ikot Effiom –The Bakassi Legislative Council has formally petitioned the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to reject the nomination of Rt. Hon. Michael Offiong for any appointment within the commission. The petition, signed by Hon. Ene Edet, Chairman of the House Committee on Judiciary, Public Petition, and Conflict Resolution, outlines strong opposition to Offiong’s potential appointment, citing betrayal of the Bakassi Local Government Area (LGA) and a conflict of interest NEGROIDHAVEN can report.
In the petition addressed to Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, the NDDC Cross River State Representative, the council accused Offiong of actively supporting the now controversial delisting of Bakassi LGA from Nigeria’s map during his tenure as an elected representative. The council described this move as a direct betrayal of the people who entrusted him with leadership.
“Rt. Hon. Michael Offiong was among those who signed and supported the move to delist Bakassi LGA from Nigeria’s map,” the petition stated. “This act is a direct betrayal of the people who entrusted him with leadership and representation.”
The council further argued that Offiong’s actions were politically motivated, benefiting from his position in Bakassi while undermining the rights and existence of the very people he was elected to serve. “Despite serving two terms as an elected representative under the banner of Bakassi LGA, Rt. Hon. Offiong actively contributed to decisions that undermined the existence and rights of our people,” the petition read.
The petition also highlighted concerns about Offlong’s credibility and commitment to the development of Bakassi LGA. “His past actions demonstrate a lack of commitment to the development and welfare of Bakassi LGA,” the council stated. “If appointed, there is no guarantee that he will work in the best interest of our people within NDDC.”
The council emphasized that Offiong’s nomination is an insult to the people of Bakassi, who continue to struggle for recognition, development, and justice. They urged the NDDC to withdraw any consideration of Offiong for the appointment, demanding that only individuals with integrity, loyalty, and a true commitment to the Niger Delta and Bakassi LGA be considered for such a crucial position.
“We trust that you will take this petition seriously and act in the best interest of justice, fairness, and the people of Bakassi LGA,” the petition concluded.
