Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), has publicly dismissed growing speculations about his alleged interest in contesting the 2028 Bayelsa State governorship election. Speaking at a world press conference in Asaba to mark the 25th anniversary of the NDDC, Ogbuku clarified that he has no such political ambition. Instead, he emphasized that his current priority is to effectively discharge his duties as assigned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and to contribute meaningfully to the development of the Niger Delta region.
Ogbuku stated categorically that he has never told anyone he intends to run for the Bayelsa governorship, describing such rumours as distractions. He said his focus remains firmly on executing the presidential mandate through the NDDC, adding that his only political concern at the moment is President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027. “If there’s any election I’m interested in, it is Mr President’s re-election,” he said. “If Mr President does not win, how do I win an election?” he added, making it clear that his success is tied to the continuation of Tinubu’s administration.
He also addressed his supporters and political enthusiasts who have begun erecting billboards and publicly campaigning on his behalf. Ogbuku urged them to redirect their energy and resources toward mobilizing support for Tinubu’s re-election, which he described as “the most important political goal” for now.
According to him, the stability and success of the current federal government are essential for any future political aspirations across the country, particularly in the Niger Delta. His statement appears to be an effort to silence internal party speculation while reinforcing his loyalty to the president and the ruling party’s national agenda.
