N6.25b NDDC fund: DSS quizzes Jackrich over palliative scam allegation

High Chief Sobomabo Jackrich

The Department of State Services (DSS) has interrogated the chairman of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) COVID-19 Palliative Distribution Committee Sobomabo Jackrich.

According to a report by The Nation on Thursday, Mr Jackrich a Niger Delta freedom fighter confirmed the development, saying he was invited by the DSS after a petition he sent to the National Assembly accusing the NDDC interim management committee (IMC) of diverting N6.25billion palliatives for the region approved by President Muhammadu Buhari.

“I was invited August 24 to meet with the State Director of the DSS in Rivers State. The invitation, which came through a phone call from an operative from the Rivers State Command was said to be in connection with a petition from the Niger Delta Development Commission,” the 42-year-old said.

“The NDDC accused me, an appointee of the commission of using the letterhead of the NDDC to petition the National Assembly against the Interim Management Committee of the NDDC.

“For the avoidance of doubt and as a responsible citizen, I decided to honour the said invitation on August 25, 2020.

“It is important to note that I had in my capacity as chairman of NDDC COVID-19 Palliatives Distribution Committee petitioned the National Assembly to investigate the alleged diversion and misappropriation of N6.25bn palliatives funds approved by President Muhammadu Buhari.

“I alleged in the petitions to both the Senate and the House of Representatives that the NDDC Interim Management Committee IMC led by Prof. Daniel Pondei has misappropriated the money undeniably.”

Jackrich insisted he would not be intimidated by the IMC to drop his pursuit for justice for the Niger Delta people.