Orok Duke Denies Fake NDDC Christmas Bonus List, Calls Out Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong

Cross River State Representative of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Rt. Hon. Otuekong Orok Otu Duke, has strongly refuted claims linking him to a purported list of beneficiaries for the NDDC Christmas Bonus program. In a press release, he described the list as fake and distanced himself and his office from its origin.

According to Hon. Duke, the NDDC allocated ₦100 million for distribution to 50 groups across Cross River State, with each group set to receive ₦2 million. However, he alleged that the project was hijacked by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, who represents the Southern Senatorial District, accusing the Senator of unilaterally taking control of the funds meant for youths and women in the three senatorial districts of the state.

“For the records, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong is currently keeping the ₦100 million released by the NDDC for youths and women across Cross River State. This is not a Southern Senatorial District project; it is for the entire state,” Hon. Duke stated.

He challenged those circulating the list to release the full details of the 50 groups, including their names, account numbers, phone numbers, and beneficiaries. He also clarified that two groups mentioned in the fake list were affiliated with a cultural organization he coordinates, but he neither submitted their names nor authorized the publication of the list.

The NDDC Representative expressed disappointment over Senator Ekpenyong’s alleged interference in his role, urging the Senator to focus on legislative oversight for all nine Niger Delta states rather than manipulating allocations already designated for Cross River State.

Hon. Duke called for transparency and urged political actors to work collectively for the benefit of Cross Riverians, emphasizing the need to empower the people and ensure fair distribution of resources.

“This is my official position on the matter,” he concluded.

Signed,

Rt. Hon. Otuekong Orok Otu Duke

Cross River State Representative, NDDC

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