Eseme Eyibo, Larry Esin linked to NDDC Job

Larry Esin

BY KENNETH JUDE

There are strong indications to the effect that former G22 member, Larry Esin and Hon. Eseme Eyibo has been lined up for the top job at NDDC. This development may be unconnected to their recent decision to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC), it was learnt. THE INK gathered from reliable sources that the move to appoint an Akwa Ibomite MD of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) follows strong agitations that have trailed the sacking of Barr Dan Abia who was relieved of his duty as MD in December, 2015.  Sir Bassey Dan Abia returned to the state last week to a rousing welcome. His tenure, reports say, was supposed to last for four years but he did just two years before President Muhammadu Buhari replaced him with Mrs. Ibim Semenitari on acting capacity. She hails from Rivers State.

Since the appointment of Mrs. Ibim Semenitari as the new MD of the NDDC, President Muhammadu Buhari has come under criticism by prominent Akwa Ibomites who have at different times voiced out their displeasure over the summary dismissal of Sir Dan Abia and the decision of the president to replace him with someone from another state when Akwa Ibom was even yet to complete its term of four years.
 A source hinted THE INK that the consideration of Larry Esin and Eseme Eyibo for the top job is geared towards ensuring that Akwa Ibom is not short-changed. President Mmuhammadu Buhari, it was learnt is under pressure to replace Ibim Semenitari with an Akwa Ibom indigene.
The source told our reporter that Hon. Eseme Eyibo may have got wind that his name was mentioned as one of those being considered as MD of NDDC hence his swift decision to join alliance with the All Progressives Congress (APC). The former House of Representatives Member believes his defection to APC will brighten his chances in clinching the coveted position.
But Hon. Eseme Eyibo may not have it smooth more so as he has left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He may likely be blocked by some forces of the PDP in the state as the Governor; a source said will surely want to have a hand on who will be appointed MD of NDDC from the state.
Our reporter also gathered from impeccable sources that Larry Esin is also being considered for the position but noted that Eseme Eyibo appears to be ahead in the pecking order. By and large, an Akwa Ibom indigene may be in line to take over the reins at NDDC barring any last minute change in plans.
But a source told THE INK that Barr. Bassey Dan Abia may likely be reinstated.