Chief Tony C. Okocha, the Representative of Rivers State on the NDDC Governing Board, has been been commended for the timely intervention of the Commision through his office as the state Rep.
Recall that Chief Okocha alongside other dignitaries, paid a visit to the Soku Community for an on-the-site assessment of the ongoing NDDC Rapid Response Free Medical Intervention.
During the event, Hon. Lolo Isaiah Opuende, the honourable member representing Akuku-Toru Constituency II, was represented by his personal assistant, Mr. Ibibo Dimabo.
The entire Soku Community, including chiefs, the CDC, women, youths, students, and children, gathered to welcome the officials for playing a crucial role in rescuing them from the devastating cholera epidemic that almost wiped out the community.
When the State Rep’s entourage paid courtesy call on the Ruler of Soku Community, Chief Omubo Omoni Alasia, who is also the Chairman of Soku Council of Chiefs, he expressed shock and disappointment at the Rivers State Commissioner of Health’s insensitivity towards the community’s plight. Chief Alasia revealed that he, three of his children, and several others listed were recent victims of the cholera outbreak and are still recovering. He criticised the Commissioner for spreading false information that could discourage the NDDC from providing life-saving medical intervention in the Soku Community and demanded an unreserved apology.
Other community members also condemned the Commissioner of Health’s actions and expressed gratitude to the NDDC for their swift response in saving the community from the ravages of cholera and other waterborne diseases.
Addressing the enthusiastic crowd at the Soku Town Hall, Chief Tony C. Okocha emphasised that the NDDC is not under the authority of the Rivers State government; therefore, it does not require permission from the Commissioner of Health to respond to emergencies and save lives in the Soku Community. He acknowledged the SOS messages he received from the community and escalated the situation to the NDDC Governing Board, who swiftly approved the intervention.
Chief Tony C. Okocha expressed his gratitude to the Chairman of the NDDC Board, Barr. Chiedu Ebie, the MD/CEO, Chief Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, and other distinguished members of the 7th Governing Board of the NDDC for prioritising the welfare and well-being of the people of the Niger Delta.
He reassured the people of Soku Community that the NDDC would make every effort to alleviate their hardships by providing necessities such as solar-powered drinking water, modern toilet facilities, solar streetlights, food, and other relief materials.
Similarly, in further expression of gratitude, the community , days later sent letter to the NDDC State Rep Chief Tony Okocha. The Letter which was signed by the community development Chairman ; Keodiye Dokubo Chairman & Secretary ; Diepriye Amachree. The specially thanked the NDDC for her quick response and intervention, praying God to bless the state Rep, Chairman of the Board , MD and other members of the board for coming to their aid.
