In a show of solidarity and support, the Niger Delta Women for Change (NDWC), a prominent group in Nigeria’s oil-rich Niger Delta region, has come forward to defend Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, the Executive Vice President of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). This move comes amidst a flurry of allegations accusing Eyesan of bias in the awarding of contracts—a claim that NDWC vehemently argues is unfounded and lacking in evidence.
During a press briefing held in Warri, Delta State, NDWC’s President, Esiri Ikomoni, accompanied by fellow members, articulated a strong defense of Eyesan, dismissing the accusations as not only baseless but as manifestations of a campaign driven by hidden motives and bitterness. Ikomoni emphasized that such attacks are not just an affront to Eyesan but an attempt to tarnish her reputation and diminish her considerable contributions to nation-building.
The accusations against Eyesan have stirred considerable discussion, particularly given her role in one of Nigeria’s most critical sectors. The NNPCL, standing at the helm of the country’s oil industry, plays a pivotal role in the economic health of the nation, making any allegations of impropriety within its ranks a matter of national concern. However, NDWC maintains that these allegations are rooted in tribalistic blackmail and an unjust attempt to derail the principles of fairness and meritocracy that Eyesan embodies.
Esiri Ikomoni’s statements during the press conference painted a picture of Eyesan as a leader of integrity, whose experience and visionary leadership have been instrumental in propelling the NNPCL forward. According to Ikomoni, Eyesan’s tenure as Executive Vice President has been marked by a commitment to excellence, integrity, and resilience, qualities that have significantly contributed to the organization’s achievements and its impact on the nation’s development.
The NDWC’s vocal support for Eyesan underscores a broader call for the public to critically assess the motivations behind the allegations and to consider Eyesan’s track record and contributions. The group’s defense also highlights the challenges female leaders often face, particularly in industries traditionally dominated by men, where accusations can sometimes stem from biases rather than factual evidence.
This situation raises important questions about the dynamics of leadership, gender, and power within Nigeria’s corporate and political landscapes. It also sheds light on the need for a more inclusive and equitable approach to assessing and supporting leaders, particularly women, who navigate the complex terrains of high-stakes environments like the NNPCL.
Moreover, the NDWC’s response to the allegations against Eyesan serves as a reminder of the critical role civil society groups play in advocating for fairness, transparency, and accountability in both the public and private sectors. By rallying in defense of Eyesan, the NDWC not only supports an individual they believe is unjustly accused but also champions the broader values of justice and integrity in governance and corporate leadership.
As the situation unfolds, the NDWC’s stance is a beacon of support for Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, urging the public and relevant authorities to look beyond the surface of the allegations and to recognize the potential implications of undermining leaders based on unproven claims. This incident, set against the backdrop of Nigeria’s evolving socio-political and economic narratives, reflects the ongoing struggles and successes of women in leadership, the importance of due process, and the enduring quest for a more just and equitable society.
