The Contractors Association of the Niger Delta Development Commission (CA-NDDC) has suspended its president, Mr. Sylvester Tonye Iyade, over allegations of misconduct.

The suspension was announced in a letter addressed to the Managing Director of the NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku.

The letter was signed by all executive members, including Mr. Sunny Benstowe, John Ibigbami, Sir Richard Ajua, Saviour Ijeoma, and Benjamin Okundia, said the decision to suspend Iyade was taken at a meeting held on October 9, 2024, and subsequent meetings in February 2025.

The executive members cited several reasons for the suspension, including lack of accountability and transparency, incompetence, and refusal to convene or attend executive council meetings.

They also alleged that Iyade had abused his office and engaged in gross misconduct.

The association, however, directed Iyade to hand over the association’s properties to Mr. Sunny Benstowe and has expressed confidence in the ability of the NDDC management to facilitate a smooth transition of leadership in the association.

When contacted, Iyade emphasized that the Board of Directors of the Association reinstated him days after an impeachment proceeding was conducted against him.

He explained that the board meeting held virtually on April 6, 2025, saw the passage of several key resolutions that effectively nullified the impeachment.

According to the resolutions, the board declared the impeachment proceeding null and void due to significant procedural irregularities, violations of due process, and lack of substantial evidence to support the claims.

He added that the Board dissolved the executive council, except for him and the General Secretary John Ibigbami.

He said: “The board’s decision was based on a thorough review of the proceedings and documentation related to the impeachment, which revealed a fundamentally unfair, arbitrary, and unconstitutional process. The suspension was also disregarded by the board, and the general public and NDDC management are urged to do the same.

“I was restored to my position effective immediately, with all rights, privileges, and benefits pertaining thereto. The board’s resolution was entered into the minutes of the meeting and is effective immediately.”