There was huge drama today as the Acting MD of the NDDC Prof Daniel Pondei slumped during Questioning by Lawmakers at the National Assembly.

Today is the 4th day of the hearing to unravel the monumental financial misappropriation in the Commission.

On Friday, the former MD, Joy Nunieh had undergone questioning via Zoom by the Lawmakers. The Minister, Godswill Akpabio with whom Nunieh has been in an unsavoury controversy with was also interrogated.

Friday’s hearing saw allegations of corruption traded between both parties.

One hour into today’s hearing, the current MD of the #NDDC was seen slowly passing out with his eyes scarily dilating and his pupils gradually disappearing as he slumped on his table. Un§sure of his real condition, the legislator that had the floor paused intermittently to be sure Pondei was hearing him. He however, hung up when it was obvious that Pondei was not hearing.

The moment he was noticed, several attendees, including newsmen rushed to resuscitate him, holding his mouth open in a move to prevent him biting off his tongue. Others sprinkled water on his head until he appeared stable enough to be led out of the meeting room.

The incident led to discussions on the next action to take until one of the panelists proposed that the sitting be adjourned for 30 minutes.

The NDDC boss, Daniel Pondei had walked out on the lawmakers last week Thursday on the grounds that the Chairman of the committee, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo was a party with some interest in the investigation.

According to him, he would not get a fair hearing as long as Tunji-Ojo was on the panel. He therefore refused to make a presentation. 

Before today’s hearing resumed however, Tunji-Ojo recused himself from the panel leaving his deputy to take charge.

The Lawmakers felt slighted and issued a warrant of arrest against him. He however tendered an apology later. 

Related story:

“Why Akpabio Sacked Me,” Former NDDC Boss

MD NDDC Slumps during Questioning