Notable leaders in the South-South geo-political zone on Thursday hit back at the Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom, Obukowho Monday Whiskey, describing his comments on the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio as ‘’reckless’’.

‘’Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom, Obukowho Monday Whiskey is wandering about alone’’

The leaders also described the Delta monarch as ‘’a self-seeker, trouble maker and opportunist’’

‘’The temptation to sell out Urhobo and look out for his own petty interest is great. Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom, Obukowho Monday Whiskey is prepared to barter away the honour of Idjerhe kingdom and the interests of Urhobo and Ijaw for a job in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) or a handout from top government functionaries ’’

A statement by the Chairman of South-South Front (SSF), Chief John Harry, not only described Whiskey’s outburst as misleading but commended Akpabio for steering the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs to greater heights.

‘’ ’Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom, Obukowho Monday Whiskey speaks from a place of deep ignorance’’

The statement emphasized objectivity, constructive discussion, competence, devotion and thorough reform.

The leaders rebuked Whiskey for not bringing critical and unemotional apparatus to the examination of problems in the Niger Delta.

They praised Akpabio for his commitment to greater development and adherence to the principles of transparency.

The leaders called Whiskey’s comment ‘’obnoxious and violent’’.

 ‘’The NDDC forensic report marks a vitally important step forward for the Niger Delta region’’

The statement also underscored intelligent leadership, appreciation and respect’’

‘’Senator Akpabio is a quintessential politician. He has done well’’ the statement said.

The leaders called on stakeholders in the country not to be influenced by Whiskey and his sponsors.

‘’The Idjerhe monarch is already losing contact with the purse of the Niger Delta people’’