Too late, FG tells ex-militants seeking amnesty

The federal government has ruled out the inclusion of more beneficiaries in the ongoing amnesty programme for former Niger Delta-militants.

Owei Lakemfa, head of media and communication at the presidential amnesty office, disclosed this on Friday, saying the mandate of the amnesty programme is to cater to only “the 30,000 ex-agitators” documented at the disarmament stage.

“The programme has since passed the demobilisation period to the ongoing reintegration phase,” Lakemfa said in a statement.

“The amnesty office has no powers to either expand the programme or make new intakes.”

The statement added that the government was up to date with the monthly payments of all the beneficiaries of the amnesty programme.

Lakemfa begged for patience from those claiming that their housing allowance or hostel fees had not been paid, saying their claims were being verified.

He also said the programme was open to suggestions and contributions that could lead to improvement.

“We reiterate our readiness to receive suggestions and enquiries,” he said.

“To facilitate this, the amnesty office has opened a 24-hour call centre where individuals can make enquiries on issues bordering on the programme.

“The numbers are: 0703-5611-612 and 0809-0088-337 and the e-mail is: [email protected]. We seek the co-operation and assistance of all to ensure continued peace and sustainable development in the Niger Delta.”