Niger Delta elders: Disgruntled ex-militants targeting PAP, Otuaro

Oporoza House, a coalition of Niger Delta elders and stakeholders, say disgruntled former militants are spearheading a “campaign of calumny” against Dennis Otuaro and the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP).

The stakeholders on Monday asked the federal government to disregard “baseless allegations” against Otuaro and PAP.

The coalition, comprising the pioneer president of the Ijaw Youths Council, Felix Tuodolo, Kime Engozu, and Kennedy Orubebe, submitted a letter to this effect to President Bola Tinubu.

The stakeholders said the allegations of financial impropriety were part of a “calculated campaign” orchestrated by disgruntled ex-agitators who were not appointed to leadership positions.

They hailed Otuaro’s leadership for bringing transparency and accountability to PAP, saying his reforms have curtailed fraudulent practices, ensuring that funds are effectively utilised for the reintegration and empowerment of ex-agitators.

“It is evident that these malicious allegations stem from ex-agitators who failed to secure appointments as Administrator of the PAP and are now seeking revenge,” the letter reads in part.

“Their actions represent a campaign of calumny aimed at tarnishing the reputation of Dr. Otuaro and the programme.”

The stakeholders said Otuaro has reinvigorated the programme by prioritising vocational training and economic empowerment initiatives, resulting in increased participation in educational programmes for ex-agitators.

Oporoza House said all payments made under Otuaro’s administration have adhered to government accounting standards.

“The payments made to stakeholders were legitimate and by standard accounting principles and practices of the Federal Government, which you can verify,” the letter said.

The elders and stakeholders reiterated their support for PAP and its mission and called on the president and all Nigerians to stand firm against any attempt to derail the progress made under Otuaro’s administration.

“We urge you and the general public to disregard the malicious allegations made against the Presidential Amnesty Programme and its leadership,” the letter said.

“The programme remains committed to its mission of promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development in the Niger Delta region.”

Copies of the letter were sent to the chairmen of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU).