....as Niger Delta Ex-Militants Demand Reform And Call On Mr President For Stipend Increasement.

Ex-agitators in the Niger Delta have launched a blistering critique of Dr. Dennis Otuaro, the current coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), branding his leadership as the most ineffective in the initiative’s history. Mark Birth Peremobowei, a former agitator and influential figure in the region, has spearheaded the condemnation, accusing Otuaro of failing to deliver tangible benefits to beneficiaries.  

In a candid and impassioned statement, Peremobowei expressed profound disappointment, stating, “Since his appointment, we have seen no meaningful impact. This is the worst administration in the history of the Presidential Amnesty Programme. We cannot continue to defend the indefensible.”  

Peremobowei recalled the initial optimism that surrounded Otuaro’s appointment, noting that ex-agitators had rallied behind him, even offering to collaborate. However, he lamented that Otuaro’s tenure has been characterized by empty promises and a glaring lack of actionable results. “From day one to this moment, there has been no single benefit. The worst of [former coordinator] NDiomu’s administration was far better than what we are experiencing now,” he asserted.  

Under previous administrations, beneficiaries reportedly enjoyed scholarships and empowerment schemes. However, under Otuaro’s leadership, such initiatives have reportedly stalled. “The reality on the ground is stark. What is N65,000 to an individual in this current economic climate? It is nothing,” Peremobowei added, referencing the monthly stipend provided to ex-agitators.  

Peremobowei also accused Otuaro of misleading the public by portraying his administration as successful while failing to address the core issues facing beneficiaries. “He has been going around why praise singer and sycophants are praising him and feeding the gullible public with wrong information about things he has not done,” he alleged.  

The ex-agitator further emphasized the resilience of Niger Delta stakeholders in safeguarding the Amnesty Programme. He recounted how they had previously mobilized to oppose attempts by former coordinator NDiomu to wind down the program, engaging with the National Assembly and the Presidency to ensure its continuation. “We stood our ground then, and we will do so again if necessary,” he warned.  

Meanwhile, Mr. Owuopepele Gabon commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for increasing the PAP budget from N65 billion to N115 billion. He also urged the President to raise the monthly stipends for ex-agitators from N65,000 to N300,000, citing the current economic hardships.  

Peremobowei’s remarks underscore a growing wave of discontent among ex-agitators and beneficiaries, who are demanding urgent reforms and accountability under Otuaro’s leadership. As the Niger Delta grapples with persistent economic and social challenges, the pressure is mounting on the PAP coordinator to deliver on the program’s promises.  

The question now looms: Will Dr. Dennis Otuaro rise to the occasion and address these grievances, or will his administration be remembered as the most ineffective in the history of the Presidential Amnesty Programme?