...Otuaru’s tenure is arguably the worst in the history of the Presidential Amnesty Programme.

In a recent publication titled "President Tinubu and the Niger Delta: A Match Made in Heaven," a narrative has been propagated that paints a glorified picture of President Tinubu's administration and Dr. Dennis Burutu Otuaru’s tenure as the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP). As representatives of the Reformed Niger Delta Ex-Agitators Forum, we find ourselves compelled to set the record straight. The story is not one of progress but of deception, mismanagement, and betrayal of the very people it claims to serve.

Region Still Burdened by Insecurity and Underdevelopment

Contrary to the glowing depiction in the supposed article, the Niger Delta continues to grapple with persistent insecurity, widespread poverty, and hopeless underdevelopment. The existing Amnesty Programme, which was supposed to be a vehicle for peace and progress, has instead become a disillusionment for ex-agitators. Despite an increase in the Amnesty budget from 65 billion naira to 151 billion naira under Dennis Otuaru’s watch, tangible benefits remain elusive. The people’s reality is one of hardship, with many ex-agitators suffering as the funds are allegedly misappropriated and squandered.

Broken Promises and Revelations of Corruption

Dr. Otuaru’s assurances of expanding scholarship programs and revitalizing overseas study opportunities are nothing but tall tales. Many beneficiaries have complained of being shortchanged, with the scholarship schemes now heavily skewed in favor of his friends and community members—specifically, the Gbaramatu people. Evidence suggests that approximately 90% of scholarship beneficiaries under his administration are from his village, friends, or family. International scholars, including children of ex-agitators, are either sidelined or ignored. We demand transparency—publish the official list of beneficiaries for public scrutiny.

Failure of Vocational Training and Job Placement Initiatives

Claims of successful vocational training and employment opportunities are grossly exaggerated. Many trained ex-agitators remain unemployed, and the supposed job placement programs lack substance. The training centers under Otuaru’s administration are reportedly underfunded, poorly organized, and disconnected from the needs of the beneficiaries. The regional youth deserve real skills and meaningful employment, not empty promises.

Systemic Data Management Failures

The assertion that comprehensive data reforms have been introduced is entirely false. The PAP’s data system remains riddled with duplications, inaccuracies, and manipulated entries. In fact, Otuaru’s administration has seen the entry of fictitious names and non-existent ex-agitators into the database—an alarming indication of systemic corruption and manipulation designed to siphon funds and inflate statistics.

Budget Increases Without Corresponding Impact

The increase in the peace and development budget should be a positive move, but under Otuaru, it has become a curse rather than a blessing. The alleged influx of funds has not translated into regular stipends, proper training, Instead, billions disappear into private pockets, casting doubts on the transparency and integrity within the PAP’s management.

A Record of Fraud and Administrative Malfeasance

Dennis Burutu Otuaru’s tenure is arguably the worst in the history of the Presidential Amnesty Programme. Records reveal a pattern of fraudulent activities—awarding lucrative contracts to himself and cronies via non-registered, uncertified companies. These entities have been paid exorbitant sums yet have delivered zero value. Such reckless abuse of power has tarnished the region’s prospects for peace and development.

Calls for Accountability

Many of the fraudulent contracts are now in court agencies responsible to deal with, with Otuaru yet to respond to the mounting allegations. This echoes a disturbing trend of impunity—a government agency entrusted with regional development turning into a disbursing vessel for personal enrichment. We call on the presidency to investigate these claims thoroughly. Ignoring these allegations risks brewing unrest among ex-agitators and destabilizing the fragile peace in the Niger Delta.

Demand for Transparency and Genuine Development

The narrative that seeks to laud President Tinubu’s government through distorted accounts of Otuaru’s tenure is dangerous and deceptive. The Niger Delta’s path to stability and growth remains obstructed by mismanagement and corruption. We, therefore, urge the public and authorities alike to look beyond falsehoods, demand accountability, and prioritize genuine development initiatives that benefit our region and its people.

Our region deserves honest leadership that prioritizes transparency, accountability, and sustainable progress. The time for reform is now, and it begins with confronting the truth.

Signed,

Owoupele Eneoriekumoh Owous  
Chairman Reform Niger Delta Ex-Agitators