A coalition of leaders and stakeholders from the Niger Delta, Oporoza House, has urged President Bola Tinubu to disregard what they described as “spurious and baseless allegations” against the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr Dennis Otuaro.
The coalition, comprising influential figures such as pioneer President of the Ijaw Youths Council, Dr Felix Tuodolo, Kime Engozu, Elder Kennedy Orubebe, submitted a formal letter to Tinubu emphasising the transformative impact of the PAP under Otuaro’s leadership.
According to the letter, the recent allegations of financial impropriety were part of a “calculated campaign of calumny” orchestrated by ex-agitators who were not appointed to leadership positions.
The signatories hailed Otuaro’s leadership for bringing transparency and accountability to PAP, stated that his reforms have curtailed fraudulent practices, ensuring that funds are effectively utilised for the reintegration, and empowerment of ex-agitators.
They said: “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.
“Their actions represent a campaign of calumny aimed at tarnishing the reputation of Dr Otuaro and the programme.”
Otuaro: Our reforms giving Presidential Amnesty Programme human face
The group further highlighted how Otuaro has reinvigorated the PAP by prioritising vocational training and economic empowerment initiatives, resulting in increased participation in educational programmes for ex-agitators.
The coalition urged the federal government to recognise these achievements rather than be swayed by detractors.
Addressing the accusations head-on, the Oporoza House reaffirmed that all payments made under Otuaro’s administration have adhered strictly 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 group added.
The group also reiterated support for the PAP and its mission and called on Tinubu and all well-meaning Nigerians to stand firm against any attempts to derail the progress made under Otuaro’s administration.
It stated: “We urge you and the general public to disregard the malicious allegations made against the Presidential Amnesty Programme and its leadership.
“The programme remains committed to its mission of promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development in the Niger Delta region.”
The group also sent copies of the letter to the Chairmen of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU).
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