…condemns calls to cancel appointment

By Gabriel Ewepu, Abuja

A Niger Delta group, Niger Delta Civil Action Advocacy Group, NDCAAG, Saturday, threw weight behind the appointment of Dr. Dennis Otuaro as the Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme by President Bola Tinubu against calls to cancel his appointment by some groups in the Niger Delta region.

In a statement signed by President, NDCAAG, Comrade Embale Jonathan, the group faulted opinions that Otuaro is not fit for the position he has been appointed to occupy.

Jonathan said: “We, the Niger Delta Civil Action Advocacy Group (NDCAAG), have carefully reviewed the press release issued by the coalition of Civil Society Organizations regarding the appointment of Dr. Dennis Otuaro as the Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme. As a Civil Action Group in the region, we find it necessary to address the points raised in your statement for clarity and to provide a more accurate perspective on this matter.

“While we acknowledge the importance of appointing qualified individuals to crucial positions within the Federal Government Ministries and Agencies, however, we must respectfully disagree with your assessment of Dr. Dennis Otuaro’s appointment as the Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme.

“It is imperative to clarify that Dr. Dennis Otuaro is a highly qualified and experienced individual with a proven track record of service to the Niger Delta region. Dr. Otuaro’s credentials speak for themselves. With a PhD in Comparative Politics & Development Studies, an MSc in Public Administration, and a BSc in Education, he brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the job. His previous experience as a top-level executive at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) further underscores his suitability for this position.

“The President’s decision to appoint Dr. Otuaro was based on merit and a thorough assessment of his qualifications. We believe that his background equips him to address the challenges faced by the Presidential Amnesty Programme effectively. His appointment is not based on any misconduct or lack of due diligence but rather on his exceptional credentials and dedication to the development of the region. Any insinuation of impropriety in his appointment is unfounded and misleading.

“Furthermore, the insinuation that the office of the Presidential Amnesty Programme has been impassive following Dr. Otuaro’s appointment is inaccurate and unjustified. On the contrary, Dr. Otuaro has demonstrated a commitment to revitalizing and advancing the objectives of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, ensuring that the impacted communities receive the necessary support and resources for sustainable development.

“We can tell you for free that the Presidential Amnesty Program was established to foster peace, development, and reconciliation in the Niger Delta. Dr. Otuaro’s appointment aligns with this purpose. We sincerely believe and have confidence in Dr Dennis Otuaro that the impacted communities’ interests remain at the forefront of his administration. Dr. Otuaro’s mandate includes addressing their needs and ensuring sustainable development.”

However, he acknowledged and said, “We understand your call for proper vetting and scrutiny of individuals appointed to key positions, including the Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme.

“However, we can assure you that Dr. Dennis Otuaro has undergone all necessary security checks and due diligence procedures to validate his qualifications and suitability for the role.

“The Office of National Security Adviser ONSA plays a critical role in ensuring national security. Therefore, it is essential to recognize that the appointment process adhered to due diligence.

“Dr. Otuaro’s vetting included scrutiny by the ONSA and the Department of State Security Service (DSS). And as such, allegations of forged certificates or criminal records are unfounded. Dr. Otuaro’s track record demonstrates integrity and commitment to public service.”