By Gabriel Ewepu

ABUJA –  A Niger Delta group, Niger Delta Revolutionary Crusaders, NDRC, has condemned attack and false allegations on the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, PAP, Dr Dennis Otuaru.

In a statement signed by the Secretary-General, NDRC, W.O.1 Izon-Ebi, said the waves of attacks and allegations are baseless and cheap blackmail deliberately to create disaffection in the region by some disgruntled individuals and groups who are mischief makers paid by their paymasters.

The group maintained that since assuming leadership of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dr. Otuaru has injected a fresh perspective, demonstrated unwavering commitment to delivering on the programme’s mandate and provided exemplary leadership to the Niger Delta region. 

Meanwhile, according to the group, Otuaro’s commitment and efforts to reposition the programme with professionalism and administrative excellence have been widely acknowledged in the Niger Delta region.

The group said, “Having closely monitored these developments, we wish to state unequivocally that we are satisfied with the trajectory of the Presidential Amnesty Programme under the leadership of Dr. Dennis Otuaru, noting that his achievements, activities and programmes have been commendable, and urged the Presidency to ignore the distractions being orchestrated by these individuals and groups.”

The group averred that the actions of these individuals are aimed at frustrating the programme and thwarting the intentions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to bring lasting peace to the region, increase oil production and foster overall economic growth for the nation and the Niger Delta in particular. 

Meanwhile, the NDRC, while highlighting his achievements, said, this is the first time an Administration would bring in a renewed sense of professionalism to the management of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, ensuring transparency and efficiency in its operations. 

 The group also noted that the programme under his leadership has implemented numerous empowerment initiatives aimed at equipping Niger Deltans with skills and resources for sustainable livelihoods including restoring its lost glory. 

“He has successfully implemented the Presidential Amnesty Scholarship initiative, the single largest deployment in the history of the programme, which cuts across the region.In the area of peacebuilding efforts, the NDRC maintained that Otuaru has worked tirelessly to foster peace and stability in the region, creating an enabling environment for economic growth and development. Of particular reference is the stakeholders engagement where, according to the group, Otuaro has consistently engaged with stakeholders across the region to ensure that the programme’s activities align with the needs and aspirations of the people”, the group pointed.  

However, the NDRC said, “It is disheartening to note that these achievements have been met with unwarranted attacks from those who seek to dislodge him, incite President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to sack him and replace him with individuals who would serve their self-seeking interests.

“It is important to state clearly that these attacks do not represent the views or interests of the majority of Niger Deltans. Rather, they are the tactics of a few individuals, particularly from the Ijaw extraction, who are notorious for organizing protests, spreading campaigns of calumny and petitioning against their leaders. 

“These crude and pedestrian tactics, often deployed for political demands, have historically been counterproductive and have portrayed the region in a negative light, suggesting a lack of political maturity.

“NDRC therefore calls on all well-meaning Niger Deltans and the general public to disregard the falsehoods and negativity being spread by these individuals and groups. 

“We are using this medium to reaffirm our support for Dr. Dennis Otuaru and the Presidential Amnesty Programme, and we urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to remain steadfast in his commitment to the region’s development.

“Furthermore, the NDRC believes that supporting President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027 is in the best interest of the Niger Delta region. This will consolidate his Renewed Hope Agenda and ensure the continued success of the Presidential Amnesty Programme under the capable leadership of Dr. Dennis Otuaro, PhD. 

“The NDRC remains committed to the peace, progress and development of the Niger Delta region and will continue to support leaders who prioritize the welfare of the people.”