A coalition of prominent Niger Delta leaders, Oporoza House, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to strengthen the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) while dismissing what they described as “spurious and baseless allegations” against its Administrator, Dr. Brutu Dennis Otuaro.
In a formal letter to the President, the group—comprising respected figures such as Dr. Felix Tuodolo, the pioneer President of the Ijaw Youth Council, Mr. Kime Engozu, and Elder Kennedy Orubebe—urged the federal government to disregard the accusations, which they claim are part of a calculated smear campaign by disgruntled ex-agitators.
The coalition asserted that Otuaro’s leadership has brought transparency and accountability to PAP, ensuring that funds are effectively channeled into reintegration and empowerment initiatives for ex-agitators. Signatories, including Hendricks Opukeme, Ari Sylvester Ari, and Elfrida Olungwe, praised his efforts in curbing fraudulent practices and prioritizing vocational training and economic empowerment programs.
“It is evident that these malicious allegations stem from individuals who were not appointed to leadership positions and are now seeking revenge,” the letter stated, adding that the accusations are an attempt to tarnish both Otuaro’s reputation and the programme’s successes.
Oporoza House also reaffirmed that all financial transactions under Otuaro’s administration have adhered to strict government accounting standards, urging authorities to verify the legitimacy of payments made to stakeholders. They linked PAP’s effective leadership to the recent increase in crude oil production, crediting Otuaro’s reforms for enhancing regional peace and stability.
Calling on President Tinubu and the public to ignore the unfounded allegations, the coalition emphasized PAP’s crucial role in promoting sustainable development in the Niger Delta. Copies of the letter were also sent to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), signaling the coalition’s confidence in the programme’s financial integrity.
Oporoza House urged the federal government to continue supporting PAP’s mission, stressing that its success is essential for lasting peace and economic growth in the region.
