CurrentReport Blog In a bid to maintain peace in the Niger Delta region, over 30,000 ex-agitators have voiced their opposition to the planned nationwide protests on October 1. The repentant youths, gathered at a stakeholders’ meeting organized by the Presidential Amnesty Programme in Warri, Delta State, pledged to prevent any demonstrations in the region.
During the three-day forum held at KFT Hall in Effurun, Dr. Dennis Otuaro, administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, assured attendees that the Federal Government is committed to addressing the challenges facing the Niger Delta, highlighting the recent award of a contract for the rehabilitation of the East-West Road to a Chinese construction company. Work on the critical infrastructure project is set to commence soon.
Otuaro emphasized the importance of maintaining stability, urging residents to reject calls for protests. “The President means well for the Niger Delta, and we must support his efforts to bring development to our region,” he stated.
Niger Delta leader Paul Elvis, known as General Ogubos, echoed the call for peace, underscoring that dialogue and cooperation are essential for resolving the region’s challenges. He cautioned against violence, asserting that it only leads to further suffering. “Peace cannot be attained in a place of war,” he noted.
Prominent leader Elder T.K. Ogoruba reminded attendees of the historical context of protests in the region, stating, “Protests have been ongoing since 1949.” He urged the Federal Government to address longstanding demands for fair treatment, infrastructural development, and environmental remediation to prevent renewed unrest.
While the ex-agitators express their commitment to peace, they also call for the government to fulfill its promises to the region. As the date for the planned protests approaches, the focus remains on constructive engagement and dialogue as the pathway to lasting solutions for the Niger Delta.
