By Kolawole Ojebisi
Ex-agitators from the Niger Delta region have called on President Tinubu and the National Assembly to investigate the management of the Presidential Amnesty Programme,
The ex-agitators made the call during a peaceful protest at the National Assembly on Wednesday,
While expressing their grievances, the ex-agitators demanded an investigation into alleged financial irregularities in the Amnesty Programme.
The mass demonstration, organised by the Niger Delta Liberators and Ex-Agitators Forum (NDLEF), underscored the urgent need to address ongoing challenges in the Niger Delta and to ensure accountability.
Protesters raised concerns that contracts may have been awarded to unqualified companies, undermining effective governance.
They called for a review of the contracting process to ensure fairness and transparency.
The NDLEF also advocated for improved community engagement and open dialogue to address grievances effectively.
Highlighting while an investigation into PAP is compulsory, the group said it would restore trust and ensure that resources are used effectively for the region’s development.
Speaking on behalf of the forum, Mr Odey Otunu remarked, “We want to thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for appointing sons and daughters of the Niger Delta region to various positions in his government.
“We acknowledge the interest of the Tinubu-led administration in the development of the Niger Delta, particularly through the release of funds for Niger Delta-oriented governmental bodies such as the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the Presidential Amnesty Office.
“However, as a group, we cannot stand idly by while those who are meant to be beacons of hope and drivers of development in the Niger Delta become our nightmares. Hence, this press briefing is necessary to highlight the plight of the region before matters escalate.
“We respectfully implore President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Assembly to conduct a thorough investigation into the complaints raised. We trust the Presidency to do what is right.
“We call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to build on his renewed commitment to fiscal probity and governance accountability by urging all relevant anti-corruption agencies to scrutinise the Presidential Amnesty Programme.”
