Third phase ex-agitators forum under the leadership of “General” Preye Ekpebide has chided the “Niger Delta Concerned Youths For Change” over allegations of corruption against the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr. Dennis Otuaro.
The group had on Tuesday staged a protest calling for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to probe Otuaro while accusing him of massive corruption and mismanagement of funds meant for the running of the PAP.
However the leadership of the third phase considered the allegations as one of the many malicious attacks to smear the name of the PAP boss.
Their response was contained in a statement signed by General Preye Ekpebide, National Chairman, Alhaji Letugbene, National Vice Chairman, Kerebi Ombe, Delta State Chairman, Markson Isere, Rivers State Chairman, Amokachi Peretei, National leader signed on behalf of Edo State, and Mumboh Ekins Ajuwa, Ondo State Chairman.
The ex-freedom fighters added that the protest is nothing but a failed attempt by certain individuals who felt left out and frustrated with the growing popularity of Otuaro.
They commended Otuaro for effectively implementing the programme since his appointment and praised him for the prompt payment of monthly stipend to ex-agitators and the prompt payment of in-training allowances which they explained is crucial to the smooth implementation of the programme.
The statement notes that: “These allegations by different phoney groups keep coming without proof. Obviously these elements are being sponsored by certain individuals who are not happy with the sweeping reforms he has instituted and are left frustrated by his growing profile and popularity.
“But amidst these baseless allegations, Otuaro’s track record of prompt payment of monthly stipends to ex-agitators, prompt payment of in-training allowances, continuation of educational scholarship for indigent students across the Niger Delta is never in doubt.
“Assuming but not conceding Otuaro is guilty of the corruption he is being unreasonably accused of, how much will be left to undertake all the aforementioned initiatives and programmes and as well run the programme as effectively as he has done since his appointment?
“The protesters are unknown faces in the Amnesty Programme. Which community and camps are they from? Those who are part of the programme are benefitting. So let them leave Otuaro alone for him to concentrate on the good job he is doing for us,” he said.
The third phase leaders further praised the PAP administrator for his regular engagement and consultation with leaders and stakeholders before implementing policies and programmes.
“This is one thing that makes Dr. Otuaro a stand-out, visionary leader and we are proud of him,” they added.
They urged persons against the PAP boss “to put outside your grievances and work together with Otuaro for the smooth implementation of the programme and for the progress of the Niger Delta.”
