From Okwe Obi, Abuja
The South-South Traditional Rulers’ Council, comprising monarchs from Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Cross River, Edo and Delta states (BARCED), has condemned the incessant blackmail and falsehoods targeted at the administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dennis Otauro.
While addressing journalists yesterday in Abuja, Lucky Omafuakpo, said they would not allow anybody or group blackmail and distract Otauro in the discharge of his duty.
He said the traditional rulers would continue to drum support for Otauro to enable him drive sustainable development in the region.
“The South-South Traditional Council, FCT, is genuinely concerned about recent events that threaten the stability and development of our beloved Niger Delta.
“The Council is deeply troubled by the incessant attacks, unwarranted blackmail and organised protests by certain individuals against our leaders in the Niger Delta region, particularly those holding political offices.
“These actions are not only divisive but also counterproductive to the peace and development we all strive for. “Lately, the administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr Dennis Otuaro, has become the latest victim of these targeted attacks.
“Falsehoods and baseless allegations have been spread against him and his administration, all in an attempt to undermine his commendable efforts.
“Ladies and Gentlemen, let us be clear; Dr. Dennis Otuaro is a man of integrity and vision, with resilience and commitment to the Niger Delta. His leadership has been instrumental in driving the region towards peace and development.
“His achievements are visible for all to see, and his dedication to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, is unparalleled. Therefore, the President could not have been wrong in appointing him.
“To those who engage in these acts of blackmail and ill-conceived protest, we ask: If you believe you are more qualified to lead, why not exercise patience? When Otuaro’s tenure is over, present yourselves for the position, and all Niger Deltans will support you.
“But, until then, desist from these uncivilised activities. Give peace a chance. Allow progress to flourish”
He added that as “traditional rulers, leaders and elders of the Niger Delta, we can no longer remain silent, while a few individuals smear the reputation of our political office holders. These actions are not only condemnable but also offend the collective psyche of our people.
“We urge those whose stock in trade is to subject our region to public ridicule, to reconsider their actions. Unwarranted blackmail, ill-conceived protests and destructive criticism are not solutions to the challenges we face. Instead, we must build, encourage growth as well as avoid being used and support our leaders to succeed. Peace and unity are the true panacea for development.
“We must take a moment to profusely commend President Tinubu, for his visionary leadership in the country and the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Through the instrumentality of the Presidential Amnesty Programme and the exemplary leadership of Otuaro, the President has demonstrated his commitment to the development and peace of the Niger Delta region,” he said.