•PAP administrator, Dennis Otuaro
National Chairman of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) Phase Two, Ibena Rufus Salvation, has called on Niger Delta stakeholders to protect the Amnesty Programme, warning that actions capable of weakening the intervention could have consequences for peace and economic activities in the region.
Salvation made the call while reacting to allegations of corruption, welfare neglect and financial mismanagement against the PAP administrator, Dr Dennis Otuaro.
He described the allegations as serious claims that should be supported with verifiable evidence, particularly accusations that public funds meant for PAP were diverted for private purposes, reports Saturday Guardian.
According to him, PAP was established as a peace-building intervention and remains important to the stability of the oil-producing region.
He urged beneficiaries and stakeholders to avoid statements that could create tension and divisions among ex-agitators.
“We will not support corruption or wrongdoing, but serious allegations must be backed by facts.
“You cannot accuse an administrator of diverting public funds without providing evidence to the appropriate authorities,” he said.
Salvation said disagreements over PAP should be addressed through proper channels, stressing that criticism remained legitimate when based on facts.
He also said the increase in PAP’s budget should not be interpreted as an automatic increase in beneficiaries’ monthly stipends.
“The Amnesty Programme is bigger than monthly stipends. Its mandate includes training, education, empowerment and other interventions that contribute to lasting peace and development in the Niger Delta,” he said.
The Phase Two chairman urged President Tinubu and relevant federal authorities to sustain their support for the programme while strengthening transparency and accountability.
Salvation said PAP beneficiaries will continue to support Otuaro and the ongoing reforms in the PAP, particularly in the areas of reintegration and empowerment.
He said the Administrator’s efforts in the education sector were a clear indication that PAP funds were being judiciously used to advance the programme’s mandate.
He said Niger Delta stakeholders should place the survival of PAP, the welfare of beneficiaries and the peace needed for oil production and other economic activities above personal differences.
