With the hot news dominating the national agenda, a group of former ex-agitators from the Niger Delta region, currently enrolled in the Presidential Amnesty Programme, have come out in support of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration. In a significant gesture, they publicly expressed their disagreement with the proposed nationwide protest against hunger and hardship, scheduled for October 1. The statement, made at a seminar in Warri, Delta State, was signed by Generals Andrew Joel Azazi and Emma Satu, representatives of the Third Phase of the Presidential Amnesty Programme.
Their position is based on confidence in the leadership and capabilities of the current administration to turn around the country’s economy. Affirming that President Tinubu has good intentions for Nigeria despite the current economic challenges, the group believes that giving him the necessary time and support is essential to overcome the current challenges.
This gesture of support is reflected in the belief that over 5,000 former Niger Delta agitators are distancing themselves from the announced protest. In their statement, they welcomed the recent appointments in key positions, such as that of Dr. Dennis Otuaro as Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme and that of Chief Samuel Ogbuku as Director General of the Niger Delta Development Commission.
Their position is reinforced by High Chief Yusuf Eregbene, a former Chairman of the Delta State Pilgrimage Council and Obaseki of Akugbene-Mein Kingdom, who strongly supports the efforts of the Tinubu administration to address the country’s economic challenges. He particularly refers to the creation of thousands of jobs for the youths of the Niger Delta through the Tantita Security Services Nigeria Ltd, thus highlighting the positive impacts of these initiatives on the region.
This positioning in support of the current administration reveals a willingness to trust and collaborate in addressing national challenges and fostering sustainable development. It also illustrates the recognition of the actions taken to promote stability and economic prosperity in the country. This strong support from the former agitators is a testament to a collective vision and commitment to a better future for Nigeria and its citizens.