PAP REFORMS: AMNESTY DELEGATES FORUM ALLEGES BLACKMAIL CAMPAIGN AGAINST OTUARO
Group Says Individuals Affected by Reforms Are Behind Petitions, Propaganda and Planned Protest
By Dr. Odimientimi Agbedeyi
Global Egberi Media International Ltd
The leadership of the Amnesty Delegates Forum has raised the alarm over what it described as an orchestrated campaign of blackmail, petitions and propaganda allegedly targeted at the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), High Chief Dr. Dennis Otuaro, following reforms introduced under his administration.
In a statement signed by the National Chairman of the forum, Gen. Ogidigba Godstime Ogidigba, the group alleged that certain individuals who had been adversely affected by the ongoing reforms were sponsoring groups and activities aimed at discrediting the PAP administration and mounting pressure for the removal of Dr. Otuaro.
The forum claimed that the reforms had significantly altered the way the Amnesty Programme operates by closing what it described as loopholes, strengthening transparency and accountability, and repositioning the programme towards what it considers a more effective delivery of its mandate across the Niger Delta.
According to the group, the changes have also disrupted what it alleged were previously existing avenues for illegitimate dealings with the office, resulting in resistance from some individuals who benefited from the old system.
“CORRUPTION IS FIGHTING BACK” — FORUM
The Amnesty Delegates Forum alleged that the resistance had taken the form of social-media campaigns, petitions and what it described as propaganda against Dr. Otuaro and his administration.
The group said it was particularly concerned by reports of a planned protest against the PAP administrator, which it suggested could be part of a broader effort to undermine the reforms.
“Some individuals affected by Dr. Otuaro’s reforms have resorted to sponsoring different groups to blackmail, petition and call for the sack of Chief Dennis Otuaro on different social media platforms,” Gen. Ogidigba said.
He argued that the development should not be allowed to derail reforms which, according to the forum, are aimed at sanitising the system and ensuring greater accountability in the administration of the Amnesty Programme.
The forum therefore appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and the general public to carefully scrutinise allegations and publications circulating on social media concerning the PAP administration.
“Corruption is trying very hard to fight back,” the group declared, urging the public not to accept unverified allegations as established facts.
FORUM BACKS CONTINUITY OF REFORMS
The group also commended Dr. Otuaro for what it described as a bold effort to restructure and reposition the Presidential Amnesty Programme.
It maintained that reforms of a system as significant as PAP could generate resistance, particularly where longstanding interests or practices were affected.
The forum said the ultimate test should be whether the programme is becoming more transparent, accountable, inclusive and capable of delivering meaningful benefits to communities and beneficiaries across the Niger Delta.
It consequently called on stakeholders in the region to remain vigilant and constructive in their engagement with the programme, while encouraging continued attention to reforms intended to improve the delivery of PAP’s mandate.
The statement comes amid continuing public discussions and differing claims concerning the administration and direction of the Presidential Amnesty Programme.
SIGNED:
Gen. Ogidigba Godstime Ogidigba
National Chairman
Amnesty Delegates Forum
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