INC Western Zone Chairman Urges Ex-Agitators to Shun Violence, Embrace Peaceful Engagement in Ondo
By Dr. Odimientimi Agbedeyi
The Chairman of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), Western Zone, Barr. Priye Noel Kuete, LL.M, has called on ex-agitators in Ondo State to reject violence, avoid baseless protests, and embrace constructive engagement with relevant authorities as a pathway to sustainable peace and development in the Niger Delta region.
Barr. Kuete made the appeal during an interactive session with a cross-section of ex-agitators held at Ground Capital, Government Reserved Area (GRA), Akure, Ondo State. The engagement, which attracted stakeholders from various coastal communities, focused on peacebuilding, security, youth empowerment, welfare, education, and community development.
Addressing participants, the INC Western Zone Chairman emphasized that the Niger Delta struggle has evolved beyond confrontation and militancy into a more strategic phase characterized by dialogue, advocacy, and lawful engagement.
Drawing inspiration from the philosophy of the late American civil rights leader, Martin Luther King Jr., Kuete stressed that non-violence remains the most effective tool for achieving justice and meaningful social change.
According to him, beneficiaries of the Federal Government’s Amnesty Programme have undergone rehabilitation, training, and reintegration designed to prepare them for productive participation in society rather than a return to disruptive activities.
He noted that while ex-agitators possess every constitutional right to demand improved welfare and fulfillment of government commitments, such demands should be pursued through organized, peaceful, and lawful channels.
“The era of violence and disorder is behind us. The Niger Delta struggle has evolved into strategic engagement, dialogue, and advocacy. While you have every right to seek what is due to you, it must be done responsibly and within the confines of the law,” he stated.
Barr. Kuete further encouraged the ex-agitators to organize themselves into recognized associations and clusters capable of engaging government institutions constructively. He advised them to channel their concerns through delegations and formal consultations with the Presidential Amnesty Programme and the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta Affairs.
Speaking on the leadership of High Chief Dennis Otuaro, PhD, the INC Western Zone Chairman described him as a receptive and accessible leader who is willing to listen to genuine concerns brought before him through appropriate channels.
He therefore urged the ex-agitators to avoid inflammatory social media campaigns and unnecessary street demonstrations capable of creating tension within the region.
Beyond issues of welfare and advocacy, Barr. Kuete also raised concerns about the security situation in coastal communities across Ondo State. He called on residents of Arogbo-Ijaw, Apoi, Ilaje, and other riverine communities to remain vigilant and actively support efforts aimed at combating criminality.
According to him, communities must not provide safe havens for kidnappers, armed gangs, and other criminal elements whose activities threaten peace, economic growth, and public safety.
“The increasing cases of kidnapping and insecurity across various parts of the country should concern all of us. Every community has a responsibility to safeguard lives and property. We must all be security conscious and work together to prevent criminal activities from taking root within our environment,” he cautioned.
The meeting also provided an opportunity for ex-agitators to present their concerns and expectations regarding the Amnesty Programme and broader development initiatives in the Niger Delta.
Speaking on behalf of participants, the leader of the Niger Delta Non-Violence Volunteers, Ondo State Chapter, Comrade Yanyangbini Uyas, commended Barr. Kuete for organizing what he described as a timely and impactful engagement.
He noted that the interactive session had provided participants with valuable insights while also creating a platform for meaningful dialogue between stakeholders.
Comrade Uyas appealed to the INC leadership to use its influence in advocating for improved welfare packages for ex-agitators, particularly regarding the monthly stipends paid under the Presidential Amnesty Programme.
According to him, current economic realities have significantly reduced the value of the stipends, making it increasingly difficult for beneficiaries to meet basic needs.
He further highlighted the plight of many ex-agitators who have successfully completed university education but remain unemployed despite previous expectations that the Amnesty Programme would facilitate employment opportunities.
The volunteer leader called on the Federal Government, the Presidential Amnesty Programme, and the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta Affairs to prioritize job creation, postgraduate educational opportunities, and professional development programmes for qualified beneficiaries.
“Many of our members have acquired university degrees and professional qualifications. They deserve opportunities for further education, employment, and meaningful participation in the nation’s development process,” he said.
Comrade Uyas also advocated for the inclusion of qualified ex-agitators in security-related employment initiatives, particularly in pipeline surveillance and community security operations, arguing that many possess valuable training and experience that could contribute positively to national security.
In addition, he reaffirmed the support of members of the Niger Delta Non-Violence Volunteers for Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, commending the company for its contributions toward pipeline protection, environmental preservation, and improved security across the Niger Delta.
He urged the Federal Government to sustain support for initiatives that have proven effective in protecting critical national assets and maintaining peace within oil-producing communities.
The engagement concluded on a positive note, with participants expressing optimism that continued dialogue between stakeholders, government agencies, community leaders, and ex-agitators would strengthen trust, foster inclusion, and promote lasting peace throughout the Niger Delta region.
The atmosphere remained cordial throughout the event as participants shared ideas, renewed commitments to peaceful coexistence, and emphasized the importance of collective efforts toward community development and regional stability.
Source:
Statement from the Interactive Engagement Between INC Western Zone Leadership and Ex-Agitators in Ondo State.
Global Egberi Media International Ltd
Author:
Dr. Odimientimi Agbedeyi
About the Author
