Hon. David Osia Warns Daniel Ezekiel Against Personal Attacks, Commends Tompolo and Otuaro’s Contributions
By Dr. Odimientimi Agbedeyi
Former Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Edo State Governor, Hon. David Osia, has issued a strong warning to Niger Delta activist Daniel Ezekiel, urging him to desist from what he described as persistent personal attacks against prominent Niger Delta leaders, particularly High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, and the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr. Dennis Otuaro.
Reacting to a recent lengthy statement credited to Daniel Ezekiel, in which he accused Tompolo and some associates of marginalization and betrayal despite his alleged past support during difficult periods, Hon. Osia expressed concern that the activist’s public interventions were becoming increasingly personal and divisive rather than constructive.
According to Osia, while every citizen possesses the constitutional right to freedom of expression, such freedom should be exercised responsibly and should not be transformed into a platform for vendettas disguised as public advocacy.
The former Edo State government aide maintained that the Niger Delta region has witnessed remarkable progress in recent years through the combined efforts of key stakeholders, including Tompolo, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, and the Presidential Amnesty Programme under the leadership of Dr. Dennis Otuaro.
He argued that rather than constantly attacking individuals who have contributed significantly to regional peace and stability, stakeholders should focus on promoting unity and development across the oil-rich region.
Questions Over Motives
Hon. Osia questioned whether Daniel Ezekiel’s ongoing criticism truly represents the interests of ordinary Niger Deltans or merely reflects personal grievances arising from perceived exclusion from opportunities and benefits.
He noted that much of Ezekiel’s latest statement centered on personal experiences, individual relationships, and alleged disappointments regarding appointments, contracts, and rewards for past struggles.
According to Osia, public advocacy should be driven by collective interests rather than personal expectations.
“Any genuine struggle for the Niger Delta must focus on development, environmental justice, youth empowerment, infrastructure, education, and economic opportunities for the people. When the discussion becomes primarily about who benefited and who did not, reasonable observers are bound to ask whether the motivation is public interest or personal dissatisfaction,” he reportedly stated.
Recognition of Tompolo’s Role
The former SSA praised Tompolo for his role in promoting peace, protecting critical national assets, and supporting economic stability in the Niger Delta.
Recent reports indicate that several Niger Delta groups, stakeholders, lawmakers, ex-agitators, and community leaders have publicly supported the continuation of the pipeline surveillance contract coordinated through Tantita Security Services, citing improvements in oil infrastructure protection and reductions in crude oil theft. (Billionaires.Africa)
Osia argued that regardless of political or personal differences, the impact of pipeline surveillance operations on national oil production and security cannot be ignored.
He further noted that multiple civil society organizations and regional groups have repeatedly defended Tompolo and Tantita against various allegations, describing many of the attacks as attempts to undermine ongoing efforts aimed at securing oil facilities and maintaining stability within the region. (The Guardian Nigeria)
Commendation for Dennis Otuaro
Hon. Osia also commended Dr. Dennis Otuaro for his stewardship of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, describing his administration as one that has continued to prioritize youth empowerment, training, education, and reintegration initiatives.
Several Niger Delta organizations have publicly applauded Otuaro’s leadership style and reforms, while calling for continued support for the programme. (Vanguard News)
According to Osia, the Amnesty Programme remains one of the most important peace-building initiatives in the history of the Niger Delta and should not be weakened by campaigns that may create unnecessary tension.
Appeal for Responsible Advocacy
The former government aide urged activists, community leaders, and opinion molders across the Niger Delta to embrace constructive engagement rather than inflammatory rhetoric.
He stressed that disagreements among stakeholders should be resolved through dialogue, consultation, and lawful channels rather than public exchanges capable of deepening divisions.
While acknowledging the right of every citizen to hold leaders accountable, Osia emphasized that criticism should be factual, balanced, and directed toward achieving positive outcomes for the region.
Warning to the Public
Hon. David Osia further advised members of the public to carefully scrutinize narratives circulated on social media and other platforms, warning against accepting every allegation without verification.
He urged Niger Deltans to remain focused on the larger objectives of peace, economic growth, environmental remediation, youth development, and regional unity.
According to him, the future of the Niger Delta depends not on endless conflicts among stakeholders but on collective efforts to build sustainable development and prosperity for present and future generations.
As debates continue regarding the direction of the Niger Delta and the management of critical institutions within the region, Osia maintained that leaders such as Tompolo and Dennis Otuaro deserve recognition for their contributions while legitimate concerns should be pursued through responsible and constructive engagement.
Source: Statements attributed to Hon. David Osia and publicly available reports on Niger Delta stakeholder positions regarding Tompolo, Tantita Security Services, and the Presidential Amnesty Programme. (Billionaires.Africa)
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Author: Dr. Odimientimi Agbedeyi
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