PAP: Negotiation, Not Protest, Key to Stipend Increase — Statement Allegedly Attributed to Gen. Ogidigba
By Dr. Odimientimi Agbedeyi
A statement allegedly attributed to Gen. Ogidigba Godstime Ogidigba has emphasized that any increase in the monthly stipend paid to beneficiaries of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) can only be achieved through constructive engagement and meaningful dialogue with the Presidency, rather than through protests, petitions, or public criticism.
According to the statement, no amount of agitation, propaganda, or opposition directed at the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Chief Dennis Otuaro, would automatically guarantee an upward review of the monthly allowances received by ex-agitators across the Niger Delta region.
The statement maintained that the process of reviewing stipends remains a matter that requires strategic negotiations with the Federal Government and relevant authorities, stressing that sustained dialogue and cooperation offer a more viable path toward achieving the desired outcome.
It further noted that peaceful engagement among stakeholders remains essential in advancing the interests of beneficiaries while preserving stability within the Niger Delta.
The statement, which has generated discussions among stakeholders in the region, reportedly urged ex-agitators, community leaders, youth groups, and other interested parties to embrace diplomacy and collaboration in their pursuit of improved welfare packages under the amnesty programme.
According to the statement allegedly credited to Gen. Ogidigba, the success of any demand for an increase in stipends would depend largely on the ability of stakeholders to present their concerns through established channels of communication with the Presidency.
The statement also underscored the need for unity among beneficiaries of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, arguing that internal divisions, confrontational tactics, and media campaigns against officials of the programme may not necessarily facilitate the realization of their demands.
Observers believe that the issue of stipend increment remains a sensitive subject among beneficiaries of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, many of whom have repeatedly called for a review of their monthly allowances in light of prevailing economic realities in the country.
While reactions continue to trail the purported statement, stakeholders are expected to continue consultations aimed at ensuring that the concerns of beneficiaries are effectively communicated to the Federal Government.
Disclaimer: Global Egberi Media International Ltd has not independently verified the authenticity of the statement attributed to Gen. Ogidigba Godstime Ogidigba. The report is based solely on information made available to our newsroom.
Source: Statement allegedly credited to Gen. Ogidigba Godstime Ogidigba.
Report by: Dr. Odimientimi Agbedeyi, Global Egberi Media International Ltd.
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