The Progressive Peace Ambassadors of the Presidential Amnesty Program (PPAPAP), a coalition of ex-agitators from the first, second, and third phases, recently held a crucial unity conference in Ibiama, Ahoada LGA, Rivers State.
The gathering, which took place on March 8, 2025, brought together former field operatives and key figures who once fought for the Niger Delta’s emancipation but have since embraced peace under the amnesty framework.
Discussions focused on fostering unity, addressing internal divisions, and advocating for urgent reforms to ensure the program remains true to its original objectives.
In a statement signed by key representatives from different states, PPAPAP leaders raised concerns over the current state of the Amnesty Program, citing issues of favoritism and internal mismanagement that have weakened its core mission.
They emphasized that the selection process for scholarships, training, and empowerment programs must be transparent and free from political and personal bias. There was a strong call for fairness, urging that opportunities be allocated based on a verifiable system rather than individual connections.
While acknowledging the efforts of the PAP Administrator, Dr. Dennis Otuaro, in repositioning the program, the group expressed concerns that many beneficiaries were yet to feel the impact of his initiatives due to leadership disputes and a lack of transparency.
They urged the Federal Government and key stakeholders to intervene and ensure that the amnesty program fulfills its mandate of empowering ex-agitators.
The conference also addressed the ongoing leadership crisis within the Third Phase of the program, stressing the need for a resolution to prevent further divisions.
PPAPAP warned that while they remain committed to peace, failure to address these lingering issues could escalate tensions in the Niger Delta.
They called for immediate action to ensure justice, fairness, and inclusivity in the administration of the Presidential Amnesty Program.
0 Comments