Politics
Niger Delta Ex-Agitators Announce No Protests For October 1
Niger Delta Ex-Agitators Announce No Protests For October 1....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
In a bid to uphold peace in the Niger Delta, over 30,000 ex-agitators have voiced their opposition to the planned nationwide protests on October 1. The repentant militants, primarily youths, have pledged to prevent any protests from occurring in their region……CONTINUE READING
During a stakeholders’ meeting organized by the Presidential Amnesty Programme, led by Dr. Dennis Otuaro in Warri, Delta State, the leaders of these ex-agitators urged residents to refrain from participating in the protests. They expressed confidence that the challenges facing the Niger Delta will be addressed by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
This declaration came at the conclusion of a three-day forum held at KFT Hall in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State. In his address, Dr. Otuaro announced that the Federal Government has awarded the contract for the rehabilitation of the East-West Road to a Chinese construction company, with work set to commence soon. He called on the region’s residents to resist calls for protests, emphasizing that the region’s peace and stability depend on their actions.
Otuaro highlighted the need for a peaceful approach to addressing regional issues, stating, “Constructive engagement with the government is the best way to achieve progress and development.” He added, “The President is committed to the Niger Delta, and we must support his efforts to bring development to our region.”
Paul Elvis, a Niger Delta leader known as General Ogubos, also spoke at the meeting, advocating for peace and cautioning against the futility of war as a solution to the region’s problems. He stressed the importance of dialogue and cooperation, asserting, “Violence will only lead to more destruction and suffering in our communities.” He urged stakeholders to address grievances peacefully.
Elder T.K. Ogoruba, another prominent figure in the Niger Delta, echoed these sentiments and called on the Federal Government to address the region’s longstanding demands to prevent a resurgence of protests. He remarked, “Protests have been a consistent response to neglect since April 1949,” and warned that unrest could continue if necessary changes are not made.
Ogoruba acknowledged the administrator’s appeal for peace but reminded attendees of the historical context of protests in the Niger Delta, saying, “Protests are not alien to the Niger Delta.” He emphasized the need for the government to recognize and address the demands for fair treatment, infrastructural development, and environmental remediation, asserting, “Our protests have been made, and everybody is aware.”
As the October 1 date approaches, the message from the Niger Delta ex-agitators is clear: peace and constructive dialogue will pave the way for lasting solutions to the region’s challenges.
