A group of traditional leaders from the Niger Delta region of Nigeria under the auspices of the South-South Traditional Council, FCT, has passed a vote of confidence in the Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta and Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, PAP, High Chief Dr Dennis Otuaro.

The South-South Traditional Council, FCT, led by its Chairman, His Royal Highness, Ese Lucky Omafuakpo (JP), made the declaration at a World Press Conference organised in the Federal Capital Territory Abuja on Thursday, March 13, 2025.

The traditional leaders, in their released statement, condemned the recent campaign of calumny against political office holders in the region, particularly Otuaro, as well as commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visionary leadership in the country and for appointing a square peg in a square hole in the person of Otuaro.

The group, in their call to action, appealed to those whose stock in trade is to subject the region to public ridicule to turn over a new leaf, to support the PAP Boss in his efforts to expand the amnesty programme and to be patient for their time to serve the Niger Delta people if qualified to do so.

In conclusion, while reaffirming their commitment to the peace and development of the Niger Delta, the group called on the people in the region to support the PAP Administrator and to unite as one to ensure that Otuaro and President Tinubu succeed.

Part of the statement reads:

We warmly welcome you to this important world press conference. Your presence here is a testament to your commitment to the peace, progress and unity of the Niger Delta region and Nigeria at large.

2. We gather today not only to address pressing issues but also to reaffirm our collective resolve to protect the dignity of our region and its leaders. The South-South Traditional Council, FCT, is genuinely concerned about recent events that threaten the stability and development of our beloved Niger Delta.

3. The South-South Traditional Rulers Council, FCT is deeply troubled by the incessant attacks, unwarranted blackmail and organized protests by certain individuals against our leaders in the Niger Delta region, particularly those holding political offices. These actions are not only divisive but also counterproductive to the peace and development we all strive for.

4. Lately, the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), High Chief (DR) Dennis Otuaro, has become the latest victim of these targeted attacks. Falsehoods and baseless allegations have been spread against him and his administration, all in an attempt to undermine his commendable efforts.

5. Ladies and Gentlemen, let us be clear: Chief Dennis Otuaro is a man of integrity, vision with resilience and commitment to the Niger Delta. His leadership has been instrumental in driving the region toward peace and development. His achievements are visible for all to see, and his dedication to the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, is unparalleled. Therefore, the President could not have been wrong in appointing him.

6. To those who engage in these acts of blackmail and ill-conceived protest, we ask: If you believe you are more qualified to lead, why not exercise patience? When Chief Otuaro’s tenure is over, present yourselves for the position, and all Niger Deltans will support you. But until then, desist from these uncivilized activities. Give peace a chance. Allow progress to flourish.

A CALL TO ACTION

7. As traditional rulers, leaders and elders of the Niger Delta, we can no longer remain silent while a few individuals smear the reputation of our political office holders. These actions are not only condemnable but also offend the collective psyche of our people.

8. We urge those whose stock in trade is to subject our region to public ridicule to reconsider their actions. Unwarranted blackmail, ill-conceived protests and destructive criticism are not solutions to the challenges we face. Instead, we must build, encourage growth as well as avoid being used and support our leaders to succeed. Peace and unity are the true panaceas for development.

9. We must take a moment to profusely commend His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, for his visionary leadership in the country and the Renewed Hope Agenda. Through the instrumentality of the Presidential Amnesty Programme and the exemplary leadership of Chief Dennis Otuaro, the President has demonstrated his commitment to the development and peace of the Niger Delta region.

10. The Renewed Hope Agenda is not just a slogan; it is a transformative vision that is already yielding results in our region. We are grateful to Mr. President for his unwavering support and for appointing a competent leader like Chief Dennis Otuaro to drive this agenda forward.

PASSING A VOTE OF CONFIDENCE IN CHIEF DENNIS OTUARO

11. Gentlemen of the Press, Ladies and Gentlemen, today, the South-South Traditional Council, FCT proudly passes a vote of confidence in the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, High (Dr) Chief Dennis Burutu Otuaro. His leadership has been marked by impactful initiatives, innovative programmes and a genuine commitment to the development of the Niger Delta.

12. Under his administration, the region is steadily reclaiming its lost glory. From empowering ex-agitators to fostering peace and reconciliation, Chief Otuaro has proven himself to be a true servant of the people. His achievements speak volumes, and we are confident that his tenure will leave an indelible mark on the region.

13. We call on all people of good conscience in the Niger Delta to rally behind Chief Dennis Otuaro and support his policies and initiatives. Let us unite in our resolve to in pursuit of peace, progress and development. Together, we can build a region that we can all be proud of.

14. In conclusion, we reiterate our commitment to the peace and development of the Niger Delta. We stand firmly behind our leaders, particularly Chief Dennis Otuaro, and we urge all stakeholders to join us in this noble cause.

15. Finally, to the press, we thank you for your presence and for amplifying our message to the world. Let us all work together to ensure that the Niger Delta remains a beacon of hope and progress in Nigeria.

Thank you, and may God bless the Niger Delta. May God bless Nigeria.

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