A group of former Niger Delta agitators held a peaceful demonstration in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, on Tuesday, expressing concern over what they described as attempts to destabilise the region through divisive rhetoric and personal attacks.

Operating under the banner of Phase 3 Ex-Agitators of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), the protesters raised alarm over recent actions and statements attributed to two prominent former militant leaders, Ebikabowei Victor-Ben (known as General Boyloaf) and Bibopere Ajube (known as General Shoot-at-Sight).

According to the demonstrators, the duo have been linked to efforts aimed at discrediting High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, widely known as Tompolo, and Dr Dennis Otuaro, the current administrator of the amnesty programme. The group claimed that recent accusations levelled against both men by unnamed parties were unfounded and potentially harmful to peace in the oil-rich region.

Spokesperson for the protest, Theophilus Vicas Ebiama, maintained that the growing smear campaigns were rooted in political rivalry and dissatisfaction over recent appointments. “Tompolo’s recommendation of Dr Dennis Otuaro as administrator of the PAP was made in good faith, to ensure continued progress in the region,” he said. “Attempts to undermine these leaders only risk reversing the gains achieved in security and development.”

The protesters urged the Federal Government to maintain its support for the Presidential Amnesty Programme, praising the administration under Otuaro for providing skills, training, and employment opportunities for thousands of youths in the Niger Delta.

They also called for the publication of findings from an official inquiry into the vandalism of the Kaiama Vocational Training Centre in Bayelsa, saying transparency in such matters would promote accountability and justice.

In addition, the demonstrators appealed for increased government support for Tantita Security Services Limited, a private firm led by Tompolo, credited with playing a major role in securing Nigeria’s oil pipelines. They noted that improved surveillance and protection of critical oil infrastructure had contributed to a significant rise in crude oil output in recent months.

“We urge all former leaders and stakeholders in the Niger Delta to embrace unity and avoid rhetoric that threatens peace,” said Ebiama. “We stand behind Tompolo and Dr Otuaro and believe they are working in the best interest of the region.”
The protest ended with a vote of confidence in Otuaro’s leadership, with demonstrators urging sustained federal support for initiatives aimed at maintaining peace and advancing development in the Niger Delta.