I will not succumb to cheap blackmail, amnesty boss tells ex-agitators

The Interim Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Maj. Gen. Barry Ndiomu (rtd), has said that no amount of blackmail would make him succumb to fraudulent activities in the amnesty programme.

Ndiomu made this known against the backdrop of accusations by aggrieved ex-agitators of delisting names of real beneficiaries of the programme and refusing to pay the stipends of over 7,000 delegates for about six months without good reason.

While addressing journalists, yesterday, in Abuja, shortly after briefing the new National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ridabu, on activities of PAP, Ndiomu stated that the media attacks from some miscreants parading as ex-agitators were sponsored by faceless groups and individuals.

He said: “If you like blackmail me to the heavens and back, I will not succumb to fraudulent activities. We would ensure we stand our ground to do what is right and just for our people, and vigorously pursue intentions of the PAP.

“We are aware that those fighting back have issues with their Bank Verification Numbers (BVNs). How can one person be receiving monthly stipends on several accounts linked to a single BVN? There are hundreds of cases like that. That is how deadly corruption is. When you try to fight it, it fights back.’’

“We are aware that there are contractors who criminally connived with some staff of PAP in the past for bogus and fictitious contract sums. But my conscience will not let me engage in such fraudulent operations. It’s not going to be business as usual.”

The PAP’s Interim Administrator recalled that in the past, ex-agitators were being used as conduit pipes to siphon monies from the programme. He, therefore, urged contractors, who have outstanding payments, to follow due process in the pursuit of their causes, rather than spreading and sponsoring falsehood.

He warned that PAP beneficiaries, who are taking part in spreading false narratives, would be dealt with in accordance with he extant laws.

Ndiomu had in the past discouraged ex-agitators from depending on the monthly stipend of N65, 000, and look to more sustainable means of livelihood. He said the overdependence on the stipend has introduced a culture of indolence and laziness among youths.