Niger Delta ex-agitators seek more economic development

A group of Niger Delta ex-militants have called for more meaningful development and socio-economic growth to sustain the prevailing peace in the region.

The group of Amnesty beneficiaries, which cut across the seven states in the South-South region, said the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) under the leadership of Gen. Barry Ndiomu (rtd) has made significant strides in the area of youth empowerment and job creation.

The ex-agitators warned that the removal of Ndiomu would be a setback in the region, saying calls by some persons seeking for the sack of the PAP boss would be counter-productive.

Spokesman of the group, Mr. Datonye Ebiye, in a statement, yesterday, said misguided calls by a faction of ex-agitators backed by some politicians were ill conceived.

He stated that the calls lack merit, adding that they were being met with overwhelming condemnation from a vast majority of Niger Deltans who recognise and appreciate Ndiomu’s remarkable contributions to the Niger Delta region.

“It is important to note that these calls for his removal are not only unfounded but also fail to acknowledge the immense progress and transformative changes that have been achieved under Ndiomu’s leadership.

“Ndiomu has so far displayed unwavering commitment, integrity and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the Niger Delta communities,” he added.

He urged President Bola Tinubu to disregard the calls.

One of the ex-militants, John Ekpe, also said: “I was once caught in the cycle of violence and despair, but thanks to Ndiomu and the PAP initiative. I now have a second chance in life.”