Stay away from Rivers crisis, PAP urges ex-agitators

The Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) has cautioned former agitators under its scheme to remain peaceful and avoid being drawn into the ongoing political tensions in Rivers State.

In a statement on Wednesday, PAP Administrator Dr. Dennis Otuaro urged beneficiaries of the programme to reject any attempts by individuals or groups—regardless of their influence—to involve them in the unfolding situation.

He stated, “I am appealing against engaging in violent activities or making yourselves available for acts capable of throwing the Niger Delta into chaos.
“I am reminding you of your obligations as critical stakeholders as well as ambassadors of peace to maintain and safeguard the region’s peace and stability for the safety of the Niger Delta people and their means of livelihoods.”

Dr. Otuaro further cautioned ex-agitators against being manipulated by those seeking to exploit the crisis for political gain, warning that such actions could disrupt the region’s hard-won peace.

“The PAP Office further wants all ex-agitators to beware that some merchants of violence will like to make political gains out of tensions in Rivers State and use them as cannon fodder to disrupt the peace for their selfish desires. You are urged to shun such temptations,” he said.

Emphasizing the need for stability, he noted, “The Niger Delta has suffered enough on many fronts over the years, and all ex-agitators should realize this fact and ensure that the region is not plunged into further destabilization due to the developments in Rivers.

“Importantly, I am asking ex-agitators, beneficiaries of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, and the good people of the Niger Delta not to engage in the destruction of oil and gas and other government assets in the region.”