Ex-Agitators’ Leaders Hold Abuja Meeting with PAP Coordinator, Reaffirm Commitment To Peace

The First Phase Ex-Agitators’ Leaders under the umbrella of the Niger Delta Ex-Agitators’ Forum have issued a strong appeal for calm and unity among all ex-agitators in the region. This follows concerns expressed publicly by some ex-agitators who alleged marginalization within the ongoing Presidential Amnesty Programme.

Addressing journalists after a crucial closed-door meeting with the Presidential Amnesty Coordinator, Chief Dennis Otuaro, the National President of the Niger Delta Ex-Agitators’ Forum and Senior Special Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Security, General Aroni Oputu (aka Owutebi 1 of Niger Delta), reassured that the Amnesty Coordinator has unequivocally pledged inclusivity and transparency in the implementation of the programme moving forward.

General Oputu detailed that the meeting, which also included the Second Phase Ex-Agitators’ President, General Ibena Salvation, was held in Abuja on Wednesday, December 17th, 2025.

He described the discussions as comprehensive and productive, with Chief Otuaro emphatically urging all ex-agitators to maintain peace and patience. “Dennis Otuaro assured us that everybody will be carried along,” Oputu said, “and that ex-agitators’ leaders will be identified and included in phases, ensuring no one is left out.”

The Presidential Amnesty Coordinator also committed to incorporating critical stakeholders in the planned training programme that is expected to commence early 2026 and will rotate across the Niger Delta states. This approach aims to foster a broad-based participation and to strengthen the reintegration and capacity-building efforts for former agitators.

Responding to grievances previously aired on social media and other online platforms, which voiced frustrations over alleged sidelining of key ex-agitators who played pivotal roles in the region’s liberation struggles; General Oputu characterized these as unfortunate miscommunications fueled by frustration.

He emphasized that all parties share a common goal of regional development and stability. “Otuaro is our candidate, he is part of us, he is one of us. We are united in our mission to advance the Niger Delta’s welfare,’’ he asserted.

In addition to addressing the inclusivity concern, Chief Dennis Otuaro has also promised a ‘Christmas package’ support to all beneficiaries, underscoring the government’s commitment to extending tangible benefits to those under the Amnesty Programme as the festive season approaches.

General Aroni Oputu further applauded Chief Dennis Otuaro for his dedication, “since assuming office, his performance has been commendable and impactful.” He and his colleagues expressed a vote of confidence and prayed for divine guidance and wisdom for the Amnesty Coordinator to continue steering the programme successfully in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda for the Niger Delta.

The joint message from the ex-agitators’ leadership is clear: unity, patience, and collaboration remain crucial as the Amnesty Programme seeks to deliver lasting peace, socio-economic development, and empowerment to the Niger Delta people.