Ijaw Women Veterans in N-Delta organize solidarity rally for PAP Administrator
By Ezekiel Kagbala
In a strong show of support, the Ijaw Women Veterans of the Niger Delta on Monday organised a solidarity rally in appreciation of the socioeconomic development activities of the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr. Dennis Otuaro.
The group, which represents a significant voice in the South-South region, expressed their unwavering solidarity with Otuaro, emphasizing the importance of his leadership in the ongoing efforts to foster peace and development in the Niger Delta region.
Also, the group stoutly condemned the recent smear campaign and protests from some quarters targeting Dr. Dennis Otuaro, the PAP Administrator noting that "the individuals behind the negative actions are unknown entities with no genuine stake in the well-being of the Niger Delta".
"It is evident that the attacks are nothing more than orchestrated attempts by detractors who are unwilling to acknowledge the remarkable progress under Dr. Dennis Otuaro's leadership", the group added.
The group expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu "for entrusting Dr. Otuaro with the leadership of the PAP, and to the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for supporting his efforts in stabilizing the region".
According to the group, "the achievements of the Otuaro-led PAP speak for themselves, and we stand firmly behind him as he continues to drive sustainable development in the Niger Delta".
In a statement jointly signed on behalf of the Ijaw Women Veterans by Chief Tina Tobusi, Dr Lolo Fubara Sax Green Hailshams, Amb Elfreda Olungwe, Amb Rosebella Jackson, Amb Ibiba Donpedro, Tonbar Kasikoro Kilopirite and Amb Primrose Kpokoesi respectively, the group articulated their concerns regarding the negative narratives being circulated about the PAP Administrator submitting that they are "standing firmly against the smear campaign that seeks to undermine the integrity and efforts of Dr. Dennis Otuaro".
The statement partly reads, "The Ijaw Women Veterans of the Niger Delta strongly condemn the recent smear campaign and protests against the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr. Dennis Otuaro.
"It is evident that these attacks are nothing more than orchestrated attempts by detractors who are unwilling to acknowledge the remarkable progress under his leadership.
"The recent protests calling for Dr. Otuaro’s removal are clearly sponsored efforts aimed at discrediting his work.
"The individuals behind these actions are unknown entities with no genuine stake in the well-being of the Niger Delta.
"Their baseless accusations of favoritism and corruption are simply desperate attempts to undermine a leader who has remained steadfast, transparent and committed to the objectives of the PAP.
"Since assuming office, Dr. Otuaro has prioritized education by awarding scholarships to numerous indigent students in the Niger Delta, expanded vocational training programs, and maintained open engagement with stakeholders.
"His administration has worked diligently to ensure the inclusion of all ex-agitators and beneficiaries, ensuring that the PAP fulfills its mandate effectively.
"The Niger Delta needs stability, unity and visionary leadership to continue on the path of progress.
"We, therefore, call on all well-meaning individuals and groups to support Dr. Otuaro in his mission rather than engage in counterproductive distractions.
"The continuous protests and malicious media attacks against him must stop immediately, as they only serve to hinder the remarkable progress being made".
