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FULL TEXT: Oporoza House Writes Tinubu, Says Media Attacks On Otuaro Unfounded, Malicious

Published

7 months ago

March 2, 2025

Editor

Oporoza House, a coalition of distinguished elders, leaders, and stakeholders from the Niger Delta, has formally written to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to disregard unfounded media attacks against Dr. Brutu Dennis Otuaro, the administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP).

In a letter signed by Mr. Kime Engozu, Elder Kennedy Orubebe, Felix Tuodolo, and nineteen others, the group expressed concern over a series of baseless allegations aimed at discrediting Otuaro and the progress of the PAP.

They described these allegations as a “calculated attempt” to derail the achievements made by the programme which, according to them, has been instrumental in promoting peace and development in the region.

Others who signed the letter included Hendricks Opukeme, Ari Sylvester Ari, Welman Warri, Cooler Hart, Ibiba Don Pedro, Felix Tuodolo, Elfrida Olungwe, Emmanuel Bristol Alagbarigha, Tonbra Kasikoro, Chief Ben Donyegha, Chief David Reje Imole, Rosebella Jackson, Dr Lolo Fubara Sax Hailsham, comrade Anaye-Kio Akintunde, Alaowei Dr Oyeinfie E. Jonjon, Chief Tina Tobusi, Chief Dan Ekpebide, Madam Primrose Oringeriya-Kpokposei, Arc. Sylvester Adowei and Comrade Morris Alagoa.

In the letter, they argued that claims of financial misappropriation against Dr. Otuaro are completely unfounded.

The signatories insisted that all payments made under his administration were legitimate, adhering to federal accounting standards, and intended to bolster stakeholder engagement and regional stability.

The letter also copied the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, the Director General NFIU and the Chairman Independent Corrupt Practices and Related Offences Commission, ICPC, adding that Niger Delta people are satisfied with the reforms of the administrator of the presidential amnesty programme, PAP.

“It is evident that these malicious allegations stem from ex-agitators who failed to secure appointments as Administrator of the PAP and are now seeking revenge,” the letter stated.

“Their actions represent a campaign of calumny aimed at tarnishing the reputation of Dr. Otuaro and the program.”, they added.

“Under Dr. Otuaro’s leadership, Oporoza House praises the significant reforms introduced to promote transparency and accountability within the PAP. They noted that the reduction of fraudulent activities and illicit patronage has been a major achievement of his administration, allowing for more effective utilization of funds intended for the reintegration of ex-agitators.

“Since taking office, Dr. Otuaro has implemented innovative strategies, including vocational training and economic empowerment initiatives, which have led to an increase in the number of beneficiaries participating in educational programs.

“Oporoza House encourages the public and all stakeholders to focus on these positive contributions rather than be swayed by detractors”, the Oporoza house added.

The group concluded their letter by reiterating their commitment to the goals of the Presidential Amnesty Programme and called for unity among Nigerians in support of the efforts to promote peace and development in the Niger Delta region.

They urged the President to remain steadfast against efforts aimed at undermining the progress attained under Dr. Otuaro’s administration.

Read the full letter:

2nd March 2025

Sen. Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR)
President and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Aso Rock Presidential Villa
Abuja.

CAMPAIGN OF COLUMNY AGAINST THE PRESIDENTIAL AMNESTY PROGRAMME

We are an assemblage of revered elders, leaders, and veterans of the Niger Delta self-determination agitation and esteemed stakeholders in the Presidential Amnesty Programme. Our collective experience and wisdom, forged through years of advocacy and struggle, have been instrumental in shaping the trajectory of the Niger Delta region.
We proudly recall our pivotal role in constituting the mobile resource team that championed the roadmap to resolving the Niger Delta hostilities. Our tireless efforts set the stage for the proclamation of the Presidential Amnesty Programme in 2009, a watershed moment that marked a new era of peace and development in the region.

As stakeholders, we have remained committed to the ideals of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, working tirelessly behind the scene to ensure its success and sustainability. We have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of the programme on the lives of former agitators and the region as a whole.

In the light of the recent malicious allegations against Dr. Dennis Otuaro, the administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, we feel compelled to set the records straight. As stakeholders, we can attest to the programme’s transparency, accountability, and commitment to its stated objectives. We urge you and the public to disregard these baseless allegations and instead focus on the programme’s numerous achievements and contributions to peace and development in the Niger Delta region.

We write to express our utmost disappointment and outrage at the recent spurious allegations made by the Niger Delta Liberators and Ex-Agitators Forum. These baseless accusations are nothing short of a calculated attempt to discredit and undermine the recent progress made by the Presidential Amnesty Programme.

The Facts: A Programme of Reintegration and Development

The Presidential Amnesty Programme is a complex initiative aimed at reintegrating former agitators into society and promoting sustainable development in the Niger Delta region. Since its inception, the programme has made significant strides in providing education, vocational training, and economic empowerment to its beneficiaries. Dr. Otuaro’s leadership has been instrumental in revitalizing the programme and ensuring its effectiveness.

Addressing the Allegations: Transparency and Accountability

We can state categorically that the allegations of misappropriation and financial impropriety made against Dr. Otuaro are unfounded. The payments made to stakeholders were legitimate and in accordance with standard accounting principles and practices of the Federal Government, which you can verify. These payments were part of the Administrator’s efforts to engage with stakeholders and promote peace and stability in the region.

The Real Motive: A Desperate Attempt to Discredit

It is evident that the allegations are motivated by a desire to discredit Dr. Otuaro and the programme. Certain ex-agitators who failed to secure appointments as Administrator of the PAP are now seeking to exact revenge and undermine the progress made by the programme. Their actions are nothing short of a campaign of calumny, aimed at destroying the reputation of Dr. Otuaro and the programme.

Reforms and Accountability: A New Era of Transparency

Under Dr. Otuaro’s leadership, the programme has introduced significant reforms aimed at promoting transparency and accountability. These reforms have drastically reduced the illicit and fraudulent patronage extended to certain ex-agitators, who had almost grounded the programme. The cessation of fraudulent payments has also been a major achievement, ensuring that funds are utilized effectively and efficiently.

Aborted Expectations: The Role of Disgruntled Ex-Agitators

Some ex-agitators, who had expected to be appointed as Administrator, are now seeking to discredit the programme and its leadership. Their actions are driven by a sense of entitlement and a desire for revenge.
We urge you and the general public to see through their motives and reject their baseless allegations.

The Impact of Dr. Otuaro’s Leadership

Since his assumption of office, Dr. Otuaro’s leadership has had a significant impact on the programme. He has introduced innovative approaches to reintegration, including vocational training and economic empowerment. His efforts have also led to an increase in the number of beneficiaries enrolled in education and training programmes.

The Rise in Crude Oil Production:
The recent rise in crude oil production could be partly attributed to Dr. Otuaro’s leadership and his efforts to engage with stakeholders and promote peace and stability in the region. His approach has been instrumental in reducing tensions and promoting cooperation among stakeholders.

Conclusion:
We urge you and the general public to disregard the malicious allegations made against the Presidential Amnesty Programme and its leadership. The programme remains committed to its mission of promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development in the Niger Delta region. We will continue to
work tirelessly with other stakeholders to ensure that the programme’s objectives are achieved, despite the attempts by detractors to undermine its progress.
Mr. President, we want to equally use this medium to call on you and all well-meaning Nigerians to support the Presidential Amnesty Programme and its efforts to promote peace and development in the Niger Delta region. Together, we can build a brighter future for our nation and ensure that the programme’s objectives are achieved.

Signed:

1. Mr. Kime Engozu
2. ⁠ Hendricks Opukeme
3. ⁠ Ari Sylvester Ari
4. ⁠Elder Kennedy Orubebe
5. ⁠Welman Warri
6. ⁠ Cooler Hart
7. ⁠Ibiba Don Pedro
8. ⁠ Felix Tuodolo
9. ⁠Elfrida Olungwe
10. ⁠Emmanuel Bristol Alagbarigha
11. ⁠Tonbra Kasikoro
12. ⁠Chief David Reje Imole
13. ⁠Chief Ben Donyegha
14. ⁠ Rosebella Jackson
15. ⁠ Dr Lolo Fubara Sax Hailsham
16. ⁠comrade Anaye-Kio Akintunde
17. ⁠Alaowei Dr Oyeinfie E. Jonjon
18. ⁠Chief Tina Tobusi
19. ⁠Chief Dan Ekpebide
20. Madam Primrose Oringeriya-Kpokposei
21. Arc. Sylvester Adowei
22. Comrade Morris Alagoa

Cc:
Cc:

•The Chairman
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission

•The Director General NFIU

•The Chairman
Independent Corrupt Practices and Related Offences Commission

News

Okpebholo, Idahosa Bag UNIBEN Distinguished Service, Leadership Awards

Published

4 hours ago

October 7, 2025

Editor

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo and his deputy, Hon Dennis Idahosa have been awarded the University of Benin Distinguished Service and Leadership Awards, respectively, for their exemplary leadership styles since assumption of office on November 12, 2024.

The awards, which were conferred on them by the university’s Vice Chairman, Prof. Edoba Omoregie, is part of the activities lined up for the institution’s Faculty of Social Sciences golden jubilee celebration.

The deputy governor who received the awards said expressed delight for the recognition by the university as an alumnus.

“It is an honour to be part of this historic occasion marking the 50th anniversary of the Faculty of Social Sciences.

“For five decades, this faculty has produced outstanding scholars and change-makers who have contributed immensely to national and global development,” he said.

The deputy governor commended the faculty’s legacy of excellence, describing it as “a beacon of research, critical thinking, and civic engagement.”

He praised the university for its role in shaping generations of leaders who continue to influence public policy and nation-building.

Reflecting on the governor Okpebholo-led administration’s priorities, Idahosa reiterated the governor’s commitment to revitalising education in the state.

“The administration of Senator Monday Okpebholo is committed to strengthening the education sector, with a particular focus on inclusivity and infrastructure.

“We are determined to guarantee access to quality education for all, including children with special needs,” he stated.

Idahosa concluded with an appeal to students to steer clear of vices, particularly cultism, stressing that the government would deal decisively with anyone found engaging in such acts.

“You are our most precious assets and the hope of a prosperous Nigeria. Shun all forms of vices and violence. Focus on your studies and become agents of positive change,” he pleaded.

Speaking on a lecture titled: ‘We Will all Be Consumed Unless,’ Prof. Brownwell Amadasun, sparked lively reactions among attendees as the academic delved into Nigeria’s foundational challenges and their lingering impact on national development.

Amadasun critiqued the ideological roots of the Nigerian state, asserting that the nation’s founding fathers laid a framework deeply entrenched in ethnic and religious divisions.

“Our national leaders were ethnic leaders. They laid the foundation we are struggling with today. Ethnicity and religious allegiance continue to hinder national growth. We must move away from it or we will all be consumed,” he said.

He called for a fundamental shift in leadership philosophy and collective mindset to foster unity and sustainable progress.

The Faculty’s 50th anniversary celebrations continue throughout the week with lectures, exhibitions, and alumni engagements celebrating five decades of scholarship, service, and societal impact.

News

Reps Move To Regulate Cryptocurrency, POS Operations

Published

15 hours ago

October 6, 2025

Editor

Concerned about the growing cases of cybercrime, money laundering, and terrorism financing linked to digital finance platforms, the House of Representatives has set up an ad hoc committee to review the economic, regulatory, and security implications of cryptocurrency adoption and Point-of-Sale (POS) operations in Nigeria.

Speaker of the House, Abbas Tajudeen, who inaugurated the committee on Monday in Abuja, said the move became necessary amid increasing concerns over fraud and consumer exploitation in the country’s rapidly expanding digital finance ecosystem.

He noted that while Nigeria’s resilient economy has the potential to support cryptocurrency growth, the risks associated with its unregulated operations, including its use for illicit financial flows, cannot be overlooked.

Abbas explained that the absence of clear regulatory guidelines, coupled with the volatility and complexity of digital assets, compelled the House to intervene and establish a regulatory and consumer protection framework for Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs), including cryptocurrencies and crypto-assets.

He said Nigeria’s economy has consistently demonstrated resilience, often recovering from recessions and recording growth in non-oil sectors, making it a potentially strong environment for cryptocurrency trade. However, he cautioned that the vulnerabilities inherent in digital currency operations must not be underestimated.

“It is because of this absence of clear rules, coupled with the volatility and complexity of the technology, that the House of Representatives found it imperative to establish regulations and consumer protection measures that will regulate the activities of Virtual Assets Service Providers, including cryptocurrencies and crypto assets,” Abbas said.

He added that the committee’s mandate includes conducting public hearings to gather input from stakeholders that would guide the House in developing legislation for a comprehensive regulatory framework governing cryptocurrency and other digital finance platforms.

The Speaker urged members of the committee to discharge their duties with patriotism and integrity, ensuring that the best interests of the nation guide their work.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the Committee, Olufemi Bamisile (APC–Ekiti), described the assignment as one of national importance aimed at striking a balance between financial innovation and national security.

“We have been entrusted with a task of national significance — to review the economic, regulatory, and security implications of cryptocurrency adoption and Point-of-Sale operations in Nigeria,” Bamisile said.

He added that the committee would work closely with key regulatory and security agencies such as the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Nigeria Police Force.

News

World Habitat Day: Okpebholo Commends Building Control Agency For Developmental Milestones

Published

15 hours ago

October 6, 2025

Editor

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has commended the management and staff of the Edo State Development and Building Control Agency (ESDBCA) for their significant contributions to urban growth and infrastructural development across the state.

The governor gave the commendation on Monday when he played host to the delegation of the agency in his office as part of programme to mark this year’s World Habitat Day celebration.

The deputy governor, Hon. Dennis Idahosa who received the team on his behalf, commended the agency led by the Managing Director, Mr. Imoisili Igabali, for its “selfless contributions” to the development of our dear state.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Friday Aghedo, Idahosa noted that the agency had played a pivotal role in driving urban renewal and enforcing modern building standards in the State, describing their efforts as vital to the government’s vision of sustainable city planning.

“We want to thank you for being part of the growth and development of our dear state. Your work has not gone unnoticed.

“What is most important to us is that we have the political will to ensure that this agency continues to fulfill its mandate effectively,” he stated.

He expressed optimism on the future of urban development in Edo State and pledged continued government support for the agency’s initiatives.

“On behalf of His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, I want to thank you for this wonderful day.

“We congratulate you as a state, and we thank God for giving us a capable leader in Mr. Igabali, whose dedication and teamwork continue to yield results,” he said.

Earlier in his remarks, the Managing Director of the agency expressed appreciation to the Governor and his deputy for their support and for taking the time to receive the agency’s delegation during the World Habitat Day observance.

The 2025 World Habitat Day celebration in Edo State was marked with renewed calls for sustainable housing, improved infrastructure, and enhanced urban management — key pillars of the Okpebholo administration’s development agenda.