By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr
The Ika Ex-Agitator Leader and President of the Ika Youths Peace Movement (IYPM), Comrade Austin Imaghodor (Phase 3 Forum), has strongly rejected the 21-day ultimatum issued by the Itsekiri Ethnic Nationality Ex-Agitators Forum to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, demanding the sack of the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dennis Brutu Otuaro.
Addressing journalists during a press briefing, Imaghodor described the ultimatum as “misguided, unnecessary, and capable of heating up the polity,” insisting that the leadership of the Presidential Amnesty Programme under Otuaro has recorded measurable progress. “Leadership Requires Courage and Accountability”
Quoting the maxim that “true leadership is not just about making the right decisions, but having the courage to stand by them,” Imaghodor said Otuaro has demonstrated transparency, accountability, and reform-driven governance since his appointment by Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
According to him, over 30,000 ex-agitators enrolled in the programme are currently experiencing improved welfare, timely stipend payments, and enhanced access to educational scholarships and vocational training.
“The Amnesty Programme, which was once plagued by allegations of corruption and sharp practices, is now firmly on track toward its core objectives of disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration,” he said.
Imaghodor unequivocally condemned the 21-day ultimatum reportedly issued by the Itsekiri Ethnic Nationality Ex-Agitators Forum, which accused Otuaro of ethnic marginalization and mismanagement.
He dismissed the allegations as unfounded and politically motivated, arguing that beneficiary selection processes, especially for scholarship schemes, are guided by transparency and merit.
While defending Otuaro’s stewardship, the Ika leader called for calm among stakeholders and urged aggrieved groups to pursue dialogue rather than threats.
In what he described as a confidence-building measure, Imaghodor suggested that the PAP Administrator consider conducting a comprehensive verification exercise of the 30,000 beneficiaries.
He noted that such a move would further strengthen public trust in the programme and counter what he termed “propaganda and misinformation.”
The Phase 3 Forum also addressed allegations made by Owoupele Eneoriekumoh Owous, National Chairman of the “Reformed Niger Delta Ex-Agitators Forum,” against Otuaro.
Imaghodor alleged that Owous is currently facing legal action bordering on cybercrime, cyberstalking, and defamation. He called on the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to ensure due process is followed.
He further claimed that Owous, a beneficiary of the Amnesty Programme, had previously been offered educational opportunities under the scheme but failed to complete his studies.
Reaffirming loyalty to the Federal Government, Imaghodor commended President Tinubu for sustaining support for the Presidential Amnesty Programme and for prioritizing peace and development initiatives in the Niger Delta.
He urged Niger Delta youths and leaders to remain steadfast in promoting peace, stability, and constructive engagement.
“The gains recorded under Dr. Dennis Brutu Otuaro must not be derailed by divisive narratives,” Imaghodor stated. “Our focus should remain on reintegration, empowerment, and sustainable development.”
The Presidential Amnesty Programme, established in 2009, was designed to reintegrate former militants into society through structured rehabilitation, education, and economic empowerment initiatives.
Convener:
Comrade Austin Imaghodor
Ika Ex-Agitators Forum (Phase 3)