By Tina Amanda
A coalition of youth leaders has condemned recent allegations against Chief Dennis Burutu Otuaro (PhD), the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), labeling them as baseless and politically motivated attacks aimed at undermining his leadership.
The allegations, published by The Guardian on February 19, 2025, accuse Chief Otuaro of nepotism, favoritism, and financial mismanagement, with claims that he is under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). However, youth leaders have strongly refuted these claims, calling them deliberate attempts to derail the progress of the PAP.
Tarry Foray Fayeofori, popularly known as Commander Faye, a prominent youth leader in Rivers State, dismissed the allegations as a smear campaign.
“The allegations are a desperate and futile attempt to derail the remarkable progress made by the PAP under the astute leadership of Chief Dennis Burutu Otuaro,” he stated.
Dennis Philip, another youth leader, echoed similar sentiments, describing the allegations as a calculated effort to destabilize the peace and development achieved in the Niger Delta region.
He emphasized that Chief Otuaro’s leadership has been instrumental in fostering stability and providing economic opportunities through the PAP.
Chief Dennis Burutu Otuaro, a former beneficiary of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, has been credited with implementing strategic reforms aimed at empowering ex-agitators, fostering peace, and driving economic transformation in the Niger Delta.
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His administration has focused on skill acquisition programs, educational scholarships, and entrepreneurial support to ensure the reintegration of ex-agitators into society.
Under his tenure, the PAP has recorded significant progress in stabilizing the region and reducing youth restiveness. Supporters argue that the allegations against him are politically motivated distractions meant to derail these positive strides.
The Niger Delta youth movement has condemned what they describe as a “malicious misinformation campaign” orchestrated by unnamed individuals with vested interests. They argue that the accusations are designed to create division and instability in a region that has long sought peace and development.
“The Niger Delta cannot afford to be swayed by deceitful narratives peddled by those who prioritize personal enrichment over collective development,” said Commander Faye. “We must recognize and reject deliberate attempts to create discord.”
Beyond youth leaders, several organizations, including the Ijaw Youth Council and the Ijaw Youth Consultative Forum (IYCF), have rallied behind Chief Otuaro, denouncing the allegations as unfounded.
“The claims are wild, ridiculous, and completely lacking in substance,” stated the Chairman of the IYCF, emphasizing the need for continued support for Chief Otuaro’s administration.
Supporters of the PAP administrator have urged those with concerns to engage through appropriate channels rather than resorting to public defamation. They argue that the Niger Delta region needs unity and responsible leadership to continue its path of development.
Commander Faye reaffirmed the youth’s unwavering support for Chief Otuaro and the PAP, stating that the integrity of the program must not be compromised by politically motivated distractions.
As tensions rise, Niger Delta stakeholders emphasize the importance of safeguarding the region’s progress under Chief Otuaro’s leadership. “The Niger Delta must not be dragged backward by individuals who do not have its best interests at heart,” said Philip.
The youth leaders have vowed to resist any attempts to destabilize the PAP and have called on all Niger Deltans to stand firm in support of Chief Dennis Burutu Otuaro’s vision for peace and sustainable development in the region.
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