Niger Delta’s Hard-Won Peace At Risk As Leadership Crisis Threatens Presidential Amnesty Programme

The Niger Delta region, once a hotbed of violence and instability, has witnessed a period of relative peace thanks to the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP).

However, a brewing leadership crisis within the programme’s third phase threatens to undo the hard-won progress and plunge the region back into uncertainty.

The conflict lies between Preye Ekpebide and Eleye Slaboh, both vying for the position of National Chairman of PAP Phase Three.

This power struggle has created a deep rift within the programme’s leadership, raising fears of a return to unrest.

“We cannot afford to let any internal crisis destroy the gains we’ve achieved under the Amnesty Programme,” warned a concerned stakeholders’ forum, representing respected figures from across the Niger Delta.

“Since its inception, PAP has made us one big family, and it is our responsibility to maintain the peace that we’ve fought so hard to achieve.”

The forum is urging Chief DR Dennis Burutu Otuaro, the PAP Administrator, to prioritize resolving this conflict.

They view the upcoming Peace and Unity Meeting scheduled for October 11, 2024, at the Bounanawei Palace in Warri, Delta State, as a crucial opportunity for reconciliation.

This meeting is seen as a “last chance” to address the damaging rift and establish a unified front.

The stakeholders emphasize that a divided PAP Phase Three cannot effectively contribute to the region’s development and peace.

The forum has made its stance clear: if the leadership crisis persists beyond the October 11 meeting, they will take decisive action.

This includes issuing an ultimatum to Dr. Otuaro to cease interactions with both conflicting parties until a peaceful resolution is reached.

They have also threatened to organize a peaceful protest in front of the National Assembly in Abuja, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

The stakeholders fear that the internal strife within PAP Phase Three could undo the significant improvements in security and development achieved through the programme.

“We have come a long way,” the forum emphasized. “Our collective focus should remain on sustainable development and lasting peace. Anything less is unacceptable.”

The upcoming Peace and Unity Meeting is not just a gathering of stakeholders—it is a moment of decision that will shape the future of PAP Phase Three and the ongoing peace in the Niger Delta.

The concerned stakeholders have made their position clear: unity must prevail, or the region’s hard-earned peace will be jeopardized.

The eyes of the Niger Delta are on Dr. Otuaro and the key stakeholders. They are tasked with the responsibility of ensuring that the November 11 meeting results in a peaceful resolution to the leadership crisis.

Only then can the region continue its journey towards a brighter future.