By Wilson Macaulay, Delta
High Chief Wellington Bobo, a respected elder statesman and advocate for peace and development in the Niger Delta, has made a compelling appeal for stakeholders to support Chief Dr. Dennis Burutu Otuaro’s bid to revitalize the Presidential Amnesty Program, while urging detractors to refrain from harmful actions and rhetoric.
As Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Program, Dr. Dennis Otuaro has encountered criticism, particularly from those who believe his leadership stems from the backing of influential individuals like Tompolo, a key figure in Niger Delta activism. Detractors argue that Otuaro’s leadership represents a continuation of Ijaw-centric policies within the amnesty program, potentially overlooking the needs of other regional ethnic groups.
However, High Chief Wellington Bobo has firmly defended Otuaro’s appointment, stressing that this is not a tribal issue but a matter of making PAP a more inclusive and effective program for the entire Niger Delta. “Chief Dr. Dennis Otuaro is working hard to repair and restructure the PAP Administration. He is reaching out to stakeholders across the region to ensure that the program benefits everyone, not just a select few,” Bobo said during a meeting with Niger Delta leaders.
He highlighted Otuaro’s proactive approach, noting that the PAP Coordinator is making significant strides to collaborate with all ethnic groups in the Niger Delta, from the Urhobos to the Isokos, Itsekiris, and others, in an effort to bring equity and fairness to the program. “The aim is to strengthen the entire Niger Delta, not to divide it,” Bobo remarked.
He encouraged the people of the Niger Delta to give Otuaro their full support, noting that the Coordinator’s efforts are geared toward making PAP more effective and inclusive. “This is not about Dennis Otuaro, this is about the future of the Niger Delta. We need a united front, and all tribes must stand behind the vision to make PAP a better place,” Chief Bobo declared.
The Oroupawei of Gbaramatu Kingdom, who has long been a respected voice for peace in the Niger Delta, warned against using ethnic divisions to sow seeds of discord within the region. “We must not allow external forces or internal grievances to divide us. The enemy is not within, the enemy is the neglect of our region by successive governments. We must speak with one voice,” he cautioned.
In conclusion, Populist High Chief Bobo reiterated his support for Dr. Otuaro, advising him to stay the course and continue his efforts to make PAP a more transparent and equitable program for all Niger Deltans. “Do not be swayed by those who seek to derail your vision. Your work is already making a difference, and I believe you will succeed in making PAP a better place for the future of our people,” Bobo stated.
The Presidential Amnesty Program’s success is critical for regional stability and development, given the Niger Delta’s experiences of marginalization and its significant contribution to the nation’s oil economy. Chief Bobo’s advocacy for unity and backing of Otuaro’s leadership offer a solid basis for sustained progress toward a more inclusive and prosperous future.
