PORT HARCOURT – Rivers youths have condemned the attacks on Chief Dennis Burutu Otuaro, the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP).
The youths under the leadership of Honorable Dennis Philip, described the attacks on Chief Otuaro’s reputation as attempts to undermine the stability and growth of the Niger Delta region.
Speaking on behalf of the youths in a statement on Sunday, a prominent youth leader in the State, Tarry Foray Fayeofori, also know as Commander Faye), noted that the accusers Otuaro fail to acknowledge the groundbreaking achievements of the Presidential Amnesty Programme under Dr Otuaro and instead seek to destabilize the peace and development championed by his leadership.
Faye, stated that the brazen attack on the PAP boss is nothing short of a deliberate attempt to disrupt the remarkable progress being recorded under his visionary leadership.
Faye said, “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 (PhD).
“This brazen attack on his character is nothing short of a calculated attempt by self-serving individuals to disrupt the remarkable progress being recorded under his visionary leadership.”
He however described the allegations as malicious falsehoods lacking any foundation in truth, clarifying that Chief Otuaro had never been involved in nepotism, favoritism, or financial mismanagement, dismissing as an outright lie the claim that he is under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Reiterating the achievements of Chief Otuaro, Faye said, “It is imperative to set the record straight, Chief Dennis Burutu Otuaro is a man of integrity, a true son of the Niger Delta, and a product of the PAP himself. His appointment to lead the Presidential Amnesty Programme is a divine intervention aimed at restructuring and reinvigorating the initiative for the greater good of the region.
“His tenure has ushered in strategic reforms that focus on empowering ex-agitators, fostering lasting peace, and spearheading economic transformation across the Niger Delta.
“Under his leadership, the PAP has made significant strides in ensuring that former agitators are reintegrated into society through various skill acquisition programs, educational scholarships, and entrepreneurial support. His policies have not only stabilized the region but have also laid a solid foundation for sustainable development, reducing restiveness and creating viable opportunities for the youth.”
The youth leader noted that the smear campaign against the Presidential Amnesty Programme boss had been sponsored by some faceless and selfish individuals.
“It is regrettable that faceless individuals, driven by selfish political and economic interests, are sponsoring groups in Abuja to malign the reputation of a man whose only crime is his unwavering commitment to the Niger Delta cause.
“These coordinated smear campaigns are deliberate distractions aimed at halting the remarkable progress and transformative policies implemented under Chief Otuaro’s administration.
“The Niger Delta region cannot afford to be swayed by deceitful narratives peddled by those who prioritize personal enrichment over collective development. We must recognize the deliberate attempts to create division and instability in a region that has long struggled for peace and progress.
“The orchestrated attacks against Chief Otuaro must be rejected with the firmness they deserve.”
He expressed his solidarity with Chief Otuaro’s leadership style, saying, “The Youths are not alone in their support for Chief Dennis Burutu Otuaro (PhD), other formidable organizations, including the Ijaw Youth Council and the Chairman/CEO of the Ijaw Youth Consultative Forum (IYCF), have openly condemned these baseless allegations.
“They have described the claims as wild, ridiculous, and completely unfounded.
“The public is therefore urged to disregard these misleading reports and instead continue to rally behind the transformational leadership of Chief Otuaro, whose dedication to fulfilling the mandate of the PAP remains resolute. His visionary approach to governance and youth empowerment must not be derailed by unfounded distractions.”
The youths advocated a constructive dialogue in the Niger Delta region, said the character assassination meted out on Chief Otuaro was uncalled for.
“Rather than resorting to deceit and character assassination, individuals and groups with genuine concerns should engage through proper channels to seek clarification.
“The Niger Delta region needs unity, constructive dialogue, and responsible leadership elements that Chief Otuaro embodies and has worked tirelessly to instill.”
Faye however called on Niger Deltans to stand firm against disruptive Forces
“As Niger Deltans, we must remain vigilant and ensure that the progress made under Chief Dennis Burutu Otuaro’s leadership is not sabotaged by those whose interests lie in division and economic exploitation. The region cannot afford to be dragged backward by the schemes of individuals who do not have its best interests at heart.
“The Niger Delta stands resolutely with Chief Dennis Burutu Otuaro (PhD) a leader whose commitment to peace, stability, and sustainable development is unwavering and undeniable. It is our collective responsibility to defend the truth and ensure that the transformative agenda of the PAP remains on course.”