Former Niger Delta agitators under the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) have urged National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu and Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun to investigate those allegedly behind a coordinated smear campaign against PAP Administrator Dr. Dennis Otuaro and Tantita Security Services Limited Chairman, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, also known as Tompolo.
At a press conference in Yenagoa on Saturday, leaders of PAP Phases 1, 2, and 3, along with Concerned Niger Delta Youths, strongly condemned what they described as a deliberate campaign of misinformation aimed at destabilizing the region.
The group accused individuals operating within and outside Nigeria of spreading unfounded allegations, including kidnapping and financial mismanagement, against Otuaro and Tompolo, whose security firm has played a key role in pipeline surveillance and combating oil theft.
Emma Satu, leader of Phase 3, dismissed the allegations, stating, “These accusations are baseless and driven by jealousy and a desperate attempt to undermine the significant contributions of Dr. Otuaro and Chief Ekpemupolo.”
He highlighted the achievements of the PAP under Otuaro’s leadership, particularly in awarding scholarships to Niger Delta youths and implementing impactful regional programs.
Similarly, Oferebo Opakiviari, leader of Concerned Niger Delta Youths, emphasized Tantita’s role in curbing oil theft and boosting Nigeria’s oil revenue. “Why are these individuals so determined to sabotage Niger Delta indigenes that are making such tremendous strides in our region?” he asked.
The ex-agitators accused Ben Ebikabowei Victor (alias Boyloaf) and Chief Bibopere Ajube (Shoot-at-Sight) of orchestrating the campaign against Otuaro and Tompolo.
They warned that such actions could harm both the Niger Delta and Nigeria, calling on the international community to disregard the allegations.
“The international community should note that the allegations of crime against humanity, kidnapping, corruption, misappropriation of funds, and other malpractices as posited by the protesters are a figment of Ben Ebikabowei Victor, Boyloaf and Bibopre Ajube, Shoot at Sight, fueled by hatred, jealousy, desperation,” Satu stated.
The leaders reaffirmed their support for Otuaro and Tompolo, urging security agencies to investigate those allegedly behind the smear campaign and protect the peace of the region.
They also called on President Bola Tinubu, the United States, the United Nations, and the European Union to be wary of groups spreading falsehoods while encouraging continued government support for PAP and Tantita’s security efforts.
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