Protesters Urge National Assembly to Investigate Alleged Mismanagement
A group of former Niger Delta agitators recently gathered at the National Assembly, calling for a thorough investigation into the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP). They allege mismanagement of funds and resources meant for the region’s development.
A coalition of ex-agitators from the Niger Delta has staged a protest at the National Assembly, demanding an immediate probe into the operations of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP). The protesters claim that the programme, established to foster peace and development in the region, has been marred by financial irregularities and mismanagement.
Carrying placards and chanting slogans, the ex-agitators expressed their dissatisfaction with the current state of the PAP. They allege that funds allocated for their training and reintegration have been diverted, leaving many beneficiaries without support.
One of the protest leaders stated, “We are here to demand transparency and accountability. The amnesty programme was designed to help us rebuild our lives, but corruption has denied us these opportunities.”
The group submitted a petition to the National Assembly, urging lawmakers to initiate a comprehensive investigation into the PAP’s activities. They also called for the suspension of officials implicated in the alleged mismanagement pending the outcome of the investigation.
In response, a representative of the National Assembly assured the protesters that their grievances would be addressed. “We acknowledge your concerns and will ensure that this matter is given the attention it deserves,” the official stated.
The Presidential Amnesty Programme was initiated in 2009 to rehabilitate and reintegrate former militants from the Niger Delta into society. However, over the years, there have been numerous allegations of corruption and inefficiency within the programme.
As the situation unfolds, stakeholders and observers are keenly watching to see how the government addresses these pressing issues affecting the Niger Delta region.
