The South Wing of the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) has declared its full support for Dr. Dennis Brutu Otuaro, administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), while strongly condemning recent protests calling for his removal.
In a statement jointly signed by MEND Abuja South Wing Chairman Momos Wilberforce, Secretary Gabriel Patterson, and Contact and Mobilisation Officer Theophilus Ebiama, the group denounced the protest held at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) office in Abuja as “politically motivated and sponsored by those who have lost access to the corrupt patronage previously associated with the program.”
Wilberforce said the protests were not in the interest of the Niger Delta or the Amnesty Programme but were driven by selfish motives and a desire to return to a culture of exploitation.
“Dr. Otuaro has restored integrity and purpose to the PAP,” the statement read. “He has shown sincere leadership and a people-first approach, bringing hope, assurance, and renewed confidence to ex-agitators and stakeholders across the region.”
The group praised Otuaro for initiating reforms that prioritise the welfare of genuine beneficiaries over personal or political gain. They credited his administration with notable progress in addressing the core needs of the Niger Delta people since his appointment.
“MEND believes Dr. Otuaro is the right person to lead the PAP at this critical time,” the statement continued. “We urge all well-meaning citizens of the Niger Delta to support his vision and reject distractions aimed at derailing the programme’s transformation.”
They called for an immediate end to what they termed “divisive and distracting” protests and pledged their continued support for Dr. Otuaro’s leadership and planned reforms.
