MEND Condemns Protests – declares support for reformed PAP under Administrator Dr. Dennis Otuaro

The Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND), South Wing has today Thursday 24th July 2025 in Abuja, condemned recent protests calling for the removal of Dr. Dennis Brutu Otuaro, the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP).

In a statement jointly signed by Momos Wilberforce (Chairman), Gabriel Patterson (Secretary), and Theophilus Ebiama (Head of Contact and Mobilisation), the group described the demonstrations staged at the headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as “politically motivated” and “sponsored by disgruntled elements who have lost access to the corrupt patronage network that previously plagued the programme.”

Wilberforce emphasized that the protesters do not have the interest of the Niger Delta or the success of the Amnesty Programme at heart, but are instead pursuing selfish objectives. “These individuals are not fighting for the development of our region but are angry that their personal channels of enrichment have been blocked,” he said.

According to the statement, Dr. Otuaro has brought a renewed sense of purpose, discipline, and integrity to the Amnesty Programme since assuming office. The MEND South Wing commended his swift and targeted reforms aimed at ensuring transparency, equitable distribution of benefits, and a clear focus on the welfare of genuine ex-agitators across the Niger Delta region.

“Unlike some of his predecessors who allowed the programme to be manipulated by corrupt interests, Chief Dr. Dennis Otuaro has repositioned the PAP to serve its original purpose — empowering ex-agitators and restoring sustainable peace in the region,” the statement read.

The group further praised Dr. Otuaro for restoring “hope, joy, assurance, and confidence” among the people of the Niger Delta, asserting that his leadership style has already begun yielding positive results in addressing the concerns of beneficiaries.

“We believe that the progress recorded so far under Dr. Otuaro’s administration is proof of his genuine commitment. Rather than distracting him with sponsored protests, Niger Deltans should unite in supporting him to fully implement his vision for the Amnesty Programme,” the statement added.

Calling for an immediate end to the protests, the MEND South Wing warned that any attempt to undermine the efforts of the current PAP leadership would be tantamount to sabotaging peace and development in the region.

The group concluded by reaffirming its full support for Dr. Otuaro and urging all stakeholders and well-meaning citizens of the Niger Delta to do the same in the interest of regional stability and long-term growth.