General Abugor Urges Otuaro's PAP Leadership to Ignore Detractors, Stay Focused on Reformative Agenda

By Wilson Macaulay

General John Abugor, popularly known as 'The War Lord,' and Chairman of the Ex-Militants of Niger Delta, has issued a strong statement of support for the Presidential Amnesty Program (PAP) amidst growing criticism and calls for the removal of its Administrator, Chief Dr. Dennis Burutu Otuaro, by some detractors. 

Speaking in Warri, General Abugor described the allegations against Dr. Otuaro as "baseless" and "misguided," dismissing them as attempts to undermine the progress being made under Otuaro's leadership.

General Abugor praised Dr. Otuaro’s leadership, highlighting the reforms and progress achieved since he took office. "Dr. Dennis Otuaro has demonstrated exceptional dedication and capability in managing the PAP. His reformative agenda is restoring the program's core values and ensuring that genuine ex-militants and beneficiaries receive the empowerment necessary for sustainable livelihoods," Abugor stated.

He lamented that critics, instead of recognizing the strides made, were focused on tribal sentiments that contribute nothing to the region's development. Abugor urged Otuaro to remain steadfast in his mission, dismissing the criticisms as attempts to incite tribal divisions. "Otuaro must continue with his reformative agenda. The Niger Delta is bigger than any individual or tribe, and we, as ex-militants, stand firmly with Chief Dr. Dennis Burutu Otuaro in his pursuit of peace, stability, and sustainable development," he declared.

General Abugor also emphasized the overwhelming support Dr. Otuaro enjoys among ex-militants and key stakeholders in the Niger Delta. He credited Otuaro’s leadership for implementing key initiatives aimed at reintegrating ex-militants into society through vocational training, education, and other empowerment programs.

"Otuaro’s reforms are for the collective good of the Niger Delta. His leadership transcends tribal and individual interests. The accusations labeling him as a 'stooge' of High Chief Dr. Government Oweizide Ekpomupolo, also known as Tompolo, are distractions from the real work at hand," Abugor said.

He further called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all Niger Delta stakeholders to support Otuaro’s efforts to build a peaceful and economically vibrant region. "We cannot let tribalism derail our progress. The PAP is for all ex-militants, and Dr. Otuaro’s leadership reflects that inclusivity," Abugor stressed.