OPEN LETTER TO HIS EXCELLENCY,
PRESIDENT ASIWAJU BOLA AHMED TINUBU, GCFR
FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA

Your Excellency,

GROWING CONCERNS OVER UNRESOLVED ISSUES IN THE PRESIDENTIAL AMNESTY PROGRAMME (PAP)

We, the original first-phase ex-agitators and leaders of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), write to urgently draw your attention to the unresolved issues and persistent imbalances within the Programme that continue to affect the lives of its original beneficiaries. These concerns, which have been ongoing for some time, have led to a growing sense of neglect and exclusion, particularly among those who were instrumental in the Programme’s early success.

Since its inception, the Amnesty Programme has been crucial in fostering peace, stability, and reintegration in the Niger Delta. However, recent developments have left the original beneficiaries, especially those from the first phase, feeling sidelined and unfairly treated. Despite numerous complaints and appeals, issues of marginalization and unequal access to opportunities remain unresolved. The very individuals who laid the foundation for the success of the Programme are being overlooked, while newer interests seem to be receiving preferential treatment.

Lack of Engagement and Transparency

It is deeply concerning that, despite the seriousness of these issues, there has been little to no meaningful engagement from the authorities. Although an official made an attempt to reach out, the conversation ended without any tangible results. When concerns were raised without flattery or exaggeration, communication was abruptly cut off. Messages went unanswered, calls were blocked, and all channels for dialogue were closed. This conduct is not only discouraging but undermines the trust, transparency, and accountability that the Programme was built upon.

It is even more troubling that this neglect comes from an individual who once shared in the struggles and sacrifices of the Niger Delta cause. Such treatment of former colleagues and contributors is not only disheartening but completely unacceptable.

Concerns About Mismanagement of Funds

Moreover, there are serious concerns regarding the apparent mismanagement of funds. While the authorities claim there are insufficient funds to convene meetings with first-phase leaders, the reality seems to be quite different. This contradiction calls for a thorough forensic audit to restore confidence in the Programme’s expenditure and ensure that resources are being used as intended.

The continued silence and inaction on these matters are eroding the trust that the Programme was initially built on. If left unaddressed, these issues could cause irreparable damage to the credibility of the Programme and jeopardize the peace and stability it has worked to establish in the Niger Delta.

Rising Hardship Among Beneficiaries

Another critical issue is the growing hardship faced by beneficiaries, especially with the rising cost of living. Despite repeated appeals for an increase in the monthly stipends, the Administrator has refused, citing that funds will instead be allocated to youth training initiatives in the Niger Delta. While we fully support youth development, it is unjust for those whose sacrifices were crucial in establishing the Programme to continue to suffer neglect. These individuals—who made the Programme possible—should not be left to endure the economic pressures that many face today.

Denial of Scholarship Opportunities

Additionally, it is disheartening that our families and biological members are being denied scholarship opportunities, while reports indicate that such benefits are being extended to individuals who were never part of the original struggle. This raises serious questions about the fairness and transparency in the administration of the Programme, and whether it truly serves the needs of the people it was designed to help.

Intimidation and Fear

We are also alarmed by reports of intimidation against those who speak out against these injustices. Let it be clear: we are the original first-phase leaders, not political appointees or praise singers. We are committed to speaking the truth, no matter the cost, and will continue to raise our voices for the integrity of the Programme.

Our Call for Urgent Action

It is crucial that we state that our intention is not to create instability but to support the Nigerian Government in maintaining peace and reducing tensions in the Niger Delta. We are committed to protecting the gains of the Amnesty Programme, not escalating any conflict. Our goal is to ensure that the Programme remains fair, inclusive, and sustainable for all its stakeholders.

In light of the above, we respectfully call on Your Excellency to urgently intervene and address these imbalances with fairness, transparency, and inclusiveness. We also inform the public and relevant authorities of our intention to embark on a peaceful protest in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. This protest is aimed at expressing our grievances lawfully and seeking urgent redress, in line with our commitment to peace and stability.

The sustainability of peace in the Niger Delta is dependent on justice, equity, and the proper recognition of all stakeholders—especially those who laid the foundation of the Programme. We humbly urge Your Excellency to act swiftly in restoring balance and ensuring that no group is marginalized in the Programme they helped build.

Yours faithfully,

Signed:

Chief Gen. Pius Wariyai
Leader Excel Yerindideke Toriomo
Ideye Granville (aka General Egbele)