.....Hardship has no political sponsor. When people cry out over hunger and economic realities, their voices deserve to be heard—not drowned in propaganda

Comrade Romeo Ebikewenemor Romeo has strongly criticized what he described as baseless allegations and misleading propaganda surrounding the ongoing calls by delegates of the Presidential Amnesty Programme for an increase in their monthly stipends.

In a passionate Facebook post, Romeo addressed individuals he referred to as “naysayers and roadside propagandists,” accusing them of deliberately attempting to politicize a genuine concern affecting thousands of delegates across the region. He questioned the rationale behind claims that any dissatisfaction or protest within the Presidential Amnesty Office must automatically be linked to or sponsored by former militant leader General Boyloaf.

According to him, delegates who are stakeholders and beneficiaries of the programme have every right to express their concerns over the worsening economic situation in the country. He argued that the protests are driven by the harsh realities of daily living and not by any individual or political interest.

Romeo challenged those making the allegations to provide evidence for their claims.

"How can anyone conclude that General Boyloaf is sponsoring these protests? When did it happen? Where did it happen? In what way?" he queried.

He emphasized that the current economic hardship is visible to every Nigerian and should not be a subject of debate. With the rising cost of food items, transportation, and other essential commodities, he said many delegates are struggling to survive on their existing monthly stipend of ₦65,000.

Drawing attention to the realities faced by ordinary beneficiaries, Romeo questioned how much food and household necessities can realistically be purchased with the stipend in today’s market. He noted that the delegates’ demands are not directed against any individual but are simply an appeal to the Federal Government and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider reviewing the stipend in line with prevailing economic conditions.

He further lamented that while delegates are peacefully seeking relief from economic hardship, some individuals continue to spread narratives suggesting that prominent leaders are behind the protests.

According to him, such accusations are unfair and unnecessary, especially against leaders who are focused on their personal businesses and endeavors.

Romeo maintained that the protest is a collective movement born out of shared challenges faced by delegates and should not be interpreted as an attack on anyone. He stressed that the participants organized themselves, contributed their own resources, and made the necessary arrangements to ensure the protests were carried out.

"The issue is simple," he explained. "Delegates are asking for an increment in their stipends and for genuine beneficiaries who meet the required conditions to receive the benefits due to them. Nothing more, nothing less."

He therefore called on youths and delegates involved in the process to remain peaceful, respectful, and law-abiding at all times. He urged them to avoid unnecessary attacks on leaders and refrain from dragging innocent individuals into issues that have no connection to them.

Romeo concluded by appealing to everyone to abandon divisive narratives and focus on constructive solutions that will improve the welfare of delegates and beneficiaries of the programme.

In his closing remarks, he referenced the late Nigerian televangelist, Temitope Balogun Joshua, popularly known as TB Joshua, quoting one of his famous sayings:

“Let love lead.”

For Romeo, that message remains the most important lesson in a time of hardship, misunderstanding, and unnecessary accusations—a reminder that unity, truth, and compassion should guide public discourse rather than speculation and propaganda.