The Youth under the leadership of Honorable Dennis Philip on Sunday vehemently expressed strong disapproval of the dishonest and spiteful allegations leveled against Chief Dennis Burutu Otuaro (PhD), the esteemed Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP). This brazen attack on his character is nothing short of a calculated attempt by self-serving individuals to disrupt the remarkable progress being recorded under his visionary leadership.
These unfounded allegations, published in *The Guardian* newspaper on February 19, 2025, represent a desperate effort to tarnish Chief Otuaro’s reputation and undermine the stability and growth of the Niger Delta region. The perpetrators of these baseless accusations fail to acknowledge the groundbreaking achievements of the PAP under his administration and instead seek to destabilize the peace and development championed by his leadership.
Tarry Foray Fayeofori (Commander Faye), a prominent youth leader in Rivers State, was unequivocal in his dismissal of these misleading claims, stating, “The allegations are a desperate and futile attempt to derail the remarkable progress made by the PAP under the astute leadership of Chief Dennis Burutu Otuaro (PhD).”
The youth movement described these allegations as malicious falsehoods lacking any foundation in truth. They reaffirmed that Chief Otuaro has never been involved in nepotism, favoritism, or financial mismanagement. Furthermore, they dismissed as an outright lie the claim that he is under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), labeling it a gross and flagrant distortion of facts, crafted with the sole intention of misleading the public.
Chief Dennis Burutu Otuaro: A Visionary Leader Committed to the Niger Delta:
It is imperative to set the record straight—Chief Dennis Burutu Otuaro is a man of integrity, a true son of the Niger Delta, and a product of the PAP himself. His appointment to lead the Presidential Amnesty Programme is a divine intervention aimed at restructuring and reinvigorating the initiative for the greater good of the region. His tenure has ushered in strategic reforms that focus on empowering ex-agitators, fostering lasting peace, and spearheading economic transformation across the Niger Delta.
Under his leadership, the PAP has made significant strides in ensuring that former agitators are reintegrated into society through various skill acquisition programs, educational scholarships, and entrepreneurial support. His policies have not only stabilized the region but have also laid a solid foundation for sustainable development, reducing restiveness and creating viable opportunities for the youth.
Smear Campaigns by Faceless Detractors Must Not Derail Progress:
It is regrettable that faceless individuals, driven by selfish political and economic interests, are sponsoring groups in Abuja to malign the reputation of a man whose only crime is his unwavering commitment to the Niger Delta cause. These coordinated smear campaigns are deliberate distractions aimed at halting the remarkable progress and transformative policies implemented under Chief Otuaro’s administration.
The Niger Delta region cannot afford to be swayed by deceitful narratives peddled by those who prioritize personal enrichment over collective development. We must recognize the deliberate attempts to create division and instability in a region that has long struggled for peace and progress. The orchestrated attacks against Chief Otuaro must be rejected with the firmness they deserve.
United Support for Chief Otuaro’s Leadership:
Hon. Dennis Philip and Commander Faye firmly emphasized that the Youth are not alone in their support for Chief Dennis Burutu Otuaro (PhD). Other formidable organizations, including the Ijaw Youth Council and the Chairman/CEO of the Ijaw Youth Consultative Forum (IYCF), have openly condemned these baseless allegations. They have described the claims as “wild,” “ridiculous,” and “completely unfounded.”
The public is therefore urged to disregard these misleading reports and instead continue to rally behind the transformational leadership of Chief Otuaro, whose dedication to fulfilling the mandate of the PAP remains resolute. His visionary approach to governance and youth empowerment must not be derailed by unfounded distractions.
A Call for Responsible Engagement:
Rather than resorting to deceit and character assassination, individuals and groups with genuine concerns should engage through proper channels to seek clarification. The Niger Delta region needs unity, constructive dialogue, and responsible leadership—elements that Chief Otuaro embodies and has worked tirelessly to instill.
Faye concluded by reaffirming the Youth’s unwavering and absolute support for Chief Dennis Otuaro (PhD) and the Presidential Amnesty Programme in their mission to drive sustainable development in the Niger Delta. He emphasized that the integrity and good work of the PAP leadership must not be undermined by politically motivated distractions and baseless accusations.
The Niger Delta Must Stand Firm Against Disruptive Forces:
As Niger Deltans, we must remain vigilant and ensure that the progress made under Chief Dennis Burutu Otuaro’s leadership is not sabotaged by those whose interests lie in division and economic exploitation. The region cannot afford to be dragged backward by the schemes of individuals who do not have its best interests at heart.
The Niger Delta stands resolutely with Chief Dennis Burutu Otuaro (PhD)—a leader whose commitment to peace, stability, and sustainable development is unwavering and undeniable. It is our collective responsibility to defend the truth and ensure that the transformative agenda of the PAP remains on course.
Tarry Foray Fayeofori (Youth Leader Faye)
