A group under the banner of Advocacy for Peace and Community Development (APCD), has strongly defended Dr. Dennis Otuaro, the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) and Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited.
APCD in a press briefing on Friday in Warri, Delta State gave valid reasons why allegations leveled against the administrator bordering on misappropriation of funds non-inclusiveness and selective administration should be thrown into archival dustbin.
“As a responsible group committed to truth, justice and the progress of our nation, we find it necessary to set the records straight.
*In Defence of Dr. Dennis Otuaro*
“Dr. Dennis Otuaro, in his role as Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, has demonstrated consistent commitment to the mandate of reintegrating ex-agitators and promoting sustainable peace in the Niger Delta region.
“We however taken aback with the recent accusations by certain groups, including ex-agitators, alleged misappropriation of funds, non-inclusiveness and selective administration.
“As these claims are not only baseless, untrue and malicious, but also appear to be calculated attempts to tarnish the hard earned reputation of Dr Otuaro and derail the ongoing efforts to consolidate peace in the region.
“It is crucial to understand that Dr. Otuaro’s administration has prioritized transparency, accountability and inclusiveness, ensuring that the benefits of the Amnesty Programme reach the intended beneficiaries.
“The PAP has provided vocational training, educational scholarships and economic empowerment initiatives to thousands of ex-agitators and their dependents, all of which have helped to promote stability and progress in the Niger Delta.
“Furthermore, the allegations of misappropriation are speculative and not grounded in verified evidence. We urge those making these accusations to present concrete proof rather than relying on false narratives to mislead the public. Dr. Otuaro remains committed to his duty and will continue to work for the sustainable peace and development of the Niger Delta.
*Addressing Allegations Against Tantita Security Nigeria Limited*
“Similarly, allegations against Tantita Security Nigeria Limited — a key partner in securing Nigeria’s oil and gas infrastructure — are equally misleading.
“Tantita has played a pivotal role in curbing oil theft, protecting national assets, and boosting government revenue. The claim that Tantita receives ₦40 billion monthly for its pipeline surveillance operations is false. The actual contract awarded by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) in August 2022 can be verified by all at NNPCL website.
“It is an established truth that Tantita Security Services is over stretched, as they carry out both land and coastal security, even beyond the official mandate and scope of work.
“Reports of human rights violations attributed to Tantita are unverified and have been discredited by various independent fact-finding committees. These allegations are often propagated by those who stand to lose from the progress made in combating oil theft.
*Exposing the Agenda of Detractors*
“It is evident that certain individuals and groups who previously exploited Nigeria’s resources for personal gain are uncomfortable with the impactful measures implemented by Dr. Dennis Otuaro’s leadership of the Amnesty Programme and the collaborative efforts of Tantita in securing national assets.
“Their tactics—using false accusations and orchestrated protests—are meant to create confusion, disrupt stability, and undermine credible efforts toward development.
*Conclusion*
“The Advocacy for Peace and Community Development (APCD) unequivocally stands with Dr. Dennis Otuaro and Tantita Security Nigeria Limited.
“We urge well-meaning Nigerians to see through these deceptive tactics and support genuine efforts to protect our national interests. Nigeria’s progress in securing its oil resources and maintaining peace in the Niger Delta should not be compromised by baseless accusations and selfish agenda.
“Finally, we use this opportunity to congratulate Dr. Dennis Otuaro on his one year in office and wish him more result oriented years ahead.
Thank you.
Signed:
*Chief Napoleon Iffie*
National Coordinator, APCD
*Priest Benson Otomiewo*
Convener, APCD Delta State
*Hon. Lucky Godspower Ekiapilo*
Secretary, APCD