Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The new Interim Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Maj.-Gen. Barry Ndiomu (rtd) has scheduled various meetings with critical stakeholders in the Niger Delta region.
The meeting which would begin from October 14, would include crucial talks with governors of the Niger Delta region, as well as leaders of ex-agitators such as High Chief Government Ekpemupolo alias Tompolo and the King of Okochiri in Rivers State, Ateke Michael Tom.
Ndiomu is expected to also have special interactions with the leaders of phases one, two and three ex-agitators, traditional rulers and security chiefs.
The planned visit would be the new Amnesty boss’ maiden official tour of the region and stakeholders’ consultations since his appointment as the interim administrator.
PAP’s Media Consultant, Ms. Donu Kogbara, who confirmed the arrangement, said the tour was part of Ndiomu’s plan to have all stakeholders on the same page for the actualization of the programme’s mandate.
The Amnesty boss would use the opportunity to unveil his plans for the programme and also address the issue of winding it down which has been a subject of discourse since his appointment.
“Already, there is tension in the region especially among genuine ex-agitators, who are apprehensive that the federal government is planning to shut down the programme.
“These planned engagements will help to douse the tension because the ex-agitators will have the opportunity to hear directly from the interim administrator and ask relevant questions”.
Meanwhile a source in the Amnesty Office has revealed that critical stakeholders from across the region would gather for a meeting in Yenagoa, the state capital where all issues bothering them would be addressed by the Amnesty boss.
“It is hoped that these meetings will calm frayed nerves as they are designed to help all stakeholders better understand the mission of the Amnesty boss,” the source said.
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