The Niger Delta Peace Advocates (NDPA) have expressed deep concern about what they perceive as a growing trend of “pulling others down” among certain groups in the region. 

This concern was expressed in a statement signed by Ebitimi Kurowei, chairman, and Ekpe Ekpe-Ekere, publicity secretary, following a meeting in Yenagoa on Sunday. 

The meeting aimed to explore ways to promote the inclusive participation of all ethnic groups in the region’s affairs.

The NDPA emphasised that if this escalating culture of undermining others is not promptly addressed, it could have detrimental consequences on the overall development of the region.

Mr Kurowei stated that individuals tasked with driving growth in the region might become discouraged from performing their duties to the best of their abilities.

The group specifically noted “unwarranted, uncultured, and unconstructive attacks” against the Presidential Amnesty Programme’s interim administrator, retired Maj.-Gen. Barry Ndiomu, and expressed disapproval of the actions taken by certain groups. 

These groups, through incessant protests, agitations, petition-writing, and negative media appearances, were not only tarnishing the image of the Niger Delta but also impeding progress.

The NDPA commended Mr Ndiomu for repositioning the programme in accordance with its original ideals since taking office as interim administrator one year ago. 

They highlighted his significant achievements in managing the Presidential Amnesty Programme, including enhancing the reintegration process, building capacity for ex-agitators and youths, and contributing to the region’s economic growth by providing various skill development opportunities.

The group expressed disappointment that, despite Mr Ndiomu’s outstanding performance, the petitions and criticisms against him were primarily instigated by individuals from a particular ethnic group in two states within the region who shared some affiliation with him.

In their view, this was contrary to the common practice of applauding the achievements of local public officials.

Furthermore, the NDPA commended the PAP Cooperative Society Legacy Project, which is designed to empower ex-agitators financially through loans, enabling them to establish and manage their businesses rather than relying on meagre monthly stipends.

The NDPA described those who criticised Mr Ndiomu as self-serving and unappreciative individuals who viewed the PAP solely as a source of financial gain.

They expected any chief executive officer to collaborate with them for personal gain, and if this did not occur, they resorted to disparaging him through public trials in the media, particularly online platforms and blogs.

The group also called attention to the “entitlement culture” within certain ethnic groups in the Niger Delta, arguing that this mindset encouraged laziness and hindered productivity, ultimately impeding socio-economic growth in the region.

They reminded everyone that the PAP’s primary mission was to disarm, demobilise, and reintegrate ex-agitators, a mission that had been ongoing for more than 14 years.

They believed that if past CEOs had implemented the initiatives introduced by Mr Ndiomu, many ex-agitators would now be successful contributors to the Niger Delta’s economy.

(NAN)