The Coalition of Niger Delta Agitators has called for an immediate investigation into the alleged diversion of N257 billion reportedly earmarked for members of the Ukanafun Freedom Fighters under the Presidential Amnesty Programme. The demand was part of resolutions reached during the coalition's general meeting held in Akwa Ibom State on June 6, where members reviewed the state of the Niger Delta and the implementation of the Amnesty Programme.
Communique Details
In a communique issued after the meeting, the coalition urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Department of State Services to launch a comprehensive probe into the allegation. The group alleged that funds intended for 22 members of the Ukanafun Freedom Fighters were diverted, describing the development as evidence of deep-rooted corruption within the Amnesty Programme.
Broader Investigation Demanded
The coalition also called for a broader investigation into the operations of the programme, including a forensic audit of all undergraduate and postgraduate scholarships awarded under the scheme from inception to date. It further demanded the investigation and prosecution of officials of the Amnesty Office accused of corrupt practices, particularly those involved in the administration of educational programmes and scholarship awards.
Leadership Under Fire
The group expressed dissatisfaction with the leadership of the Presidential Amnesty Programme and urged President Bola Tinubu to review the management of the office, alleging poor performance and inadequate attention to the welfare, training, and empowerment of ex-agitators. According to the coalition, years after the implementation of the Amnesty Programme, many former agitators remain unemployed and have not benefited from the empowerment initiatives for which the programme was established.
The communique read in part: “We demand that the EFCC, ICPC, the Nigeria Police Force and the DSS immediately commence a full investigation into the diversion of N257bn meant for 22 out of 46 members of the Ukanafun Freedom Fighters.” It added: “The Presidential Amnesty Programme, meant to secure the future of ex-agitators, has been hijacked by corruption and greed. There must be accountability for all funds allocated to the programme, and those found culpable should face the full weight of the law.”
Political Consequences Warning
The coalition further stated that the continued marginalisation of other ethnic groups within the Niger Delta and the failure to transparently administer the Amnesty Programme would have political consequences. “The people of the region deserve justice, fairness and equitable access to the benefits of programmes established in their name,” the communique said.
Protest Support
The coalition warned that failure by the relevant authorities to investigate the allegations and address concerns surrounding the Amnesty Programme could further fuel discontent among ex-agitators and communities across the Niger Delta. It also declared support for a planned one-week peaceful protest by the Akwa Ibom Ex-Agitators Forum scheduled to begin on June 15, insisting that the Federal Government must act swiftly to restore confidence in the programme and ensure transparency in its operations.
Signatories to the Communique
The communique was signed by key leaders of the coalition, including Gen. Nsa Ikpaisong, Gen. John Duku, Gen. Ekpo Ekpo, Gen. Osarolor Nedam, Gen. Henry Okon Etete, Maj. Asukuo Henshaw, Udom Ebetor, Maj. Samson Jaja, Inyang Okon Effiong, Gen. Duke Emmason, Gen. Ibinabo Horsfall, Maj. Gen. Inibeghe Adams, Maj. Gen. Joshua Ebere, Maj. Gen. Jeremiah Anthony, Maj. Francis Okoroafor, and Col. Nelson Okochi Walter, alongside several other representatives of affiliated Niger Delta groups.
Background of the Amnesty Programme
The Presidential Amnesty Programme was established in 2009 as part of efforts to end militancy in the Niger Delta through rehabilitation, education, vocational training, and reintegration of former militants into society. The alleged diversion of funds threatens the credibility of this initiative.
