By Mene Lube
In an effort to finding a lasting solution to the recent unrest in the Niger Delta region, the Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta and the Coordinator of the Niger Delta Presidential Amnesty Programme, Brigedier General (Rtd) P.T. Boroh has engaged ex militant leaders from around the region.
A meeting that was well attended by leaders of the Amnesty Programme beneficiaries, Phase 1, 2 and 3, held on Saturday 28 May in Benin City, Edo State.
The agenda of the meeting was to take a look at the journey so far in the Niger Dalta Amnesty programme, share observations, reservations, discuss recommendations as well as provide opportunity for the ex agitators to express their grievances, if any.
The meeting kicked off with the normal processes, and an opening speech by the Amnesty Boss, set the ball rolling for deliberations to commence.
In his opening remarks, Gen Boroh (Rtd) who reinstated his commitment to a successful programme, insisted that at the end of the day, if a converted militant is not disarmed, rehabilitated, reintegrated and well empowered to survive; the programme has failed.
The Ex Agitators who were given ample time to express themselves, and although emotions occasionally sprung up, raised issues bordering on delays in payments of monthly allowances, to the perception that the region is being neglected, commended the current style and manner the agency is being run.
In his response Gen. Boroh thanked the attendees for their support and cooperation and promised to look into all their complaints, and act on them.
“I am not a politician, so believe my words; all your complaints will be addressed”, Gen Boroh told the crowd.
He also outlined some new schemes he brought on board which include, a massive agricultural programme that will involve all State Govenments of the region and a micro finance housing scheme, which will employ thousands, and house all beneficiaries, was presented to the attendees.
