Niger Delta youths have disassociated themselves from the planned nationwide protest on October 1, pledging support for President Bola Tinubu's administration. During a Stakeholders' Engagement Forum, they emphasized the importance of dialogue and peaceful resolution of grievances to foster development and stability in the region.
On September 27, 2024, youths from the Niger Delta region declared their opposition to the upcoming nationwide protest scheduled for October 1. This declaration was made during a Stakeholders' Engagement Forum held in Effurun, Delta State, where thousands of young people expressed their commitment to supporting President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The forum, convened by the Office of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), aimed to promote peace and stability in the region. PAP Administrator Dr. Dennis Otuaro encouraged the youths to reject the protest, emphasizing that constructive engagement with the government is essential for growth and development. He reiterated the administration's dedication to addressing the myriad challenges faced by the Niger Delta, including the resumption of construction on the critical East-West Road.
Otuaro stated, “The President means well for the Niger Delta, and we must support his efforts to bring development to our region.” He underscored the importance of the region's residents in maintaining peace, urging them to prevent their area from becoming a base for protests.
In support of this message, local leader Paul Elvis highlighted that violence would only exacerbate the existing issues. He called for dialogue as the primary means of resolving grievances, stating, “Crisis is not the panacea to the challenges bedeviling the region.” This call for unity and cooperation aims to foster a stable environment conducive to progress in the Niger Delta.
