By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu, Warri
DELTA: The Advocacy for Peace and Community Development (APCD) has dismissed allegations against Dr. Dennis Otuaro, Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), and Tantita Security Nigeria Limited, describing them as baseless and politically motivated.
The group warned that such false claims could destabilize the peace currently enjoyed in the Niger Delta Region.
Addressing journalists in Warri, Delta State, APCD’s National Coordinator, Chief Napoleon Iffie, stated that accusations of misappropriation and selective administration within PAP were deliberate attempts to tarnish Otuaro’s reputation.
He described Otuaro as a dedicated leader who has strengthened the reintegration of ex-agitators through vocational training, educational scholarships, and economic empowerment programs. “Under his leadership, thousands of beneficiaries have been empowered to lead productive lives,” Iffie said.
The group challenged those making claims of financial mismanagement to provide concrete evidence rather than spread misleading narratives.
APCD also defended Tantita Security Nigeria Limited, a private security firm contracted to safeguard Nigeria’s oil and gas assets, against allegations of corruption and human rights violations.
Convener of APCD Delta State, Priest Benson Otomiewo, dismissed reports that Tantita receives ₦40 billion monthly for its pipeline surveillance operations.
“The contract awarded by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) is publicly available, and any claims beyond that are fabrications,” he stated. He added that Tantita has played a crucial role in reducing oil theft, increasing government revenue, and securing critical infrastructure.
Beyond its mandate, the security firm has been instrumental in protecting both land and coastal areas, assisting in tackling security threats beyond its assigned scope.
APCD noted that allegations of human rights violations against Tantita had been investigated and discredited by independent fact-finding committees.
“It is unfortunate that some individuals are deliberately peddling falsehoods to discredit an organization that has contributed immensely to national security,” Otomiewo said.
Hon. Lucky Godspower Ekiapilo, Secretary of APCD, alleged that those behind the accusations were individuals who previously benefited from illegal activities in the oil sector and were now uncomfortable with the positive changes brought about by Otuaro’s leadership and Tantita’s work.
“These attacks are aimed at disrupting the progress achieved in the Niger Delta,” he said, urging Nigerians to be wary of misinformation.
APCD reaffirmed its support for Dr. Otuaro and Tantita Security Nigeria Limited, calling on the public to recognize their crucial roles in sustaining peace and protecting national resources.
“Nigeria cannot afford to be distracted by baseless accusations. We must continue to support genuine efforts aimed at economic growth and stability,” Iffie stated.
The group also congratulated Otuaro on his one-year anniversary as PAP Administrator, commending his commitment to national development.