It is important to reflect on how far the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) has come, particularly in light of its transformative rebirth under the leadership of Chief Dennis Otuaro PhD.

For those familiar with the earlier days of the PAP, the contrast is striking. There was a time when the Programme was marred by misuse, favoritism, and exploitation. Some individuals that were entrusted with the responsibility of managing the initiative—which was meant to bridge the gap between the government and the impacted communities of the Niger Delta—abused their positions for personal gain.

Many will recall how opportunities meant for the youths of the region were instead sold to the highest bidders. Scholarships were not awarded on merit, but handed out based on personal connections. In some instances, young women were reportedly asked to compromise themselves in exchange for scholarship slots. Families of officials and close associates were routinely prioritized, while deserving candidates were left behind.

I speak not just from observation, but from personal experience. I vividly recall an instance when I was among those shortlisted for an overseas scholarship after sitting for and excelling in a qualifying examination. I received a congratulatory message confirming my eligibility, only to later discover that my slot had been sold to a well-connected individual. The person responsible was, regrettably, someone from my own village. Though I have long forgiven him, I share this to highlight the depth of systemic abuse many of us endured.

Today, however, under the leadership of Chief Otuaro, the PAP has undergone a remarkable transformation. The process is now transparent and based on merit. Applicants no longer need to “know someone” to be considered. If you are from one of the impacted states and meet the basic academic requirements, such as a good JAMB score, etc (visit the link to check criteria and apply https://osapnd.gov.ng/scholarship/#. You stand a fair chance of receiving a scholarship or empowerment opportunity.

More importantly, the administration has instituted mechanisms for accountability. If anyone demands money or solicits bribes in exchange for opportunities under the programme, beneficiaries are now encouraged to gather evidence and report such conduct. This is a testament to the new era of integrity, transparency, and people-first governance ushered in by Chief Otuaro.

◼️ A Call to Conscience

This transformation is not just a victory for the PAP; it is a moral lesson for all who find themselves in positions of public trust. Leadership is a privilege, not a platform for personal enrichment. When that privilege is misused, it will not only erode public trust, but it also denies opportunities to those who need them the most.

To those currently entrusted with public office: serve selflessly and with integrity. Let Chief Otuaro’s leadership examples serve as a model. If you lead with fairness and vision, posterity will honour your name. But if you lead with selfishness, history will not be kind with you.

Let us celebrate this new chapter in the PAP and let us all commit to building systems that work for the people, not just the privileged few.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Comrade Kester Denyefa Ubebe, a political analyst and social commentator, writes from Warri, Delta State.

#penglobaldiscourse #opinion #PAP #NigerDelta #Otuaro