Wing Commander Peter Yerindideke Biakpara, a retired Air Force officer and elder statesman from the Niger Delta, challenges former President Goodluck Jonathan's claims regarding his role in the success of the Presidential Amnesty Program for militants. In an interview, Biakpara recounts how regional elders, not Jonathan, were instrumental in brokering peace with militant leaders like Tompolo and Asari Dokubo. He emphasizes that the acceptance of the amnesty offer was a result of the elders' efforts to engage with militants, rather than Jonathan's visit to Camp 1. Biakpara reflects on the initial skepticism of the militants towards the amnesty offer, which they viewed as a government deception. He highlights the critical role of the late President Umar Yar'Adua's administration in facilitating discussions with militant leaders. The narrative sheds light on the complex dynamics of Niger Delta militancy and the importance of local leadership in peace processes.
NigeriaNewsFeed summary based on reporting from Vanguard News.
Read full article
Continue on Vanguard News
