Ex-militants from Ilaje Local Government Area in Ondo State have taken to the streets to protest their exclusion from the Federal Government’s Amnesty Programme, which was launched years ago to help restore peace in the Niger Delta.
The protest happened in Akure and included representatives from multiple armed groups who laid down their weapons and embraced peace in 2017 after being invited by the government.
The protesting ex-militants said they had complied fully with the disarmament process, surrendering dangerous weapons such as rifles, explosives, bombs, and military gear.
They mentioned that despite fulfilling their part of the agreement, they have not been officially added to the programme.
According to them, thousands from Ilaje and some from nearby Ese-Odo were left out, and their efforts to reach both federal and state authorities have yielded no results.
They appealed directly to President Bola Tinubu, asking him to take personal action in resolving the matter.
Their demand is to be included in the programme without having to go through any third party or state officials.
They warned that the continued neglect could lead to serious consequences if nothing is done soon.
The group insisted that they chose peace in response to the federal government’s call and have stayed committed since then.
They said that allowing political figures to control the process could further delay justice and worsen the situation.
Even though they are frustrated, the ex-militants said they are still committed to peace and development.
They expressed support for President Tinubu’s government and the current administration in Ondo State, urging authorities to quickly address their situation so that they can also benefit from the programme like others in the region.
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