National Telescope national telescope newspaper
By Paulinus Nta
Ex militants from Akwa Ibom state, who were earlier granted amnesty by the federal government, under the aegies of Bakassi Freedom Movement, have called on the federal government and Akwa Ibom state government to keep to their bargain and fulfill same to them.
The group, who submitted their weapons and were inducted and camped in Obudu, Cross River State as the second batch in the Federal government amnesty program is alleging that the head of the amnesty program has virtually abandoned them since 2013.
According to the leaders of the group, who prefers to be called ‘General’, they have not been paid despite several promises by the government.
” We haven’t been paid our allowances since 2013 and this has caused seriuos suffering among the membership of the group. It is really sad and annoying that for thirteen (13) good years, we have not received anything from the amnesty team.”
He decried the situation where the ex Militants from Akwa Ibom are treated differently.
Our rights and benefits are withheld, while the ones accrued to other ex militants groups are promptly settled. Why this discrimination? We will take it no more. In a few weeks, we will lock down all economic activities in the region and face the consequences” he threatened.
Corroborating the leader, Secretary of the group called on the governor of the state, Pastor Umo Eno to intervene before the situation gets out of control. He said they have shown him both Political and security support and deserve a good treatment
The group pleaded with the president of the Senate, God’swill Akpabio, whom they described as a listening father and leader, to prevail on the head of the amnesty group, Chief Otuaro to act swiftly to avoid a possible breakdown of law and order.
