Oil-rich Imo community pleads with Tinubu for amnesty, economic development

The Ohaji/Egbema Elites Forum, which represents the oil-rich communities in Imo State, has appealed to President Ahmed Bola Tinubu to reconsider granting amnesty to restive youths in the state and address the economic challenges facing the region.

Forum coordinator Francis Uzor made the appeal while discussing the current economic situation in the country.

Uzor said, “We have engaged relevant stakeholders and are confident that the policies of the Bola Tinubu administration, while difficult at the moment, are designed to lay the foundation for a more prosperous and equitable Nigeria. We urge the youth to be patient during this transformative time and engage constructively with the government. Dialogue, not contention, is key to ensuring that our voices are heard and our concerns addressed.”

The forum commended Governor Hope Uzodimma’s efforts in driving economic development in the oil-rich community, by attracting projects such as the dredging of Lake Oguta/Urashi River, the construction of the ANOH Gas Processing Plant, and the establishment of the Urashi Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone. These projects, according to Uzodimma, will boost the state’s economy, provide jobs and create opportunities for the people.

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However, the forum also called on state and federal governments to address the threat of oil storage and oil theft in the region, which have become significant challenges to the country’s economy.

Uzor advised the government to revisit the idea of ​​granting amnesty to restless youths and build a sustainable structure to sustain the amnesty programme, regardless of which government is in power. He believes this will help the unemployed and restless youths in the Niger Delta region.

Uzor said, “We want to suggest that the government should review the idea of ​​granting amnesty to restless youths and create a sustainable structure that will sustain the amnesty structure regardless of which government comes to power. This will go a long way in helping the unemployed and restless youths in the Niger Delta region.”

The forum’s call comes at a time when the region is facing significant economic challenges, and governments are looking for ways to address them.

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