Wing Commander Peter Yerindideke Biakpara, a retired Air Force officer and elder statesman, has disputed claims made by former President Goodluck Jonathan regarding the success of the Niger Delta amnesty program. Biakpara argues that the narrative suggesting Jonathan’s visit to a single militant camp secured regional peace is inaccurate and ignores the groundwork laid by the Elders Negotiation Committee (ENC).
Biakpara, who led the ENC, explained that he and other regional leaders traveled across the dangerous creeks of the Niger Delta to engage directly with militant commanders, including Tom Ateke, General Africa, and General BoyLoaf. According to Biakpara, these efforts were essential in persuading militant groups to lay down their arms, as they were initially skeptical of government intentions. He maintains that the committee’s work was crucial to the eventual acceptance of the amnesty deal, even before presidential interventions occurred.
Reflecting on the role of politicians, the former advisor noted that the government’s efforts were often complicated by last-minute political maneuvering. He specifically took issue with Jonathan’s claim that visiting Camp 5 was the primary catalyst for stability. Biakpara asserts that the peace process was a collective achievement involving traditional leaders, clergy, and the militants themselves, rather than the result of a single visit to one camp. He believes the former president’s account unfairly diminishes the significant contributions made by the Elders Negotiation Committee.
Regarding recent tensions over pipeline surveillance contracts, Biakpara urged former agitators to avoid conflict. He emphasized that the contract awarded to Tompolo followed established due processes and suggested that other regional figures should seek similar opportunities through formal channels. Ultimately, he called for unity among Niger Delta stakeholders to ensure the region receives the infrastructure and development it requires.
