ABUJA (Sundiata Post) – The foundation students under the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) for the ex-Niger Delta militants, who were sent to the United Kingdom (UK) in 2014, are returning to the country following the expiration of their one year visa and not as a result of the alleged funding challenges.
This clarification was made on Sunday in a statement by the Media & Communication Consultant, PAP, Mr. Owei Lakemfa.
Lakemfa said that apart from the completion of their one year foundation course, the affected students are required to return to the country to renew their visa where necessary.
He insisted that “this has nothing to do with funding their programmes as is being insinuated”.
Also, he said, the Presidential Amnesty Office reiterates that there is no policy or plans under the Programme to pay Housing or Accommodation Allowances.
“It is therefore not correct for any beneficiary under the Programme to claim he is being owed, or is expecting such an allowance,” he added.
Lakemfa stated the Amnesty Office’s position that all allowances and payments under the Programme have been effected.
However, he noted, some beneficiaries, especially in South Africa and United States experienced some delays perhaps due the Central Bank’s implementation of the Treasury Single Account (TSA) policy.
He also said that “the affected beneficiaries, have started getting alerts confirming their banks receipt of the funds”.
The media consultant also said that Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta and Coordinator of the PAP, General Paul Boroh (Rtd) appreciates the support of the leaders and members of the various groups and camps under the Amnesty Programme.
He reiterated Boro’s stance that only under a peaceful atmosphere will investors be attracted to the Niger Delta Region, and sustainable development achieved.
Amnesty: Students Returning from UK Due to New Visa Policy; Not for funding challenges
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