Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dennis Burutu Otuaro, has mourned the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, calling it a “national tragedy” and “the end of a defining era” in Nigeria’s political and moral history.
In a statement issued to journalists yesterday in Abuja, Otuaro conveyed his condolences to Buhari family, the federal government and all Nigerians.
He urged unity and reflection in the wake of the national loss.
“President Muhammadu Buhari was more than a leader; he was a national institution,” he said. “He embodied the values of integrity, discipline, and selfless service. His leadership, marked by personal sacrifice and a steadfast commitment to national unity, will remain a guiding light for generations to come.”
Reflecting on Buhari’s legacy, Dr. Otuaro commended the former president’s resolute stance against corruption, his emphasis on security, and his efforts to reform public institutions.
He described Buhari’s tenure as one that left an “indelible mark” on Nigeria’s journey toward stability, transparency, and democratic deepening.
“As we mourn this monumental loss,” he stated, “we must also draw strength from the principles he stood for. His vision of a united, peaceful, and accountable Nigeria must not die with him. It is our collective duty to uphold those ideals.”
Otuaro appealed to Nigerians across all divides—ethnic, political, and religious—to seize this moment of national mourning as an opportunity for reconciliation and renewed commitment to building a stronger Nigeria.
“May the Almighty grant his family comfort and fortitude in this trying time,” he said. “And may the soul of our former President rest in perfect peace. Let us honour his memory not just in words, but in deeds—by working to make Nigeria a stronger and more united nation.”ntion of the Nigerian government, the Rivers State government, the Department of State Services, the media, the international community and all peace-loving citizens of the Niger Delta to the recent developments that have raised serious concerns regarding the security and stability of our communities.
“We had observed with growing unease what appeared to be coordinated movements and activities carried out by individuals reportedly acting under the directive of HRH, Alhaji Mujahid Asari Dokubo, leader of the Amama group.
“It is important to recall that nearly twenty-five years ago, Bille Kingdom suffered significant losses as a result of violent attacks linked to similar circumstances.”
The statement said that episode left painful scar on their collective memory, as it led to the tragic loss of lives, destruction of homes and displacement of families. It added that the memories of that difficult period remain vivid among survivors and affected families.
But, reacting to the allegation, Dokubo-Asari, denied the claims by the people of Bille Kingdom, saying he has no intention of expanding into Bille territories.
The traditional ruler, who spoke through his spokesman, Christopher Braide, said rather, it was Bille people who have left their boundary with Kalabari people at Toluma and Obutoru Rivers, to invade and occupy Kalabari territories.
He called on security agencies to thoroughly investigate the matter and uncover the truth.
