Niger Delta
Ateke Pledges Support For Peace In N’Delta
The leader of the Niger Delta Vigilante Force, (NDVF), Ateke Tom has vowed not to go back to the creek but promised to work tirelessly to ensure that total peace is restored in the region.
Ateke Tom who stated this in an interview with The Tide at the Port Harcourt Airport, Omagwa, shortly on arrival from Abuja where he and other militants had meetings with President Musa Yar’Adua at the presidential villa said he was happy to have his freedom back and be integrated back into the society.
He expressed happiness with the amnesty and assured that there will be no trouble again in Rivers State and the entire Niger Delta region.
According to him, the message of peace is on and I have told my boys and they have agreed. For me I can not afford to go back to the creek. I will pursue peace to the end”.
On the on-going demolition of water front in Rivers State, the repentant militant said he is not opposed to the exercise but would want the government to provide alternative place for the settlers.
He said pushing them away would amount to more sufferings to the people, considering the poverty level of the people who reside in the area.
He, however, commended the president for the amnesty and said the president should do all he has promised the people of Niger Delta region. The erstwhile militant arrived the airport with his lawyer and few of his boys. They were all happy regaining freedom.