Port Harcourt — The Amanyanabo of Okochiri Kingdom, King Ateke Tom, has asserted that militant agitation in the Niger Delta played a key role in creating the conditions for Goodluck Jonathan to become President of Nigeria.
Speaking during a visit from a delegation of the ECOWAS Parliament, King Ateke Tom said his involvement in the militancy movement was motivated by the desire to bring attention to the neglect suffered by his people, who despite living amid Nigeria’s oil wealth, often faced poverty, environmental damage, and under-development.
He said the agitation forced both the federal government and the public to finally “see” the Niger Delta, raising awareness of its plight and opening political space for leaders from the region. “It was that same movement that created the opportunity where our people were remembered; like Goodluck Jonathan could emerge as President,” he explained.
Ateke Tom also recounted how he helped broker peace, appealing to fighters to lay down arms and give dialogue a chance. He expressed hope that the region’s struggles would continue to be addressed and that peace would be sustained.
The traditional ruler urged regional and national institutions to support ongoing development efforts in the Niger Delta, stressing that while some improvements have been made, significant challenges remain, especially in health, infrastructure, and ecological restoration.
He emphasized that peace and recognition should translate into tangible results for local communities, not just symbolic victories.
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