Nigeria militant backs Jonathan

Abuja, 17 May-(ANA)-A former Niger Delta militant has said Nigeria's President Goodluck Jonathan is the best person to solve the crisis in the oil-producing region.

Victor Ebokawe, also known as General Boyloaf, told the BBC that, because President Jonathan is from the region, he understands its problems.

Mr Ebokawe also said that Mr Jonathan should contest next year's elections.

Militants have carried out attacks which have cost Nigeria millions in lost oil revenue over the years.

Last year, thousands of militants laid down their arms in return for promises of training and jobs.

But this programme showed signs of started to unravel during the power vacuum while former President Umaru Yar'Adua was sick.

He died earlier this month and Mr Jonathan was sworn in as president to replace him.

On Friday, President Jonathan visited the Niger Delta and said coordination of the amnesty should be improved. (ANA)

FA/ANA/17 May 2010------