Beneficiaries of the Delta State Youth Empowerment Programme (Delta YEP) in Barbados have tendered an unreserved apology to Delta State Deputy Governor, Prof. Amos Utuama, SAN, for impugning his character and integrity in the media, describing their action as despicable, shameful and uncalled for. They said they were used by the devil but have come to their senses.

They had in early January described the programme as a scam and blamed the Consultant, Ms. Donna St. Hill, and Prof. Utuama of diverting the funds meant for the programme. The students, according to a report published by Sahara Reporters, an online news medium, even alleged that Utuama was having inappropriate relationship with Ms. Donna St. Hill. Both allegations were vehemently denied by the Deputy Governor.

The students in a letter dated Tuesday, January 27, and titled ‘Apology for our unruly behaviour’, wrote: “Your Excellency, we sincerely apologise for the despicable manner we behaved in the past few weeks. Our actions in the media and to your person are shameful and uncalled for. It has come to our painful realization that we were misled and being used by the devil to thwart this once-in-a-life-time opportunity. We are deeply sorry for the embarrassment our actions must have caused your personal integrity and that of the state government. We appeal that you show the fatherly love you have always shown us and forgive us.”

Utuama’s Press Secretary, Mr. Austin Avowde, told News Express that the Deputy Governor accepted the apology and has forgiven the students as a loving would forgive his erring children.

•Photo shows Prof. Utuama.