The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has strongly condemned the escalating wave of political violence across the South-South region—including a fatal incident in Asaba, Delta State—demanding the immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible.
In a statement issued on Monday by its National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Boladei Igali, the apex Niger Delta socio-cultural group expressed “very serious concern” over recent violent outbreaks across multiple states.
The forum highlighted three specific violent events: an attack in the Warri/Effurun axis on September 18, a clash in Calabar on November 4, and the November 7 incident in Asaba, which resulted in a fatality.
Describing the attacks as a “sacrilege” against peaceful coexistence, PANDEF declared that political thuggery, violence, and intimidation run contrary to the traditional values of tolerance and forbearance defining the South-South region.
Call for Police and DSS Probe
PANDEF called on the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies to launch urgent, comprehensive investigations into the incidents across all affected locations.
The group urged security apparatuses to track down both the immediate perpetrators and their political masterminds, ensuring all culpable parties face full legal consequences.
Addressing political leaders and party managers, the forum urged stakeholders to display sportsmanship and maturity when resolving political disputes, cautioning leaders against using inflammatory rhetoric that incites followers.
Appeal to Youths and Event Guidelines
PANDEF specifically warned young people across the Niger Delta against allowing themselves to be exploited as political thugs or “cannon fodder” for self-serving politicians.
”Young people are the future of the region and should not be sacrificed on the altar of depraved interests of a few selfish political actors,” the statement read.
To minimize security vulnerabilities during campaign activities, the organization advised political parties to restrict rallies and major gatherings to properly enclosed or secured venues. It further instructed campaign organizers to coordinate strict security measures whenever inter-venue movements are required.
Reiterating its commitment to regional stability, PANDEF urged all stakeholders to prioritize the collective peace of the Niger Delta above partisan interests throughout the current election cycle and beyond.
