PANDEF Condemns Political Violence in Nigeria's South-South Region
Apex group urges political parties to secure rally venues amid rising election-related unrest.
1Regional Leadership Intervention
The Pan Niger Delta Forum, known as PANDEF, has officially condemned the rising political violence within Nigeria's South-south region. National Chairman Godknows Igali issued a formal statement on Monday, emphasizing that such aggression threatens the democratic values and peaceful coexistence historically cherished by the diverse communities residing across the Niger Delta zone.
2Call for Political Maturity
Godknows Igali urged political party leaders to demonstrate greater maturity when resolving their internal or inter-party differences. He explicitly warned against the use of inflammatory rhetoric and provocation, which often serve as catalysts for physical confrontations. Leaders are tasked with the sacred responsibility of guiding their followers toward constructive and peaceful engagement.
3Warning Against Youth Exploitation
PANDEF issued a stern warning to Niger Delta youths, advising them against being manipulated as instruments of political thuggery. The organization emphasized that young people are the future of the region and should prioritize constructive activism over serving the depraved interests of selfish political actors who seek to incite violence for gain.
4Recent Escalation of Violence
The condemnation follows several violent incidents in the region, including an attack on Peter Obi’s convoy in Calabar on November 4. Additionally, a political procession in Asaba on November 7 resulted in one death and five injuries. These events have heightened concerns regarding the safety of political participants ahead of the 2027 elections.
5Police Advice and Controversy
In the Asaba incident, the Delta State Police Command reported that they had advised organizers against holding an open-road rally due to intelligence regarding potential violence. The organizers proceeded regardless, leading to a public dispute between the state government and political actors over who bears responsibility for the resulting tragic security failure.
6Security Agency Investigation Demands
PANDEF has formally requested that the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services conduct thorough, urgent investigations into these violent outbreaks. The organization insists that all perpetrators and their masterminds must be identified and prosecuted to ensure accountability and deter future acts of intimidation during the ongoing election cycle.
7Strategic Rally Management Protocol
To mitigate risks, PANDEF advised political parties to shift from open-road processions to properly walled or secured venues. This strategic change is intended to facilitate better crowd control and ensure that adequate security arrangements can be effectively implemented, thereby minimizing the probability of clashes between opposing political supporters during large public gatherings.
8Preserving Regional Stability
The organization reiterated that the collective interest of the South-south region must transcend partisan considerations. By fostering a culture of tolerance and political forbearance, stakeholders aim to protect lives and property. This proactive stance is essential for maintaining stability and ensuring that democratic processes remain functional throughout the upcoming election period.